The Best Après Shoes of 2018

Published October 8, 2017 12:00AM

The North Face ThermoBall Traction Bootie ($60)

This PrimaLoft-insulated kick was like a puffy jacket for our feet. The North Face also slapped on a lugged rubber outsole that had mind-blowing grip even while we were drinking beers on parking-lot ice. Bonus points: that outsole is made from recycled materials.

Vans Remedy Boot ($160)

Vans ventures away from its home in Southern California and toward the wintry north with this boot that features a durable galosh-like lower section and a Sorel-like leather upper. The company’s signature white stripe adds flair, and we also loved the comfort of the plush fleece lining.

Forsake Driggs ($140)

A classy leather build matched with pops of color on the heel and shoelaces makes the Driggs stand out. It also has plenty of performance chops, thanks to a waterproof lining and sealed seams. Slip it on for the drive home after skiing, then sport it with jeans at dinner.

Sorel Maddox Moc ($85)

The Maddox Moc is a slipper with teeth, thanks to the meaty herringbone-patterned rubber outsole. We wore it around the house but also took it out for post-ski drinks and were struck by the padded comfort. Not to mention the fact that we never once wiped out on icy streets.

Danner Light ($380)

Originally launched in 1978, the Light hasn’t changed much over the years, which is a good thing. It’s still hardy, with a beefy Vibram outsole and an upper of leather and 1,000-denier nylon. A Gore-Tex liner keeps your dogs dry, and damned if that waxed cotton coat doesn’t look sharp.

Ridgemont Outback II ($135)

Our favorite for classy, understated capability, this boot is made from burly two-millimeter full-grain leather. We found ourselves wearing it all the time, because it keeps the weather out and works great for dirty jobs like kicking the ice off your car and shoveling the driveway.