Slipping on ice is no fun, but thankfully there are plenty of comfortable, stylish winter shoes - from snow boots to water-resistant boots- to get you through winter with ease.
In this blog post we’ll run you through the features to look for on a winter shoe. Choose a pair that ticks all of these boxes and you’ll be able to walk in the wintriest conditions with confidence and assuredness, all whilst looking for your very best.
Here’s what we’ll cover:
- The importance of wearing appropriate footwear when walking on ice
- What features to look for in a winter shoe
You can also browse our cosy and classic shoes, and our premium comfort features, over at The Comfort Hub.
The Importance of Wearing Appropriate Footwear When Walking on Ice
Whether the ground is wet from rain or melting snow, or slippery with ice, walking in winter can be treacherous business. Most of us have had that close shave, too: a foot slips on an icy patch, and you feel yourself falling, managing to right yourself just in time. Some of us will have fallen too: landing on the cold ground with a thump puts a bad taste on anyone’s day.
And whether you fall or not, slipping on ice can lead to pulled muscles, bruises, and even more serious injuries. The risk increases if your shoes are inadequate for the conditions - if they lack traction or support, for example.
The aim of this blog post is not only to showcase suitable winter boots, but to tell you why they’re suitable. With this information in hand, you can make an informed choice this winter and every winter to come. Rather than focussing on the risks, think of winter footwear as an investment in your safety and wellbeing.
Also remember that you don’t need to sacrifice style: a majority of winter footwear combines functionality with style, letting you dress how you like to while walking safely on ice.
What Features to Look for in a Winter Shoe
When choosing winter shoes for walking on ice, it’s important to look for the features that maximise safety, comfort, and warmth. Below you’ll find a list of six features we consider to be essential for a winter shoe.
Excellent Traction
Traction is the most crucial consideration for any shoe you’ll be wearing in icy conditions. A sole with good traction gives you grip and makes all the difference between safe and steady walking and ending up on the ground.
Material is an important factor: anti-slip outsoles made from rubber provide good grip. Deep treads and outsole patterns designed for grip increase contact points with the ice, giving you additional support and balance.
If you’ll be walking on very icy ground, consider studs or cleats: some shoes have these built in, but you can buy removable ice grips if you won’t be using them all the time.
Ankle Support
Walking on ice puts extra strain on your ankles, making ankle support a very important feature of a winter shoe. If you slip and start to fall, a well-supported ankle can make the difference between managing to right yourself or getting an injury like a strained muscle or twisted ankle.
Shoes with good ankle support make walking more comfortable, provide better alignment for your feet, reduce fatigue, and enhance stability. Well worth having!
Lightweight Construction
Walking on ice is more difficult than walking on regular ground, and it can tire you out more quickly. A shoe with lightweight construction helps you to move more easily while still providing support and protection.
While this may not seem like a high priority factor, you’ll really feel the difference of a lightweight winter shoe if you’re someone who walks a lot: on your commute, for example, or on nice winter wanders through snowy woodland.
Waterproof Material
Winter brings all sorts of adverse weather alongside ice: rain, sleet, slush, snow, and so on. Wearing waterproof shoes is a way to protect your feet from getting wet, which as well as keeping you comfortable can protect against cold feet and damaged shoes.
Waterproof shoes also have a longer lifespan, as they’re protected from repeated exposure to moisture. If you notice any water seeping into your waterproofs, take quick steps to fix the entry point.
Insulation to Keep Your Feet Warm
Keeping your feet warm in winter is vital, as you can start to feel discomfort - or even lose feeling completely - if they get cold. Warm feet are easier to walk on, so it’s worth investing in some insulated winter shoes and socks
Look for shoes with thermal linings like fleece or synthetic equivalents. Not only will these materials keep you warm, but they’ll also wick away moisture to prevent sweat from cooling your feet.
Removable Liners or Insoles
Winter weather is variable, and removable liners or insoles give you options as conditions change. Extra cushioning or arch support can improve comfort and reduce fatigue on longer winter walks, for example. You can also remove liners to clean and dry them, keeping your shoes fresher after periods of extended wear.
Slip Into a Suitable Winter Shoe
Winter is a wonderful season, and while the temptation to hunker down beside a fire is real, there’s plenty to be gained from heading out into the world. Whether it’s a frosty morning commute or a long walk with the family, don’t let inadequate footwear hinder your experience of walking in icy conditions this winter: instead, choose a pair of winter shoes that fit the criteria above, and you’ll be comfortable, well-supported, and protected from winter risks.
We have a range of footwear to keep you warm throughout the winter including women's snow boots, winter slippers and more. You can also get in touch with our footwear experts in-store- if you need help finding the perfect shoe for the winter season.