The Six Best Sneakers for Winter

Or, how to tread lightly during extreme weather

October 18, 2017 9:00 am

A few days ago we taught you about all your different options for fall boots.

But some of us disdain the bulkiness of fall and winter footwear.

Enter The North Face, who just debuted a line of monochromatic sneakers and Chukkas built to both survive and thrive during cooler, wetter seasons. Soft, comfy, waterproof and easy to pull on and off.

The North Face’s new NSE Japan collection comprises three shoes, all of which utilize Primaloft insulation, so they’re replicating the warmth qualities of goose down — even when wet. Add in grippy soles and water-resistant exteriors, and you’ve got yourself a winter wondershoe.

We personally gravitate toward the NSE Traction Lite Moc II, a dark grey slip-on that pretty much takes all the lacing hassle out of winter footwear. For something that can handle more aggressive elements, the NSE Traction Chukka Lite WP II is a soft, ankle-high solution available in mid grey or shiny black.

And if you’re looking for a few more sneaker-ish options for extreme weather season, we suggest the following:

Hood Rubber Co.: A revived brand, these waterproof shoes and boots feature rubberized leather outers and lining, while maintaining a sneaker-like comfort.

Adidas Stan Smith GTX: We wrote about these winterized kicks last year, but this year’s edition now has a waterproof Gore-Tex liner. Otherwise, it’s the same classic silhouette.

Nike Air Pegasus A/T: More a running shoe, this new waterproof all-terrain sneaker features a traction sole to help over slippery surfaces.

Converse Counter Climate: Customizable Chuck Taylors crafted from (nearly) waterproof Nubuck leather.

Nike KD 10 Igloo: Won’t really protect you from the cold or elements, but Kevin Durant’s new sneakers look like an igloo.

The InsideHook Newsletter.

News, advice and insights for the most interesting person in the room.