We love the feeling of wrenching off our ski and snowboard boots at the end of a long day almost as much as we love putting them on in the morning to score first tracks. These fresh kicks offer comfort, warmth, and steez for hitting the bar, exploring a new downtown, or relaxing back in the lodge.
Salomon Vaya Blaze Thinsulate ClimaSalomon Waterproof ($140)
Maximize your ski-trip packing list with this lightweight winter boot, which doubles as a dependable hiker—it features serious traction fit for snowy and icy conditions. The insulated interior is like a sleeping bag for your foot, keeping cold out and warmth in, and the plush faux-fur lining brings the shoe’s comfort factor to a whole new level, so it’s perfect for après hangs that last into the wee hours. One tester raved that these were some of the coziest shoes she’s ever explored in.
Birkenstock Bryson Shearling ($220)
Nothing says recovery like soft shearling. Slip on the high-top Brysons with the leather pull tabs and enjoy your adventures in style without worrying your feet will get cold. The fleece lining kept us warm down to temperatures well below freezing. You can’t go wrong with any of the three neutral colors.
Rossignol Après-Ski ($150)
We’re pretty sure this boot is a gift from the après gods. We love the cinchable speed laces, which make it easy to slip on and off one-handed, whether you’re changing standing up in the parking lot or hurrying to grab a post-run beer. The plush upper and cushioned midsole make them ultracomfortable, and the extra-supportive inserts allow you to stand around the fire pit for hours without suffering sore feet the next day.
Kodiak Moncton ($180)
Those with hot feet will appreciate this breathable-leather insulated boot, which one tester found to be extremely wicking—it’s as comfortable to wear in the toasty indoors as in the frigid outdoors. A pair of eyelets at the ankle allow you to lace the boots all the way up. Add to that the undeniable appeal of classic lived-in leather and, well, you can thank us later.
On Cloudrock Edge Raw ($250)
On’s new winter shoe perfectly marries style and tech. It’s great for those who like a futuristic aesthetic but want something slimmer than a Moon Boot. A plastic plate in the midsole is designed to maximize forward propulsion, resulting in a smooth walking stride. Plus, the boot is fully waterproof and sustainably made, with 40 percent recycled content and no dyes.
Vans Mountain Mule MTE Slides ($60)
All successful ski trips involve a heavenly, cushioned cabin slipper, and this luxurious model raises the style standard for the genre. We love that it’s water-resistant, insulated, and equipped with a rubber snow-boot outsole for quick, slip-free missions to the hot tub. The grippy leather footbed ensures it’ll reliably stay on your foot despite the open-back design.