Hello Puddles! These 9 Kid Boots Are Both Fun and Functional

New York Times

15-04-2025

Laura Motley for NYT Wirecutter
My family lives in Maine, where the summers are glorious but brief, and foul weather gear is a must for the rest of the year. I learned the importance of layers, warmth, and proper footwear from my youngest daughter's Waldorf-inspired preschool, where they spent three to four hours outside every day, all year long.
As a Wirecutter writer, I love to nerd out on high-quality design, materials, and manufacturing. I wrote guides to the best first pedal bikes, kids helmets, kids lunch boxes, kids pajamas, and pizza ovens, among others.
For this guide: I consulted Wirecutter's guides to adult rain and snow boots, polled fellow parents, and sifted through dozens of reviews and articles to find the most beloved pairs of kids boots.
I weighed, measured, and inspected each boot, looking for durable seams, slip-resistant soles, and kid-friendly fastening systems.
I bribed my 5- and 7-year-old daughters to try all the winter boots in the snow, and with the rain boots, dared them to stomp in the deepest puddles. (That part was easy.)
Like all Wirecutter journalists, I review and test products with complete editorial independence. I'm never made aware of any business implications of my editorial recommendations. Read more about our editorial standards.
Michael Hession/NYT Wirecutter
With its lightweight seamless construction, the Bogs Essential is virtually indestructible. A choice of six bright solid colors will appeal to most kids, but if a unicorn design is non-negotiable, you'll have to look elsewhere.
The seamless construction provides top-notch leak-prevention and durability. The Bogs Essential Rain Boot is made of extra sturdy seamless injected rubber, which means there's no way for water to seep in. While none of the boots we tried leaked during testing, the Bogs Essential's seamlessness makes future leaks extremely unlikely.
They're roomy and comfortable. The Bogs Essential's footbeds are made of squishy polyurethane, which our testers found springy and comfy. The roomy shafts offer plenty of space to tuck pants into, as well as breathing room for bigger calves. My younger daughter's slender legs swim in them a little, but she says they're comfortable, and they stay on. The Essential Rain Tall (left) and the Essential Rain Mid (right) are the same grippy rubber boot. Other than being shorter, the only difference is that the Mid lacks handles. Michael Hession/NYT Wirecutter These boots use seamless construction to prevent leaks and have a chunky lug outsole that provides solid traction. Michael Hession/NYT Wirecutter The Essential Rain Tall (left) and the Essential Rain Mid (right) are the same grippy rubber boot. Other than being shorter, the only difference is that the Mid lacks handles. Michael Hession/NYT Wirecutter
There are two height options. While the Essential Rain Tall comes with built-in handles (which are helpful for pulling the boots on) and is 10.5 inches tall, the Essential Rain Mid has no handles, is 8 inches tall, and usually costs $5 less than the Tall. (Little kids who typically sit on the floor when they put their shoes on might miss the handles, but the Mid boot is easy to slip on from a standing position.) We found that both provided adequate protection from deep puddles.
They have chunky, grippy outsoles. The nubbly tread pattern in the Essential's robust lug sole offers lots of traction. Small stones and gravel occasionally got caught in the grooves, but they were easily pried out. Flaws but not dealbreakers
They only come in six solid colors. My 7-year-old is perfectly happy with the colors on offer, but my 5-year-old daughter is much more drawn to sparkly, exciting patterns. If you think a splashy design would help keep your kid properly shod, you could try the Bogs Rain Boot.
This boot has slightly limited sizing. It starts at size 'little kid 10,' which typically fits 3- and 4-year-olds, so this boot won't work for most toddlers. Details Sizes: little kid 10–13, big kid 1–6
little kid 10–13, big kid 1–6 Colors/patterns: six solid colors
six solid colors Material: rubber, polyurethane footbed
Michael Hession/NYT Wirecutter
Of all the high-quality kids rain boots we tested, this boot has the flashiest patterns. Who says foul weather gear can't be stylish?
This classic rain boot is durable, comfortable, and comes in exceptionally kid-friendly patterns like rodeo horses, tractors, and strawberries.
The designs are beguiling and unique. Lots of rain boots come in a wide variety of classic kid motifs, but the Bogs Rain Boot really turns up the charm. If you're going to spend around $50 on a pair of high-quality kids rain boots, it's nice if they're also easy on the eyes.
