If you are shopping for the best ice fishing boots, the most important factors to consider are their insulation, waterproofing, and comfort. Below, I have handpicked my favorite products based on these features. Continue reading on to learn more about why they might matter to you.
It took me a while to realize it, but now when I think about fishing during the winter one of the most important pieces of gear is actually proper footwear. Treading through and across ice can be treacherous, so I have to ensure that have good grip while also protecting my feet from the cold and possible frostbite. The right ice fishing boots can make ice fishing a lot more comfortable.
Below, I will discuss the seven best ice fishing boots currently available. I researched a lot of forums and spent hours combing through user reviews to come up with these top picks, then tried a few of the best myself.
Each product will include a detailed review as well as a list of pros and cons, so you can easily compare them with one another. Additionally, I will talk through a few factors you need to consider when picking the best ice fishing boots for you.
At the end, I will answer some of the frequently asked questions about ice fishing boots. If you’re in a hurry, here’s a quick summary of the top picks:
A Quick Comparison of Our Favorites
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Top 7 Best Ice Fishing Boots
Below are the top seven ice fishing boots available on the market today. Each pair of footwear offers thick insulation to prevent your feet from getting cold, even in freezing conditions. At the same time, it provides strong traction to reduce the risk of slipping and breaking through the ice.
1. Muck Boot Men’s Arctic Pro Snow Boot – Editor’s Pick
The first product on this list of the best ice fishing boots is the Muck Boot Men’s Arctic Pro Snow Boot.
It features a neoprene upper material that is 8 mm thick. Meanwhile, this pair of snow boots have a soft yet durable fleece lining. When you combine both of these materials, they can provide exceptional warmth in extremely cold temperatures.
Additionally, these ice boots include a 2mm thick thermal foam under the footbed. This item offers extra warmth that can handle temperatures from -60 °F to 30 °F, equivalent to -50 °C to -1 °C.
Furthermore, this pair of winter fishing boots use a super aggressive Bob-Tracker and rubber material for the outsole. It can improve traction on snow and ice, ideal for fishing in sub-freezing environments.
There is even a stretch-fit Comfort Topline that fits snugly on your calf to catch fish with ease. It acts as an extra seal to keep cold and debris out. Plus, the boots measure approximately 17 inches tall, which protects your feet against harsh weather conditions.
On top of all these benefits, this snow boot has a large boot opening that is around 17.5 inches big and rear pull loops. Both of these allow you to wear your boots easily.
Most importantly, reviews for these winter fishing boots were positive. But if there is any critique, it would be that the camouflage print wore off quickly. Some customers also said that the sizing does not fit their wide feet.
But as you can see, the pros far outweigh the cons.
For this reason, I chose the Muck Boot Men’s Arctic Pro Snow Boot as the best ice fishing boot on the market today.
Pros:
- Neoprene upper material and fleece lining ensure warmth, comfort, and flexibility
- Lightweight EVA midsole to add extra cushioning
- High-grade rubber outsole provides strong traction on slippery ice and snow
- Large boot opening allows you to wear the ice fishing boots easily
- Stretch-fit Comfort Topline for sealing in warmth and keeping cold out
Cons:
- The camouflage quickly starts to wear right off the rubber boots
- The sizing is too narrow, which might not fit individuals with wider feet
2. Korkers Men’s Polar Vortex 1200 Winter Boots – Runner-Up
Do you often go on mountain treks besides ice fishing? Then, consider looking into the Korkers Men’s Polar Vortex 1200 Winter Boots.
It boasts two OmniTrax 3.0 interchangeable soles to give you flexibility. These include the SnowTrac Winter Rubber Lug and IceTrac Studded Rubber Lug with carbide studs. The former is ideal for trail adventures in winter conditions and when you need to transition smoothly from outdoors to indoors. Meanwhile, the latter effectively grips snow and ice while ice fishing, hiking, snowmobiling, and working outdoors.
Additionally, this pair of ice fishing boots boast a 100% waterproof construction despite the leather upper construction. The webbing and stitching can also resist water to keep your foot bone dry.
Moreover, it provides 1,200 grams of Thinsulate ultra insulation. This amount of insulation can provide the warmth you need during less active adventures, such as ice fishing and snowmobiling. It can also withstand extreme cold weather.
Plus, the premium aerogel frost barrier footbed with Fahrenheit Heat Warmer compatibility offers extra warmth in icy cold weather.
There is even an innovative BOA M4 Fit System. It can ensure custom fit as well as fast and effortless on and off.
But before buying these ice fishing boots, it is essential to consider their downsides. First, some users said that the boots are not really waterproof—they are simply water-resistant. Second, a few customers complained that the fit is not right for them, resulting in uncomfortableness when wearing the shoes.
