Do you often find yourself getting cold feet about going on ice fishing trips because your feet always get cold? Say no more, I’m going to help you find the best ice fishing boots for yourself!
Dad jokes aside, ice fishing boots are one of the most important gears of an angler’s arsenal. If you’re going to be fishing in extreme cold, your feet would greatly appreciate a pair of the warmest ice fishing boots. Not to mention, the traction you’d be getting from a purpose-made winter boot will allow you to walk on even the most slippery ice with ease.
With so many options to choose from, it’s easy to feel lost. But don’t worry, I’ve got you covered with my carefully curated list of ten of the best ice fishing boots in the market.
Along with that, you’ll also find the supreme buyer’s guide to ice fishing boots which would help you greatly to make up your mind. And last but not the least, the FAQ section should clear up whatever confusion you may have about cold weather boots.
Without any more delay, let’s begin!
BEST ICE FISHING BOOTS – AT A GLANCE
10 BEST ICE FISHING BOOTS – COMPARISON
| RANK | PICTURE | NAME & Specifications | RATING | SHOPS |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Premium Choice #1 |
 
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Muck boots Arctic Pro Hunting Boot
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#2 |
 
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Timberland Maddsen Boot
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My Pick #3 |
 
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Kamik Canuck
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#4 |
 
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Columbia Bugaboot III Snow Boot
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#5 |
 
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Kamik Men’s Greenbay 4 Cold-Weather Boot
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#6 |
 
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TIDEWE Rubber Neoprene Boot
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#7 |
 
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Kamik Nationplus
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Budget Pick #8 |
 
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ALEADER Men’s Winter Snow Boots
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#9 |
 
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HISEA Apollo Basic Hunting Boot
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#10 |
 
