When it starts to snow and freeze, and the sidewalks get covered in ice, there’s no substitute for a well-constructed winter boot that will help you get from place to place safely. However, you may wonder what exactly you should be looking for when shopping for a quality winter boot. To help, we’ve created a boot buying guide with tips and considerations to keep in mind, along with recommendations for some of the best winter boots for men, women, and kids available at Finish Line.

With a focus on safety and comfort, here are four things to consider when shopping for a new pair of winter boots:

When shopping for new winter boots, it’s important to select a boot that is high enough to keep you and your feet dry, especially in snowy or slushy weather. Depending on the conditions, look for a boot shaft height of about six to eight inches. Many popular brands, like Timberlands, are designed for this, with one of their best-selling boots — the 6-Inch Premium Waterproof Boot — boasting a shaft height of six inches. 

Checking the boot’s tread pattern is also essential when shopping for winter boots. Look for bubbly, widely spaced lugs that will help your boots grip the ice more evenly and, as a result, keep you safe. One example is Nike Manoa Boots, which feature a lugged sole, or Timberland’s Cervinia Valley Chelsea Boots, which provide a stylish option while still maintaining a lug tread pattern. For a men’s option, we recommend the Air Max Goaterra 2.0 Boots.

Remember, once you head indoors after walking around in snowy and wet wintery weather, all the snow and ice will melt, which makes waterproofing extra important. Waterproof winter boots are the ideal option here, including the Back-to-Berkeley III Waterproof Boots from The North Face, which are ideal for regions with a lot of cool rain and snow.

You should also see if your boots have a waterproof lining. Boots like the Back-to-Berkeley III feature a DryVent™ waterproof membrane that helps keep your feet dry.  

Winter days continue to get shorter throughout the month of December, so if you’re going to be out in the evening or at night, you’ll want to consider looking at reflective materials for your boots. One brand that’s incorporating these materials into its designs is The North Face. Winter boot styles such as the Fastpack Hiker Boots feature reflective pull tabs that can ensure safety.

Now that you know what to look for in a good pair of winter boots shop some of your favorite styles at Finish Line! We have an extensive selection of the best winter boots for men, women, and kids.