Combat boots are ideal for snow due to their sturdy construction and traction. In snowy conditions, combat boots offer excellent grip and protection from cold and wet conditions, making them a reliable choice for winter footwear.
Combat boots have become a mainstream fashion staple in recent years. Their rugged, edgy look pairs perfectly with casual winter outfits. But beyond just looks, combat boots provide valuable functional benefits as well. Their durable leather construction and lugged rubber soles make them well-suited for cold, wet weather.
So how do combat boots perform in snowy conditions specifically? Can they handle heavy snowfall and icy terrain? Or are you better off with snow boots designed specifically for frigid temps?
Below we’ll examine the pros and cons of wearing combat boots in the snow. While they have limitations in certain scenarios, these versatile boots remain a top choice for most cold weather activities.
Table of Contents
Why Combat Boots Excel in Many Snowy Situations?
There are several key reasons why combat boots are an excellent footwear choice for many snowy days:
1. They Keep Feet Warm
Combat boots are made of thick, insulating leathers and usually have a soft lining. This combination traps heat and blocks cold air and snow from reaching your feet. While not as warm as boots with ultra-insulating liners designed for sub-zero temps, combat boots provide sufficient warmth for typical winter conditions.
2. They Provide Good Traction
The lugged rubber outsoles found on most combat boots are ideal for gripping slippery, snow-covered surfaces. The deep lugs provide stability even on uneven terrain. Combat boot soles may not have quite as aggressive traction as speciality snow boots, but they provide vastly better grip than smooth, street-style boot soles.
3. They Repel Moisture
Quality leather combat boots are naturally water resistant. Even when exposed to snow and slush, the leather uppers prevent moisture from leaking inside the boots. Feet stay dry despite the wet conditions. Just be sure to properly maintain the leather with conditioner.
4. They Are Extremely Durable
Combat boots stand up to heavy use and abuse in rough winter weather. The thick, rugged leather is designed to last for years of wear. With proper care, a good pair of combat boots will provide reliable performance for many seasons of snow and ice.
5. They Offer Winter Style
Unlike utilitarian snow boots, combat boots make a fashionable statement paired with your winter wardrobe. They provide the perfect blend of form and function. Your feet stay warm and dry without having to sacrifice stylistic interests. Combat boots look great with pants, jeans, skirts, and dresses.
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Potential Shortcomings of Combat Boots for Snow
However, while combat boots excel in many winter weather scenarios, they do have limitations in certain conditions:
1. They Can Be Heavy
Due to their thick leather and rubber construction, combat boots are heavier than typical winter footwear. Trudging through deep snow can feel cumbersome and tiring as you lift the heavy boots over and over. For lighter mobility in deep drifts, taller snow boots might be preferable.
2. They May Be Too Cold for Extreme Lows
While warm for typical winter temps, non-insulated combat boots won’t cut it in bitter sub-zero conditions. Feet need ultra-warm boots rated for extreme cold in frigid environments far below zero. Combat boots plus thick socks just aren’t enough insulation when temperatures plummet.
3. Their Traction is Limited on Smooth Ice
Combat boots grip snow, slush, and lightly icy terrain well. But smooth frozen surfaces can pose problems. The shallower lugs struggle for purchase on sheer ice. Special winter boots have deeper, sharper cleats that bite into ice better under these slick circumstances.
4. Their Waterproofness Fades Over Time
The water-resistance of leather boots breaks down over time with extensive use and exposure. Salt, grime, and slush take their toll despite treatments. Eventually, feet get wet as the leather soaks through. Proper maintenance helps, but waterproofing eventually fades.
5. Their Ankles Are Less Flexible
Combat boots lack the flexible ankles found on snowboarding or mountaineering boots. The stiff leather doesn’t allow the natural ankle articulation needed for activities requiring more freedom of movement and flexibility.
Tips for Safely and Comfortably Wearing Combat Boots in the Snow
Despite their limitations in certain conditions, combat boots remain a smart choice for most snow activities. Follow these tips to enhance their snow performance:
- Frequently apply waterproofing spray – Treat the leather often to maintain water resistance.
- Use leather conditioner – Keeping the leather supple prevents cracks that lead to wet feet.
- Wear wool socks – For additional insulation and moisture-wicking properties.
- Consider adding traction accessories – Yaktrax or similar traction devices enhance stability on sheer ice.
- Take breaks to warm feet – Get out of the snow occasionally to warm up in harsh conditions.
- Remove insoles to dry – Allow boots to fully dry between uses to prevent mold buildup.
- Consider Gore-Tex lined boots – For enhanced waterproofing in extreme winter terrain.