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ALEADER Mens Duck Boot
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1. Muckboots Arctic Pro Hunting Boot – Premium choice
Features
- The insulation material adjusts to the user’s foot shape in order to resist blisters and chafing.
- Stretch-fit Comfort Topline with double reinforcement in the instep, heel and Achilles area provides adequate sealing.
- EVA midsole combined with Bob-Tracker outsole offers ruggedness, durability and extra cushioning.
- 2mm thermal foam under foot.
When it comes to high performance ice fishing boots, The Muck Boot is a widely renowned brand. And they follow a simple formula to achieve that – The Muck Boot essentially leaves the users in awe every time they release a new product.
And Muckboots Arctic Pro is no different either.
Simply put, these muck boots have everything you can ever want in a pair of winter fishing boots. The insulation material is top of the line which, combined with the Stretch-fit Comfort Topline, will make your feet so comfortable and warm that you wouldn’t even feel like you’re walking out in the snow!
But that’s not what impressed me the most. What really got me was, these ice fishing boots would perfectly adjust to the shape of your foot to prevent chafing and blisters. Crazy, right?
If you don’t mind paying a premium for something truly premium and top-notch – Muckboots Arctic Pro is one of the best ice fishing boots that is packed with so many amazing features.
Pros
- Outstanding combination of comfort and performance.
- Flexible, lightweight construction.
- Great heat retention.
Cons
- A bit on the expensive side.
- Can be slightly tricky to remove.
- With a height of 17 inches, it can be too tall for some.
2. Timberland Mt. Maddsen Boot
Features
- TimderDry eco-friendly waterproof membrane makes sure your feet would be dry in any weather conditions.
- Comes with anti-fatigue comfort technology.
- Geometric cone support has been used in the midsole to provide decent shock absorption and standing comfort.
- Fully waterproof design.
Mt. Maddsen Boot is one of Timberland’s best-selling shoes, yes. But I’d be lying if I didn’t mention the fact that they’re one of the most popular ice boots in the market, as well.
What stands out about this boot from Timberland is how they’ve kept the design very eco-friendly, using recycled materials where possible. But no, the shoe isn’t only good for the earth, it’s an amazing experience for the user to wear it, too.
The anti-fatigue comfort technology the shoe’s equipped with is simply a game changer, that won’t let your feet feel a thing even when you’re walking or standing for quite a while!
In a nutshell, Timberland Mt. Maddsen would be a nice, eco-conscious choice that packs some nifty features and offers good comfort. As it doesn’t have any insulation, I wouldn’t recommend it for extreme cold at all.
Pros
- Various kinds of recycled materials have been used in construction – making the design very eco-friendly.
- Great for long time use.
- Full-grained leather offers a ruggedly stylish look.
Cons
- Lacks any sort of built-in insulation.
3. Kamik Canuck – Our pick.
Features
- Flexible, fully waterproof rubber shell.
- 8mm Zylex removable liner.
- Slip-resistant high grip tread design.
Not a big fan of beating around the bush, so let me get straight to the point. Why is Kamik Canuck our pick?
Because it offers the best value for your money. Upon unpacking the shoes, you get what you expected you would at the price – and then you find out you’ve got more than you anticipated. That is the sort of pleasant surprise Kamik packs with Canuck.
Frankly speaking, these rubber boots arebuilt like a tank so no worries about stuff like longevity or durability.
Worried about weight? The lightweight design will make you forget you’re wearing something.
And last but not the least, the insulation material will keep your feet warm and cozy even if it’s way past freezing cold outside.
Whom is this for? Anyone who’s looking for a great pair of ice fishing boots that wouldn’t mind whatever weather conditions are thrown at it. This is one of the best ice fishing boots and take my word for it, you won’t be disappointed.
Pros
- Impressive durability.
- Lightweight.
- Excellent value for money.
Cons
- The tall design may be inconvenient for people with a shorter height.
- Foot support could be better.
4. Columbia Bugaboot III Snow Boot
Features
- Equipped with Omni-Heat, Columbia’s patented heat management system.
- 100% leather construction with deep insulation.
- Indoor friendly Omni-GRIP outsole has been combined with Techlite midsole.
If heat retention is one of your prime concerns, then Columbia Bugaboot III Snow Boot’s got you covered.
I’ll tell you why Columbia went to the length of patenting an one of its kind heat retention system for people like you – which, needless to say, does an extremely good job at it. That, combined with the full leather construction is bound to keep your feet dry and warm no matter what.
While the heat retention is the key highlight, Bugaboot III Snow Boot is a very comfortable boot as well. Columbia went overboard with that too, using their patented outsole design to make sure the shoe ends up with the ultimate condition of comfort and performance. Did I mention it’s extremely lightweight?
Don’t hesitate to grab a pair of these if you’re looking for the warmest boots in the market.
Pros
- Excellent heat retention and insulation.
- Very comfortable.
- Will keep your feet dry and warm even in extreme weather conditions.
Cons
- Some users complained about the size being too small, make sure to order a bit bigger size than what you usually wear.
5. Kamik Greenbay 4 Cold-Weather Boot
Features
- Rated for extremely cold weather conditions.
- 8mm Thermal Guard removable liner.
- Synthetic rubber sole.
- Fully waterproof construction.
If you forgot for a moment why Kamik is so popular, let me zap your memory back again with another model from them. Spoiler alert, it’s the hottest pair of ice fishing boots you can get your hands on!
Kamik Greenbay 4 packs some really serious kinds of insulation and when I say serious, I mean it. Walking on liquid nitrogen wearing this may still not be a good idea, but pretty much anything apart from that very much is with this boot.
The rubber sole offers pretty good grip. The combination of that with the nylon construction will definitely make any ice fishing enthusiast drool all over it.
