The 4 best winter-proof sneakers for 2025

Winter is here: is your shoe collection ready? While cold weather may be synonymous with heavy winter boots, thigh-high styles, and quilted Moon Boots, your winter footwear options don’t have to end there.

This year, give your shoe collection a cold-weather upgrade with these eight made-for-snow sneakers. From the perfect pair for the office to the best running shoes, these are the coolest (but warmest) styles to shop for this season.

Leather and suede sneakers are the best choice for the winter months: they’re warmer and hold up better to the elements than canvas or mesh.

This actually comes in handy when shopping for winter sneakers for the office, as leather and suede are not only more cold-weather appropriate, but also more sleek and elegant.

Low-top suede or leather sneakers are a practical yet elevated choice for those days when you want to give your boots a rest.

Best brands: VEJA, Autry, Adidas

The same applies to casual sneakers: mesh and canvas are cute, but they’re better suited for the warmer months.

Casual days out call for a more relaxed look, so chill and sporty sneakers are the name of the game. Low-top sneakers are a good option, but high-tops are better for walking around town—they’ll ensure your feet stay warm and dry. Shearling lining is another lush feature to look out for in your winter sneakers.

Best brands: New Balance, Converse, Adidas, UGG

The weather might be getting colder and damper, but that won’t stop the most athletic amongst us! If your running/hiking/walking routine doesn’t stop during winter, you’ll need an appropriate pair of shoes to keep you safe and warm during your outings. The key features to look out for in winter work-out sneakers are:

• Waterproofing: There’s nothing worse than having wet feet! GORE-TEX sneakers will keep your toes dry and warm, and are perfect for this time of year.
• Insulation: Thermal insulation—aka the ability to trap your body heat while providing wind protection—is fundamental, especially in the depths of winter.
• Visibility: Winter also means shorter days, and shorter days mean you might find yourself running in low-light conditions. Reflective design features will come in handy at this time of year.
• Traction: From puddles to icy patches, running in the winter comes with its own set of hazards. A pair of shoes with good traction will ensure you’re not slipping and sliding all the way.
• Coverage: Tired of snow and water soaking into your socks? A pair of winter running sneakers with a high-top silhouette will help maximise coverage and keep your feet warm in colder temperatures.

Best brands: Nike, Salomon

Winter is synonymous with boots season, but sometimes, we’re in the mood for something more sporty and less stuffy. That’s where sneakers/boots hybrids come in: the effortless look of sneakers meets the practical nature of boots. The result? The perfect casual shoe for those snowy winter days where snow boots would be overkill.

Best brands: Teva, Sorel, UGG, Mou