They're durable and well-built. The Bogs Kids Rain Boot is not seamless, like the Essential, but the seam seal is especially hearty: The two pieces are unlikely to slowly peel apart, unlike with cheaper rain boots.
The rubber feels thinner than the Essential's super-solid injected rubber, but reviews online speak to its durability. And this boot's cut-out handles are sturdier than thinner, loop-style handles. Our top-pick Bogs Essential Rain Tall (left) has a wider shaft than the Bogs Rain Boot (right). Kids with wider calves will likely find the roomy Essential more comfortable. Michael Hession/NYT Wirecutter The Bogs Rain Boot uses seam seals. Though the seams are hearty and we didn't experience any leaking with this boot, the seamless construction of the company's Essential design is arguably superior. Michael Hession/NYT Wirecutter Like other Bogs boots, the Rain Boot has a built-in spot to stick a label or write a kid's name with Sharpie. Michael Hession/NYT Wirecutter Our top-pick Bogs Essential Rain Tall (left) has a wider shaft than the Bogs Rain Boot (right). Kids with wider calves will likely find the roomy Essential more comfortable. Michael Hession/NYT Wirecutter
They can handle the deepest puddles. At 10.5 inches, the Bogs Kids Rain Boot and the Bogs Essential Rain Tall offer the most height of any rain boots we tested. If your kid loves to splash in deep puddles, you're going to want the extra height.
The simple tread pattern offers solid traction, and the footbeds are comfy. While not as robust as the Bogs Essential Rain Boot, the Kids Rain Boot's outsole was satisfactorily grippy on wet sidewalks during our testing. And the shallower grooves trapped fewer stones. This boot has the same squishy footbed as the Essential. Flaws but not dealbreakers
The shaft is on the narrow side. The Bogs Rain Boots have an exterior calf circumference of 11.5 inches, compared with the Essential Tall's 14 inches. The snug fit does a slightly better job keeping errant splashes out of the boot, but they may be too tight for kids with sturdier legs. Details Sizes: little kid 7–13, big kid 1–6
little kid 7–13, big kid 1–6 Colors/patterns: over a dozen bright and attractive patterns
over a dozen bright and attractive patterns Material: rubber, polyurethane footbed
Michael Hession/NYT Wirecutter
The adult version of the Xtratuf Ankle Deck Boot is Wirecutter's favorite overall rain boot, and the kid version is equally great. Handy pull tabs, a cool look, ultra-grippy soles, and versatility make these boots stand out from the rest.
They have superior slip-resistance. Xtratuf deck boots were originally designed to provide maximum traction on waterlogged boat decks, and their flat rubber soles have an intricate tread pattern that creates an impressive level of slip resistance. They performed the best in our traction tests, and Xtratuf ensures the boots meet European SRA slip-resistance standards.
It's easy to take them on and off. Little kids reach for the durable cloth pull tabs on the front and rear of these boots instinctively, and in our testing they never asked for help getting these boots on or off. Xtratuf also added a thoughtful 'kick tab' to each boot, which is a little nub of rubber on the heel that helps jump-start that intuitive 'kick off your shoes' motion.
They're super comfortable. A cushiony foam footbed, round toe box that can accommodate lots of foot shapes, and appealing ankle height make these boots extra comfy for most kids. Originally designed for wet boat decks, the Xtratuf Ankle Deck Boots excelled in our traction tests. Michael Hession/NYT Wirecutter The boots have a convenient 'kick tab' at the heel that helps kids push them off with the other foot. Michael Hession/NYT Wirecutter Cloth pull tabs at both the front and back of the shaft are another small detail that makes a big difference in a kid's ability to get a boot on independently. Michael Hession/NYT Wirecutter Originally designed for wet boat decks, the Xtratuf Ankle Deck Boots excelled in our traction tests. Michael Hession/NYT Wirecutter
They are versatile and have a cool look. Most rain boots feel bulky or look odd if worn on a sunny day. The Xtratuf Ankle Deck Boots make just as much sense walking to school on a clear fall day as they do waiting for the bus in the rain.
Kids can choose from several solid colors and one camo-inspired pattern, and the boots look cute with a wide variety of outfits. My daughters love wide-legged pants, which get caught on taller boots but look great with Xtratufs. Flaws but not dealbreakers
They may not be as durable as the adult version. Some reviews on the Xtratuf site and on Amazon complain that the kids version of the beloved adult Xtratuf ankle deck boot is less durable. There are a few reports of the seam seal coming apart and the rubber cracking.