Nevertheless, the Korkers Men’s Polar Vortex 1200 Winter Boots is still among the best insulated boots for fishing today. I recommend this pair of full-grain leather shoes to those who want versatile traction.
Pros:
- It offers two interchangeable soles for customized traction on the go
- Breathable and waterproof leather boots can keep your feet dry
- The thick insulated warmth ensures that you stay warm when ice fishing and snowmobiling
- A unique BOA M4 Fit System allows you to wear the boots easily
Cons:
- The upper material is not fully waterproof, only water-resistant
- Some users said that the boots were uncomfortable to wear for extended periods
3. SOREL Men’s Glacier XT Insulated Winter Boot
The SOREL Men’s Glacier XT Insulated Winter Boot is another great pair of ice fishing boots worth considering.
It features a 100% textile and synthetic upper material. These ice fishing boots can withstand extreme cold and resist water. At the same time, these boots can keep your look extra stylish, owing to the bold design.
Additionally, when you pair it with the 13 mm felt inner boot, it can keep you warm down to -100 °F. This insulation is also removable, so you can switch between with or without the inner layer.
What’s more, the inclusion of a drawstring with barrel lock closure prevents snow and ice from entering your ice fishing boots.
Plus, this pair of winter boots include a 13 mm midsole for extra comfort and coziness.
Finally, the outsole uses a handcrafted waterproof vulcanized rubber shell to improve grip and traction across snow and icy surfaces. Thus, it can prevent you from slipping or breaking through the ice.
Despite these benefits, it is still best to consider the downsides of these ice fishing boots. First, a few customers noticed that the sizing runs small, so they recommended getting one size larger than your usual. Second, some users said that the boots tend to leak when submerged in a puddle of water.
Overall, though, the SOREL Men’s Glacier XT Insulated Winter Boot is one of the best cold weather boots for winter fishing.
Pros:
- Stylish yet durable textile and synthetic upper material
- Water-and-wind resistant fishing boots to keep your feet warm and dry
- A removable 13 mm recycled felt inner boot with Omni-Heat reflective lining to ensure that your feet are warm down -100 °F
- A drawstring with a barrel lock closure prevents snow and ice from entering your boots
Cons:
- The ice fishing boots run small, so you need to get a larger one than your usual size
- Some users experienced occasional leaking from the boots
4. XTRATUF Legacy Series 15-Inch Neoprene Men’s Fishing Boots
If you prefer a classic look to your ice fishing boots, then the XTRATUF Legacy Series 15-Inch Neoprene Men’s Fishing Boots might be the right product for your needs.
It features a simple yet elegant look that you can pair with any fishing apparel. But beyond the aesthetics, these fishing boots use triple-dipped latex neoprene material. It can effectively resist water, ozone, acids, and other chemicals. At the same time, this construction is considerably softer and lighter than ordinary rubber.
Plus, this pair of boots for ice fishing offer a hand-layered construction. Thus, it provides flexibility and strength at critical stress points.
Moreover, it includes moisture-wicking Breathe-O-Prene insoles. These have a breathable, open-cell structure to ensure comfort and reduce insole drying time.
There are even toe and heel guards to protect the ice fishing boots against abrasions. Meanwhile, the heel counter secures your feet to prevent movement inside the boots.
Finally, it has a slip-resistant and non-marking Chevron outsole. It ultimately improves traction in extreme conditions on any surface.
Before buying these boots for ice fishing, though, it is essential to consider their downsides. First, some users noticed that the neoprene material started to show signs of cracking after months of use. Second, a few customers who have bought other XTRATUF boots said that the product quality was not the same as before.
But after considering its other benefits, I think the XTRATUF Legacy Series Fishing Boots is still worth considering.
Pros:
- The classic design of the boots can look good with any fishing outfit
- Waterproof and chemical-resistant triple-dipped latex neoprene material
- A hand-layered construction ensures flexibility and strength at critical stress points
- Moisture-wicking insoles offer comfort and quick drying times
- The Chevron outsole improves traction in ice and snow conditions
Cons:
- Some users said that the synthetic material cracked after a few times of use
- A few customers noticed that the product quality is not the same as before
5. HUK Men’s Rogue Wave Shoe
Do you prefer lightweight ice fishing boots but do not want to compromise warmth? Consider getting the HUK Men’s Rogue Wave Shoe.
It features a built-in 200 grams of insulation. Plus, there is an Omni-HEAT reflective lining for extra heat. Thus, this pair of fishing boots can keep your feet warm in cold environments.
Additionally, these winter shoes have fully waterproof and breathable Cordura textile upper material. So whether you are walking through snow, slush, rain, or mud, the Omni-TECH construction ensures your feet stay dry when exposed to these elements.
Furthermore, it offers a unique midsole technology. This innovation guarantees comfortability and extra support in every step.