If you’re looking for something heavy that won’t let you even in extremely cold weather conditions, Kamik Greenbay 4 would be your best bet.
Pros
- Perfect for use in the coldest weather.
- Solid insulation ensures you won’t be having cold feet.
- Warm and comfortable.
Cons
- Quality control is not satisfactory, a lot of users reported getting faulty shoes.
6. TIDEWE Rubber Neoprene Boot
Features
- The construction material, CR Flex-Foam offers good heat retention, absorbs impacts with ease and is flexible in nature.
- Retains up to 90% of your feet’s warmth.
- EVA mid-sole.
The first thing you’re going to notice about TIDEWE Rubber Neoprene Boot is its really, really deep tread that looks like it never, ever slips. After that, you’ll find the manufacturer claiming, rather boldly, that it retains up to 90% of your body’s heat.
And yes, both of them are true. Shocker, right? Definitely, but there are some other praiseworthy stuff these ice fishing boots boast as well.
The sole is carefully designed in a way that it increases stability by a decent amount and even offers stable support for stopping – which can be crucial for walking in a snowfield.
The upper is reinforced by rubber and further insulated with NeoPrene, which makes sure your feet will stay all warm and dry.
These insulated boots from TIDEWE might not turn heads, but it has a very functional design nonetheless.
Pros
- Decent build quality.
- Very comfortable and warm.
- Innovative, lightweight design.
- Fits true to size.
Cons
- Some users have complained about its longevity.
- Not intended for heavy-duty usage.
7. Kamik Nationplus
Features
- Totally rustproof speed-lacing system.
- Genuine leather has been used in construction, not synthetic.
- Fully waterproof design.
“This is the third time I’m seeing a boot from Kamik, why?”
Ah, that is a very good question. I can’t help it, Kamik just has so many great boots that should be present on any list!
The aesthetic of these winter fishing boots may be more on the traditional side, but the features are nothing but modern. Totally waterproof construction means absolutely zero chances of your feet getting wet!
Another plus is the genuine leather that’s been used, making it score extra points for style. While the insulation isn’t adequate for subzero temperatures, it will keep your toes warm with ease in moderately cold weather conditions.
If you’re looking for something made by Kamik, Nationplus is another good option worth checking out.
Pros
- Affordability.
- Pretty comfortable.
- Good fitting.
Cons
- According to users, it’s not suitable for sub-zero temperatures despite the manufacturer’s claim.
8. ALEADER Winter Snow Boots – Budget pick
Features
- Wind resistant upper protects your feet from cold air.
- Non-slip, stable rubber soles.
- Hundred percent waterproof design.
- Cushioned foot bed provides extra comfort.
I’m not that good with wordplays, but here goes a humble effort from me anyway.
If we’re talking about hunting boots that offer the best value to cost ration, Aleader Winter Snow Boots is a leader in that field.
Despite being one of the least expensive options in my list, these winter boots come with a bunch of very impressive features. First off, the PU coated synthetic upper has been specially designed to protect your feet from cold air. After that comes the rubber soles which offer the ultimate stability while walking on snow.
If you’re tired of fishing boots that are a pain in the neck to put on or put off, you’ll love this one as well – as the drawstring and ankle strap make the process a piece of cake.
To summarize, if you’re looking for affordable boots, Aleader Winter Snow Boots is a worthy contender you can’t go wrong with.
Pros
- Insulation material is the best in the market.
- Easy to put on and off thanks to the drawstring and ankle strap.
- Amazing value for money.
- Suitable for heavy-duty usage.
Cons
- If you have small feet, you’ll find the design a bit too spacious.
9. HISEA Apollo Basic Hunting Boot
Features
- Breathable, completely waterproof design.
- Non Abrasive and hypoallergenic.
- Full rubber gusset offers even more usability.
Hisea Apollo Basic Hunting Boot may not look very stylish, but that’s subjective for one. Secondly, it makes up for that with the highly functional design.
This is a shoe of remarkable versatility which you can use in a variety of situations – making it perfect for someone who’s an avid outdoorsman at heart.
Regardless of whether you’re hunting, camping, fishing or just taking a long walk, the breathable design will make everything a breeze. But how does that work anyway?
Well, the air mesh lining being breathable means air keeps travelling throughout the boots preventing moisture from building up on your foot. Impressive function, right?
It’s one of the lightest boots on my list as well, which can make your user experience even better. As these boots come equipped with pretty thick NeoPrene, there’s no doubt about the heat retention capacity either.
Pros
- Lightweight construction with commendable insulation.
- EVA midsoles provide additional cushioning for long time usage.
- A durable rubber shell extends up to the top line to protect the user from all kinds of dangers and moisture.
Cons
- For this model, the manufacturer put more emphasis on functionality than fashion.
10. ALEADER Duck Boot
Features
- Casual, stylish-looking design.
- The lace can be tied in different ways to further alter the vibe.
- Seam-sealed, waterproof shell.
- 100% man made material has been used in vegan construction.
- Great ankle support.
Aleader duck boot looks casual and fashionable at the same time, thanks to leather construction albeit synthetic. They’d look great especially with jeans, so you can even wear it in summer or fall.
The rubber sole makes sure you wouldn’t be slipping, and the waterproof design keeps water and snow from getting into the shoe.
Another thing worth mentioning is the fully vegan construction, where nothing but man-made material has been used.
While those all are commendable indeed, what really steals the show is the insulation material, which is faux fur. It’ll be doing a terrific job keeping your feet warm regardless of how cold it is out there!
In a nutshell, if you’re looking for something stylish that you can wear in all seasons, this would be a great choice.
Pros
- Affordability.
- The rubber sole offers good traction, suitable for all kinds of terrains.
- Very comfortable.
Cons
- Foot support is not up to the mark.