They aren't splash-proof. If your kid finds deep puddles irresistible, or likes to wade in creeks, these boots aren't the best choice for them. With that said, they aced our leak tests (in shallow water). Details Sizes: little kid 7–13, big kid 1–7
little kid 7–13, big kid 1–7 Colors/patterns: several solid colors and one camo-inspired pattern
several solid colors and one camo-inspired pattern Material: rubber, foam insoles
Michael Hession/NYT Wirecutter
These boots are the best of the under-$30 pairs we tested. They're not as durable as higher-end pairs, but they get the job done—and they're available in a dizzying array of classic kid patterns.
If you're looking for a classic, affordable pair of puddle-proof rain boots, the Lone Cone Rain Boots are a great option. They may not last as long as pricier rain boots, though.
They come in a few solid colors and dozens of playful patterns that hit all the notes. With a wide variety of bright, lively looks, these boots offer effortless kid appeal. This may be especially helpful with younger kids who need that extra incentive to dress properly.
They're the highest quality of the inexpensive boots we tested. While these are unlikely to survive the multi-sibling life cycle, the seam seal appears heartier than seams on other inexpensive rain boots we tested, like Western Chief rain boots. The rubber loop-style handles are solidly attached, and remained strongly affixed despite aggressive tugging during testing. Of the less-expensive boots we tested, the Lone Cone Rain Boots have the sturdiest seam seal. Michael Hession/NYT Wirecutter The loop-style handles are not as sturdy as the cut-out handles on the Bog boots we recommend, but they still do the job of helping a child pull on their boots without a parent's help. Michael Hession/NYT Wirecutter Of the less-expensive boots we tested, the Lone Cone Rain Boots have the sturdiest seam seal. Michael Hession/NYT Wirecutter
Their outsoles offer pretty good traction. Though the chunky tread pattern on the Lone Cone outsoles didn't provide as much slip resistance as our other rain boot picks, it performed better in my traction tests than the Western Chief boots did.
They have a roomy, comfortable shape. These boots are 8 inches high and have a calf circumference of 12.5 inches. These dimensions result in a classic-looking rain boot shape and feel. And while they don't come up as high as our top-pick Bogs Essential Rain Tall or runner-up Bogs Rain Boot, they offer plenty of coverage for puddle stomping and creek wading. Flaws but not dealbreakers
They're less likely than our other picks to become hand-me-downs. These boots feel slightly flimsy when examined side-by-side with our other rain boot picks. And the thin rubber loop-style handles, while sturdy enough, are more likely to fail than the cutout-style handles on Bogs boots. Some reviews online refer to their lack of durability.
They're geared toward younger kids. Since this boot's sizing stops at big kid 4, it's unlikely to work for most kids over age 10. But the designs are better suited for little kids, anyway, and the sizing starts at little kid 4, which many kids begin wearing around 18 months. Details Sizes: little kid 4–13, big kid 1–4
little kid 4–13, big kid 1–4 Colors/patterns: two dozen colorful patterns and a few solid colors
two dozen colorful patterns and a few solid colors Material: rubber, foam insoles
Michael Hession/NYT Wirecutter
For a reliable, streamlined workhorse of a winter boot, look no further than the warm and waterproof Bogs Neo-Classic. Its lack of bells and whistles makes it ultra-durable and likely to last through several kids and several winters.
These boots are seriously warm and waterproof. A full 5 mm of neoprene insulation and seamless molded rubber construction keep little feet extra warm and dry. My 5-year-old, who is usually the first to ask to go inside, has never complained of cold feet while wearing these boots. (Bogs says they're rated to minus 35 °F, but proprietary rating systems aren't monitored by an objective regulating entity.)
They're incredibly durable. Bogs uses seamless construction for these boots, which greatly minimizes the risk of cracking rubber or splitting seams. The upper and outsole are made of a continuous piece of molded rubber, unlike some other boots, where the outsoles are glued on to the uppers and can come apart with time.
