Winter Walking Shoes to Stop Wearing, Per Podiatrists

Long walks and other forms of outdoor exercise are an essential part of any healthy routine, but the right gear is essential—especially during the winter months. To avoid injury in the season’s cold, wet and slippery conditions, you’ll need safe, comfortable footwear. “With the right preparation, you can turn winter walks into a fun and healthy habit,” said Gregory Alvarez, Doctor of Podiatric Medicine at Ankle & Foot Centers of America in Fayetteville, Ga. To learn which footwear is best for winter workouts, we asked Alvarez and other board-certified podiatrists to share their top picks for arch support, traction and warmth.

Read on for the biggest mistakes you could be making when it comes to choosing winter footwear, and snag these podiatrist-loved waterproof boots, traction cleats and moisture-wicking socks instead.

Don’t Wear: Non-Waterproof Footwear

Wear This Instead: Waterproof Shoes with Good Traction

Columbia Ice Maiden II Boots

One of the most important things to look out for in the winter is a shoe that’ll keep your feet dry. “Wet feet in winter are a recipe for discomfort and even frostbite,” Dr. Alvarez noted. “Shoes or boots that aren’t waterproof should be avoided, especially if you’ll be walking in snow or slush.”

Alternatively, the podiatrists we spoke to all suggested wearing water-resistant or waterproof boots in winter conditions, like this pair from Columbia. According to Dr. Alvarez, these boots “check all the boxes” for winter footwear: “They’re warm, waterproof and provide excellent traction on slippery surfaces.”

Don’t Wear: Shoes with Flat or Smooth Soles

Wear This Instead: Traction Cleats or Ice Grippers

Yaktrax Pro Traction Cleats

“Smooth soles are a no-go for winter walking. They don’t provide enough grip and can make walking on ice or snow extremely dangerous,” warned Dr. Alvarez. Opt instead for footwear with deep treads and “soles that provide traction to prevent injuries,” said podiatrist Sidney Weiser, founder of Quality Podiatry Group. 

When conditions are especially icy, the experts recommend wearing shoes with good tread or strapping on traction cleats before heading out on your walk. Dr. Alvarez said this pair of traction cleats from Yaktrax is easy to put on over almost any pair of shoes to “give you extra grip and stability on snowy or frozen surfaces, reducing the risk of slipping.”

Don’t Wear: Overly Heavy or Rigid Footwear

Wear This Instead: Insulated Walking Sneakers

Merrell Thermo Chill Mid Waterproof Hiking Boots

Another big mistake you could be making? Assuming that the warmest shoes also have to be the heaviest. “While sturdy boots are important, overly heavy or stiff ones can tire you out quickly and reduce your comfort,” Dr. Alvarez stated.

Instead of opting for clunky boots, grab a pair of lightweight yet supportive hiking sneakers instead. Alvarez recommended this pair from Merrell, which “combines the flexibility of a sneaker with the warmth and water resistance you need for winter conditions.”

Don’t Wear: Cotton Socks

Wear This Instead: Moisture-Wicking Socks

Smartwool Medium Crew Socks

One of the biggest mistakes you can make is buying your winter shoes in too small a size. Dr. Weiser said it’s imperative to “leave enough room for winter socks, since layering is essential.” If your drawer is filled with cotton socks, it may be time to replace them with something more winter-ready. According to Dr. Alvarez, “Cotton retains moisture, leaving your feet damp and cold.” 

Keeping your feet dry is key to avoiding blisters, said Dr. Alvarez, and it’s a surefire way to avoid frozen toes. Swap your cotton socks with moisture-wicking alternatives made from wool or synthetic blends, like this ultra-warm pair from Smartwool. The socks prevent sweat buildup, making them especially great for rigorous hikes or walks. 

Don’t Wear: Low-Top Shoes

Wear This Instead: Boots with Ankle Support

Salomon Quest 4 Hiking Boots

It’s all too easy to twist an ankle during icy or snowy winter walks, which is why Dr. Bruce Pinker, Founder and Owner of Progressive Foot Care, recommended wearing shoes with plenty of ankle support. If your closet is full of low-top sneakers, it’s time to invest in a good pair of waterproof boots.

“Boots offer better support at the ankle region and help to protect the foot and ankle from the harsh elements of winter,” said Dr. Pinker. These Salomon hiking boots keep feet nice and dry thanks to their Gore-Tex lining and have a thick cushioned layer to keep your soles comfortable. Plus, they have a “rugged outsole with excellent traction and grip to help prevent slippage,” he noted.