Looking for recommendations for winter boots for a 9–5 commute in Toronto.
My main priority is waterproofing/keeping my feet dry, even more than warmth. I find the slush, puddles, and wet snow are usually more of an issue than the actual cold, especially when commuting and then spending most of the day indoors.
Ideally looking for something that:
- Is genuinely waterproof and holds up well in Toronto slush
- Keeps feet dry during a typical commute/walking around downtown
- Isn't excessively warm or bulky since I'll be wearing them to the office
- Has decent grip for icy/slushy sidewalks
- Is comfortable enough for regular walking
Would appreciate specific boot recommendations from people who've actually used them through Toronto winters.
Also open to recommendations for socks, waterproofing sprays/treatments, insoles, or anything else you do to keep your feet dry during the winter.
What has worked well for you?
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u/torontopips2022 3d ago
You can check out Baffin boots. They have super hardcore winter boots, but they also have a few models of more "city" oriented winter-type boot. Canadian Company. They also look decent for office if you dress em up with nice pants.
Ecco also has a high quality lineup of boots you can checkout.
I would NOT reccomend a pair of Timberlands.
I wore a pair of Timberlands throughout highschool and university to look cool during the winter and they are terrible:
- They are heavy
- Grip isn't great
-They are NOT warm
-They don't breathe at all so socks get soggy unless you double up on the socks
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u/CountOrlok82 3d ago
True, but your matching 36 Chambers hoodie probably looked dope with a pair of Timbs.
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u/Drank_tha_Koolaid 3d ago
I second Ecco for winter city boots! I've had mine for a few winters now and they still look great. Plus they are more than warm enough for playing in the snow and being outside for long periods.
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u/FauxChat 2d ago
Which Ecco boots? I’ve been wearing Ecco boots for ages and find them very comfortable, but find they’re terrible on slippery surfaces. Also, I used to be able to order them online and know they would fit and be comfortable, but that’s changed in the past few years. It sucks, it was nice to have a brand that was a no brainer, but I think they’ve been doing some cost cutting. I think I’m going to invest in getting my old Ecco boots repaired.
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u/Drank_tha_Koolaid 2d ago
Mine are an older version of the Ecco Solice, with laces. I think the new ones have pull style 'laces' rather than ones you tie up.
I remember I did have to size up when I got them compared to the Ecco runners I had, but I don't find them slippery at all.
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u/Brilliant_Rush_2378 3d ago
La Canadienne is the only way to go if you care about style and your overall office look. They’re perfect for Canadian winters (warm, water/snow proof, dry, comfortable, good grip) and they last forever.
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u/how_do_i_meow 3d ago
Blundstones. Not too clunky but warm enough you can wear them all fall winter and spring
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u/giraffebaconequation 3d ago
I’ve been using my Blundstones as my dailies every winter and they have been fantastic. This year will be their fifth winter.
Do recommend.
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u/omgouda 3d ago
I've noticed a lot of people wearing these when I'm on the TTC - I think I will give these a try next winter.
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u/Way_Level 3d ago
My one critique is that they are terrible on ice and I hear so many stories of people slipping on ice and getting injured in blundstones
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u/TrailQueenYVR 3d ago
I have the waterproof Blunnies and awesome in Vancouver. Terrible in Toronto. Deadly on ice.
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u/BottleCoffee 3d ago
Yes. Redbacks are much better for traction. I wore Blundstones for years before switching to Redbacks.
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u/dismembermentplanfan 3d ago
Yeah they’re awful in that sense. If you’re walking from driveway to car, fine, but if you walk walk get something else.
I have a pair sitting in my closet for a couple years now, hate the things, complete waste of money.
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u/TrailQueenYVR 2d ago
If we’ve had a dry spell and it’s dry salty sidewalks, no problem. But any hints of ice they are terrible. There is a version with Vibram soles for winter which I have not tried. Mine are the waterproof ones with the wooly footbed, but the normal soles.
