Buzz
As New York City experiences its coldest temperatures, I'm gearing up for the inevitable snow and ice with the right footwear and clothing to tackle the rest of winter.
As a shopping writer, footwear is one of my go-to topics, and I'm excited to share the best winter walking shoes I’ve discovered. I've been a loyal Merrell fan since I tried their Hydro Moc shoes last summer at the beach, and outdoor enthusiasts swear by their hiking boots. However, the Merrell winter champion is its waterproof Thermo Snowdrift Moc Shell shoes. These cushioned shoes offer 200 grams of low-bulk insulation per shoe to keep your feet toasty, a waterproof membrane to shield your feet from moisture, and a protective exterior to ensure dryness. They also feature built-in odor control to prevent any unwelcome foot aromas when you remove them. A standout feature is the stretchy foot opening, making them easy to put on and take off.
Now, let's talk about the most important feature of these winter shoes: their performance in slippery conditions.
During a snowy visit to my relatives in Iowa (yes, I know, what was I thinking?), I had no trouble getting around while wearing these shoes. The reliable traction comes from their sticky rubber outsoles, which make navigating cold-weather surfaces effortless. Don’t just take my word for it—check out the reviews from fellow winter enthusiasts.
Highlighted Reviews:
“Excellent grip in moderately slick conditions, warm enough for snowy Minnesota, and waterproof in slush! Whether it’s a walk, a quick store trip, or shoveling fresh snow (if it’s not too deep), these shoes have been perfect. Highly recommend!” — Diane M
“I purchased these a week ago, looking for stable, warm, comfortable, and supportive shoes to survive another brutal Michigan winter. We’ve had snow and ice already, and these shoes are a dream! I own other Merrell winter boots, but these are my first Merrell shoes. They’ve exceeded my expectations, especially running in and out of Meijer on slippery ground.” — Anonymous
“These are exactly what I needed in winter shoes. Waterproof, great tread/traction, comfortable, and warm. They’re my go-to for winter errands, whether I’m just heading to the mailbox or out for shopping. They handle a few inches of snow and slush without getting my feet wet. Plus, they’re easy to slip on and off! Very satisfied.” — BLN
