28 Shoes With Traction To Ensure You Get Through The Winter Without Falling On Your Butt

"The cold never bothered me anyway." —Elsa, and you heading out in your slip-free shoes.

1. A pair of snow boots you'll love because they're not clunky and won't make you feel like you're trudging through snow — go on, traipse like the gazelle that you are.

Emma Lord / BuzzFeed, Amazon

BuzzFeed editor Emma Lord recently got these boots and gave 'em a test run during the first major snow storm of the year. She said, "I only got these because it was a Black Friday sale because for some reason I am very resentful about purchasing boots (I love sneakers too much to function), but now that I've worn them I would have paid full price and then some. They're ridiculously comfortable, keep my feet warm and dry, and I felt very secure walking in them on a day with fresh snow and the day after, when the sidewalks were icy. There was no break-in period, either, which I appreciate because I tend to go on long walks. There are no half sizes and some reviewers suggested leaning toward your lower size if you're usually a half — this was true for me! They run a smidge large."

Get them from Amazon for $29.99+ (available in sizes 5–12 and six colors).

2. Cozy Ugg slippers you won't have a single regret about splurging on when you slide your tootsies into them on the first cold morning of the season.

ugg / Via instagram.com

My mom liiiiives for this pair of slippers — which is a review I would *not* take lightly. This woman had asked for a different pair of slippers every single Christmas up until finding these treasured shoes. These are great because they have a hard bottom and ridges so you can wear 'em without worrying about falling on your tush.

Promising review: "I gave this as a gift to my mother and she literally won't take them off when she's home. The interior is soft and roomy. They do look semi-clunky and could pose a problem if you don't like larger slippers. However, my Mother loves the thick tread and it gives her sure footing in the house." —Charles H

Get them from Backcountry for $119.95 (available in sizes 8 and 11 and two styles) or Amazon for $119.95+ (available in sizes 5–12 and nine styles).

3. Or Ugg's classic tall boot, because your original pair is probably *super* worn down and you and I both know nothing keeps your legs warmer than these babies.

Heather Braga / BuzzFeed, Amazon

Ugg boots have been my go-to winter boot since middle school — and I'm sure many of you are in the same boat. They keep my legs nice 'n' warm while ensuring I don't slip on ice. They're a great outdoor snow boot option, you just might want to also invest in an Ugg shoe care kit to protect the suede from the elements.

Promising review: "Love my Uggs! The only time I have ever spent this much for shoes or boots was when I bought my first pair nine years ago. They are black, Classic Tall, and still look nice even though they have survived quite a bit of wear. Last week I bought a second pair, Classic Tall II in chestnut. This pair has the same high quality, warmth, and comfort. Knowing that the old black Uggs still have several years of use ahead, I didn't mind investing in a second pair. I've never worn a warmer or more comfortable boot!" —Anita

Get them from Amazon for $199.95+ (available in sizes 5–12 and five colors).

4. A sneaker boot, for anyone who has taken up hiking recently and wants to continue doing so during the cooler winter months.

Backcountry

Promising review: "These are great boots. I absolutely love them. And for a hiking boot they are definitely on the more fashionable side. I feel like they almost mimic these super expensive designer Chloe boots. But these are functional! I hike miles a day now in this quarantine and these are amazing. I will buy again. I got the black and I’m thinking green next time. They seem true to size to me. I LOVE THEM!" —Sarah D

Get them from Backcountry for $112.46 (originally $149.95, available in sizes 6–11 and six colors).

5. Superga sneakers that are Kate Middleton-approved in addition to having a reliable rubber sole — a must-have for anyone who wants the royal treatment when it comes to their footwear.

Instagram / Superga / Via instagram.com

BuzzFeed writer Elena Garcia has and loves these sneakers:

"The design is classic and goes with everything. My go-to is a fresh white pair but they come in nearly every color you could think of and so many fun prints. They have an unlined cotton upper that's comfy and flexible, the footbed is perfectly cushioned, the soles are rubber and offer plenty of traction, and the platform gives you an extra inch of height."

Get them from Amazon for $29.99+ (available in sizes 5-9 and in 32 styles).