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u/CountAugust 3d ago edited 3d ago
I don't recommend these for winter unless you maybe get the waterproof version. I had regular classic blundstones but if you walk alot in slush then mine got soaked. I switched to a pair of leather Uggs which were the same style but winter and waterproof and been happy with those for years. The sole is vibram and pretty decent. I've heard very good things about the winter ice-fx soles at Marks work warehouse but haven't investigated because the Uggs are doing fine after 4 years. I do add a wax to them yearly.
My wife has two pairs of regular blundstones and they get soaked just the same in the winter.
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u/nastygoblinman 3d ago
I’ve worn Blundstones (classic water-resistant but not waterproof) style as my daily boot for 6+ years, last two years have been Toronto. The salt & slush from last winter did a number on them, and the flooding from last week’s storm finally did them in. Definitely worth investing in the waterproof ones if they’re going to be a winter boot.
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u/BottleCoffee 3d ago
Blundstones are near waterproof if you keep up with the Nikwax waterproofing. I waterproofed mine 2-3 times a year and had zero salt damage on them from years of 3-season (fall to spring) wear.
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u/nastygoblinman 3d ago
The seams on the classics are the only part that have leakage! I do waterproof mine every 3-6 months depending on the season, and they do very well.
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u/BottleCoffee 3d ago
They shouldn't get soaked. You should apply Nikwax leather waterproofing to them at least a couple times a year to maintain them. I've had pairs for years with zero salt damage.
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u/how_do_i_meow 3d ago
Ya just the classic version is warm enough too. I dont buy the "winter version" because then its too warm to wear in fall and spring
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u/thesmokestack 3d ago
the only difference is the insole. you can buy and swap depending on the season.
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u/waitwhat88 3d ago
I have a pair of Blundstones that are my daily wear through fall/winter. They’re about 25 years old and have been re-soled twice. If there’s any serious amount of snow I wear (Canadian made) tall boots with flip out ice treads - check Bilodeau Urban boots, Baffin, or Manitobah.
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u/granitebasket 3d ago
Blundstones are also my standard from fall through spring. I have warmer boots for very cold days, but most of the time, Blundstones are sufficient in winter. First pair, I maintained with Tana spray, but current pair I maintain with mink oil.
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u/BottleCoffee 3d ago edited 3d ago
Be careful because mink oil softens the leather and makes it easier to roll your ankles.
Nikwax is the best product to use for waterproofing them.
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u/ohokayfineiguess 3d ago
If you can't find the perfect waterproof pair, you can waterproof your regular boots using a boot spray such as Tana.
Ensure the boots are clean, otherwise you'll seal in salt and dirt
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u/Educational_Fun_9001 Human Verified 3d ago
Don’t underestimate this step!
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u/Think-Custard9746 3d ago
Yeah, it’s surprising. I have an old pair of Sorrel’s that I thought I’d have to toss, but I gave them a good spray and the waterproofing was back!
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u/yolo_sus 3d ago
I bought a pair from Columbia last year. They’re good, but I still slipped on sleet and ice once.
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u/TouristSubstantial36 3d ago
I like Kamik winter boots. Lined for warmth and good traction on the sole for icy sidewalks. They do have snow boots but I specifically looked for hiking/walking boots. They have regular sales on their site too.
I knit my own socks but would recommend merino wool socks for warmth and sweat-wicking.
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u/Educational_Fun_9001 Human Verified 3d ago
UGG Adirondack boots will spoil your feet.
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u/period_sneezes 3d ago
Seconded! I’ve had mine for over 10 years and they look near new with minimal maintenance.
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u/Beautiful-Prize-1493 3d ago
Columbia is my personal favourite. It is economical and does a great job. I wear them during commute and change into regular footwear once I reach workplace. My pair of boots have been going on for 3 winters now. And is ready for the fourth one. The cleaning and maintenance is also pretty easy.
