The 13 Best Ice Fishing Boots for 2024 Reviewed – Keep Your Feet Warm!

What’s the old adage?

Look after your feet – and the rest of you will follow.

And perhaps never a truer phrase was spoken than when you’re ice fishing.

For your safety, warmth and comfort, it is imperative that you use the right kind of footwear when you’re enjoying any kind of outdoor activity – particularly during the winter months.

But that goes double for when you’re out on the ice in temperatures well below freezing.

So, check out our ultimate guide to the best ice fishing boots currently on the market, and give your feet the respect they deserve.

In Short – TOP 3 Ice Fishing Boots & What to Look For

We’ve included a full buyer’s guide after the reviews, but here’s a brief summary of the factors you need to consider when choosing a new pair of ice fishing boots.

  • Sizing and comfort
  • Boot height and weight
  • Insulation
  • Waterproofing
  • Durability
  • Grip and traction
  • Extra features
  • Cost

Bear this list in mind as you read about the products, and it should help point you in the right direction.

Ice Fishing Boots – Our Top Picks

Before we get stuck into the reviews, here’s a selection of our particular favorites – and why we think they’re the best boots for ice fishing.

The Baffin Snow Monster might be a little on the pricey side, but that’s what you have to expect for this kind of quality. Designed for use in extreme conditions – this is up there with the best of the best.

The Muck Arctic Sport winter boot is a great choice and very highly rated among outdoor enthusiasts. Solid, tough, and durable, it’s 100% waterproof – which is what you need when trudging through snow.

Columbia is a household name for affordable, quality outdoor gear. Their Bugaboot III Snow boot has so many positive reviews, it made it impossible to ignore. And at this price, you can’t go wrong.

The 13 Best Ice Fishing Boots for 2024

Baffin Snow Monster Boots

Baffin Snow Monster Boots

Check availability, reviews and price

This is an ice fishing boot that really performs. Your feet will be as snug as a bug in a rug. Baffin are a good quality brand that literally build their boots from the ground up.

What makes it great?

Baffin have borrowed from snowboard boot manufacturers to create a foam inner that molds to your feet over time, ensuring a perfect fit. If your boots are warm and comfy it’s one less thing to worry about.

It’s got everything…

Warmth? Check. Comfort? Check. Grip? Check.

The boot will keep your ankles warm too. It can often be a nuisance to tie up all the laces to ensure they really hug your calves, but Baffin have even thought of that. They feature an elasticated bungee speed lacing system to avoid your hands getting cold whilst you tie them.

If you are carrying heavy gear you don’t need to worry about crushing your feet. The boots feature a reinforced toe cap.

Pros

  • The bungee lacing system is super smart, saving time and cold fingers.
  • You’ll find a perfect fit due to the heat molding technology.
  • A super warm and weather-proof boot.

Cons

  • The sizes are true, so if you intend to wear thick socks (and you should), go a size higher.

Takeaway

A solid start to my review of ice fishing boots. For the money you are going to get good quality and warmth.

Baffin Wolf Snow Boots

Another solid offering from Baffin. These are a little different from our previous Baffin boots. They don’t have laces for a start, so if you want boots that are easy to put on and secure, they could be great.

Let’s talk about some features…

Again, Baffin seem to have taken a few ideas from the outdoor sports industry. The boot features a removable inner foam liner, particularly good for keeping your feet warm as it provides another layer. They should keep your feet insulated all the way down to -40 degrees Celsius.

The outer boot is strong double woven nylon, well known for its waterproof capabilities. A drawstring at the top means not one flake of snow will be able to sneak its way in from the neck of the boot.

Pros

  • Super easy to put on and take off.
  • No-nonsense function and form.
  • Chunky soles ensure a really good grip.

Cons

  • The shaft of the boot could be a little stiff, so if you are going to walk a long way it might begin to chafe a little.

Takeaway

For performance on a budget these boots might be a worthwhile purchase. They aren’t particularly fashionable, but hey who’s going to see you apart from the fish?

