As a weather-worn Midwesterner, the anticipation of winter’s first snowfall is filled with both excitement and dread. If you ask me, it’s the latter feeling I resonate with most. The following scene is unavoidable: I wake up to the jarring sight of knee-high snow and slush covered sidewalks. I scramble around my apartment, tearing open closets and drawers in desperate pursuit of my boots which, probably, are already beat from last winter’s wear and tear. Each year I vow to get my snow attire in order before the first big snowfall, and each year winter comes earlier and earlier, foiling my plans and leaving me schlepping to the office in last year’s leaky galoshes or several layers of socks and sneakers.

In an effort to make this year different, I’ve scoured the internet for blizzard-approved booties you’ll actually be excited to wear. Leave these by your door and wait for the temperatures to drop.

Super functional without being clunky, this waterproof nylon boot features molded rubber pods on its outsole for a slip-proof grip and a 100g fleece insulated lining for extra warmth. 

Keep your feet cozy no matter the temps with Columbia’s Omni-Heat technology, which uses a breathable material covered in silver dots that reflect body heat. 

I challenge you to find a snow boot this stylish. Crafted from waterproof leather, sheepskin and suede, you’ll be praying for a snow day to bust these booties out.

These hike-worthy mid-calf boots have 200 grams of serious insulation with the outdoor brand’s proprietary PrimaLoft insulation, plus a textured rubber outsole for extra traction.

Like a space-boot from an extremely stylish planet, these Italian-made sneaker boots by Jog Dog are temperature rated to -20 degrees Fahrenheit. 

From city blocks to hiking trails, these lace-up boots are lightweight, waterproof and cool enough to wear all day.

A cuffable top and fleece lining will make these Timberlands a cold-weather go-to all season long.

These super cozy boots feature what could be your best protection against slush: a waterproof seam-sealed bootie construction that keeps feet warm and dry. 

Who knew the world’s fave waterproof shoe made boots that were seriously stylish with genuine suede and shearling.