Buying guide for Best boys’ snow boots
Are sledding and building snowmen some of your kids’ favorite winter pastimes? If so, having the right snow boots on hand is important. In this buying guide, we focus specifically on snow boots designed for boys.
The best snow boots are protective, warm, and waterproof. Platform outsoles with traction details can help the wearer traverse snowy and slippery grounds with ease. Longer shafts protect shins as youngsters wade through areas of deep snow. Rubberized toe boxes and mudguards, as well as waterproof seams, keep toes and feet warm while sealing out cold air and moisture.
Key considerations
Sizing
Most boys’ snow boots are available in sizes for little kids and big kids. Some footwear brands also offer baby and toddler sizes.
It’s common for boys’ snow boots to be available only in full sizes. Half sizes are much harder to find. In the event that your child normally wears a half size, we suggest rounding up to the nearest whole size for the best fit. In fact, because boys’ snow boots are often worn with thick winter socks, many parents decide to size up anyway. Keep in mind, however, that boots that are too loose won’t be supportive or stable enough.
Water-resistant vs. waterproof
Two terms that often pop up in the winter boot world are “water-resistant” and “waterproof.” While often used interchangeably, the two terms refer to different qualities.
Water-resistant materials offer a lower level of protection against water and moisture than waterproof materials. They’re equipped to handle light rain and light exposure to water. In these conditions, water beads roll off the material. However, when these materials are submerged or exposed to heavy rain, they become saturated with water.
Waterproof materials offer a much higher level of protection. These materials can handle heavy rainfall and water immersion without getting soaked. Water beads off and does not penetrate these materials at all, which means feet remain dry.
When it comes to boys’ snow boots, they can be water-resistant and waterproof. Boots with both of these qualities usually have a combination of materials with different resilience to water. For example, the boot shell might be water-resistant while the seams around the outsole are waterproof.
How to wear snow pants with boys’ snow boots
There are two ways kids can wear snow pants with snow boots: tucked in or covering the boots.
Some parents opt to tuck snow pants into boots in an attempt to seal off any crevices where snow and water could seep in. This method works well when the snow on the ground isn’t higher than the boot shaft. If kids walk through knee-high snow, however, it can fall in through the top of the boot.
Another option is to wear the boot inside snow pants. This creates a redundant barrier that effectively keeps out snow, even when it’s deep. However, if the snow pants ride up during rough play, there’s a chance that the leg will be exposed, and snow will undoubtedly enter the boot and pants.
It’s common for snow boots to have platform outsoles. With extra height along with good outsole traction, kids have an easier time making their way through deep snow.
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Features
Shell material
Most boys’ snow boots have a synthetic shell, often nylon or polyester, that is water-resistant or waterproof. It’s common for the shell to have durable accent materials such as suede or faux leather as well.
Manufacturers of boots with these shell materials usually provide care instructions for consumers. For example, some boots require annual treatment with waterproofing spray. Often, boot makers sell their own branded sprays which are specially formulated not to damage or deteriorate the boot shell.
Rubberized details
Boys’ snow boots usually have areas of rubberized detail in places where the boots contact snow most often. Because rubber is non-porous, it’s an effective membrane that keeps feet dry.
In most cases, the toe box and mudguard of snow boots are rubberized. In some styles, a single integrated piece of rubber seamlessly connects to the outsole, which may be rubberized as well.
Traction outsole
It’s easy to determine the quality of snow boots by looking at the outsole. Well-made boots have rubber traction outsoles with well-defined treads. The treads effectively cut through snow to help kids find stable footing. They also help kids walk more safely across uneven or wet ground.
Lower-quality outsoles are sometimes made of hard plastic. While dense, they’re not as durable as rubber outsoles. They also lack the texture and grip of rubber outsoles, which makes them less stable.
Lining
Snow boots derive their warmth from the lining. Like the outsole, the quality of the lining impacts the snow boot’s overall quality.
Low-cost snow boots are often lined with a layer of batting covered with polyester plush or faux shearling. While these materials are undoubtedly warm and cozy, they won’t keep feet warm in plunging temperatures. Pricier snow boots usually have a premium insulated lining material such as down, down alternative, or Thinsulate. These materials effectively hold on to body heat, keeping feet, ankles, and calves warm even in the coldest temperatures.
Adjustability
Boys’ snow boots may be adjusted via laces, Velcro straps, or a similar cinching mechanism.
Laces remain popular because they provide a near-custom fit. Not only do they allow you to tighten and secure the boot, you can choose from a number of lacing styles that reinforce certain areas. Laces may not be ideal for kids who aren’t adept at tying laces yet, however.
Velcro straps are common in snow boots for younger kids. They’re easy for kids to put on, take off, and adjust. Notably, Velcro only adjusts the circumference of the shaft in limited areas, so it does not provide the near-custom fit that laces do.
DID YOU KNOW?
Many snow boots have Velcro, which attracts thread, hair, and lint. To clean the Velcro, simply tease away these fibers with a toothbrush.
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Boys’ snow boots: prices
Inexpensive: Entry-level boys’ snow boots cost $25 to $40. These styles typically feature faux shearling lining and a water-resistant shell. They may do the job for a couple of seasons, but they’re not the warmest or most durable snow boots for boys.
Mid-range: Mid-range snow boots, priced between $40 and $70, offer the most bang for the buck. Many boots in this price bracket have premium insulated linings and outsoles with better traction. They’re also significantly warmer than inexpensive snow boots.
Expensive: The priciest boys’ snow boots run between $70 and $150. These are often made by leading names in outdoor footwear and deliver a variety of premium features.
Unsure about size? Manufacturers usually provide a sizing chart that allows you to determine a child’s boot size based on their shoe size.
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Tips
- Remove the boots while still outdoors. Tracking snow indoors makes carpets wet and hard floors slippery. Have kids remove their snow boots on the porch or in the garage instead of tracking in snow and ice.
- Sprinkle baking soda inside snow boots. It’s normal for feet to sweat inside snow boots. To keep the soles fresh and odor-free, sprinkle a little baking soda on them.
- Save money with off-season colors. When it comes to footwear, off-season or discontinued colors are often more affordable than in-season and on-trend colors. You can save big bucks on boys’ snow boots by selecting less-popular colors or patterns.
FAQ
Q. Should I spend a lot of money on snow boots if my kids outgrow them after a season anyway?
A. Probably not, especially if you live in an area that doesn’t get a lot of snow. Parents of growing kids often stick to mid-range or even entry-level snow boots. However, some choose to spend more because the investment may be passed to younger siblings, cousins, or friends.
Q. How can I find replacement laces for snow boots?
A. If you still have the original box they came in, you might find a spare pair of laces inside it. If not, you can buy duplicate laces directly from the maker. Another option is to determine the length and circumference of the laces and buy comparable ones from any footwear retailer.
Q. How can I remove road salt stains from snow boots?
A. If the stains are recent, you can wipe them away with a diluted mixture of gentle dish soap and warm water. If they’ve been there a while, you may need to use a textured sponge or brush to scrub away the stains. For both cleaning methods, do not saturate or immerse the snow boots in water because certain parts may not be waterproof.
