Wide Calf Snow Boots: Beat the Cold With the Right Pair

Winter is upon us, especially if you live in cold Canada.

The first snow has fallen but like a truly bad Canadian, I just threw out my only two pairs of snow boots.

In my defense, my super cute Uggs had a wicked-awful hole in them, and the Toms I had purchased to replace them were basically like walking on a pair of skates.

Alas, I’m stuck here in an early snowy winter sans winter boots. So, it’s time to find them.

As you’d expect, finding a stylish and warm pair of wide calf snow boots is a real pain in the butt. But luckily, I’ve found some good candidates.

Whether you’re dealing with the snowy slipper streets of Winnipeg or wet sidewalks of New York City, these gems are for you.

They’ll help make sure you safely get to your destination with warm, stylish feet.

How to pick the right boots

1. Measure your calf

If you have wide calves, you’ll need to know what you’re working with before you start trying on boots.

That’s why it’s essential to measure your calf. To do this, all you need is a sewing measuring tape.

Place the tape around the widest part of your calf and make a note of the number.

You’ll need this number when you’re looking for boots, as it will help you narrow down your choices.

Keep in mind that some boots may have a little bit of wiggle room, while others will be more fitted.

It all depends on your personal preference.

2. Pick shorter options

I love a pair of tall boots as much as the next fashionista. But when you have wide calves, they’re not as feasible.

Tall boots tend to be more fitted, which can make them difficult to get on and off. They can also constrict your movement, which is the last thing you want when you’re trudging through snow.

Instead, go for a shorter option like an ankle boot or Chelsea boot. They’ll be easier to put on and take off, and you won’t have to worry about them being too constricting.

Plus, they’ll still keep your feet warm and dry in the snow. Win-win!

Image: Amazon

3. Read the reviews

Checking out the reviews BEFORE you make a purchase is important.

Especially if you’re planning on making the purchase online (but offline you still want to know).

You don’t want to just read the good ones either, pay attention to the bad.

If a boot has too many bad reviews about it being difficult to put on, then it’s probably not going to work for you.

But if the good reviews outweigh the bad, then it’s worth considering.

The last thing you want is to buy a pair of boots and then not be able to wear them because they give you blisters or are too difficult to get on.

Image: Amazon

4. Go waterproof

This should go without saying, but make sure you choose a pair of boots that are waterproof. You don’t want your feet to get wet and cold when you’re out in the snow.

These don’t need to be full-on rain boots. But waterproofing will help keep your feet dry and toasty, even if you accidentally step in a puddle.

Keep in mind that some boots may be waterproof but not snow-proof. So, if you’re looking for a boot to wear in deep snow, make sure it’s specifically designed for that.

5. Invest in quality

It’s tempting to go for the cheapest option, especially if you’re on the budget.

But if you live in a cold place, this is not an area you want to cut on.

A good pair of snow boots will last you a few winters (if not more).

They’ll also keep your feet warm and dry, which is the most important thing.

So, even if it means waiting a little longer to save up, it’s worth it in the long run.

Trust me, your feet will thank you!

6. Give laces a try

If you’re having trouble getting wide feet into boots, opt for a lace-up option.

The laces will help give you a little bit of extra room and make it easier to get the boots on.

Of course, this option isn’t for everyone. If you’re not a fan of laces, then there are other options out there for you.

But if you’re struggling to find a pair of boots that fit, laces are definitely worth considering.

7. Size up

If laces aren’t your thing and you’re still having trouble getting your foot in the boot, you could also try sizing up.

This won’t work for every pair of boots , but it’s definitely worth a try.

Of course, you don’t want the boot to be too big.

But if it’s just a little bit too snug, sizing up could be the answer.

Again, this is something that you’ll have to experiment with to see what works best for you.

But it’s definitely an option worth considering.

8. Try different brands

I’m not big on brands, but we all have our favorites.

The thing about having wide feet is that you can’t always go with the cute idea in your head.

Sometimes you just have to accept that the brand you want doesn’t make boots in your size.

In that case, it’s time to move on and try a different brand.

There are plenty of great brands out there that make stylish and comfortable boots for wide feet .

So, don’t get too discouraged if your favorite doesn’t work out.

There’s bound to be another brand that does!

9. Check the return policy

This is something you should always do before making a purchase, but it’s especially important when buying snow boots .

Since you can’t try them on before buying (unless you’re in the store), you want to make sure you can return them if they don’t fit.

Most stores have a pretty good return policy, but it’s always best to check before you buy. That way, you can be sure you’re making the right purchase for you.

Best wide calf snow boot brands

Image: Amazon

1. Propet

These Propét Delaney wide width snow boots have a removable footbed and are made of nylon, rubber sole and a front lace bungee. I love the red Bordeaux color, but they also come in black and grey.

These boots have Scotch Guard and a small heel. Wearers say these are good for arthritic toes and wide calves. They fit great and they’re super comfy, so if you need something in cool weather these might be perfect for you.