How to Pick the Best Ice Fishing Boots
Finding yourself the best ice fishing boots may seem like a daunting task. But it’s actually a pretty straightforward process as long as you know what to keep in mind. All you have to do is lay down your criteria and go with the one that meets them the most.
To help you out, I’ve rounded up the deciding factors for picking the best cold weather boot in the market. Follow this guide and you’ll be absolutely fine!
It must be waterproof
This is a no-brainer.
We all know ice isn’t made of sand and regardless of wherever you go on ice fishing, your feet are bound to be subjected to moisture. That can be in the form of snow, ice, or simply, water.
Ideally, your desired pair of boots should be 100% waterproof. Or at least the design should have enough water resistance to keep your feet dry. Rubber or neoprene perform quite well as waterproof outsole materials, so that’s something you’ll want to check for too.
Boots that are waterproof all the way up will be a blessing if you step in puddles frequently.
Traction matters more than you think
Picture this, you’re slipping on the ice. Because the shoe you wore lacked enough grip.
That is exactly why traction is one of the most important aspects of ice boots. Both ice and snow can be very slippery and hence the boots should have a decent grip on the surface. While ice cleats can bring some more traction to the table, the best boots will always have enough grip on their own.
For more information, you can refer to the first question of the FAQ section below.
Everything about size
People often make this silly mistake that they buy cold weather boots that only fit their feet with regular pairs of socks.
But in reality, you’ll need to wear pretty thick socks in extremely cold temperatures. And as you can guess, there has to be enough room for that in the boots. Some prefer wearing double socks for extra warmth, in which case you need to choose a size that’d accommodate the additional layer of socks as well.
Weight: Less is better or more?
Both heavy and lightweight ice fishing boots are available, with the weight mainly depending on the build material.
Lightweight boots can make it easy for you to walk through the ice and snow for hours comfortably, which is understandably the opposite with heavy boots. Another problem with the heavier ones is that they’ll weigh you down if you happen to fall through the ice.
All the cons aside, the additional weight most of the time comes from higher amounts of insulation and better waterproofing, which lightweight boots sometimes lack. So, keeping that in mind, choose whichever sort serves your purpose the best.
Height is important, too
Some boots cover as high as 15 inches towards your knee. Some cover only the ankle.
It’s necessary to decide which kind would go the best with the rest of the ice fishing apparel you’ll be wearing. Boots with decent height would make sure snow or water doesn’t get into your feet if you happen to step in a deep puddle. But they might make it a tad bit harder for you to walk comfortably.
If you’re interested in ice fishing bibs and clothing, this article can be of help.
10 Best Ice Fishing Bibs and Clothing: Staying Warm and Dry on the Ice
Lastly, insulation
Last but not the least, always check what kind of insulation the boots offer.
Decent insulation will allow your feet to remain warm, dry and comfy. Thinsulate Ultra Insulation is the best insulation material you can get your hands on – but boots with neoprene or fleece lining would get the job done as well.
If you do have to sacrifice on insulation, at least get a bigger size so you can wear extra socks.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What boots have the best grip on ice?
When it comes to walking on ice, you’ll want to stick to the purpose-made ones – snow boots or hiking boots with large treads. Also, make sure the soles have deep lugs and patterns that offer additional grip on slippery surfaces like ice. Non-slip rubber soles are considered the safest option.
Avoid shoes with flat soles or heels like the plague. The way they’re designed, they don’t have any grip on the surface making it inevitable for you to slip on ice. Plastic and leather soled shoes are especially notorious for the same reasons.
Do I need to buy ice cleats in addition to specialized ice fishing boots?
They’re not a must.
That being said, it depends on your shoes and how often you go on ice fishing trips. If you don’t feel like your shoes have sufficient grip, feel free to grab some traction cleats – that’ll at least make you feel safer.
And if you go on ice fishing trips more than once in a blue moon, ice cleats would be a good long-term investment anyway. As they don’t cost a fortune, it won’t hurt to have some additional grip.
Can muck boots be used for ice fishing?
Yes, you definitely can. Although, be noted that they may be comparatively harder to clean than boots that are made from slick neoprene.
How do I keep my feet warm when ice fishing?
Keeping your feet warm when it’s really, really cold outside can be tricky. Here are some tips to help you out –
- Spray on some antiperspirant: As weird as it sounds, they actually work like a charm. It’ll keep you warm and dry for at least six hours easily, if not more.
- Woolen socks: If you use cotton socks, switch to woolen socks instead. Wool keeps you warm even if it’s soaking wet.
- Don’t stay still: Move around a little as frequently as you can, the blood circulation will help.
Last but not the least, invest in a good set of boots. If your current ones don’t keep your feet warm, it’s high time to switch.
The Bottom Line
The difference a decent pair of ice fishing boots can have in your ice fishing trips is day and night. It is one of the best investments in fishing gears one can ever make – that’ll always be paying dividends. Let’s have a quick recap of what we’ve learned so far, shall we?
In the article, I’ve reviewed ten of the best ice fishing boots in the market among which you’ll find at least one that serves your purpose well. If you’re still in doubt, our pick is Kamik Canuck.
After that, I’ve talked about the things to keep in mind while buying ice fishing boots. The buyer’s guide should make it easier for you to make the decision.
Lastly, I’ve answered some common questions regarding ice fishing boots in the FAQ section.
I hope this article will be of help to you. Whichever shoe you decide to go for, make sure to do your own research as well. Happy Fishing!