Lastly, these ice fishing boots include a non-marking Omni-GRIP rubber outsole. It provides excellent traction across various environments, including loose surfaces, without the fear of slipping or losing your balance.
Despite these benefits, there are still a few cons to keep in mind when buying these fishing shoes. First, the sizing tends to be narrow, which might not fit individuals with wider feet. Second, some users noticed that the color of the boots looked different in person.
Overall, though, the HUK Men’s Rogue Wave Shoe is one of the best ice fishing boots on the market today.
Pros:
- The built-in 200 grams of insulation can keep you warm without adding too much weight
- Waterproof and breathable Cordura material ensures your feet are dry when exposed to snow, slush, rain, and even mud
- The midsole provides comfort and extra support in every step
- Non-marking Omni-GRIP rubber outsole
Cons:
- The sizing tends to run narrow, which means it might not fit people with wider feet
- Some users said that the color of the boots looked different in person
6. Wirezoll Stainless Steel Ice Traction Cleats
Those who want extra support while ice fishing and trekking might want to look into the Wirezoll Stainless Steel Ice Traction Cleats.
It boasts high-quality and multi-direction stainless steel spikes. These innovative treads can reduce the risk of slipping and falling on ice, snow, and wet pavements.
Additionally, this pair of ice fishing cleats includes a crampon with both welding and stainless steel chains. Hence, it provides strong traction on various surfaces, so you can walk confidently.
Meanwhile, the upper uses silicone material instead of the standard rubber. It ensures high elasticity that would not tear or snap. Plus, it is comfortable to wear all day long.
On top of all these benefits, Wirezoll provides a free carrying bag to store your ice fishing boots and other accessories.
There are still a few downsides to consider, though, before finalizing your purchasing decision. First, the sizing tends to run small, so it is best to get one size larger than your usual pair. Second, some users experienced breaking the chains due to their cheap quality.
But considering its benefits and value for the money, I think the Wirezoll Stainless Steel Ice Traction Cleats is worth considering.
Pros:
- Abrasion-resistant and multi-directional enhanced stainless steel spikes for improved traction on ice and snow
- The boots include a crampon to give you more confidence when walking on various surfaces
- Silicone cover and upper material is highly elastic and flexible, even in sub-freezing temperatures
- The package comes with a bag for carrying the boots and other accessories
Cons:
- The sizing runs small, so it is best to get a larger size than your usual pair
- Some users complained about the cheap quality of the chains as they easily got broken
7. Kamik Women’s Momentum Snow Boot
The last product on this list of the best ice fishing boots is the Kamik Women’s Momentum Snow Boot.
It features 100% synthetic materials consisting of a waterproof nylon upper, a faux fur collar, and a gusset tongue. This pair of boots has a feminine silhouette and overall design, ideal for fisherwomen.
Additionally, it includes a moisture-wicking inner lining. It can provide you with excellent breathability for comfort.
Furthermore, the 200 grams of Thinsulate insulation keep you warm when out and about in cold weather. It can handle temperatures down to -25 °F.
This pair of cold weather boot even has a removable footbed. It acts as an anti-odor treatment, thus ensuring that your feet always smell fresh.
Finally, the rubber outsole offers strong traction on snow and ice. It gives you the confidence you need when standing or walking on various surfaces.
However, before buying these ice fishing boots, it is essential to know their downsides. First, some users said the insulation was not enough to keep their feet warm in freezing temperatures. Second, a few customers experienced the laces of the shoes snapping.
Nevertheless, the Kamik Women’s Momentum Snow Boot is still among the best ice fishing boots on the market today.
Pros:
- Seam-sealed, waterproof snow boot with plush faux-fur collar and quick bungee lacing for easy wear
- Moisture-wicking lining provides excellent breathability
- A removable footbed to prevent nasty odors
- The gusseted tongue can keep snow out
- Snow and ice traction outsole for better grip on outdoor surfaces
Cons:
- Some users said that it did not keep their feet warm on freezing temperatures
- A few customers had experienced the lace breaking after a few times of use
How to Choose the Best Ice Fishing Boots
If you are still unsure about which best ice fishing boots to purchase, fret not! Below, I will discuss the factors you need to consider when choosing one.
Hopefully, by the end of this section, you can ensure that your selected item fits your unique needs.
Insulation
Insulation is one of the first factors to consider when buying the best ice fishing boots on the market today. It comes in two different types—natural and synthetic.
Natural insulation includes down, cotton, hemp, shearling, and sheep wool, among other materials that come from nature. When used as an upper for footwear, it can effectively keep your feet warm. It can also prevent the growth of bacteria, fungi, and mildew, which often cause odor in your shoes. It also does not produce toxic chemicals to the environment, making it extremely safe. The only downsides are it is relatively difficult to clean, and it is not as durable as the next type of insulation.
