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Weatherproof your toes with these top picks.
Photo:Real Simple
Since then, the cold-weather footwear has become a necessary and much-loved addition to many wardrobes.
They now come in an array of colors and styles, and insulated options are available for added warmth.
Although many brands have created their own version of the shoe, not all offer optimal comfort and protection.
PHOTO: REI
Their stylish design pairs well with almost any winter outfit, and they come in four colors.
They have a nice, thick outsole that gives you ample energy bounceback with each step.
The boots felt broken-in right away and were so comfortable that they felt like a hug for our feet.
PHOTO: Real Simple
Theyre clearly well-made, of high quality, and designed to last a long time.
The fit has remained constant, though they are a bit more broken in now.
There was technically no break-in period, but the material has become more comfortable with wear.
There are only two color options.
The boots proved to be completely waterproof, with impeccable traction.
No water got in whatsoever, and our feet remained completely dry.
In relation to style, these have more of a hiker boot aesthetic and only come in two colorways.
However, we could not fault them performance-wise.
Theyre strong and feel really well made.
The traction at the bottom is still very grippy and hasnt worn down at all.
The traction could be better.
A roundup of the best duck boots would not be complete without something from the O.G.
duck boot manufacturer, L.L.Bean.
Other than this addition, they have retained much of the original and much-loved style and practical rubber base.
We tested these boots in rain, snow, and ice, sometimes for hours at a time.
Theres no scuffing, and the leather and stitching are completely intact.
These boots function exactly as they did when we first got them.
It is soft yet completely resistant to scratches.
The boots feel like theyre made to last a long time.
hey could benefit from a lining to prevent cold getting in through the laces.
The other great thing about these boots is their traction.
Their material is thick and high quality, and from a style perspective, theyre quite the fashion statement.
Theyre also available in four different colorways.
Besides a little scuffing from active use, the boots still look great three months later.
PHOTO: Amazon
There is only one color available.
In addition, you get the extra perk of staying warm and completely dry.
Straight out of the box, we could tell that these boots were of high quality.
PHOTO: Real Simple
Theyre sturdy and structured, and they have a flannel-lined interior.
The weight is idealnot too heavy, and not too light.
The boots felt broken-in right away.
While they are stiffer than some other options, this kept our feet supported and secure all day long.
The boots performed spectacularly when we walked in the rain and in fresh, deep, wet snow.
They repelled water and remained completely waterproof with no instances of any leaking into the boot.
The traction was great, and the boots held up nicely on icy sidewalks.
More color options would also be nice.
The water resistance has remained reliable, and they keep the feet comfortably warm and dry.
Despite their chunkier appearance, these boots are surprisingly lightweight.
They are waterproof and repel water effectively.
There are plenty of color options, too.
We found the sizing to be off but managed to get the perfect fit when we sized up.
At the same time, theyre almost too warm for temperatures above 50F.
We wore them for hours at a time in rain and sun, both indoors and outside.
They are cushioned inside, fit true to size, and hug the foot nicely.
The high comfort level continued throughout each wear, and they kept our feet warm while being breathable.
Our feet stayed completely dry, and we could see the water droplets sliding off the rubber tops.
When we stood and jumped in puddles, absolutely no water got through.
These top quality boots have pretty much the same shape as classic duck boots, but feel much lighter.
They are still water resistant and keep the feet warm and dry.
Its not easily noticeable, and we feel that with a better scrub it will come off completely.
Theres no option for wide feet.
Wonderfully blending style and functionality, the UGG Hapsburg Duck Boot is ideal for colder months.
PHOTO: Zappos
The footbed is also cushioned, and the lightweight midsole absorbs any shocks.
We wore them multiple times in heavy rain and light snow, and they performed remarkably well.
In addition to being completely waterproof, they did a stellar job at keeping the cold out.
PHOTO: Real Simple
Theyre also extremely durable.
For the best traction out there, we recommend theHunter Explorer Duck Boots.
We also noted factors like the boots weight.
We then put the boots on indoors, noting how easy they were to put on and take off.
We assessed each boot’s comfort level, traction, and breathability.
Finally, we noted any abnormal signs of wear and tear.
These boots are now available in practically any color you desire.
They come in different shaft and heel heights, and in many different materials.
Some have laces, others sport zipper closures, while others may have a quick and easy slip-on design.
Rubber and leather are the primary materials, Wendler says.
Opt for a pair that is truly waterproof and completely sealed.
The point is to keep the water out during rainy and damp seasons.
This may prove to be less watertight in puddles and snow, Herbert says.
The upper part of the boot can vary between leather or high-performance fabrics such as Gortex or technical membrane/fabric.
These ratings can vary between manufacturers and may not always be precise, but they provide a good guideline.
For insulation, brands typically use synthetic fibers like Thinsulate, Thermolite, ThermaFill, or PrimaLoft.
Insulation is usually measured in grams, and can be anywhere from 200 to 800.
Duck boots are fantastic in cold weather and snow, Herbert says.
PHOTO: Eddie Bauer
A decent pair will have a shearling, microfiber, or microfleece lining for comfort and warmth.
Opt for duck boots that have some good gripping and traction, Wendler says.
Consider that when its wet and damp, it will typically be slippery.
PHOTO: Real Simple
Questions You Might Ask
Are duck boots worth it?
I absolutely believe that duck boots are worth the investment, Wendler says.
Consider your lifestyle and activity level outside when you are in the elements.
Buy well, and buy once, he says.
What activities are duck boots ideal for?
Duck boots are versatile and a great choice of footwear for many different activities.
Wendler adds that duck boots are great for commuting when the weather is wet, rainy, and damp.
Sneakers and regular shoes are not typically made to be waterproof, she says.
Are duck boots waterproof?
Are duck boots good for snow?
While some duck boots are good for snow, not all of them are.
Duck boots are generally made to be waterproof, so your feet should stay dry in snow and slush.
When it comes down to it, you may want to get yourself a pair ofdedicated snow boots.
Are duck boots good for hiking?
Kat is also the editor-at-large at Thomas-Xometry, the leading U.S. online platform for supplier discovery and product sourcing.
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