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Top 5 Best Brands of Winter Boots for Children
21 October, 2025
This situation is probably familiar: you buy winter boots in October, and in January, your child complains that their feet are still cold or their boots are already torn after only two months of use. Choosing the right winter boots for children is obviously not just a matter of style – it's a matter of comfort, safety, and durability, so they can face our Quebec winters without fear!
In this article, we present our top 5 best brands of winter boots for children, tested by mothers of large families!
Evaluation criteria
The temperature rating
For our Quebec winters, aim for a rating of at least -25°C for daily use, and -40°C if your child is used to playing outside for a long time.
Waterproofing
For optimal waterproofing, the boot should ideally be identified as such (and not just as water-resistant), cover the ankle sufficiently so that snow cannot easily penetrate inside, and the seams and zippers should be of good quality.
Easy to put on
To help children become more independent, it's important to ensure they can put on their boots by themselves. Therefore, choose boots with a wide opening and a Velcro closure system or a drawstring for younger children.
Comfort and fit
When buying boots in the fall, there should be about 1.5 cm of space between the end of the boot and the child's big toe to allow room for growth. Also avoid boots that are too heavy, as they make it difficult for the child to move (and run!) easily. Finally, the felt linings inside the boots should be removable to allow for easier drying (because even waterproof boots often manage to get snow in them!).
Our top 5
Acton winter boots are made of treated synthetic leather and water-repellent nylon, and feature sealed seams to ensure they are completely waterproof. They are lightweight, and smaller sizes have a removable felt liner. Depending on your child's age, you can choose from a variety of styles, from Velcro booties for toddlers to taller lace-up boots for teens. Durable and long-lasting, they can easily be passed down to younger members of the family and used for several years, making them a worthwhile investment!
Price: Between $90 and $115
Made of nylon and synthetic rubber, Kamik boots are completely waterproof. The removable lining effectively wicks away moisture and keeps feet warm, with a temperature rating of -40°C. °C. Once again, the company offers a variety of models, with effective and easy fastening systems suitable for all ages.
Price: Between $75 and $120
Best known for its rain boots, Bogs also offers a line of children's winter boots with the same convenient slip-on system. Designed without seams, they provide unparalleled waterproofing, and are also lightweight, durable, and easily washable with a simple damp cloth. Their only drawback? They don't have a removable liner, so they can take longer to dry if snow manages to get inside!
Price: Between $95 and $110
Sorel boots have a well-established reputation, and rightly so! Also made from synthetic nylon and rubber, and featuring sealed seams, they promise waterproofing and enhanced warmth for comfortably facing long days outdoors. Their removable felt lining allows for quick drying, and the company also offers a variety of models, although a more limited selection than the companies mentioned above.
Price: Between $90 and $130
Although more limited, Merrell, known for its hiking shoes, offers boots that are not only warm and waterproof but also very lightweight, ideal for parents who enjoy winter hiking with their families. Easy for little ones to put on, they'll keep their feet dry and warm all winter long!
Price: Approximately $75
Common mistakes to avoid
#1 Buy the exact size: Because children's feet grow quickly and they often wear thicker socks during the cold season, make sure there is about 1.5 cm of space available in front of the toes when purchasing.
#2 Neglecting waterproofing for warmth: While wet feet will get cold almost instantly, prioritize waterproofing first. Wool socks can compensate for less insulation, but nothing can compensate for boots that let in water!
#3 Choosing boots that are too heavy for little ones: A toddler in boots that are too heavy will probably just refuse to walk! So prioritize lightweight boots for children aged four and under.
Rapid-fire questions
At what age can a child wear "real" winter boots?
As soon as he/she is walking steadily, usually around 12-18 months.
My child complains that their feet are cold despite wearing good boots. Why?
- The boots are too tight.
- The stockings he's wearing are cotton and retain moisture. Wool would be a better choice.
- The child remains motionless for a long time.
Is it better to buy something too big so that it lasts longer?
No. Boots that are too big create friction, make the child trip, and let snow in. A maximum of 1.5 cm of space in front of the toes, never more!
Are used boots a good option?
Yes, IF:
- The waterproofing is still good (test them if possible by wetting them).
- The soles still have deep cleats.
- The closures work well.
- They do not have a persistent odor (a sign of internal mold).
Finally, choosing the right winter boots for your children doesn't have to be complicated! By prioritizing waterproofing, a realistic temperature rating for our Quebec winters, and ease of putting them on appropriately for their age, you're investing in your child's comfort and safety, and almost guaranteeing a wonderful winter for the whole family!