Do Hiking Boots Work in Snow? If So How?
So you have some great hiking boots that work in the summer, but you are wondering if they can work in the snow. Well, it’s pretty simple, but there are a few things you want to consider depending on the weather and type of boot.
Do hiking boots work in snow? Yes, hiking boots can work in the snow as long as the boot is waterproof or there is little snow. Using gaiters and warm socks will help keep your feet warm and dry.
Using Hiking Boots in the Snow – How and When
Technically, yes, you can use hiking boots in the snow, but it really depends on what kind of activity, the weather, and the type of boot. Let’s take a look at some scenarios…
Light Snow
If you’re doing any activity with not a whole lot of snow on the ground, then hiking boots will be fine by themselves. I wear my hiking boots casually in the winter because I find they offer better traction than shoes. If you are out walking, make sure to stop and smell the winter roses!
Hiking boots will be fine for hard packed snow, though, for slippery or icy conditions, you’ll want to grab yourself a pair of Microspikes or other traction devices. Microspikes are easy to slip on and off and help a super ton when hiking, especially going up inclines. Head over to my Microspike review and check out the sizing chart.
Light fluffy snow is going to be okay to use hiking boots in as well, as long as there’s not a whole lot of snow.
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Deep Snow
If you’re playing in the snow or doing any hiking in deeper snow that’s more than an inch deep, you’ll want to make sure your boots are at least waterproof. A lot of hiking boots are on the market today are considered waterproof, but if yours aren’t, you can help waterproof them with a waterproof spray solution.
If you’re looking to waterproof your boots, check out the Kiwi Camp Spray on Amazon. This spray can be used for pretty much everything, including boots, tents, and even patio furniture.
If you are hiking in deep snow (anything over several inches) you might want to bring snowshoes (see my beginner snow guide). Snowshoes have a lot of advantages over hiking boots. Another piece of equipment you’ll want to consider is wearing gators. Snow gators will keep your feet and lower leg dry and prevent any snow from entering your boot. They can also be used in the warmer weather too when it’s wet. See the Unigear Leg Gators on Amazon.
Keeping Your Feet Warm
One of the drawbacks of using regular hiking boots in the winter is that they aren’t insulated. If you’re wearing hiking boots in the cold, make sure you wear well-insulated socks. If you have room, two pairs of socks can be beneficial and they also prevent blisters. This is especially true if you are going to be standing around for a long time.
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Tips for Using Hiking Boots in Snow
To summarize, using hiking boots in snow can work depending on if the shoe is waterproof and how deep the snow is.
Some tips for using hiking boots in the snow:
- Make sure they are waterproof
- Use warm socks
- Use snow gaiters
- Use Microspikes and snowshoes when appropriate.
That’s it! Have more questions? Leave a comment below!