Muck Boot Arctic Sport Winter Boots

Muck Boots Arctic Sport Rubber Boots

Check availability, reviews and price

These boots have taken their cue from ‘wellingtons’. Hence the look.

But this isn’t a fashion show…

The boot is a two piece construction, the inner is 5mm neoprene, which as snow fishing glove manufacturers will tell you, is a lightweight and warm way of providing great insulation. This neoprene is wrapped in a thin layer of waterproof rubber which extends above the ankle to keep your feet bone dry.

If you are going to be walking in deep snow you may want to look elsewhere as unfortunately, this rubber doesn’t go all the way to the cuff of the boot. By reducing the rubber, you do save a lot on weight.

Are they warm though?

Yes, they are, aside from the neoprene they have a microfleece lining and undersole foam insulation. From a grip point of view, you’ll have no issues as the bottom is constructed from super chunky rubber.

Pros

  • The chunky grip provided by the boots is really substantial.
  • By combining several layers of different material, the boots tick a lot of boxes.

Cons

  • These would have been perfect if they had more rubber above the ankle.
  • They can be a little difficult to get off.

Takeaway

If you want the next best thing to rubber wellington boots then these are a great choice. They offer a degree of protection and a really great grip.

Kamik Icebreaker Cold Weather Boots

Kamik Icebreaker Insulated Rubber Boots

Check availability, reviews and price

For ‘no frills’ fishing boots check these out…

These 100% rubber boots won’t win any awards for innovation, but they will keep your feet dry. They are relatively light weight and flexible so aren’t particularly uncomfortable to walk in.

Provided you layer up properly with a decent pair of socks you should find them pretty warm too. Rubber won’t let any air escape so from an insulation point of view they won’t do a bad job.

I really like the drawstring cuff at the top of the boot. Snow can’t get in, which is a good thing, as once it’s in it won’t be coming out.

Pros

  • 100% waterproof.
  • A simple boot, not much can go wrong with these…

Cons

  • Definitely not breathable.
  • Difficult to remove.

Takeaway

If you want something simple and effective, this is a great choice, just don’t let snow fall into the top of them.

Kenetrek Northern Insulated Boots

Kenetrek Northern Insulated Boots

Based out of Montana, Kenetrak have been making world-class hunting boots since 2002.

While not specifically marketed for ice fishing, the 13-inch Northern model boasts 400 grams of Thinsulate Ultra insulation, combined with three millimeter wool felt, rubber bottoms, and a wool felt underfoot with a further 600 grams of Thinsulate insulation. Did somebody say warm?!

The six ounce oil-tanned leather upper has been designed to contour to your leg and offer the best possible support, and the lacing system and D-ring anchors feel solid and reliable over any kind of terrain.

Pros

  • Top quality materials and construction.
  • Handmade, vulcanized rubber soles.
  • K-Talon outsole with open tread pattern.
  • Removable insulation.

Cons

  • Very expensive.
  • Perhaps more for hunting than for ice fishing?

Takeaway

While the Kenetrek Northern might be eye-wateringly expensive, it’s one of the most well-designed and made insulated boots on the market. Comfort, protection, warmth, and stability – this ticks all the boxes.

Baffin Impact Winter Boots

Baffin Impact Winter Boots

Another Baffin entry now with the super-warm Impact winter boots.

Designed to be used for a variety of outdoor activities, these boots offer plenty of variety, and are more than suitable for being on the ice.

In fact, with a temperature rating of -140 degrees Fahrenheit, the Impact is one of the toastiest boots available, should you wish to trek to the arctic for some extreme fishing.

An eight-layer liner system keeps you warm but breathable, while Double-layer aluminum membranes reflect warmth back into the boot.

Heavy-duty rip-stop uppers feature straps and a draw-string that’s easy to adjust even when wearing gloves. And speaking of, check out this review of the best ice fishing gloves to go with your new boots.

