Winter hiking boots

Active winter boots for hiking through the snow

If you’re still wanting to get some hiking done in the winter season, active winter boots are necessary to keep your feet warm, dry and help prevent any nasty falls. No matter how far you’ll be hiking, a good pair of winter hiking boots will provide warmth, protection from moisture and reliable traction on the slipperiest of surfaces. You can find all sizes of active winter boots at MEC, made by epic brands like KEEN, Merrell, Salomon and more.

What to look for in your active winter boots

If you're trying to find the right winter boots for hiking, there are a few key features to look for. Breathability is essential to prevent your feet from overheating, while waterproof technologies like Hydroseal or GORE-TEX® keep moisture out without sacrificing airflow. To stay warm, boots with synthetic insulation offer a reliable balance of durability and heat retention. Strong traction is also important to help prevent slips on icy surfaces. A high-quality pair of winter boots with these features will keep you comfortable and protected for multiple seasons.

Winter boot accessories

When conditions get particularly icy or snowy, there are a few useful add-ons to enhance your winter boots. Gaiters are a great option for keeping snow and mud out while hiking or snowshoeing. Designed to slip over your boots and cover your calves, they provide an extra layer of protection. Most gaiters feature water-resistant or waterproof materials, along with secure closures to ensure a snug fit and keep moisture from getting in. Traction devices are another valuable addition, acting like snow chains for your feet. These slip-on attachments provide excellent grip on steep, slippery terrain, making them ideal for icy paths or packed trails. However, they don’t offer floatation, so if you're trekking through deep powder, snowshoes would be a better choice to keep you from sinking.

For more helpful information, check out our article on how to choose winter boots.