They're convenient and comfortable. Extra-cushiony insoles make these boots super comfy, and the slip-on design makes them notably easy to put on. It's simple to fit snow pants over them because of their sleek streamlined design, and the ridge along the heel helps kids kick them off by themselves. The Neo-Classic boots aren't as wide as our runner-up snow boot pick, the Sorel Flurry, but they're wider than our budget pick and should work for most feet. Seamless construction means the Bogs Neo-Classic offers superior durability and waterproofing. The chunky treads provide good traction for climbing up sledding hills and snowbanks. Michael Hession/NYT Wirecutter Lined with 5 mm of neoprene, these winter boots are ready for frigid, snowy days. Michael Hession/NYT Wirecutter Seamless construction means the Bogs Neo-Classic offers superior durability and waterproofing. The chunky treads provide good traction for climbing up sledding hills and snowbanks. Michael Hession/NYT Wirecutter
They offer good traction. While not quite as grippy as our runner-up snow boot pick, the Bogs Neo-Classic feature shallow treads did well during our traction tests. My 5-year-old slipped on an icy sidewalk while wearing them, but she is endearingly uncoordinated, so I can't fully blame the boots.
Cute patterns offer lots of kid appeal. The Neo-Classic boots are available in solid colors as well as a number of playful designs, unlike most of the other winter boots we tested, which come in only a few solid colors. While splashy styles like Topo Camo and Firework Floral aren't a must, they're a nice bonus. Flaws but not dealbreakers
Snow can sneak in the top and through the handles. Unlike the snow boots we tested with bungee-cinched snow collars, including our runner-up and budget picks, snow can slip into the top of these boots. But at 10 inches high, this is the tallest of all the winter boots we tested, which helps keep snow out. (My measurements are based on size 13 boots.) And since most kids are wearing snow pants for the deepest snow play, this was rarely an issue during our testing.
They're pricey. At around $90, the Bogs Neo-Classics are definitely an investment. But they're likely to last through multiple siblings or command a decent price on a secondhand market like eBay. And Bogs will provide a free shipping label so you can send gently used boots back, where they'll either be donated to an outdoor education nonprofit or recycled. Details Sizes: little kid 7–13, big kid 1–6
little kid 7–13, big kid 1–6 Colors/patterns: over a dozen patterns and solid colors
over a dozen patterns and solid colors Material: rubber, neoprene, foam insoles
Michael Hession/NYT Wirecutter
The lightweight and comfortable Sorel Flurry Children's Boot is very warm and waterproof, and expertly keeps snow out with a bungee-cinched snow collar. This fastening system adds a few extra steps, but it's easy for young kids to maneuver independently.
Even the fluffiest, deepest snow is no match for this boot. In my testing, the bungee-tightened snow collar did a great job keeping snow out. This feature was great on days when my 5-year-old daughter refused to wear snow pants to the bus stop but couldn't resist tromping through deep drifts.
The bungee fastening system was easy for her to operate by herself, and when she did succumb to snow pants, the flexible upper easily fit under them.
Seamless construction offers dependable waterproofing. Just like our top pick, the Bogs Neo-Classic, the Sorel Flurry Children's Boot is constructed seamlessly, with an injection-molded rubber shell. This makes it waterproof and extra durable.
A removable 6 mm recycled felt liner keeps little feet toasty. The liner typically stays fixed in place, but when my daughter yanked it out, it was easy to fit back into the boot. If they do get wet, it's nice to be able to pull the liners out to dry quickly. And the stiff felt offers more structure than our budget snow boot pick, the Kamik North Pole, which also has a nylon upper, but a softer sewn-in faux-fur lining. Unlike our top-pick winter boot from Bogs, the Sorel Flurry Children's Boot has a bungee-cinched snow collar at the top, which is helpful for keeping snow out—and feet dry. Our school-age testers found it easy to operate independently. Michael Hession/NYT Wirecutter Like our top-pick winter boot from Bogs, these Sorels use seamless construction at the soles. They have extra-chunky lug outsoles that aced our traction tests. Michael Hession/NYT Wirecutter The removable liner is 6 mm thick and made of recycled felt. It makes the boot feet extra cozy on cold days. Michael Hession/NYT Wirecutter Unlike our top-pick winter boot from Bogs, the Sorel Flurry Children's Boot has a bungee-cinched snow collar at the top, which is helpful for keeping snow out—and feet dry. Our school-age testers found it easy to operate independently. Michael Hession/NYT Wirecutter
They're wide and comfortable. Unlike our budget pick, which runs narrow, this boot has a wide shape that makes it accommodating to many feet, and sock thicknesses.
