15 Deceptively Chic Boots That Are Surprisingly Weatherproof

We’ve said it close to a million times, but this is by far one of our favorite boots out there. Reviewers agree, some highlighting how “sexy” they look for a chunky boot, while others rave about how easy they are to clean. Made from water-resistant leather, these Chelsea boots have a slight heel to give you some height, and it’s on sale now for 30 percent off (so it’s best to act fast before they sell out in your size).

Sure, you don’t want to go hiking in these babies, but you’ll look amazing wherever you’re headed in these surprisingly weatherproof boots. They masquerade as regular suede knee-highs, but you’ll be protected from slush, snow, rain, and whatever else Mother Nature throws at you.

KCM commerce editor Katie P. swears by these boots for just about everything. From rainy walks with her dogs to dinner out with friends, the waterproof leather offers protection, and the elastic sides make them easy to slide on and off. Plus, the higher shaft ensures your ankles are protected from cold winds and puddle splashes.

Before you take these out for a spin in the snow or rain, be sure to coat them with some waterproofing spray so the suede doesn’t get damaged (we love this one). But if it’s just the cold you’re trying to beat, the thick shearling material UGG is known for will keep you cozy.

Dressing the snow bunny part doesn’t require owning a ski chalet, but it does call for a stylish pair of boots you can wear while drinking hot toddies in the lodge. Waterproof leather and faux shearling protect your feet from the cold and precipitation, and the wrap-around laces ensure a custom fit for ultimate comfort. And with a heavy-duty lugged sole, black ice will be scared of you. 

If you live in an arctic tundra (or are visiting one!) we recommend this pick from Bos. & Co. Coming up almost to your knees, these boots are built to keep feet dry no matter the conditions, but look like a regular pair of shoes. They have a full merino wool lining and a sole with some serious traction.

You’ve probably seen a number of people on the street sporting these trendy shearling boots from Marc Fisher. They’re made with durable leather that can withstand the elements, and the soft shearling will keep your toes warm even in the most intense winter cyclones. We’re partial to this winter white color, but it also comes in all black and a black and teal combo.

We’ll be the first to admit these boots aren’t made for sub-zero temperatures, but they’ll keep you nice and dry on rainy days. This pair is also one of Katie’s favorite boots; she even has them in multiple colors! The steep price tag is totally worth it, with reviewers praising the quality of the leather and their lifetime appeal.

Hiking shoes aren’t only for the trails — they’re amazing in nasty weather, too. These ones by our favorite brand, Hoka, have incredible traction and navigate slick sidewalks or muddy yards with ease. Plus, they’re entirely waterproof thanks to the GORE-TEX lining, so say goodbye to swampy toes and wet socks.

Katie P. waxes poetic about Blundstone any chance she gets, but allow her one more shoutout. She recently invested in this waterproof thermal pair that has a plush sheepskin footbed, and they’ve kept her warm and dry throughout snowstorms in upstate New York and on rainy commutes in NYC. When they get salty or muddy, she wipes them off with a damp cloth and they look good as new.

Thankfully, traditional snow boots have gotten a lot cuter over the years without sacrificing function. This lightweight boot is like a puffer jacket for your feet. It’s insulated to keep your toes and ankles toasty, has a non-slip sole, and can easily be slipped on and off thanks to a zipper.

L.L.Bean’s classic Bean Boots never go out of style. This shearling-lined style might be a little pricey, but trust us —you’ll own these boots for life. It has hundreds of five-star reviews, including this one that we couldn’t overlook: “I had these expedited to me and they arrived just before the great icing of 2021. I wore them everyday for two weeks straight — especially as I shoveled the snow. I highly recommend these boots for warmth, traction, durability, and good looks.”  

Marrying the comfort of a sneaker with the durability of the aforementioned Bean Boot, and you get this gorgeous leather pair. Like a fine wine, this leather pair will age beautifully. Not only that, but a memory foam insole will ensure each step is comfortable, so you can easily wear them all day long without aching arches.

All of us went through a grunge phase at one point or another, right? Chances are you had a pair of iconic lace-up boots from Dr. Martens back in the day, and now would be the time to pull them out again. If you’re in need of a new pair, consider these fleece-lined Chelseas with a less edgy feel. The leather outer is fully water- and salt-proof, and the soles are designed to grip slick surfaces.

If the classic Timberland work boot isn’t your style, try this sleek Chelsea boot instead. It has all the comfort of the lace-up style the brand is known for, is waterproof, and is made from at least 65% recycled materials, so you can feel good about wearing it.