6. Waterproof garden sloggers covered in squeal-worthy prints, so cute (and functional!), you'll want to show them off to everyone you know.

amazon.com, Amazon

Promising review: "These are very comfortable! I wasn't sure if they would be too hot in the summer, but they somehow breathe, yet keep feet dry. And they were warm in the winter; I'd slip them on and run out to the hen-house to let the Girls out. I like the way the tread provides traction, yet dirt doesn't cling to the inside of the grooves. They are so fun, too! I get mainly chuckles when I wear them. I was worried The Girls would peck at them (since they are so bright) but maybe Pepper recognizes her picture on the shoe!" —KForHerbs

Get them from Amazon for $32.99+ (available in 6–11 and nine styles).

7. Water-resistant boots from the Keds x Rifle Paper Co. collaboration so you can embrace your love for florals while taking on some messier moments.

keds / Via instagram.com

Promising review: "Bought these ahead of a trip to Scotland so I could look cute enough to go in and out of pubs but comfortable and dry for hikes and these were perfect! Super comfortable and really cute. Was in and out of puddles and had no leaks. I love how slim they are — they were stylish enough to feel comfortable for a casual dinner. No break in time needed — nice and padded inside! Was walking 17,000–25,000 steps per day in comfort. Would highly recommend." —Allyson

Get them from Keds for $49.95 (also available in navy and sizes 5–9).

8. Durable Lucky Brand booties so you can look fashionable without breaking an ankle, which is #goals if you ask me.

Heather Braga / BuzzFeed, amazon.com

I have these babies in both black and toffee — they are a staple in my winter and fall wardrobes. I'm not sure what I'd do without them, honestly. They're so versatile and truly so comfortable. I'm not a girl who is very comfortable in heels, so the fact that these have a TEENY tiny block heel I can walk around wearing without feeling like I'm going to teeter over is a game-changer. I often refer to them as my 'adult' booties, since they make me feel like a refined, classy lady. I love that they have two side zippers, making them super easy to get on and off. They fit true to size and I'd recommend them to anyone looking for a basic bootie to wear throughout multiple seasons.

Promising review: "I've had these boots for a week and just love them. It hasn't rained, so I can't comment on some of the other complaints I have read where the boot doesn't hold up in bad weather, and I haven't had them long enough to see if the heel will fall apart. However, I ride a motorcycle and need a boot with a rubber sole, and the material on this boot has nice traction. They are very comfortable, take no time to break in, and are great for work or casual situations." —The06

Get them from Amazon for $33.99+ (available in sizes 5–12 and 39 styles).

9. Columbia snow boots with over 11,000 5-star reviews, in case you needed some hard and fast facts to prove they'll provide you with all the grip you need to walk safely in a winter wonderland.

amazon.com

Promising review: "Bought these boots for a winter trip to Utah and it did not disappoint! I've never had to purchase snow boots before, being born in the south. So I was kind of lost looking for something three days before this trip. I ordered my true size (8.5) based on the reviews and the boots fit perfectly and were super comfortable on top of keeping my feet and legs warm. We arrived during a huge snowstorm and I had no issues walking around on ice and snow. I had very good traction and didn't slip one bit. They are also waterproof. I didn't feel anything from playing in the snow and walking around. These boots are super cute and stylish and the little bit of fur on them really made my outfits. Now that I live in the northeast part of the US, they will be coming in handy during our winter storms as well." —DL703

Get them from Amazon for $56.03+ (available in regular and wide, sizes 5–12, and 10 styles).

10. Doc Martens, because you can't go wrong with a tried-and-true classic that'll help you achieve the look you want *and* ensure you don't slip down your icy stairs.

amazon.com

I just got my first pair of these for the holidays and wore them for the first time when heading out to Trader Joe's in a rain storm. The soles are super grippy — no slipping or sliding whatsoever. I expected the boots to feel stiff but for me there was zero break-in needed!

Promising review: "Buying real leather was definitely a good choice. I taped my ankles with fabric tape while I was breaking them in and it helped a ton. These are super warm and have great traction for walking in the snow." —jennaveeve007

Get them from Amazon for $137.98+ (available in sizes 5–11 and two styles).

11. Or a fur-lined pair without the laces in case you're anything like me and struggle to tie a strong knot (IDK, just a skill that never stuck...don't judge me). Added bonus? Your tootsies will be extra warm.