The outsole is grippy and sturdy. A thick layer of ice coated my driveway for several weeks during our testing, and while the Sorels weren't fully wipeout-proof, their chunky, multidirectional lug outsoles offered plenty of slip resistance on sketchy frozen surfaces. Flaws but not dealbreakers
They're available in limited colors. By April of 2025, there was a limited selection of solid colors and two-tone styles. The palettes and patterns are subdued and might not satisfy flashy dressers.
The fastening/tightening system adds extra steps. A bungee to cinch at the top and a Velcro strap to tighten around the ankle can slow kids down. My daughter typically ignored the ankle strap, but the process still took more effort than slipping on the Bogs Neo-Classic, our top pick. Details Sizes: little kid 8–13, big kid 1–7
little kid 8–13, big kid 1–7 Colors/patterns: six solid colors and two-tone styles
six solid colors and two-tone styles Material: rubber, synthetic fabric, felt liner
Michael Hession/NYT Wirecutter
The Kamik North Pole is similar in style to our runner-up pick, the Sorel Flurry, with a helpful snow collar and chunky treads. The bungee fastening system is more difficult for kids to cinch independently, though, and the solid colors on offer are a little bland.
They're great quality for the price. The other $50-and-under snow boots we tested were much lower quality than the Kamik North Pole boots. In many ways, these boots are comparable to our top and runner-up picks. Just like those boots, the Kamik North Pole features seamless construction, with a continuous piece of molded rubber for the outsole and upper.
Kamik boots are made with synthetic rubber, which feels more pliable and less sturdy than natural rubber, but this doesn't necessarily mean that they're less durable.
They have a cozy faux-fur lining. My daughter's favorite feature about this boot was its fuzzy interior. In addition to increasing coziness, it can also help achieve a snugger fit. Boots with nylon uppers, compared with the neoprene upper of our top pick, are more flexible; a furry lining adds some stability, but not as much as the Sorel Flurry's stiff felt liner. Like the more-expensive Sorel Flurry, the Kamik North Pole has a bungee-cinched collar to keep snow out. Michael Hession/NYT Wirecutter Faux-fur lining on the inside of the boot is cozy and warm. Unlike the lining on the Sorel Flurry, it's not removable. Michael Hession/NYT Wirecutter The Kamik boot is similar in design to our runner-up winter snow boot pick, the Sorel Flurry (left). Our kids testers found the Kamik boot harder to get on and off on their own, though, and it comes in fewer colors. Michael Hession/NYT Wirecutter Like the more-expensive Sorel Flurry, the Kamik North Pole has a bungee-cinched collar to keep snow out. Michael Hession/NYT Wirecutter
Their rugged outsoles offer good traction. While not quite as grippy as the Sorel Flurry's multidirectional lug outsoles, the Kamik North Pole is respectably slip-resistant.
They're plenty warm, and the collar keeps snow out. My daughter was wearing these on a particularly frigid day and didn't complain of frozen toes. The synthetic fleece insulation and faux fur lining did a great job keeping warmth in. And the snow collar is just as effective as the Sorel Flurry's collar at keeping unwanted snow out. Flaws but not dealbreakers
They run narrow. The Kamik North Pole is significantly narrower than our top pick and runner-up recommendations. If your kid has wider feet, these may not be the best choice for them.
The bungee fastening system is tricky for little hands. Unlike the Sorel Flurry's fastening system, which my 5-year-old can operate by herself, the Kamik North Pole's double bungee system (one at the snow collar, and one at the ankle) requires a surprising amount of strength to operate. My daughter could slip these boots off without adjusting the bungees, but I had to help her tighten them each time she put them on.
It only comes in four solid colors. Yes, there are accented laces, but the colors are not very exciting or appealing. Details Sizes: little kid 8–13, big kid 1–6
little kid 8–13, big kid 1–6 Colors/patterns: four solid colors
four solid colors Material: synthetic rubber, nylon, faux-fur liner
Michael Hession/NYT Wirecutter
This waterproof, lightly insulated boot is a great option for those who live in milder climates and are looking for a single boot that can do it all. We don't think it's quite as warm as Bogs says it is, but it's still a solid, versatile choice for rain, mud, and light snow.