Image: Amazon

2. Ugg

I know UGG boots are so twenty years ago but as a born-and-bred Canadian, I can attest to their superior warmth in the crisp and frosty winter. This year I absolutely love the Koolaburra by UGG, a Victorian-style tall boot made of genuine cow suede.

While they’re not technically wide width boots, my fat calves can shove themselves into the 14-inch opening of these bad boys. So, I’m hoping that you too can find a pair that fit you. I tend to wear a size 11 or 11.5 and as long as I steer clear of the solid tall boots with no give, they fit comfortably.

These boots have warm, fuzzy lining that will keep you warm in -30 Celsius weather (seriously—been there, done that) and they still look pretty cute despite their early 2000s vibe.

Image: Amazon

3. Columbia

Columbia Sportswear is known for their high-quality, cold-weather clothing and the Ice Maiden II Boot is no exception.

Best of all, you can get these in wide width snow boot sizes and it’s absolutely glorious (and so warm).

While Sorel (probably one of the top boot labels in Canada) doesn’t have wide sizes, Columbia does.

And you’ll treat your feet with their advanced lightweight midsole and superior cushioning.

These boots come in 9 fabulous colors, including the cute one we have pictured.

Image: Amazon

4. Totes

If you’re looking to step up your game on the dressy front, the Esther Snow Boot that’s also by Totes might just be what you’re looking for.

These wide width boots feature a waterproof black synthetic leather and suede look with faux fur lining and a classy side buckle.

These are an especially good choice if you do a lot of walking since they have a cushioned footbed that molds around your feet.

They also feature built in thermolite fiber that provides lightweight insulation. Wearers say that these boots are both stylish and functional.

Image: Amazon

5. Skechers

If you’re looking for a warm ankle bootie, the Skechers On-The-go Joy snow shoe is a great choice.

It has a synthetic sole with real leather suede that’s treated with Scotchgard. Plus there’s warm and comfortable faux fur lining.

Wearers say that these shoes are incredibly comfortable, a true wide and the suede is gorgeously stitched.

If you’re looking for cute, comfortable and perfect for a quick, brisk winter walk, then these might be the booth for you.

Image: Amazon

6. Khombu

I’m not a big fan of the quilted look, but my mom loves them and I don’t mind it when it comes to vests.

However, these Khombu boots make it look real cozy.

If you’re heading out to the snow hill or need to simply shovel the walk, these are the cozy boots for you.

They feature ultra waterproof material, rated down to -20°F and come in distinct wide width sizes.

They come in 4 fashionable colors and are perfect for your winter look.

Image: Amazon

7. Timberland

Not only does Timberland make some great hiking boots, some of them (like the Titan boot) also work for winter weather too.

These boots are made of 100% leather and have a thick, grippy leather sole.

They’re lightweight and breathable, and perfect for colder weather and when you need to keep your feet safe while you’re working!

But while these are a great pair of cold-weather walking boots, you might want to skip them when you head snowshoeing or sledding.

Image: Amazon

8. Wolverine

Wolverine makes some great hiking quality winter boots that work for plus size folks with wide feet.

It features a rubber sole with stellar grip, along with a premium rubber shell to make sure no water gets through.

You can lace these bad boys up and the anti-fatigue soles will help keep your feet comfy while you’re active.

If you don’t love the cognac color of the Torrent boots featured, there are 3 others to choose from.

Image: Amazon

9. Kamik

If you’re looking for something cozy and cute, I’d recommend taking a peek at a pair of Kamik boots.

The Momentum wide calf snow boots come in 16 different colors, which you can match with your favorite plus size winter coat.

These waterproof boots features a faux-fir collar with a bungee-lace closure that can help give you some extra room if you need it.

What I love most about these boots is the moisture-wicking material — you want to keep your feet warm and dry and this can help that happen.

Keep your feet cozy and dry!

How to style wide calf snow boots

Just because you’re covering up in the cold doesn’t mean you can’t focus on style. If you’re struggling to style your wide calf snow boots (it’s seriously a thing) here are a few tips you’ll want to consider:

Match your outerwear

Chances are you’re going to have a single pair (maybe two) of snow boots, and you’ll be wearing them with a variety of different outfits.

So make sure your outerwear is complementary.

If you’ve got a pair of black wide calf snow boots, consider pairing them with a bright colored coat or scarf.

And if you’ve got brown boots, try pairing them with something neutral like white or gray.

Pair with quality socks

This is a must for both style and comfort.

Not only will good socks help your boots fit better, but they’ll also add an extra layer of insulation.

And when it comes to style, you can never go wrong with a nice pair of wool socks peeking out from the top of your boots.

Tuck your pants in

Tucking your pants into your boots is not only a stylish look, but it’s also practical.

It’ll help keep you warm and dry.

Not to mention it’ll prevent your pants from getting caught on anything when you’re walking through the snow.

Wide calf snow boots FAQs