If you are getting ready for a trip to a cold place, whether for skiing, or maybe just exploring a chilly city, shoes are very important, and there are some shoes you will need to stay stylish and warm.
Winter shoes like boots and slippers can be a bit tricky to pack. They can take up a lot more space in your bag than lightweight sandals or flip-flops that you would normally pack for warm destinations. However, if you plan properly, you can pack shoes that are both stylish and practical.
According to Ginnie Bond, the president of the luxury shoe brand Donald Plinner, choosing boots that will keep your feet warm and dry in the snow is important. You should pack boots with non-slip soles. These types of soles will help you stay steady on icy or uneven ground during your winter adventures.
In order to avoid overpacking, you should stick to three pairs of shoes. Pack sturdy walking boots for outdoor activities. You should also pack a comfortable indoor pair and a dressy option in case you have special events or nights out.
If you are planning your trip and do not know what shoes to pack, keep reading this article.
1. Comfortable Boots
If you are going skiing or snowboarding, it is a good idea to wear aprés–ski boots, like Moon Boots. These boots are very cozy. They are designed for relaxing after skiing.
Even though they are needed to warm your legs, you can still pick stylish ones for hanging out on the slopes. If you do not have much space in your suitcase, you can pack these boots. They double as shoes for daytime walks and casual lunches. Look for boots that are easy to wear, with rubber soles to prevent slipping.
The boots should also be made with insulated material to keep your feet warm. It would also be a plus if they were water-resistant. It would make them easy to handle during snow and rain. When it comes to style, these winter boots can be worn with ski pants, jeans, or leggings; they are versatile.
2. Waterproof Boots
Waterproof boots are great for walking in snow and other slushy conditions that are similar to snow. Brands like Hunter, L.L. Bean, Xtratuf, and Merry People make rain boots that keep your feet dry. While they keep your feet dry, you would still feel comfortable in them.
Keep in mind that short boots are easier to move around in, but knee-high boots are much warmer. Since rubber can make your feet feel colder, choose boots with warm linings. Boots with padded insoles are also an option. Leather boots are also good for staying warm, and are long-lasting.
For extra safety, look for boots with rubber soles or lightweight foam soles that have tread patterns. They will help to prevent you from slipping on icy surfaces.
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3. Simple Shoes or Heels
Some styles can never go out of fashion. A simple pair of pumps, or heels, is one of them. Mario Silva, the art director of luxury shoe brand Bruno Magli, gave a fashion tip when talking about pumps. Silva says pumps go perfectly with a winter coat, a long dress, and cozy tights. They are great for fancy dinners, New Year’s Eve parties, or holiday gatherings.
If high heels feel too uncomfortable or tricky to walk in, especially on uneven ground, there is a solution. You can go for a smaller heel. Smaller heels still look stylish. They are also easier to pack in your suitcase.
If you do not like wearing heels at all, you can go with something else. A polished loafer is a great option. Mario suggests wearing them with fitted pants or leggings. This combination will give a chic and effortless look. Bruno Magli uses Italian leather for their shoes. This means they are tough enough to handle bad weather without falling apart or soaking through.
4. Black Boots
If you want another timeless option, go for black boots. An advantage is that there are so many styles to choose from. If you want something smaller, there are ankle boots. Ankle boots are a great pick. They are easy to pack in a carry-on bag and work for casual outings and fancy dinners. They are super versatile. This makes them perfect for quick trips.
If you want something with a little more flair or a little more fashionable, you can try boots with a chunky block heel. Silva explains that these boots work for both semi-formal and casual outfits. You can dress them up with a skirt and warm tights for a cozy but classy look. Another thing you can do is pair them with jeans and a sweater for a more relaxed style.
For that extra fancy touch, You can pick boots with faux fur trim. These can take your look up a notch. They are even suitable for special dinners or high-end events.
5. Comfortable Boots or Slippers
When you are traveling or on vacation, having cozy footwear is a great idea. So you should bring your favorite comfy slippers or casual boots that are perfect for both short walks and relaxing.
For example, Ugg boots or warm, lined shoes can keep your feet cozy while looking stylish. They can go well with winter outfits like snow hats and puffer jackets. These types of shoes are great for traveling because they do not take up much space in your suitcase. They are also super comfy for long planes or car rides.
If slippers feel too casual, you could try slip-on shoes from similar brands. These will give you the comfort of slippers but still have a better grip. This will make them great for walking around your vacation spot.
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6. Stylish and Eye-Catching Shoes
If you want your footwear to stand out and make a fashion statement, you can choose something bold. These shoes might not be as practical as waterproof boots, but they can still be trendy and fun. For example, western-style boots are becoming popular thanks to a “Ranch Revival” fashion trend that was predicted to grow in 2025.
Another option for when you are going out on a cold evening is snakeskin boots. They can look stylish and modern, especially since animal prints are in high demand.
For a more classic look, you might like equestrian boots. These are low-heeled and weather-friendly. They also have details like straps and buckles for added style. You can pair these boots with a long skirt and a cozy sweater for a chic outfit if you want shoes that are both practical and fashionable. You can try trendy sneakers from brands like New Balance or Everlane. They are great for combining comfort and style.
In the end, picking the right shoes for your trip depends on what you need. It also depends on your aesthetics—how you want to look. Choosing the right shoes for your trip means being prepared for any situation while looking and feeling good.