The Bogs York offers the best of both worlds: It's just as waterproof as the Bogs Essential Rain Boot and, if paired with cozy socks, warm enough for some mild snow action, too.
The convenient slip-on design is hard to beat. Just like both pairs of Bogs rain boots we recommend and the Bogs Neo-Classic snow boots, the Bogs York boot has cut-out handles on the sides: no laces, bungees, or Velcro. Getting young kids out the door can be a Herculean task, and a fuss-free boot can streamline the process.
They're durable and well-made. These boots aren't constructed seamlessly, but like the Bogs Rain Boot, the seam between the outsole and the upper is especially tough. A respectable number of positive reviews on Amazon speak to their durability and the stitching on the neoprene upper is top notch.
It's a hybrid model that works through the seasons. In Maine, it's not uncommon to see a kid wearing a pair of Bogs York boots in June, tromping through a creek looking for frogs or splashing in late spring puddles. That kid might wear the same pair of boots in January, tucked under snow pants during a snowball fight.
But my own daughters did prefer the extra warmth of the Bogs Neo-Classic boots for extra cold and snowy days. In our testing, kids complained of cold feet after about 30 minutes in the York boots on below-freezing days.
Temperate climates with mild winters like the mid-Atlantic or the Pacific Northwest seem especially well-suited for the York boot. We haven't tested them on sweltering summer days, but the neoprene insulation would likely feel very hot. This hybrid boot has a sole that is more similar to the Bogs Rain Boot than to the company's snow boots. Unlike our top-pick rain boot from Bogs, it doesn't offer seamless construction, though we experienced no leaking and the seam seems solid and strong. Michael Hession/NYT Wirecutter The neoprene shaft is warm enough for many climates, as well as reliably waterproof. Michael Hession/NYT Wirecutter The York (left) is similar to our top-pick winter boot, the Bogs Neo-Classic (right). But it's not as warm, which could definitely cut snow-play short. If you live in a cold climate you likely want a dedicated winter boot. If you're just spending a few days a year in the snow, the York is a versatile compromise. Michael Hession/NYT Wirecutter This hybrid boot has a sole that is more similar to the Bogs Rain Boot than to the company's snow boots. Unlike our top-pick rain boot from Bogs, it doesn't offer seamless construction, though we experienced no leaking and the seam seems solid and strong. Michael Hession/NYT Wirecutter
They come in cool patterns. Just like the Bogs Rain Boots and the Bogs Neo-Classic Boots, the York boots are available in many kid-approved motifs.
They're mid-priced. The York boots cost around $65, which makes sense, because they're basically the lovechild of the Bogs Rain Boots (around $50) and the Bogs Neo-Classic boots (around $90), which are made for winter weather. If you think these boots would work for your kid from, say, September to May, we think they're a good deal. Flaws but not dealbreakers
They're not as warm as advertised. The Bogs comfort rating of -4°F seems overstated: my kids complained of cold feet after being outside for 30 minutes on a 20 degree day. Super active kids, aided by cozy socks, might find them perfectly acceptable on frigid days. But if you have ice-cold winters, these aren't the best choice for a snow boot.
The outsoles offer less traction. The Bogs York's tread pattern isn't as grippy as any of our snow boot picks. It closely resembles the Bogs Rain Boots' outsole, which is fine for rainy days but less sturdy on slick ice. Details Sizes: little kid 7–13, big kid 1–6
little kid 7–13, big kid 1–6 Colors/patterns: three solid colors, eight patterns
three solid colors, eight patterns Material: rubber, neoprene
Michael Hession/NYT Wirecutter
This no-frills toddler boot is warm, waterproof, and easy to put on. Extra grippy and flexible outsoles offer stability for the littlest walkers.
Stonz West Waterproof Boots are uncomplicated neoprene and rubber boots we recommend for the littlest adventurers. (After age four or five, you're better off with our other snow boot picks, which are more rugged.) Their hassle-free, slip-on design made them a parent favorite during our testing, and their uniquely flexible rubber outsole helped our toddler tester navigate icy sidewalks safely.
They're easy to put on and take off. Even without handles or tabs, the Stonz West Waterproof Boots are easy to slide onto chubby toddler feet. The extra-wide opening helped our three year old tester put them on and take them off independently.
