If you’re not a fan of winter boots, then you will love winter sneakers! Winter sneakers mix the style of shoes and the warmth and traction of winter boots into one.
As someone who grew up in Canada, I know firsthand which winter sneakers are best. In fact, I’ve been wearing winter sneakers for over ten years because I’ve never liked wearing winter boots.
Unless there’s ten inches of snow outside, I will always wear winter sneakers. Winter shoes are more comfortable, stylish, and practical.
This post explores the best winter sneakers designed to keep your feet cozy and provide adequate traction on slippery surfaces.
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25 Best Winter Sneakers
1. Allbirds Woolrunner
Allbirds is one of our favorite sneaker brands; they make good quality and comfortable shoes! The Allbirds Woolrunner has water-repellent uppers, making them perfect for those rainy winter days.
This sneaker is made from the company’s signature merino wool, so they are comfortable and warm. Overall, these are a great everyday sneaker for those in mildly cold climates.
Recommended: Allbirds Woolrunner (see price on Amazon)
2. Nike React SFB Carbon Sneakers
The Nike React SFB Carbon is the perfect winter sneaker for outdoor athletes. These shoes pack traction, support, and durability into a rugged sneaker.
Overall, these are some of the best sneakers for outdoor activities during the colder months. You will have traction on the toughest terrains thanks to the aggressive tread.
Recommended: Nike React SFB Carbon
3. Converse Chuck Taylor All Star All Terrain Counter Climate Shoes
The Converse Chuck Taylor All-Star All-Terrain Counter Climate Shoes combine warm and protective materials into one silhouette. These versatile shoes are perfect for outdoor and city life.
These sneakers feature a stylish design, waterproof upper, and rugged sole, making them perfect for the cold weather. Overall, these Converse are a great choice for someone who wants to look trendy on those cold winter days.
Recommended: Converse Chuck Taylor All-Star All-Terrain Counter Climate Shoes
4. Adidas Terrex Free Hiker 2
The Adidas TERREX Free Hiker 2 are hiking shoes known for being comfortable and offering reliable traction. Since these shoes have a high-top design, they provide excellent support on uneven surfaces.
These winter sneakers come in various colors, making it easy to match your winter outfits!
Recommended: Adidas Terrex Free Hiker 2
5. New Balance 510 Trail Running Shoes
If you’re looking for a durable pair of winter sneakers, look no further than the New Balance 510 Trail Running Shoes. Since these shoes are designed for trail running, you don’t have to worry about getting hurt on uneven terrain.
For years, trail runners have worn New Balance 510s for running in cold temperatures and in winter conditions. Overall, these winter shoes are a great value since they cost around $75!
Recommended: New Balance 510 Trail Running Shoes (see different colors on Amazon)
6. Converse Chuck 70s
If you’re looking for a pair of sneakers that can be worn in the winter, the Converse Chuck 70s are a great option. These iconic Chuck Taylors are high tops and perfect for snowy days.
The Converse Chuck 70s are made with canvas material, so you will want to wear them with thick socks. These winter sneakers are very stylish and popular this year.
Try wearing your Chuck 70s with a pair of blue denim jeans and a puffer jacket to make a trendy winter outfit.
Recommended: Converse Chuck 70s
7. Nike Air Force 1 Low GTX Sneakers
Nike Air Force 1’s are one of the most popular sneakers on the market right now. These shoes are known for being versatile, comfortable, and very stylish.
The Nike Air Force 1 Low GTX Sneakers use Gore-Text, a waterproof material that keeps your socks nice and dry.
If you’re a fan of wearing Air Force 1’s, check out this sneaker version. They are perfect for the winter!
Recommended: Nike Air Force 1 Low GTX
8. Vans UltraRange Exo Hi MTE-1
The Vans UltraRange Exo Hi MTE-1 uses HydroGuard to waterproof the sneaker, thermal insulation for warmth, and a durable outsole with amazing traction and durability.
Vans is a brand known for being durable, affordable, and versatile. If you like to wear Vans daily, you will love these Vans winter sneakers.