Pros

  • Very low temperature rating.
  • Nylon shanks for support.
  • Aggressive lug for traction.
  • Relatively lightweight.
  • Effective moisture management.

Cons

  • Pricey.

Takeaway

Based out of Canada, Baffin are up there with the market leaders when it comes to warm and comfortable footwear, and the Impact winter boots are a perfect example of that quality. A highly versatile shoe you will use time and again.

LaCrosse Women's Alphaburly Hunting Boots

Don’t worry girls I haven’t forgotten you!

With ice fishing being such a popular sport, manufacturers have thankfully been inclusive. They have made, what I consider to be, some of the best women’s winter boots for ice fishing.

The sizes and fit have been tailored to accommodate female sizes. Whilst normally ‘wellington’ style ice fishing boots tend not to be breathable, Lacrosse have done us all a favor and included an embossed liner to wick moisture away from your skin and increase ventilation.

The neoprene core will offer excellent insulation and provide wiggle room for an extra pair of socks too!

Pros

  • Comfortable and breathable fit.
  • 100% waterproof.
  • Easy to remove and kind to your calves.

Cons

  • Not much actually, it’s a really nice boot!

Takeaway

As with the men’s boots sometimes a simple solution is best. The unique neoprene gusset on the rear of the boot makes the boot easy to slip on and take off which is vital with snow boots.

One-piece boots can sometimes be a little uncomfortable, but with the extra features and lining of this boot, you won’t have an issue.

Korkers Women's Snowmageddon Winter Boots

This boot looks good enough to fall asleep in!

They are 100% waterproof and breathable. So, it will keep your feet warm and fresh all day long.

Why is it furry?

Fur is an absolutely great insulator and is a great way to seal any air gaps. The interior is lined with 3M insulation.

A really great feature that I haven’t seen in the men’s boots is the M4 lacing system. Just turn a dial and your boots will fit like a glove.

It’s actually packed with other clever bits. The sole of the boot is interchangeable. These adaptable ice fishing boots allow you to change the grip dependent on the conditions! Go for the spiked sole on slippery ice or change to something chunky for traversing snowy trails.

Pros

  • Packed with really useful features including an advanced lacing system and interchangeable soles.
  • Really warm, breathable and waterproof.

Cons

  • While fur is a nice touch, it isn’t nearly as pleasant when it’s wet.
  • If the M4 lace system freezes, you are stuck with the boots on, so keep it dry if you can.

Takeaway

These are a great pair of boots, provided the technology stays reliable.

ArcticShield Winter Snow Boots

These ice fishing boots look a little like a budget version of our offering from Baffin. But that said, you get a lot of similar technology so they are good value.

What sort of technology?

Well for a start they are 100% waterproof. The rubber ‘foot’ section of the boot certainly is and the ankle section is covered with soft nylon.

And will it keep me warm?

ArcticShield boasts the use of ‘retain’ technology, meaning that 90% of your body’s warmth is retained within the boot. They are easy to put on and take off with an adjustable Velcro fastening at the ankle, giving a reasonable fit.

The boots are pretty lightweight and with the elasticated ankle cuff would be ideal for walking a fair distance to get to your favorite spot.

Pros

  • These boots are lightweight and flexible.
  • They offer pretty much everything at a relatively low price point.

Cons

  • They aren’t quite as ‘substantial’ as some of the premium boots we have looked at.
  • The Velcro ankle fastening may wear with time as it will be stretched and pulled often.

Takeaway

Well, you get what you pay for, and if you are lucky, as is the case with these boots, you can sometimes get a little bit more.

Columbia Bugaboot III Mid-Calf Snow Boots

If you aren’t going to be walking in deep snow then a full calf boot might be considered ‘overkill’. You’ll still need something to keep your feet warm and dry though. If that’s the case a ‘military’ style boot might be the way to go?

A ‘military’ style boot?

Yes, and if it’s good enough for them then it’s good enough for ice fishing. With a unique heat reflective thermal lining, your feet should stay warm down to -32 degrees and they are waterproof too.

