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How to Choose Winter Boots for Kids

Expert Advice

How to Choose Winter Boots for Kids

Nov 2, 2026

Winter is right around the corner, and if you have kids, it's time to start thinking about their winter boots. A kid's winter boots need to be a lot of things: warm, sturdy, and able to keep feet dry. They need the right fit, and it'd be nice if they matched how your child plays, too.

That may seem like a tall order, but it's easy when you keep a few key features in mind. The best boots for icy conditions are waterproof and well-insulated, but you may need something different if you live in a warmer climate. Your child may need to try on several pairs of boots, or even go up a size, to find boots that fit. With Hibbett's large selection and our shoe expertise, we make it easy to find the right winter boots for the family.

Prioritize Waterproof Protection and Weather Resistance

You'll often see two words when choosing kids' winter boots: waterproof and water-resistant. Though they sound similar, they mean very different things:

 

  • Water-resistant boots repel water to a limited extent. The uppers are treated with a material that lets water bead and roll off, but it doesn't prevent moisture from seeping in over time.
  • Waterproof boots keep feet completely dry through sealed seams, waterproof materials, gusseted tongues, and impermeable membranes.

 

Water-resistant shoes are good for staying dry during a short walk in the rain, but they're no match for half-frozen puddles, slush piles, and snowball fights. The best kids' snow boots are waterproof.

 

Each stitch on a boot creates a little hole for moisture to get through. Look for sealed seams, where heat-bonded waterproof tape covers the stitching. This feature keeps feet dry and improves durability by preventing water seepage.

 

A gusseted tongue, where the tongue is attached to the upper on both sides, prevents snow from getting in through the boot fastenings. This tongue design can also make it a little easier for kids to put on their own boots.

Timberland Boots

Check for Thermal Insulation and High-Traction Grips

Different pairs of waterproof boots have different levels of insulation, and not all are sufficient for cold weather. Most boot insulation is made from Thinsulate, a textile of fine synthetic fibers that trap warmth close to the feet while keeping cold air out.

 

Look for kids winter boots that have at least 200 grams of Thinsulate, which is enough to handle sub-zero temperatures and outdoor play. You may want more if you live in an extra-cold climate, but be careful. More insulation adds weight and increases the risk of overheated, sweaty feet.

 

Whatever you choose, stick to measuring insulation weights. Don't pay attention to temperature ratings on boots, as they can be inconsistent and unreliable.

Nail the Perfect Fit for Growing Feet and Thick Socks

Growing feet make it tricky to fit snow boots for kids. Thicker winter socks also mean that a pair of boots that fits during an October try-on may be too small once they're actually needed. Too-small boots are uncomfortable for kids, and they can cut off circulation to their feet.

 

To achieve a proper fit:

  • Your child should wear a pair of their winter socks when trying on boots
  • Use the "rule of thumb": there should be a half-inch, or about the width of a thumb, between your child's toe and the end of the shoe.
  • When in doubt, size up, especially for toddler winter footwear

 

Save yourself time and headaches by making sure your kids' boots are user-friendly. Adjustable closures, like hook-and-loop or Velcro, let kids do up their footwear themselves. Boots like the Nike Terrascout also have a lowered collar and pull tabs for easier independent dressing.

Match the Boot Style to Your Child's Activity Level

If you live in a climate with cool, wet winters rather than cold, icy ones, your child doesn't need heavy winter boots. You might prefer trail shoes, which offer plenty of traction with a lighter build. Shoes like The North Face Altamesa are an especially good choice for active kids in warmer areas.

 

The first snowy day is coming sooner than you think. Get ready by shopping Hibbett's collection of boys' winter boots, and sign up for our rewards program for free shipping.

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