Have you heard of Hunter boots?
Most likely, if you came across this website by doing a search online, chances are you have probably already heard of these amazing boots.
Without a doubt, they are some of best rubber boots that you can buy to keep your feet dry. However, a question many of our readers have is: Are Hunter Boots Good For Snow? How well do they perform on ice? Will they crack in cold weather?
In this post, we are going to answer those questions as well as talk about some ways you can convert your Hunters into a suitable pair of winter boots.
Let’s get started…
Are Hunter Boots Good For Snow And Ice?
The quick answer: no, I would not recommend that you wear these boots in snow and ice. Mainly because they lack insulation and good traction that you need to have in a winter boot in order to keep your feet toasty and to help keep you on your feet.
However, there are ways to turn them into suitable boots for snow (more on that later), but first, let’s talk about why I think these boots by themselves are not the best option for snow and ice.
You may also enjoy reading: Should Winter Boots Be Loose Or Tight?
Why Not To Wear Your Hunter Boots In Snow & Ice
Warmth. Hunter boots are basically a tall 100% waterproof boot that is designed to keep your feet dry in wet weather. And let me tell you, they will keep your feet dry. The main reason they work so well is that they are made from a 100% rubber material.
Rubber works in keeping your feet dry, but it doesn’t work that well in keeping your feet warm.
This is because it has no liner, no insulation, no thermal footbed that you might find in a standard winter boot.
In addition, rubber boots offer no way to close the opening. That means that cold air and even snow can enter right into your boots.
Does that mean you can’t wear them in the snow? No, there are some things you can do to make up for the lack of insulation and we are going to talk about that later in this post.
However, the boots are their own are probably not going to be enough to keep you warm and I wouldn’t recommend that you use them in cold temperatures.
Traction. Another great feature about Hunter Boots is the traction. For a simple rubber boot design, they do have a good amount of tread to keep you on your feet, but is it enough to help you on the ice?
It is important to note that the traction on these boots is designed for mud, not for ice. While you might be thinking that traction is traction and there isn’t much difference between the two.
I am telling today that there is a difference. And if you put yourself in an icy situation wearing nothing but boots that are designed for mud you might find yourself on the ground quicker than you’d think.
So, should you wear them on the ice? I wouldn’t recommend it. Yes, by following the suggestions below you can make these boots warm, but there isn’t much you can do about the traction.
Are you looking for good traction on ice, learn more here: The Best Muck Boots For Ice Fishing
How To Turn Your Hunter Boots Into A Suitable Pair Of Snow Boots
The people over at Hunter have heard your concerns and want to help you convert your rain boots into a good option for the winter.
Let’s take a look at a few ways this can be done.
The first option is Hunter Boot Sock.
This is basically a long fleece sock that is thicker than your typical sock designed to fit right into your boot and keep your feet warm. It is made out of polyester and definitely will keep your toes warm.
The best part about these shoes is the fold-over cuff which helps to close that wide opening and prevent cold air or even snow from entering your shoes.
Simply put on your sock first, then your Hunters and you are ready to go.
One of the biggest complaints about wearing rain boots in the winter is the large opening. This opening is necessary in order to allow your feet to slip in, but during those cold months, it certainly can make your feet feel even colder.
One solution is UGG’s, Rainboot Sock. Not only are they comfortable (as we would expect from UGG’s) but they have that tight closure to keep things warm.
They are available in a number of different colors including a faux fur option.
Oh, and did I mention they are machine washable?
Yes, the Ugg Rainboot Sock is a must-have when wearing rain boots in those cold winter months!
Do you already have a warm pair of socks and just looking to make your hunters even more stylish?
If so, you need to check out the SanTwo Winter Boot Cuffs.
These boot cuffs are made with an acrylic material specifically designed to fit into your boots.
The best part is the fold-over cuff that has that unique stitching look, making them look like no other.
No boot would look like a winter boot unless it has fur right?
Or at least faux fur.
If you like this look, you will love the next stylish rain boot socks specifically designed for that purpose. They are the Santwo Faux Fur Boots Cuffs.
Like the previously mentioned boot cuff, this is similar by design but instead of a knit top, it is designed with a faux fur look. Faux fur is great in that it helps to keep the snow out and it also helps to close up that large opening.
Combine these with a long warm boot sock and you have the perfect combination to turn those Hunters into a stylish pair of winter boots.
Today many winter boots on the market are equipped with what is called a thermal insole.
This insole does two things. It keeps your feet off the cold ground and it prevents heat from escaping out of the bottom of your shoes.
So, in order to make your Hunter Boots a warmer option for the winter not only can you use the above-mentioned inserts, but you can also use a thermal insole.
One such option that I would recommend is the Moneysworth Felt Sole pictured above.
This insole is made with both felt and aluminum designed to keep your feet warm in below zero temperatures.
The best part about this insert is that it can be used in addition to the Hunter Socks.
Learn More: 4 Boots Similar To Sorel’s Joan Of Arctic
Will My Hunter Boots Crack In The Snow?
Another concern many have about wearing their favorite rain boots in the snow is, will they crack?
The answer is yes, they can. Think about it. These boots were designed primarily for rain and wet weather not for freezing temperatures.
With that being said, many people have found the Hunter’s Balmoral lineup to be more durable for these harsh weather conditions.
But if you are still afraid of wearing your rain boots out in the snow and them cracking, it might be better to leave them in storage and bring them out in the spring.
Final Thoughts…
Can you wear Hunter boots in the snow and ice?
Sure, you can, but I wouldn’t recommend it.
I personally think it would be much better to buy myself a nice pair of winter boots. This way I don’t have to worry about cold feet, slipping on ice or worse yet, cracked boots!
Now it is your turn. What are your thoughts about wearing Hunter boots in the snow? Share your comments in the section below.