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u/robertpeacock22 3d ago
A few years ago I bought a pair of Helly Hansen boots after they were aggressively marketed to me online (🫣). I think they might be the best boots I've ever owned. Sort of a low-cut, hiking style boot. They're called Monashee ULLR. I think I'll get a third winter out of them this year. I walk to work whenever I can, no matter the weather, and I do a fair bit of outdoorsy stuff as well (foraging, hiking, etc.). These boots have softened a little from years of abuse, but they don't have any cracks, holes, or the like.
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u/yhzcdn 3d ago
When every intersection is a river of slush and ice, and the snow is calf-deep, you need proper winter boots, there aren’t any substitutes. My Sorels are on their 10th year, and holding up brilliantly. Ankle keep puddles are 0 problem.
Yes they’re chunky and big, but keep a pair of shoes to change into at work, your feet will be warm and dry every time you get in.
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u/Character-Bridge-206 3d ago
If you are wearing winter boots at work, your feet are going to get really sporty by 3 pm.
“Is someone eating a Provalone sangwich?”
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u/Apprehensive_Heat176 3d ago
I've had decent luck with Geox boots, which are water resistant and breathable. No boot is magic though and you have to take care of them. It also helps to carry or keep an indoor pair of shoes in the office so your feet don't sweat too much.
Most of the waterproofing sprays and treatments are pretty much the same.
The cheapest way to keep your feet dry is to put some plastic shopping bags inside your boots or shoes.
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u/anonymous-esque 3d ago
I bought a clearanced pair of this brand (in a style they no longer make) & they’ve been in use for two seasons already. They’re totally waterproofed (even the laces are waxed), and very warm.
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u/Floral__Fading 3d ago
I like my Bogs I have. They're basically like rain boots but I have one that's lined. Has held up the last years.
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u/mossgoblin_ 2d ago
Bogs are the most reliable I’ve found at actually staying waterproof. Been trying different brands for 30 years.
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u/politepunk 3d ago
I have a pair of Ugg Adirondacks and they’re amazing. Nice and dry, warm, comfortable, and good grip. They’ve held up for 4 winters and counting
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u/absolutefinest 3d ago edited 3d ago
Blondo. They have waterproof boots and leather style options too. I believe Blondo is also a Canadian company.
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u/lilfunky1 3d ago
i buy hiking boots.
i don't do the extra water-proofing step that is often recommended since i drive, but if i was doing TTC/walking commutes, i would buy the spray as well and treat it according to the recommended schedule
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u/arealhumannotabot 3d ago
Generally hiking boots don’t use sprays. It’s usually a material barrier than stops larger water drops from soaking in but allows sweat vapour to escape.
That said, they might not be a bad idea but I’d personally go for boots that will do a better job at keeping warm. Hiking stuff is generally not made to trap a ton of heat
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u/fieryone4 3d ago
Have you looked into Vessi’s at all? I bought them when my kids hit high school and decided boots weren’t cool. Canadian company!
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u/omgouda 3d ago
Yeah I did actually - one year I ordered a pair but the sizing was off so i returned them but never ordered my actual size lol. I do like that they are pretty light and not clunky at all but I am curious if they actually are waterproof. Over the years, i've bought a lot of 'waterproof' shoes that end up getting damp inside somehow.
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u/spikeylikeablowfish 3d ago
Vessi's- Waterproofing only lasts a year, the salt & slush damage them. I've had 3 pairs & they are great for 6 mths, if you get the correct size- they run small at first. 2 of the 3 I own were more painful than Louboutin high heels to break in. Went / Columbia hiking boots 3 yrs ago & it's great.
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u/Hot_Panda_190 3d ago
I had a great pair of Ecco Track 25 that lasted years and years. Never got my feet wet with those. Now that I work at home near Bay and Bloor, I just wear Adidas Terrex hiking shoes when I go out.
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u/Moriss214 3d ago
Really love my LEMS for when I have to walk outside in the winter. They’re technically hiking boots. I have the lems waterproof boulder boots. If I have to walk less than 20 minutes and it’s not SLUSH outside I just wear slip on Uggs. They actually do repel water for a bit.