Recommended: Vans UltraRange Exo Hi MTE-1
9. Nike Blazer High Tops
Although these sneakers are not intended to be worn during the winter, Nike Blazer High Tops make very good winter shoes. Since these sneakers have a rubber sole, leather upper and high top design, they are optimal for the cold weather.
Unless it’s extremely icy outside, or there are intense weather conditions, Nike Blazer High Tops are a great option.
Recommended: Nike Blazer High Tops
10. ON Cloudadventure Waterproof Shoes
ON is a sneaker brand that has recently become huge on TikTok, Instagram, and other social media platforms. The ON Cloudadventure are waterproof sneakers that are meant for trail running.
These shoes use CloudTec cushioning, which is extremely comfortable. Furthermore, the ON Cloudadventure sneakers are very breathable, which makes them perfect for runs in the winter weather!
Recommended: ON Cloudadventure Waterproof Shoes
11. Nike React Pegasus Trail 4 GTX
The Nike React Pegasus Trail is part of Nike’s iconic trail running shoe lineup. The “Pegasus” series is known for its comfort and cushioning.
Nike uses GTX technology, which stands for “Gore-Text.” Gore-Tex is a breathable and waterproof material used in outdoor and performance footwear.
Overall, the Nike React Pegasus 4 GTX is a great winter sneaker for athletes who like to stay active year-round.
Recommended: Nike React Pegasus Trail 4 GTX
12. Lacoste Gripshot Sneakers
Lacoste is not typically known as a winter wear brand. However, they offer winter jackets, vests, thick sweaters, and winter shoes. The Lacoste Gripshot Sneakers are leather shoes with a rubber sole.
If you need a pair of shoes that can be worn outdoors for short periods, then these shoes are perfect for you. Since they are made of leather and perfect for short walks on the city streets.
Overall, the Lacoste Gripshot is an excellent pair of shoes for someone who wants to dress nicely during all four seasons of the year.
Recommended: Lacoste Gripshot Sneakers
13. Adidas Stan Smith
If you like the look of leather sneakers, you will love the Adidas Stan Smiths. These shoes are great for somebody who has to walk short distances during the winter.
Although the Stan Smiths aren’t as warm as other shoes, they are very stylish. Furthermore, since these shoes are made with leather, you won’t have to worry about your socks getting wet.
Overall, the Adidas Stan Smith is a great winter sneaker for somebody who does not spend much time outdoors during the winter. These versatile shoes mix comfort and style, making them excellent for any time of the year.
Recommended: Adidas Stan Smiths (see over 3,000 positive reviews on Amazon)
14. Puma Xterra Winter Trail Running Shoe
If you’re looking for a pair of basic runners for the winter, look no further than the Puma Xterra Winter Trail Running Shoes. These shoes have mesh uppers and rugged outsoles, which makes them great for winter runs.
Overall, these sneakers are perfect for those who want to stay active during the winter.
Recommended: Puma Xterra Winter Trail Running Shoe
15. Air Jordan 1 High Tops
Air Jordan 1’s are iconic basketball shoes that have a high-top design. Typically, most people would not consider Jordans to be winter sneakers. However, they certainly can be worn on a snowy and cold day.
Since these shoes are high tops, they offer protection against a few inches of snow. As someone who grew up in Canada, many people wear Air Jordan 1s during the winter.
If you’re trying to stay stylish and trendy during the winter, these shoes are the right for you!
Recommended: Air Jordan 1 High Tops
16. Timberland Stormbuck Lite
If you like the classic look of Timberland boots, you will love the Timberland Stormbuck Lite. These sneaker boots combine the look of a Timberland boot with the style of oxford shoes.
These are a great alternative to winter boots as they are warm, comfortable, and offer protection against all weather conditions.
Recommended: Timberland Stormbuck Lite (see over 1,000 positive reviews on Amazon)
17. Converse Women’s Chuck Taylor All Star Lugged Hi Sneakers
The Converse Women’s Chuck Taylor All Star Lugged Hi Sneakers are a fashionable winter sneaker for women. These sneakers boots have a leather upper and a rubber sole, making them perfect for cold and rainy winter days.
These are some of the top-rated boots on Amazon, with over 4,500 positive reviews. Many people like that these shoes come in various colors and are incredibly comfortable!