They're extra warm. 6mm of neoprene insulation helps keep little feet cozy even on the chilliest days. By comparison, the Bogs Neo-Classic Kids Boot, which we found to be extremely warm during our testing, is made with 5 mm of neoprene insulation.
Flexible and grippy outsoles offer lots of stability. The Stonz West boots' sturdy outsoles cover a large portion of the bottom of the boot, creeping up the sides and toe box. This boosts stability, especially for unpredictable walkers. The Stonz West Waterproof Boots have a super-grippy yet flexible outsole, which is an ideal combination for early walkers. Michael Hession/NYT Wirecutter The neoprene insulation on the upper is 6 mm thick, making this boot extra warm and cozy. Despite the lack of tabs or handles, the roomy opening makes it easy to slip this boot on even the wiggliest, chubbiest feet. Michael Hession/NYT Wirecutter The Stonz West Waterproof Boots have a super-grippy yet flexible outsole, which is an ideal combination for early walkers. Michael Hession/NYT Wirecutter
They'll work through the seasons. Warm enough for below-freezing days, and lightweight enough for spring and fall, these boots should get you from early fall to late spring. Waterproof neoprene and rubber make them rainproof, snow-proof, and muddy puddle proof.
They're extra durable. While not constructed seamlessly, the Stonz West Boot feels exceptionally well made, with sturdy seams between the outsole, rubber upper, and neoprene top. The heel and toe are reinforced with textured rubber, and the neoprene stitching is high quality. Flaws but not dealbreakers
They only come in two colors. If your child is pink-or-bust, they may be uninspired by the two colors Stonz offers: black and army green. Baby Bogs II boots come in several fun designs, but they're not quite as grippy, and their Velcro fastening system requires some adult help.
They're pricey for a toddler boot. At around $70, these cost about $15 more than most of Sorel's and Bogs' toddler pairs. But they're more seasonally versatile, so the investment may be worth it. Details Sizes: little kid 4–13, big kid 1–2
little kid 4–13, big kid 1–2 Colors/patterns: two solid colors
two solid colors Material: rubber, neoprene
Laura Motley for NYT Wirecutter
Above all else, kids boots must be waterproof. Even the sparkliest, comfiest, most dinosaur-y boot is rendered useless if it doesn't keep moisture out. And snow boots should be cozy and warm, as well as waterproof.
I looked for: Strong, waterproof seams: Many leaks are caused by a weak seam seal, which lets water seep in between the sole and the upper. I looked for boots with strong seals, or seamless construction.
Many leaks are caused by a weak seam seal, which lets water seep in between the sole and the upper. I looked for boots with strong seals, or seamless construction. Durability: Precise stitching, a sturdy outsole, and quality materials like rubber and neoprene will extend the life of a pair of boots. I avoided boots made of PVC (polyvinyl chloride), which are typically less durable.
Precise stitching, a sturdy outsole, and quality materials like rubber and neoprene will extend the life of a pair of boots. I avoided boots made of PVC (polyvinyl chloride), which are typically less durable. Easy on/off systems: Handles are helpful, and kid-friendly fastening systems like bungee cords (or slip-on design) on winter boots allow for easy autonomy.
Handles are helpful, and kid-friendly fastening systems like bungee cords (or slip-on design) on winter boots allow for easy autonomy. Grippy outsoles: The spacing, depth, material, and shape of treads can affect a boot's traction and stability.
The spacing, depth, material, and shape of treads can affect a boot's traction and stability. Appealing and eye-catching designs: Most kids don't want boots that look like mom and dad's. Fun patterns and bright colors can help convince kids to dress properly for foul weather—and make it easier to find their pair in the pile at school.
Most kids don't want boots that look like mom and dad's. Fun patterns and bright colors can help convince kids to dress properly for foul weather—and make it easier to find their pair in the pile at school. Warmth: Some companies make up their own temperature rating systems for winter boots. I simply made sure my kids could play in the snow for extended periods of time without complaining of frozen toes.
Before my kids put each pair of boots to the test, I weighed and measured them. (My measurements are based on sizes little kid 13 and big kid 1.) I also inspected them for quality construction and solid seam seals, and fiddled with the fastening systems to check for ease and effectiveness.
To gauge grippiness, I put the boots on my hands like gloves (to my daughters' delight), pressed firmly against a wood floor, and assessed the level of resistance. I also watched for wipeouts on wet or icy surfaces when the boots were in action.