On the other hand, synthetic insulation is available in various brand names, such as Thinsulate™ and Thermolite®. It duplicates the qualities of down and natural insulation. At the same time, it is lighter and more comfortable due to its breathable materials. However, it can lose substantial warmth when used for a longer period.
Overall, choosing between the two will depend on your needs and personal preferences. It is also best to determine the amount of insulation material, which is expressed in grams. The larger the gram value, the warmer the boots could get.
Waterproofing
Besides the insulation, it is also recommended to check the waterproofing or moisture defense of the boots.
Check if the material can repel water, which is essential when fishing during the winter. You might also want to look at the lining inside the ice fishing boots. You must ensure that it can prevent your socks and feet from getting wet. However, take note that some waterproof fishing boots do not allow your sweat to dissipate. As a result, it can make your feet cold instead of warm due to the lack of breathability.
If you have issues with that, you can opt to invest in a pair of water-resistant fishing boots instead. You can ensure that it can allow your sweat to evaporate quickly within the material. Thus, you can guarantee that the boots will keep your feet dry and comfortable while fishing.
Comfort
Another important factor to consider is the comfort of the ice fishing boots.
Choose a pair with arch support to offer comfort when standing and waiting for fish to catch. You might also want to look for supportive insoles to keep your feet warm while eliminating the formation of blisters.
Other features to think about are boot pulls and lace-up systems. These can help you fit your feet into the boots easily and without much effort.
Traction
Traction is another feature to think about when buying ice fishing boots. It is essential that you choose one with enough grip on the ice to prevent you from slipping and other severe accidents.
Look for ice fishing boots with steel spikes or deep tracts. These can improve your traction across ice and snow surfaces.
Height
Ice fishing boots come in various heights. Some models are taller than others and can extend up to 15 inches to reach your knees. Meanwhile, other models stay closer to the ankle.
Choosing between these different heights will depend on your preference and other ice fishing apparel you are wearing.
Taller boots for fishing can keep out snow and slush if you ever encounter a deep puddle. However, they can be hard to move around in. They might also be a little difficult to wear when you are wearing bulky pants.
In contrast, ankle boots for fishing are lighter, so you can freely move. Plus, there is no need to tuck it in your snow pants.
Weight
Besides height, it is also best to consider the weight of ice fishing boots.
If you often go on long hikes besides fishing, you might want to invest in lightweight boots. You can get tired easily if you choose heavier boots. With that said, it is important to note that heavier boots usually offer you greater insulation and better waterproofing.
So when buying a pair of ice fishing boots, figure out the right balance of warmth and durability versus the comfort and weight that works for you.
Warranty
The last factor you should consider is the warranty of the ice fishing boots. The longer the warranty coverage, the better.
It indicates how much confidence the manufacturer has over their products. It also allows you to ask for a return or refund easily if the item did not meet your expectations.
Frequently Asked Questions
What kind of boots should I get for ice fishing?
If you want to go ice fishing, it is essential to get the right footwear for the job. Remember that fishing on the ice typically involves below-freezing temperatures. Hence, regular boots and fishing boots would probably not be enough as they do not have the right amount of insulation and thickness.
Choose a pair of snow boots intended for fishing instead. This kind of boots will be warm enough to protect your feet from the cold. At the same time, it provides strong traction that can prevent you from slipping on the ice.
How much insulation do I need for ice fishing boots?
Insulation in ice fishing boots is the key to keeping your feet dry and warm when out and about in the ice. Choose a pair with Thinsulate, which refers to the synthetic insulation found inside most boots. It is also the standard when we are talking about how many grams of insulation the boots offer.
Four hundred grams of insulation is the minimum amount required you need to look into if you want to ensure that it can protect you from the cold. However, for extreme snow conditions and sub-freezing temperatures, it is recommended to look for at least 800 to 1,200 grams of Thinsulate. This amount of insulation is enough to withstand cold environments.
Are Muck boots good for fishing?
Muck is one of the top brands when it comes to high-quality boots. It has a solid reputation amongst hunters and fishers alike. Plus, it offers a wide range of footwear ideal for all-weather conditions. Thus, I believe that Muck’s selection of boots is worth considering if you are into ice fishing.
Conclusion
That concludes this list of the best ice fishing boots! I highly recommend each one as it can keep your feet warm in cold weather.
But if I can only suggest a single pair of shoes, it would be the Muck Boot Men’s Arctic Pro Snow Boot. It has a thick neoprene material and fleece lining to provide substantial warmth. Plus, a thermal foam offers extra warmth to handle freezing temperatures. Furthermore, a rubber outsole can improve traction. Finally, it fits comfortably on your feet due to the stretch-fit Comfort Topline and large boot opening.