Recommended: Converse Women’s Chuck Taylor All Star Lugged Hi Sneakers
18. UGG Baysider Sneaker
UGG is a brand that is known for making the best winter boots. However, they make great winter sneakers as well!
The UGG Baysider is a warm winter shoe built for cold winter days. UGG uses waterproof suede and leather to keep your socks dry on rainy and snowy days.
If you’re looking for a winter sneaker that mixes style, warmth, and comfort, then the UGG Baysider Sneaker is a great choice.
Recommended: UGG Baysider Sneaker (see different colors on Amazon)
19. ECCO Gore-Tex Waterproof Chukka Boot
A Chukka boot is a footwear option that fits just around your ankles. Typically, Chukka boots are a hybrid between a boot and a nice pair of shoes.
Chukka boots are a stylish option for going to the office, on dates, or for nicer occasions. The Ecco Gore-Tex Waterproof Chukka Boot is a solid option for a winter boot alternative.
Recommended: Ecco Gore-Tex Waterproof Chukka Boot
20. Bruno Marc Slip-On Loafer
If you’re looking for a pair of winter sneakers to wear while cleaning off your car, take out the garbage, or shovel outdoors, check out the Bruno Marc Slip-On Loafers.
Thanks to their slip-on design, these loafers are super easy to wear. The faux fur lining makes them nice and warm for those cold winter days.
Priced under $30, these are a great value for what you get!
Recommended: Bruno Marc Slip-On Loafer
21. Sketchers Delson-Antigo Winter Sneakers
If you’re looking for an affordable pair of winter sneakers, check out the Sketchers Delson-Antigo winter sneakers. These shoes are waterproof and have a memory foam sole, so they are very comfortable.
Priced around $60, these shoes offer a great bang for your buck! These shoes also come in X-wide sizes, making them perfect for people with wide feet.
Recommended: Sketchers Delson-Antigo
22. Columbia Fairbanks Omni-Heat Boots
The Columbia Fairbanks Omni-Heat Boots are hybrids between shoes and winter boots. These shoes offer advanced insulation and sneaker-like comfort, making them great sneakers for the winter.
These boots are rated for -25f/-32C, perfect for many cold climates.
Recommended: Columbia Fairbanks Omni-Heat Boots (see price on Amazon)
23. Adidas Ultraboost Winter.RDY
The Adidas Ultraboost Winter.RDY is a sneaker that is designed for cold and wet conditions. Since these shoes offer insulation and water-repellent properties, they are perfect for those snowy winter days.
Recommended: Adidas Ultraboost Winter.RDY
24. Amazon Essentials Chelsea Boots
Check out the Amazon Essentials Chelsea Boots if you want a mix of winter boots and dress shoes. These boots look great with jeans, chino pants, and dress pants.
Overall, these are a great alternative to winter boots and are very stylish.
Recommended: Amazon Essentials Chelsea Boots
25. Salomon X Ultra Mid Winter CS WP
Check out the Salomon X Ultra Mid Winter CS WP if you want a rugged option. These sneakers are built for outdoor activities and winter hikes.
Recommended: Salomon X Ultra Mid Winter CS WP
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Final Thoughts On The Best Winter Sneakers
Winter sneakers are a great alternative to winter boots! Not only are they more stylish, but they are way more comfortable as well!
In this post, I shared the best winter sneakers that are popular this year.
Do you like to wear sneakers in the winter? Please let me know in the comments below.
Oh heck yes!!
This article made me almost as happy as the one you wrote about jeans being uncomfortable! 😁 I hateee wearing winter boots – *almost* as much as I hate wearing jeans lol. Boots are so cumbersome and kind of boring.
It’s all-leather Air Force One lows for this human in the winter. AF1’s are beasts and they are not afraid of anything – especially not snow! 😎❄️
This year, I found some cool Nike crew socks at a local store. They have this sick marble pattern, and they’re even thicker (and warmer) than Nike’s regular socks. Paired with the AF1’s, it’s the perfectly snug yet lightweight winter combo.
Regarding Jordan 1’s in the winter – heck yeah, I see people wearing those around campus and town here in New England too and they look super classy when paired with a stylish jacket or coat! That photo you used of the Jordan 1’s overlooking the cityscape is sick.