Dick's Sporting Goods

Promising review: "I can’t begin to explain how much I love these! They are by far the cutest, most comfortable boot! I’m hoping to grab them in black too! The fur lining makes them super comfy and warm! The quality is fantastic and the sizing is perfect! True to size!" —Wilso

Get them from Dick's Sporting Goods for $159 (available in sizes 6–10 and three styles).

12. Sam Edelman rain boots that don't actually look like rain boots, so you won't have to sacrifice your outfit's entire aesthetic when your weather app lies to you and it never pours.

Rebecca O'Connell / BuzzFeed

My fellow BuzzFeed Editor Rebecca O'Connell is a biiiiig fan of these to say the least:

"I hate rain boots. They're clunky, uncomfortable, and just cumbersome monsters that take up too much space in my closet. And as helpful as they're supposed to be, I can never figure out when to wear them. It seems like whenever I put them on, the rain stops an hour later and I'm the one doofus wearing rain boots on a sunny day. As much as I'd like to swear off rain boots forever, I don't really feel like moving to Arizona, and I'm sick of coming home in waterlogged sneakers. That means finding a compromise: waterproof shoes that can be passed off as normal shoes.

But thankfully, I found these Sam Edelman boots on Amazon. The matte boots are subtle and can easily pass off as normal shoes. They're comfortable, and most importantly, definitely waterproof. I have flat feet so there's a little extra space between my foot and the top front of the boot, but it doesn't make walking difficult or painful. They have little tabs on the heels, which make it easy to yank the boots on and off. Finally, I can wake up on a rainy day and not have a minor breakdown trying to figure out what shoes to wear."

Get them from Amazon for $33+ (available in sizes 4-13 and in 10 styles).

13. Allbirds Dashers to make you feel like you're walking on air even if you're dripping sweat and huffing 'n' puffing from your outdoor run.

Allbirds

Without access to the gym this year I had to push myself to learn to run while safely social distancing (which is NOT an easy feat). I’ve had multiple foot injuries (I’m very accident prone) so choosing the right sneaker has been a challenge. I’ve tried out manyyyy different pairs but the only ones that have truly won over my heart are the Allbirds Dashers. I got them in a stunning mint green color and get tons of compliments on them. They’re super supportive, lightweight, and have held up great against months of running outdoors in all kinds of weather. Honestly, I’m already looking into buying a second pair!

Get them from Allbirds for $125 (available in men's sizes 8–14 and 18 styles, women's sizes 5–11 and 16 styles)

14. Heeled combat boots with a chunky heel you can throw on when you feel like your outfit needs a badass boost. Stomp all over those ~haterz~.

Amazon, amazon.com

Promising review: "I LOVE THESE! They are extremely comfortable. I wore them to dinner AND grocery shopping and never had sore feet! The height is perfect also! I didn’t feel like I was towering over everyone as I passed them like I usually do in heels. For reference I am 5’7”. I also love how they still look good with my skinny ankles LOL. I have long chicken legs and have an issue with ankle boots because they make me look silly I never wear heels but I always want to, I bought these because of the heel and I just can’t say enough good about them." —Amazon Customer

Get them from Amazon for $29.92+ (available in sizes 5.5–12 and eight styles).

15. A fierce pair of Puma training shoes that might just make you even more pumped up to get out and break a sweat *or* simply provide you with a stylish upgrade to your athleisure wear.

Puma

I recently snagged a pair of these and I'm a huge fan. They're really supportive and I love the fun accents of color throughout the shoe (I have the white, black, and hot pink ones but love the black and gold option as well). I like that they come up a little higher around the ankle for extra cushioning during my workouts. I've also added these into my regular sneaker rotation — they have a grippy sole that has never been an issue when running errands during rainy days.

Get them from Puma for $90 (available in sizes 5.5–11 and four styles).

16. Ankle booties you'll be able to rely on to keep you warm even when wearing cropped pants on a cold morning.

amazon.com, Amazon

Promising review: "I have been wearing them constantly with the snow and ice. They have good traction. They aren't as warm as a leather shoe would be, but I can get from my car to wherever I'm going without freezing. They are super cute with skinny jeans or leggings. Since I am on a budget the price was great and so far I am very pleased with how they are holding up. I ordered the black and they go with everything." —Styleshopper

Get it from Amazon for $24.24+ (available in sizes 5.5–11 and three styles).