But are they comfortable?

The grip provided by the sole is perfect and the lightweight nature of the boot makes it ideal for walking long distances in utter comfort.

Pros

  • Great ankle support, which is crucial if you are walking on uneven ground.
  • They are really warm for such a lightweight boot.

Cons

  • If you are walking in greater than ankle deep snow, you are going to get wet feet. For use in lighter winter conditions only.

Takeaway

Provided you don’t ask too much of them these are a great boot. They are lightweight and waterproof.

Kamik Nationplus Snow Boots

For the money there’s a lot to like in this boot. If you are on a tight budget then it is a really reasonable compromise. It is lined with Thinsulate, which is world-famous for its heat retaining properties.

But will it keep my feet dry?

Of course, The outer material is waterproof and it even has sealed seams to prevent even the odd drip from leaking in.

Anything else?

Generally, you wear ice fishing boots all day, so they can get a bit ‘fragrant’ from time to time. The sole features unique antimicrobial technology and if it all gets too much the liner can be removed and washed.

Pros

  • The boot is waterproof and warm and offers superb value.
  • The removable and washable liner is a nice touch, it makes it easy to refresh your boots from time to time.

Cons

  • It isn’t quite as advanced as some more expensive brands.
  • The lacing system is very standard and there’s no way to prevent snow ingress at the top of the boot.

Takeaway

These are good ice fishing boots; they would be ideal if you are buying a pair for the first time and want something simple and effective.

Guide Gear Monolithic Hunting Boots

Now we are getting serious…

If looking good whilst being warm and dry is your thing, then you are in the right place. This boot screams ‘quality’.

Why do I say this?

First of all, it is constructed with top grade materials. The outer is full grain leather. It is durable, tough and waterproof. Just what you want in a snow boot.

But that’s not all…

The boot is also breathable, your feet will perspire and as a result you might end up with damp socks, with this boot that isn’t going to happen, it even uses wicking material in the lining to guard against this.

The grip on the sole is multidirectional meaning you have traction in 360 degrees. Any area where your foot makes contact with the boot is lined, insulated and padded, this includes the tongue at the top of the ankle.

So, how warm is it?

One word. Very.

2,400 grams of insulation and an 8mm frost barrier ensure that you could be stood on the ice all day and your toes would still be warm and dry.

Pros

  • These boots are both functional and really good looking.
  • They are manufactured from really high-quality material.
  • They are really grippy on all surfaces.

Cons

  • The laces can be a bit of a nuisance to tie, but that said they allow you to tighten the boot where you need support the most.

Takeaway

A really eye catching and good quality boot. The high ankles allow you to walk in deeper snow and the insulation provided will guarantee warmth. These may be the warmest ice fishing boots on our list.

StabiLicers Maxx 2 Traction Cleats

You might already have a great pair of boots that you use for ice fishing. But they might be lacking just a little something to make them perfect.

What do I mean? Well…

What if you want a little extra grip or you have decided to fish in conditions that you wouldn’t normally? What if I was to tell you that you can quickly and easily upscale your existing boots to something better?

So, what’s the secret?

Snow cleats. These give rock solid grip and are portable too. They work on pretty much any shoe, or ice boot, and have universal fittings. They are flexible and grippy and will continue to bend and flex with your foot even in the coldest of temperatures.

Pros

  • Complete flexibility in choosing the boots you attach them too.
  • A cost-effective solution if you already have a pair of waterproof boots.
  • They can even supplement ice fishing boots for those super slippery, wet ice days.

Cons

  • Aside from grip you won’t find anything in the way of warmth. So, don’t be tempted if you haven’t got half suitable ice fishing footwear.

Takeaway

If you absolutely want to ensure the best grip these are great. They work with any snow boot on our list. As an additional bonus by keeping the majority of your feet clear of the ice, they can supplement warmth as your soles won’t become ‘cold soaked’.