Really nice article and tips – I definitely want to try out those AF1 GTX now.
I went to pick up my winter AF1’s at the mall yesterday – the ones that the cool Z’er employee had helped me order – and they are perfect! There is nothing quite like a pair of those classic all-white or all-black leather AF1’s for winter, because the leather on those is really tough and high quality. Some of the AF1’s have a more “pebbled” textured leather, and that type of leather on the ones I looked at was a lot thinner and creasier. Bring on the snow!👟☃️
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LOL – it was literally all twenty-something Z’ers working in that store this time and they were having a blast!! The shift manager was also a Z’er and they had this really cool “Z music” (lol) cranked up and they were all laughing and actually *enjoying* their work. Wow – having fun at work – what a novel and fascinating concept! They had such a great vibe going there that I hated to leave! I told them that and they were like hang out if you want, we don’t care! 😂💯
If that’s what work and society at large are going to be like when The Z’ers fully take things over – wow – bring it on! Everybody was still getting their work done, and it was so cool to see people actually enjoying their work the way they all were – that’s exactly how it should be!
It’s true, Z’ers are not at all like the other gens…they are these legendary multi-tasking humans of the future who are just out there doing their own thing. They can blast music, talk, laugh, type about 500 words per minute on tiny phone keyboards, have fun, and STILL get all their work done really well AND be super chill with the customers – all at the same time! Show me anyone else who can do all that lol!
The more you people take things over, the easier and more sane and fun this life is becoming – I really am starting to see it more each day, and I am so loving the fact that I get to see it happen and be a part of it!
Thanks to this blog, I broadened my winter sneaker horizons yesterday and went to a store we have here in Mass called Snipes. It’s got a great forward thinking vibe, all the modern streetwear styles you could want, and huge walls of Air Force 1’s, Jordans, Adidas, New Balance, Timbs, and Vans! It was 100% Z’er staffed and they were all really friendly and helpful, as usual. One of them even gave me a ten minute crash course in Jordans, and for the first time ever in my life I tried some on! Now I see why they are so popular – those shoes are top quality with total class! I fell totally in love with this one pair but unfortunately they were just way too narrow for my way too wide feet 😭😭
I settled instead on a pair of those sick white Blazer mids that you always show here in your posts – the ones with the black swoosh and grey suede trim. They are so sharp, supportive, and comfortable – now I see why Z’ers are all so chill and upbeat – it all starts with the shoes!! 😂😎 These are going to make the perfect second pair of winter sneakers and the fact that they’re mids with some pretty solid leather makes them even more perfect – I love them!
Thanks for giving me the extra boost of confidence and motivation here that I needed to get out there and finally try on something new beyond the AF1’s!
Now that I have my two pairs of cool winter sneakers all squared away, yesterday afternoon I went back to where I got them – where the Z’ers were all so friendly and helpful – and surprised them with a three foot long (yes, three foot lol) sub from one of the local specialty sandwich shops. They went wild over it ha. I just told them that it was to thank them for all of their kind patience and help as I tried to find something that worked for me. I told them that they were the chillest people ever working in the chillest store ever. More than anything in the world, I just hope that it made them all feel as worthwhile and important as they have made me feel.
As someone who grew up with a lot of learning challenges, some of which still persist now, I have a very hard time using electronic technology and processing lots of information to make a decision, and I can’t tell you how great 2023 is – aka the fact that I am sharing this planet now with a new generation of much kinder, understanding people who actually help me instead of laughing at me or getting impatient with me because it takes me longer than other people to make a decision.
Every chance I get, I always defend The Z’s when people criticize them and I try my best to do cool things for them like the giant sub in return for making me feel like I am an equal to all of them and a welcome part of their modern world. You guys really are the best, and I love you all so much.
Thank you for being so cool. I am currently working on customizing my white AF1’s for the winter by painting the swoosh and the raised “AIR” lettering on the outsole black – just to add a bit of darker color for winter and so they will pair better with my black North Face jacket.
AF1’s are still the best, and these things are gonna be true winter beasts by the time I’m finished with them ha. I can’t wait to start wearing them! 😁😎✌🏼