Not every shoe works for winter. That’s why there are winter shoes. While shopping for them this winter, you should try something new, like zero-drop shoes. As opposed to how you think winter shoes should be built, zero-drop shoes can be as warm and cozy as can be. You just have to pick the best.
While on the market for these should, there are three main things you should consider; Waterproof, weight, and warmth. And there are reasons for that.
Winter equals snow, and snow equals water when it melts. If you’d be out in the snow, you need the certainty that your shoes are waterproof.
Also, winter shoes should be cozy enough to keep your feet warm. At the same time, they should be as lightweight and flexible as can be. In other words, there should be a balance between warmth and weight.
Here are some choices for you:
Zero Drop Winter Boots For Men
Feel Ground Patrol Boots
Winter zero drop shoes with lace-up closure style. The mesh is built to fit the foot perfectly. They come in a size big, with enough space to wear a thick wool sock. Although the sole may not be as flexible as it should be, it is flexible enough to be barefoot. The inner is lined with wool and a gusseted tongue for water resistance.
Get the look: Patrol boots
Be Lenka Winter Barefoot Boots
Be Lenka winter boots are simple-styled boots. They are built from leather to resemble outdoor slippers. The upper is made from nubuck leather and is water-resistant. It also has a protective membrane for dry comfort. The inner lining is merino wool for warmth. The outsole is an antislip lug.
Get the look: Be Lenka winter boots
Xero Shoes Denver Boots
Xero shoes Denver boots are your ideal winter minimalist shoes, complete with basic features. The wide toe box, flexible and zero-drop sole. The FeelTrue® sole, the trademark sole of Xero shoes, has a high grip and slight padding for a bare feel. It is lined with flannel for warmth. The exterior is made of waterproof leather.
Get the look: Denver Boots
Vivobarefoot Tracker II FG
Vivobarefoot Tracker FG is complete waterproof winter hiking boots. The upper is made from full leather and lined with waterproof lining. The insole has thermal protection for warmth. The hex flex-designed sole is flexible and has good grips while walking.
Get the look: Men’s Tracker II FG | Women’s Tracker II FG
Lems Boulder Boots
Lems boulder boots are the most packable shoes from the brand. They are made from flexible nylon accented with vegan leather. The upper is made of water-resistant leather. The sole is flexible and lightweight. Although it is about 9mm thick, it is made from air injection rubber and is not heavy. The sole has a grip and can double as a hiking boot in winter. Lems boulder does not have an extra lining, thus, requires socks for warmth.
Get the look: Men’s boulder boots | Women’s boulder boots
Xero Shoes Alpine Snow Boots
Xero shoes alpine snow boots are heavy-duty winter barefoot boots. Although they are boots, they are lightweight, water-resistant, and warm. They are not as minimalist as expected but they are zero-drop, bendable, and with a wide toe box.
Get the look: Women’s Alpine | Mens’s Alpine
For a complete list, check out our List of Minimalist Barefoot Shoes.