17. Slip-on booties with a chunky heel that'll make you wanna channel your inner-diva and strut like you're walking the runway even though in reality you're in the aisle of the supermarket.

amazon.com, Amazon

Promising review: "I love these boots! They are my daily go-to shoe! I live where it is icy and snowy. The traction on these boots allows me to wear them in the snow and then in to work without changing shoes in bad weather. They are not warm. This works for me because I drive to work. There was a small amount of initial breaking in, But they are great! I have them in black and brown!" —pmctag6

Get them from Amazon for $19.99+ (available in sizes 5.5–11 and eight styles).

18. Asics Gel Venture sneakers with a built-in cushion to keep you feeling supported at all times. They also come in a ton of fun colors so you better believe your style will remain on point.

amazon.com, amazon.com

A few years ago I broke my foot and found I needed major support from my sneakers, not just for working out but for everyday use. I bought my first pair of Asics and never looked back. They are cushioned, comfortable, and exactly what you'd want in a sneaker — and over 10.4K Amazon customers agree!

Promising review: "I love Asics and keep coming back to them when I need a new pair. I got this pair because it came up on a search when I was looking for athletic shoes good for supination. I tend to wear my shoes out along the upper, outside bottoms of the shoes. These have a nice, snug fit and at least right now while they are new, the bottoms feel really grippy — kind of like gecko feet. Good traction. I'm primarily using them for walking. I go on daily three mile walks and my old shoes were getting too worn." —MamaKitty

Get them from Amazon: women's sizes for $59.95+ (available in sizes 6–11 and in 10 styles) or men's sizes for $54.50+ (available in sizes 6–15 and in 15 styles)

19. Wedge booties, a must-have for anyone who has to be on their feet all day but still wants to look fabulous while they're doing it.

Zappos

Promising review: "I ordered a half size larger then I normally wear and they fit great. I love these shoes they are cute and comfortable! Bonus they have great traction for snow." —JNO4

Get them from Zappos for $120 (available in sizes 5–12 and nine styles) or Amazon for $119.70+ (available in sizes 5–11 and eight styles).

20. A pair of waterproof booties that'll look fabulous with both jeans or dresses, great if you usually take forever to get ready since you're fretting over whether it'll rain or not.

Hush Puppies

These ankle boots come in so many styles your may end up buying multiples! I got these last year and can confirm the soles have enough traction on them to keep your feet safely planted on the ground.

Promising review: "These are the most comfortable and stylish boot ever! I am on my feet 95% of the work day (teacher) so having a comfy shoe is imperative! These pass the test. Highly recommend!!" —Teacher

Get them from Hush Puppies for $109.95 (available in sizes 5–12, medium or wide widths, and 22 styles).

21. New Balance Nitrel v1 FuelCore Trail running shoes you can pick up in a vibrant color to spice up your run, amp up your style, and leave you without fear of slipping and sliding all over. You'll also fall for the lightweight yet protective materials that make up this shoe.

Amazon, amazon.com

Promising review: "LOVE LOVE LOVE!! I don't know why I strayed away from New Balance because they end up always being my favorite running shoes! These are perfect for treadmill running or outdoor running. Light, but not too light, comfy, great traction. I keep these for running only, they didn't work well for workout videos at home on carpet." —mandy

Get them from Amazon for $31.97+ (available in regular and wide widths, women's sizes 5–12, and eight styles).

22. L.L. Bean duck boots you can wear in rain or snow — a tried-and-true classic your dad has probably been trying to get you to purchase forever.

L.L Bean, llbean / Via instagram.com

Promising review: "These are by far the best pair of duck boots I've owned. These are so much more high quality than ones I've had in the past. I didn't really have a break-in period, but it did take me a little bit to learn how to easily put the boot on since it doesn't have a zipper on the side like my other pair. The traction on the bottom is great and my laces never come untied. They are comfortable and definitely waterproof. I wear a size 10 no matter what and the advice that they give when ordering on whether to size down or not based on your socks, is very very accurate. I wear medium thickness socks and I still have plenty of room to wiggle my toes in my boot. Overall, I love my Bean Boots and highly recommend them!" —Jess

Get them from L.L. Bean for $118.15 (available in sizes 6–11, narrow, medium and wide widths and two styles).