How to Choose the Right Ice Fishing Boots

The outdoor clothing market can be something of a minefield to navigate, as there’s so much choice available, it can be difficult to find the right product for your needs.

With that in mind, let’s explore what you should be looking out for when it comes to the best ice fishing boots out there.

angler wearing warm ice fishing suit and catches a fish in the winter

Ice Fishing Boots – Why You Need Them

It’s not such an obvious question as you might first think – do you really need ice fishing boots? Won’t any other kind of outdoor footwear be sufficient?

Of course, the answer depends on several factors, including your location, where you’re fishing, and how cold the temperature gets.

But to err on the side of caution, I would say that if you’re going ice fishing – you need a dedicated ice fishing or snow boot.

That’s because they’re specially designed to withstand extreme temperatures, protect your feet from the elements, and keep you warm and comfortable.

Not to mention being fully waterproof – which you’re going to need if you’re tramping through any kind of snowy, slushy, or icy terrain.

A normal hiking or fishing boot isn’t going to cut it, and you’re asking for trouble if you’re going out in sneakers.

Yes, ice fishing boots are expensive – but they’re well worth the investment for the protection they provide, and with care and proper use, they should last a well into your twilight years.

If you’re spending any length of time outdoors in winter, doing any kind of activity, then I would highly recommend you purchase a pair of good quality ice fishing boots.

Don’t forget that they’re just as useful for hunting, hiking, snowshoeing, snowmobiling, yard work, or even just clearing your drive with your snowblower.

winter boots with ice cleats for better traction

Sizing and Comfort

As with all boots and shoes, it’s obviously important to choose the right size. But with ice fishing footwear, this can be easier said than done.

This is largely thanks to the increased insulation, as well as the fact that these things aren’t always the easiest to put on!

Pay attention to the manufacturer’s sizing guide for the boots you’re interested in.

While the US/UK/European/Rest-of-the-world sizing might be pretty standard, it’s worth finding out if your chosen shoe runs small or large.

As a rule of thumb, most people go with one size up from their usual.

Don’t forget, you’ll more than likely be wearing a pair of thick socks, too, so you need to adjust accordingly.

Why does that matter?

You don’t want the boot to be too loose, so it feels uncomfortable to walk in, and you don’t want it to be too snug, so it squeezes your feet and limits your circulation.

And I can almost guarantee the size you wear in your dress shoes isn’t going to be the same as your ice fishing boots – so take some care here to avoid unnecessary returns.

Top Tip – something that’s often overlooked, is how easy the boots are to get on and off. Ice fishing footwear is about as challenging to do as possible, so take this into consideration when making your decision.

I know I’m certainly not as nimble or flexible as I used to be, and I often need some extra help getting in and out of my boots!

If that’s something that concerns you, make sure to choose a shoe you can easily get on and off by yourself. You don’t want to be exhausted before you’ve even set foot on the ice!

man waering ice suit and ice fishing on a lake in winter

Height and Weight

If there’s one thing you’ll notice about ice fishing boots compared to any other kind of footwear, is that they’re much taller.

Some can rise all the way up your calf, some a quarter of the way. But all will at least sit above your ankles.

The choice for you here is – which type would you prefer?

But how do you know which type is right for you?!

It’s actually quite simple.

As a general guide, you should consider the following factors:

  • Temperature.
  • Snow depth.
  • How far you’re walking.

While the first factor is arguably the most important, any decent ice fishing boot is going to offer you adequate protection for your feet – regardless of height.

(Continue reading for more on insulation and keeping your feet warm.)

However, taller boots will offer more in terms of wind and waterproofing – which is very advantageous if you’re having to trek through deep snow, for example.

Of course, the trade-off is they’re not as easy to walk in as boots that rise just above the ankle. So if you’re hiking longer distances, I would suggest choosing a shorter, more flexible option.

And that also goes for the weight of the boot. By their very nature, this kind of footwear can get very heavy.

The heavier the boot, the more protection it’s going to provide, but the less mobile and harder to walk in it will be.

