Winter boots are designed to be worn when there is snow or ice on the ground, or when the temperature is below freezing. These boots have thicker, rubberized soles and insulated lining. There are wide arrays of styles, ranging from simple leather boots to insulated, guaranteed waterproof boots. If you live anywhere that gets at least 5 inches (12.7 cm) of snow and the temperature is below freezing for more than one week, you should invest in winter boots.

When selecting winter boots for children, there are three factors that affect your decision: ease of use, waterproof level and quality of insulation. Children must be able to put on and take off their own winter boots quickly and without assistance. Select one-piece boots that go up to mid-calf level to meet their needs. Purchase boots one half size larger than the current shoe size to ensure they fit properly all winter.

Write your child's name in permanent marker on the inside label of the boots, to ensure that they bring the correct boots home from school. Do not purchase boots with laces for any child less than 12 years of age. Select boots with Velcro™ closing or buckles. The boots should should have thick insulation material to keep their feet warm. Check the label to ensure they are 100% waterproof, not just water resistant.

Insulation materials in adult winter boots range from thick padding to Thinsulate™ insulation in the more stylish boots. Check the padding along the sole of the boot and the ankles, as these are the parts of the foot that are the most sensitive to the cold. If you are thinking about purchasing leather boots, it is important to remember that road salt destroys leather. Select these type of winter boots only if you plan to clean the boots of all salt residue after each use.

The heel on a winter boot should be no more than 1 inch (2.4 cm) high. Any higher, and you risk falling down in slippery conditions. Check the tread on the bottom of the boots. The tread pattern should be varied, with at least a 1/4 inch (0.64 cm) depth of rubber. Without a tread, you will not be able to keep your balance and will slip and fall on the snowy and icy surfaces.

If you are planning on participating in winter sports such as skiing, snowboarding, ice skating or snow tubing, select boots that are easy to pull on and off. One-piece ski boots are easy to handle and are designed to be used with winter sport equipment. Invest money in quality winter boots and they can be used for many years.