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When to Choose Specialized Snow Boots Over Combat Boots
For most purposes, properly equipped combat boots perform excellently in the snow. But in certain cases, more specialized winter footwear is preferable:
1. Deep Snow
When trudging through very deep powder far above ankle level, choose tall snow boots designed to keep snow out. Combat boots lack the extra height and waterproofing required.
2. Extreme Cold
When temperatures drop well below zero degrees Fahrenheit, opt for insulated boots with sealed waterproof liners rated for these frigid temps. Basic combat boots won’t suffice in bitter cold.
3. Mountaineering & Snowboarding
For climbing icy peaks or bombing down slopes at speed, select flexible boots designed specifically for freedom of movement. The stiff combat boot ankles are too restrictive.
4. Slick Ice
On densely frozen ponds or surfaces where traction is paramount, boots with deeper cleats work best. Swapping Yaktrax over combat boots improves grip on sheer ice.
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The Writer’s Take – My Top Combat Boot Recommendations for Snow
Based on my experience testing footwear in winter conditions, here are my top recommendations if choosing combat boots for snow activities:
1. Best Overall – Black Leather Lug Sole Combat Boot
A black leather combat boot with traditional lugged rubber outsole provides the most well-rounded performance across various winter scenarios. Paired with wool socks and waterproofing spray, they make a versatile, durable cold weather companion.
2. Best Insulation – Shearling-Lined Combat Boot
The soft shearling lining adds significant warmth without overheating. Feet stay cozy down to about 20°F before needing heavier insulation. The moisture-wicking shearling also reduces sweat buildup.
3. Best Traction – Vibram Sole Combat Boot
Boots featuring the famous Vibram outsoles grip snow and ice better than standard lug soles. The deeper lugs and tacky compound enhance stability in slick terrain.
4. Best Waterproofing – Gore-Tex Combat Boot
Gore-Tex membrane construction seals out moisture for prolonged protection in wet snow. Much more effective long-term than basic leather alone before needing reproofing.
5. Best Budget – Basic Black Military-Style Combat Boot
For a cheaper but still functional option, the classic black military-style boot works great. Just be diligent with waterproofing treatments to maintain their dryness over time. Apply regularly.
No matter your specific preferences and needs, following the tips above will allow you to safely enjoy your chosen pair of combat boots in the snow this winter. Just be mindful of their potential limitations in extreme conditions. But across most normal winter scenarios, a good pair of combat boots will provide warmth, traction, and weather protection to keep your feet happy all season long.
Frequently Asked Questions About Combat Boots for Snow
Are combat boots good in heavy, deep snow?
Combat boots work fine in lighter snow but can get weighed down and prone to leakage in heavy snow reaching higher than the ankle. For frequent deep snow, consider taller insulated and waterproof snow boots instead.
Can you wear combat boots all day in the snow without getting cold feet?
With thick wool socks providing insulation and the leather upper keeping out moisture, combat boots should keep your feet warm and dry all day in the snow under most conditions. Take occasional breaks inside to warm up feet in extreme cold.
Do combat boots provide enough traction in ice and slippery conditions?
While the lug soles provide decent traction on snow and light ice, they struggle for grip on smooth, dense frozen surfaces. Adding supplementary Yaktrax or other traction devices enhances stability on slick ice when wearing combat boots.
How do you properly waterproof and maintain combat boots for snow?
Frequently apply waterproofing sprays and creams designed for leather to maintain the boots’ water resistance. Avoid excessive salt exposure that can degrade and dry out leather. Using leather conditioner helps keep the upper supple and prevents cracking.
Do combat boots sacrifice too much style for function in winter weather?
No, today’s combat boots look very stylish as part of fashionable casual winter outfits. Many designer versions have a sleek, put-together aesthetic. Just avoid overly bulky or tactical-looking models for a more refined comb
Can you wear combat boots comfortably without heavy socks?
It’s recommended to wear wool or other heavy insulating socks with combat boots in colder temps. The extra sock thickness helps trap heat and keep feet warm. Going sockless or wearing thin socks increases risk of cold feet in frigid weather.
How warm are shearling-lined combat boots?
Shearling lining adds significant warmth while managing moisture well. Good-quality shearling combat boots keep feet reasonably comfortable down to around 20°F before more insulation is needed in colder temperatures. The lining also wicks sweat to prevent overheating indoors.
Conclusion
While specialized snow boots have benefits in specific scenarios, combat boots remain a smart choice for winter footwear across a wide range of conditions. Their durability, traction, and water resistance make them well-suited for handling snow, slush, and light ice. Just be aware of their limitations in extreme cold or deep powder. With smart layering and preparation, combat boots check the boxes of fashion, function, and warmth for tackling winter in style. Your feet will thank you for making these iconic boots your new go-to for the colder months ahead.
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