Snow boots which ones?

[Gonnagetgoing]

I’m going to Scotland soon which has snow but I’d also like a decent pair of boots which don’t let me down on ice/snow. Currently use wellingtons and have some Ugg high with a good tread but a bit old.

What else is good? I quite like Sorel designs but are they good?

Sorel

@LookslovelyinSpringtime - my neighbours who are Scottish says it snows a lot up there this time of year!

@CherryMaple

We are currently in the Cairngorms and there is no snow apart from high on the mountains - where yesterday it was also very icy and you’d need proper mountaineering boots to get safely up there.

I bought snow boots in Aviemore yesterday - lots of outdoor shops so easy to compare and try on. I bought some with flick-out ice grips.

@CherryMaple - thanks for this and the snow update! I actually saw a bbc news item on snow in the Cairngorms yesterday and saw they use a snow machine. Let’s hope it’s snowing too when I get there.

What is Sorel sizing like? Do they come up small as I read this.

I would say sizing is accurate. But snow boots shouldn't be snug they should be loose enough for thick socks and thus plenty of warm air round your feet (which the boots are for insulating to keep in)

Scotland is far more likely to be wet than snowy, it's the UK not Lapland. It's 11 degrees in Inverness just now.

My Sorel Caribou are useless for walking as they are too roomy like a PP suggests for insulation. Fine for short ambles but hard work to walk in otherwise as your foot moves around too much. Great for the once every 5 years that we get deep snow. Other styles may be better. If you want to get a pair of boots you will have a good choice in Aviemore, I'd personally go for a lighter and more fitted Gore-tex Merrell, Salomon or similar walking boot which I find grip better on ice too. I don't think you would need them though...

I wouldn’t recommend Sorrels for hiking or walking not on snow.
I have sorrels, they are very warm and comfy. However, no zip at side is awkward to get on, and the rubber wears down if you wear off snow often. They are fine walking around a Snowy resort, but I would find them too heavy to hike uphill in.

Merrels are great. As are scarpa.

If you get proper snow boots, get one with a zip at the side. Otherwise with the wool liner and socks they both grip and foot doesn’t slide in and out easily.