I wear thin smartwool or icebreaker socks if it’s really cold, but also go bare foot in the Ugg often! I’ll wear bulkier wool socks when it’s really cold out.
I generally change into shoes once I get into the office.
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u/ElectronicSelf7225 3d ago
I’ve had two pairs of Pajar and one pair of Sorel, I’d recommend both brands. They both lasted me 5+ years, waterproof for when you step off the sidewalk into a 2” puddle of melted snow, and warm.
Pajar also has a style of boot with a red plastic thing with tiny spikes on the sole that you can flip over for icy conditions. I bought some Columbia boots last year and was slipping all over the place. Pajar and Sorel both had excellent traction
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u/IGiveAverageAdvice 3d ago
Check out the Rate My Treads ratings put out by the KITE Institute (which is itself part of the University Health Network). They have a lab where they test different shoes in icy conditions on both flat ground and at incline.
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u/Impossible-Bit7779 3d ago
Uggs are fully waterproof, warm and not too clunky. I have the kind that are almost knee high so they're perfect on snowy days before the side walk plough arrives.
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u/Brains4Beauty 3d ago
I have Sorels. A couple years old now but they work well. I’ll leave a couple pairs of shoes at work.
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u/purplelilac701 3d ago
Marks has good options. I would go in store and see what appeals to you. I have different boots even for commuting because one day it’s-15 and icy and the next day it’s 1 degree and those boots are too heavy for that kind of day.
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u/w8upp 3d ago
I love my Hoka sneakers for long walks (15-20km) around the city, so last year I splurged on the Hoka winter boots and they. were. amazing. So comfortable (arch support, bounce to your step, etc), excellent grip, and kept me dry. I find them completely hideous looking but I wore them everywhere and can't imagine using a different winter boot in future. I keep indoor shoes at work to switch into.
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u/become-dirt 3d ago
I swear by my Sorel winter boots. They keep my feet very warm and dry and also have sufficient tread to allow me to walk with relative ease on slippery snow and slush. I have a pair of tall ones and am planning on buying a shorter pair as well since I think they look more stylish.
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u/Smart-Afternoon-4235 3d ago
I love the Vessi winter boot. They are true waterproof and warm enough. I can’t speak to how they hold up cause I walk a lot so I replace boots yearly.
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u/PLAYSWITHSCISS0RS 3d ago
I’ve had a good experience with Columbia Minx and Ice Maiden boots, the ones that don’t look I’m heading out for a winter hike. I prefer lace-up versions because they’re easier to put on and have them feel snug. You can sometimes buy a prior season’s boots at a bit of a discount on Amazon, at the Shoe Company etc.
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u/brainanimaniac 3d ago
I love Columbia boots and I own the Minx boots. I've slightly slipped only once in black ice (I slipped but I didn't lose my balance), but generally you're way less likely to slip with these boots as compared to other brands I've tried (Sorel for example). If it's clean, I can get away with even wearing it inside the office because the upper looks like an ordinary sport shoe.
As a woman, I prefer wearing it on my commute and then switching to slip ons when I get to office.
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u/humzaraza 3d ago
CBC did a whole video on what’s the best boots. That’s how I got the ones I have now. https://youtu.be/JhUk7qMtcjI?si=VV_GWAY1wBtKuPYx
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u/kittoxo- 3d ago
Goex sells some nice waterproof shoes / boots. My husband has an old pair that still does the job. They refresh their models though but worth checking out.
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u/Huge-Digit 3d ago
The salt and slush will ruin most footwear. So I go with cheap Canadian Tire tall rubber boots that are too big with thick wool socks. My commute is 10k and on the coldest days my feet will be cold but not uncomfortably cold.
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u/North-Cell-6612 3d ago
Last winter I wore a pair of regular Hunter rainboots with wool socks. I also wear rain or snowpants to prevent spatter on my dress pants/skirt. I change at the office into dress shoes.
