Many companies on the market have chosen form over function when it comes to winter boots. However, if precipitation is at a minimum, they can still be effective. Billabong has created high-knee boots that are lined and furry. They should keep you warm all the way up to the knee. Other footwear such as the pink suede ankle winter boot from Via Spiga, the imitation mukluk, or the Ugg Rockstar might offer more fashion than protection from the cold.

Winter boots for a snow-heavy environment should be waterproof. Even if winter boots are lined with the warmest wool, your feet will get very cold very fast if those boots can't keep snow and slush out. Rubber boots, construction-style boots, and even many leather winter boots are designed to be waterproof and should help even those in the snowiest environments.

There are lines of winter boots on the market for those who want to hike or climb in the snow. Northface has designed boots that should provide warmth as well as reduced foot-fatigue, increased traction on slippery surfaces, and protection from rocks and other sharp objects. REI has also designed athletic winter boots that are said to offer comfort in below-zero temperatures.

If you're a collector, you can find WWII winter boots worn by American and German soldiers. There are also replicas of these winter boots that are designed to withstand the harshest of winters. Before you purchase winter boots you should get the actual measurements, as sizes vary greatly from brand to brand.