Again, it depends on the type of ice fishing/other activity you’re doing.

But if you anticipate walking far, choose a lighter boot. If you’re standing still for long periods of time, and/or using a vehicle to get to and from your fishing spot, then a heavier boot is more advantageous.

angler creating fishing hole on frozen lake in winter

Insulation

Arguably the most important aspect of an ice fishing boot – is how well they’re insulated. Their main purpose is to keep your feet warm, after all.

And different boots come with different levels of insulation.

Insulation materials include neoprene, Thinsulate, and fleece linings. However, when it comes to ice fishing boots, Thinsulate seems to be the benchmark, thanks to its breathability.

The type you choose depends on a couple of factors, similar to that of the height of the boot.

How cold it’s going to get, and how long you’re going to be out on the ice.

Obviously, the colder the temperature, the more insulation the boot will need to have.

Likewise, the longer you remain out in the frozen wastes – say it with me – the more insulation the boot will need to have!

This amount is usually measured in grams, so check to see if your boot of choice has a “grams of insulation” specification.

This can sometimes be a little misleading, however, and boots that appear to have more grams of insulation might not actually be as warm as boots with less. Take it with a pinch of salt.

For more top tips on keeping your feet warm in winter, check out the video below.

Waterproofing

If there’s one thing worse then being cold, it’s being cold and wet.

When you are ice fishing, if you get water in the boot, it doesn’t matter how good the insulation is. Your feet are going to be cold.

By keeping the water out, you have a better chance of staying warm. Look for features that will make for the best waterproof ice fishing boots such as:

  • Snow cuffs on the ankle. These will prevent any snow from falling into the top of the boot as you walk.
  • Sealed seams. One way in which water can ‘sneak’ in is through the stitched sections of the boot. By making sure these seams are sealed you can prevent drips making their way in over time. Boots of a ‘single piece’ construction tend not to have this problem.
  • A fully stitched ‘tongue’ on the boot. This prevents water making its way in via the lace holes.

A good way to ensure complete waterproofing is to treat your boots with water repellent. This soaks into areas that may be susceptible and keeps you protected.

Check this video to see how effective treating your ice fishing boots can be.

Durability

Nobody likes footwear that falls apart after a few uses – particularly if you’re paying over $200 for the privilege.

Thankfully, our selection of boots in this review are some of the most tough and durable products on the market.

But don’t take our word for it – just check out all the comments from an abundance of happy customers for each option.

Either way, ice fishing boots need to be able to stand up to some of the toughest conditions on earth, including trudging through deep snow, over potentially treacherous ice, and in temperatures that can freeze your eyelids shut.

Grip and Traction

Ice is slippery, isn’t it?

It almost goes without saying that the grip and traction offered by ice fishing boots is of the utmost importance.

Because falling on the ice can cost you more than your pride.

I once set off to walk to a fishing hole wearing old, worn out boots with inferior grip. Not ten steps out, I slipped and broke my wrist.

And I got off lightly!

Look for boots with thick, grippy lug that will give you the similar kind of traction of winter tires on an icy road.

And if it’s not enough, consider adding some additional cleats or spikes for extra grip, confidence, and peace-of-mind that’s worth its weight in gold.

Extra Features

Ice fishing boots sometimes come with some additional bells and whistles, some of which might be useful to you, others more superfluous.

Look out for things like drawstring cuffs, removable grip tracks, cinch buckles and straps, or pull tabs.

Don’t forget about color and design, either. If you’re out hunting, for example, perhaps you’d prefer a camouflage pattern on your boots?

Cost

Yes, ice fishing boots are, on the whole, very expensive. To be honest, if you’re regularly going out (and staying out) in conditions that are well below freezing, I wouldn’t recommend any that were sub $100.

Ice fishing boots are pricey because there’s a lot of cutting-edge technology that goes into creating them.

So, when it comes to cost, I would advise you not to pinch the pennies on this one – they’re your feet, after all.

