Cold, wet feet are a big no-no for winter hikers. (Don’t even get us started on the “screaming barfies”). And unlike with summer hiking, you can’t just switch to your sandals if your shoes soak through. That’s why choosing a winter boot with enough insulation, waterproofing, and traction is critical to a successful winter backpacking trip.

To find the very best, we sent our testers out in ice-rink conditions, trudging through deep snow, slushy mud, and everything in between. Only these six boots vaulted to the top of the pack. Find the pair that’ll keep your feet toasty all winter long.

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