We tested rain boots first, in late 2024, and looked for pairs that were leak-proof, slip-resistant, and solidly made. I checked my kids' feet for warmth and dryness, and assessed how easy (or hard) it was for them to put them on and take them off independently. February 2025 was exceptionally snowy in Maine, so my daughters were able to test the limits of snow boot contenders. They experimented with the fastening systems, yanked snow pants over them, trudged through snow, slush, and puddles, and more often than not, wore them all day at school. Warm and colorful is a winning formula. Laura Motley for NYT Wirecutter
I also recruited an older, 10-year-old tester and a younger, 3-year-old tester, both boys, to test boots in both rainy and snowy conditions.
With both kinds of boots, my kids let me know which pairs were comfortable, which were the most stylish, and which kept their feet warmest and driest.
The Crocs Rain Boot is streamlined, easy to clean, and lightweight. It's mostly positively reviewed on Amazon, but scattered throughout are complaints that the boots are constricting and difficult to put on and take off. My own kids said they rubbed uncomfortably against their ankles, but another one of our testers really liked them.
We liked the look of the Hunter Kids First Classic Rain Boot, but we wish it had better traction and handles for easier on/off.
The Hunter Big Kids Grace Waterproof Rain Boot is stylish and sturdy, but the outsole didn't offer much traction, despite its chunky appearance. My seven year old daughter loves its cute look, but at around $60 plus shipping, we don't think it's a good deal for most kids.
Reima Ankle Rain Boots are a simple, stylish Chelsea-style rain boot, but their thin outsole feels flimsy, almost like a rubber sock. We preferred rain boots with chunkier soles.
Western Chief Kids Rain Boot is comparable to our budget pick, the Lone Cone Rain Boot, but it feels less durable and is slightly less favorably reviewed online.
The Xtratuf Tufs Ankle Deck Boot is a simple injected boot (read: one single piece) made from EVA foam, but it's not as comfortable or slip-resistant as our top-pick Xtratuf Ankle Deck Boot. Snow boots
The Baffin Young Snogoose Kid's Youth Boot is an extremely rugged option, but the liner is so stiff my daughter could barely shove her foot into it. Baffin warns that they feel tight when first worn, but we couldn't break through the initial discomfort.
The Baffin Ice Castle Kids Boot is a decent rain-to-snow option, but the sole isn't that grippy and many kids may not be drawn to its grown up look.
The warm and waterproof Baby Bogs II boot represents a classic toddler style. We love that it's machine washable, but its sole doesn't offer as much critical traction as our pick, the Stonz West Waterproof Boot.
My older daughter loves the Bogs Arcata II Dash, but it comes in just one color (black), and around $110 is a lot to pay for a kids boot. Plus, within a month of use, its bungee fastening system was stretched out and missing hardware. We preferred the simplicity, and durability, of the Bogs Neo-Classic.
Amazon's popular and inexpensive Gubarun Snow Boot feels poorly made and is difficult to tighten. Its decorative bungee laces are puzzling, and some reviews online say it's not very waterproof.
The Kamik Snobuster 1 is good-quality, at a pretty low price. It was surprisingly warm during our testing, but because it looks more like a rain boot (and the colors are fairly austere), it didn't rank high on our testers' lists.
The Muck Big Kids' Apex Tall Winter Boot is comfortable and superwarm. Some of our testers really liked it, but the way the shaft narrows at the ankle made it nearly impossible for other testers to get on and off. It's also one of the heaviest boots we tested, and the drawstring closure is only helpful if your kid knows how to tie a shoelace.
The durable Muck Kids' Rugged II Boot is well-made but only comes in a few mature colors and patterns. For $90, you're better off with the kid-friendly aesthetics of Bogs.
The Sorel Snow Commander Boot is a cozy and sturdy option for toddlers and little kids, but our toddler tester did better in the streamlined slip-on style of our pick, the Stonz West Waterproof Boot.
Like the grown-up version, the Sorel Yoot Pac Nylon Children's Waterproof Boot is warm, waterproof, and stylish. But we preferred the snow collar feature (and price point) of the Sorel Flurry.
The Stonz Trek Snow Boot is ultra-warm and well-made, but we prefer the simplicity and versatility of the Stonz West boot.
This guide was edited by Kalee Thompson and Amy Miller Kravetz.