23. Round-toe booties with fuzzy liners you can either pull up to keep your legs warmer or fold down for a more chic look.

Amazon

Promising review: "These boots are so cute! I usually don't like anything with much of a heel but these are easy to walk in. The lining is soft and fuzzy, very warm! They have good traction on the bottom too. I like that you can fold the top down or leave it up. I ordered my usual size 9 and they fit great!" —Sara

Get them from Amazon for $37.99+ (available in sizes 4–11 and five colors).

24. Waterproof snow boots you should probably own already but if you're slacking on that whole "adulting" thing, you may need to add to your cart now before a blizzard rolls in.

amazon.com, Amazon

Promising review: "Wow!! These boots are exactly what I was looking for. I wear 8.5 / 9, and ordered a 9. They fit perfect with a little wiggle room for thick socks. Very comfortable, fluffy fur throughout! VERY CUTE with leggings or snow pants and great traction. Also very warm in temps below zero." —Mamabb18

Get them from Amazon for $49.95+ (available in sizes 6–11 and 15 styles).

25. Suede booties you'll welcome with open arms as a cherished part of your fall and winter staples.

sorelfootwear / Via instagram.com, sorelfootwear / Via instagram.com

After having an unfortunate accident in a pair of booties last year, I've been hesitant to get back in the boots game. However, I came across these from Sorel last year and my mind was changed. They are a TOTALLY reasonable heel height and make my foot feel really supportive all the while looks super stylish. I also love that there are ridges on the actual block heel as well as the sole — perfect for taking on the elements in style.

Get them from Zappos for $159.95 (available in sizes 5–12 and four colors).

26. Fur-lined water resistant ankle boots with a nonslip sole to support you while you create the *perfect* snowman — your neighbors will be peeking out of their windows with envy at both your footwear and your Frosty-building skills.

amazon.com, amazon.com

Promising review: "I thought these would get dirty and gross, and doubted the water resistance because of the texture of the boot...I couldn't have been more wrong. I hiked about 40 miles in 2.5 days and walked through water, mud, dirt, and hiked up steep hills and mountains. The fur lining kept my feet incredibly warm and comfortable despite the long hikes. My feet hurt much less than they likely would have in my running/hiking sneakers. They have great traction and kept me steady even on steep slopes. I also got a ton of compliments about how adorable they are!! With such a reasonable price, I thought it must have been a scam, but these boots are as adorable as they are useful!" —Amazon Customer

Get them from Amazon for $36.99+ (available in men's sizes 4–13.5, women's sizes 5.5–15, and eight styles).

27. Serious trainers from CAT (yes, like the machinery) with reliable rubber soles designed to support you whether you're walking on ice, trekking through some serious mud, or just headed out on a stroll.

amazon.com

My brother-in-law is obsessed with this brand (he literally has a CAT wall calendar) so when I surprised him with their sneakers he was dumbfounded. He's very handy and is often out and about working on different outdoor projects, these sneakers (and their work boots!) have been great for helping him tackle *all* of the elements.

Promising review: "They fit perfectly; and that's very rare to find for my feet. The rubber on the front of the toes have saved me from stubbing my toes on the metal cart countless times. The soles have very good traction. One month of wear so far they don't 'break in' though, the fabric of the shoe doesn't move at all. Overall worth the price, trust me." —Laura

Get them from Amazon for $84.54+ (available in women's sizes 6 wide–12 wide, men's sizes 4.5 wide—10.5 wide and nine styles).

28. And attachable traction cleats that'll turn your favorite pair of shoes into ones you can safely wear into the arctic tundra — what a world!

Amazon

Promising review: "My parents, both in their seventies, can't stop raving about their Yaktrax. My dad literally stops strangers when he is out hiking in the winter to give them his Yaktrax sales pitch. He claims they're a 'game changer.' My parents live in Central Wisconsin and like to walk every day. They usually do a 2-mile loop on a trail through a reserve. They say these work great there and are excellent on icy sidewalks too. You can't wear them inside, and they aren't super easy to get on and off, so they just keep them on a designated pair of winter hiking shoes." —DMR

Get them from Amazon for $18.99+ (available in sizes XS–L).

You, gliding through the wintry sidewalks without a care:

The Walt Disney Company

Some reviews have been edited for length and/or clarity.