The 6 Best Winter Boots of 2013

New Balance Winter 110 Trail Boots

Like the Salomon Snowcross CS, the uninsulated Winter 110 is essentially a minimalist running shoe (9 ounces; 4-millimeter heel-to-toe drop) wrapped in a waterproof-breathable gaiter. The outsole lugs shed snow like a champ.

Got Gaiters? Our favorites are still Outdoor Research's light, packable, breathable Verglas ($54).

Salewa Snow Trainer Insulated GTX Boots

Designed with a cinch-top integrated gaiter for snowshoe mountaineering, the Snow Trainer was our favorite boot for serious winter outings. It’s stiff enough to wear with crampons, and cotton fabric and aluminum flakes embedded in the sole improve its bite on ice.

Teva Chair 5 Boots

The Chair 5 is nearly as warm and sturdy as a Sorel, but it packs down to the size of a running shoe—great for hut trips and ski vacations. The rubber-soled inner bootie is removable.

Vasque Snow Junkie Boots

Built on a running-shoe platform with a lightly insulated waterproof upper, this 18-ounce mid-high is ideal for everything from fast-paced winter hikes to snowshoeing.

Timberland Rime Ridge Mid Shell Expedition

Thanks to 800 grams of insulation, the waterproof-breathable Rime Ridge is the warmest boot here.

Adidas Holtanna Boots

With temperature-sensitive soles that get stickier as it gets colder, a molded heel shelf that keeps snowshoe bindings from slipping, and 200 grams of PrimaLoft insulation, this was our favorite all-purpose winter boot.