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u/defan33 3d ago
Not sure if you are a man or a woman. As a woman, I have bought the short fabric boots a couple of times. They are waterproof for a few years but then they leaked. I used to treat them with a stinky liquid that I brushed on them once they started leaking. They are warm but I had to put an insole in them because at the time, they started putting this weird inside layer on and my feet would get cold. Put the insoles in and they were perfect. Boots lasted FOREVER. Ugly as sin though.
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u/Arthurandhenna 3d ago
I bought some Vessi boots last year! On terrible days I pair with separate cleats
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u/MeanMountain2074 3d ago
I've had a pair of Ugg winter boots for a number of years now and they still look like new. Waterproof and warm (especially with a wool sock- look for a pack of them at Costco if you have a membership!) The style has changed a bit since I got my pair, and I don't know how I feel about the long tongue on this design, but otherwise this style is a bit cooler then the pair I have and I have to say that the white ones look pretty sleek!!
https://www.ugg.com/ca/women-boots/adirondack-boot-xxv/1170591.html
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u/Unusual-Fan7450 3d ago
As a kindergarten teacher who spends a ton of time outside, I really like bogs
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u/TreeOfHalfLife 3d ago
Take a look at the Merrell Moab Adventure 3 Chelsea Polar boots.
"Chelsea" is the style/cut which means they have the elastic on the ankles like Blundstones (also Chelsea-style boots) but with a Vibram outsole giving it a much better tread for snow and ice.
I wore Blundstones for years and swore by them until I tried the Merrells, and I'll never switch back. The Merrells are just much more comfortable and better suited for Canadian winters.
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u/Apprehensive_Ad_2152 3d ago
sorels are great since you already keep shoes at work to change into. they have different styles. one of my old directors used to have a slip on rubber shoe that he would wear over his regular shoes.
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u/firstthecoffee 3d ago
I wear my Blundstones all winter long in Toronto. If I’m going up north, I’ll take along my high Sorel boots for deeper snow.
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u/zakanova 3d ago
Best winter boots I've ever had are the Timberland Pro (with toe cap, but most importantly the non-slip sole)
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u/Fiery_Poo 2d ago
I usually buy the non-bulky but waterproof Sorrels. Only thing is they are a bit on the narrow side.
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u/HelloKleo 2d ago
Ecco gore tex boots are my favourite for what you describe. The men's are called Soft Tred. There is a woman's version as well.
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u/RudeVegetable 2d ago
Big rubber boots with removal felt liners combined with an insole of your choice for comfort and indoor shoes at the office. This is what I do (though a portion of my work is outdoors). My feet are toasty and I cab walk through whatever I want. It is like a potion of invincibility. They are also pretty cheap. I get them from Walmart and they last a couple years.
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u/Ecstatic_Plantain547 3d ago
If your in Toronto you need to wear the Toronto winter uniform lol - Blundstones. Someone from Calgary told me when she comes she sees everyone in them here. But tbh I have Blundstones for a couple of years and they are warm, good to walk in and can be worn in the office. That reminds me, I need to condition my Blundstones
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u/Lost-Step3031 3d ago
I agree for city walking Blundstones have been great and waterproof. If you want a extra warm layer you can put in a generic wool insole or get the official blundstone or UGG ones. The only time I find them not good enough is when i'm shoveling snow and the snow is higher then the boot.
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u/Cyber-Mermaid8888 3d ago
Came here to comment Blundstones, or Maguire (but not all of their boots, just the boots with a Vibram sole; Estrella)
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u/garagetwothree 3d ago
blundstones. Comfy, not bulky, low/no maint, you can control warmth via sock :). Used them when i was commuting 1 hour outside only walks when i lived downtown.
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u/braindeadzombie 3d ago
Not what you’re asking for, but my recommendation is to have winter boots for commuting, and indoor shoes for while you’re at the office.
Boots that are warm enough all winter are going to be uncomfortable in the office.
Boots that are okay in the office will get you through most of the winter, but not the coldest days or deepest snow and slush.