Let’s keep it simple:

Buy the best you can afford, relative to how much you’re going to use them, and how cold it gets where you live.

Easy.

fisherman wearing boots and warm clothes on a lake at winter

FAQs

Which brand of winter boots is the best?

Brand isn’t as important as you might believe, and it doesn’t always make sense to pay for a name. I’m always of the belief that if the boots keep your feet warm and dry, who cares what is printed on the outside?

But wait…

When you invest in a well-known brand you are generally guaranteeing yourself of a good minimum standard. It still pays to do your homework.

If I was to recommend a brand I would go for Baffin as the benchmark. They tend to think of everything and certainly make some of the best waterproof ice fishing boots.

If you check my review, you’ll see a lot of the same features in cheaper boots too. Ultimately the choice is yours.

What are the best ice fishing boots?

I’m not dodging the question. But it all really depends.

Let me explain…

If you fish in all-weather you are going to need a different boot than the angler who only heads out fishing on crisp, clear days. If you can find a warm ice fishing boot and a waterproof ice fishing boot that works for you, and is within your budget. Then you have succeeded.

What’s the best insulation in an ice fishing boot?

Generally, the thicker the better. Most insulation is measured in grams. The higher this number, the better the insulation.

There’s a catch…

What does an increase in grams immediately say to you?

To me, it says that it is an increase in weight. Obviously, if you are going to be walking a long way, you’ll want lightweight ice fishing boots.

The good news is that there are ways around this. Sometimes the insulating material is lighter but provides similar heat retaining properties. It’s often about thermal efficiency and heat retention.

Full calf ice fishing boots or not?

Again, it depends on the conditions. My advice is to always choose your gear based on what you will be doing 80% of the time.

This works both ways…

If you fish in bad weather and deep snow often, then you will need boots that cater for this. The other 20% of the time when you don’t need them is just something that you will have to live with.

Likewise, if you normally only go when the weather is good, don’t go overboard on a pair of full calf ice fishing boots that you really don’t need.

If you are in doubt, go for the worst-case scenario. As I always say, it’s better to have something and not need it, than to need it and not have it.

Can I use snowshoes with ice fishing boots?

Providing you have the right size snowshoes, the bindings should be able to accommodate almost any kind of outdoor boot.

And I highly recommend using an ice fishing boot when snowshoeing, as they will keep you warmer, drier, and more comfortable than a typical hiking shoe.

Which boots are safest on the ice?

There isn’t one boot that jumps out as being the safest product out there – we would need to rigorously test every single one, which would be almost impossible!

Instead, look for boots with a thick, grippy lug, or even cleats or spikes on the soles – which will offer the best possible traction on slippery surfaces.

And when it comes to temperature safety, the colder the weather, the more insulation your boot will need. Look for boots that are rated for well below freezing if you’re going to be out in such conditions.

How do I stop my boots from slipping on the ice?

If your current shoes or boots are wearing thin, and/or they don’t have very good grip and traction in the first place, you might want to try adding some removable crampons, be it cleats, chains, or spikes.

Here’s a little story.

Many years ago, I worked a job where I needed to walk all over town, all year round. And while the winters weren’t cold enough for ice fishing boots, I used ice cleat spikes to stop myself from slipping on sidewalk ice.

It wasn’t long before my fellow co-workers were asking where I got them, and picking up a pair for themselves.

If your boots or shoes are lacking in the grip department – or even if you want to add some extra traction on new ice fishing footwear – I highly recommend using some slip-on metal crampons.

Summary

Part of being a great fisherman is being prepared. My aim in producing a list of the best ice fishing boots for 2024 was to try and help you out.

If you like tips and tricks for fishing, I have quite a few more, subscribe to my newsletter and I will keep you up to date on what’s hot, and what’s not when it comes to ice fishing.

Bob Hoffmann

The author of this post is Bob Hoffmann. Bob has spend most of his childhood fishing with his father and now share all his knowledge with other anglers. Feel free to leave a comment below.

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