Rain boots and snow boots serve a similar purpose: keeping your feet dry in wet conditions. But different climatic conditions call for different boots—and when you aren’t sure which ones to choose, you may subject your cold feet to discomfort (or even frostbite) in inclement winter weather.

Whether you work outdoors or live in a four-season climate that can bring deep snow & cold weather, it's important to know how to keep your feet warm in the winter and when to go with your faithful pair of rainboots or winter boots that can stand up to the chill. Here, we’ll break down the difference between rain boots and snow boots so you can know for sure which to don before you head outdoors. 

What is a Rain Boot?

The primary function of a rain boot is to be completely waterproof. Often constructed from rubber or PVC, the best rain boot should:¹

• Feel sturdy and stretch higher above the ankle to prevent water from entering the boot 

• Wick any moisture away that the foot may generate, from the interior of the boot 

• Be flexible enough to stroll in comfortably

Although rain boots are feet and ankle’s ultimate shield against wet conditions, they’re not built to provide the type of warmth afforded by snow boots. This is because rain boots aren’t typically designed with interior boot insulation—that soft, warm material you find coating the interiors of cold weather apparel.

Even so, some rain boots, like the ugg rain boots, feature a degree of lining on the interior, such as sheepskin, wool, fleece or flannel. This can introduce an extra layer of warmth, but it may not be enough to keep your feet toasty in frigid temperatures. 

What is a Snow Boot?

The purpose of a snow boot is a bit more involved than that of a rain boot. Snow boots should keep the feet warm and dry—at minimum. Beyond that, a high-quality winter boot or snow boot like men's Timberland pro boots should also provide traction, which can keep you from taking a tumble on slippery, ice-coated surfaces.

Because they work overtime to keep you comfortable, the best winter boot is typically designed with multiple layers, including:²

• A waterproof outer layer for wicking snow and moisture away

• An insulated lining and interior made of faux fur or wool

• A lace-up or tight closure to keep snow out of the shoe

• A heavy duty outsole for extra traction on ice and slippery surfaces

If you’re new to identifying snow boots by construction, look for designs with leather, nylon, and wool. All of these are common and effective materials you might find in a solid pair of snow boots.

Rain vs. Snow Boots: What’s The Difference?

While both styles of footwear guard against precipitation, there are some distinctions to be drawn between these two seasonal styles. One isn’t necessarily better than the other—choosing between them hinges on which weather conditions wait outside your window.

Rain Boots: Waterproof and Lightweight

Rain boots are nearly unmatched at keeping your feet dry in wet conditions like rain, sleet, sludge, or mud. Their durable, lightweight design makes them comfortable enough to wear all day long (so long as you’re not braving a flash snowstorm).

Choose rain boots when: 

• It’s raining outside but the weather isn’t too cold

• You’re walking longer distances in wet conditions

• Your feet don’t need to be kept warm from cold or snow

Snow Boots: Warm and Heavyweight 

Snow boots protect your feet from cold conditions and moisture like rain, snow, sleet, sludge, and ice. Worn in moderate temperatures, however, their insulated inners might overheat your feet.

Choose snow boots when:

• You’re embarking or hiking through snowy weather, icy, or sludgy conditions 

• The weather is cold enough to wear a parka or winter jacket 

• You need a strong and waterproof boot that can hold up to snow piles or ice sheets 

If you’re looking for a boot to work outdoors in during colder weather months, a snow boot or arctic boot is probably the wiser choice, as it provides more durability. Just keep in mind that snow boots will require some breaking in—so don’t wear a fresh pair to your next 12-hour shift. 

Are Rain Boots Good For Snow?

Can you use rain boots for snow? In short, no.

In most situations, you’ll want to opt for a snow boot in snowy conditions to keep your feet snug. Rain boots also lack the extra grip that helps you trudge upright when hiking through ice and snow patches. 

There are three main reasons why rain boots aren’t suited for snow: 

• Rain boots have little traction—they’re better suited for pavement than snow

• Rain boots aren’t typically insulated, which can leave your feet cold 

• Rain boots are composed of thinner materials that don’t protect as well against snow

That said, if you’re dashing off to the supermarket and you need an easy, waterproof solution, rain boots will suffice for a quick trip. Just be sure to change into your snow boots if a spontaneous snowball fight breaks out. 

Explore Protective Rain and Snow Boots at Boot World

Rain vs snow boots? There’s no need to choose. While rain boots and snow boots serve different purposes, each style lends solutions valuable enough to hold space in your closet.

At Boot World, we pride ourselves on providing a one-stop-shop for all of your boot needs in every climatic condition. We can answer all of your boot-related questions, from how to clean sheepskin slippers and boots, to learning if you should buy winter boots a size bigger. No matter your lifestyle or occupation, find a location near you to secure the perfect boot for conquering any weather, job, or adventure on solid ground. 

Sources: 

1. Merry People. What Are Rain Boots Made Of? https://us.merrypeople.com/blogs/news/the-difference-between-natural-rubber-and-pvc-rain-boots
2. Boot World. Winter Tecs Snow Boot. https://bootworld.com/products/winter-tecs-snow-boot