Every year we look forward to revamping our boot collection, but we’ll admit, rarely do we seek to update our trusty winter boots. Autumn may see us rotating between Chelsea boots one year and knee-high equestrian styles the next, but winter boot trends seem to change at a much slower rate. Which is why we were (perhaps overly) excited to discover there’s a new hot shoe suddenly popping up everywhere that’s perfect for the coldest months of the year. Allow us to introduce you to the puffer boot.
This New Winter Boot Trend Is Suddenly Everywhere…and We Have Thoughts
Puffer coat, meet puffer boots
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Published Nov 7, 2023
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Jeremy Moeller/Getty Images
Jeremy Moeller/Getty Images
Much like your go-to winter jacket, puffer boots are lightweight and feature quilted baffles most often insulated with down or a down alternative, as opposed to traditional winter boots which frequently use fleece or wool to keep your toes warm. We actually first noticed these boots last winter, but they were fairly few and far between. But as we approach the end of 2023, they’re suddenly popping up on the feet of all our favorite influencers.
We’ll admit, this trend makes a pretty bold statement and is not going to appeal to those who prefer a super streamlined look. They're almost like cousins of the iconic Moon Boots, with a chunky silhouette often done up in vibrant colors. As such, they make quite a statement and really are meant to steal the spotlight of your winter ensembles. Pair them with leggings or skinny jeans tucked in, or cropped pants that hit just above or below the top of the boot. Opting for a monochrome pant-and-boot pairing can help elongate your legs, as well. But really, the key with this trendy boot style is to just have fun with it.
And now, onto the good stuff: Read on for seven of the best puffer boots to shop this winter to stay ahead of the sartorial curve.
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Best Overall
1. L.L.Bean Ultralight Quilted Insulated Boots
What We Like
- water resistant
- made from recycled materials
- lightweight
What We Don’t Like
- be too narrow for wide feet
L.L.Bean
These lightweight L.L.Bean boots are water-resistant and tall enough to prevent snow or splashing puddles from seeping in through the top. They have a zipper on the inside to make it easier to slip them on and off without mussing up your cozy wool socks. As for insulation, the inside is lined with a super-soft, moisture-wicking fleece, and the baffles are filled with recycled 200-gram PrimaLoft insulation to ensure your toes stay warm on even the coldest days. Reviewers rave about how comfortable these boots are, even after hours of walking around, but some found they ran small. You may want to go up one from your usual size if you have wide feet or if you plan to wear thicker socks.
FAST FACTS
- Size Range: US 6 to 11
Best Short Bootie
2. EMU Australia Valerie Puffer Boots
What We Like
- water resistant
- leather upper
- lightweight
What We Don’t Like
- available in whole sizes only
EMU Australia
These leather boots are incredibly sleek, and despite their short shaft height, they still offer plenty of warmth. The rubber sole was specifically designed to maximize traction and help prevent slipping on wet or icy ground. They do, however, come only in whole sizes, so if you’re between two we recommend opting for the larger. P.S. These chic booties also come in white with a contrasting black rubber sole.
FAST FACTS
- Size Range: US 5 to 11
Adjustable Fit
3. Hunter Intrepid Insulated Short Snow Boots
What We Like
- designed for extreme cold
- 100 percent waterproof
- made with eco-friendly materials
What We Don’t Like
- available in whole sizes only
Hunter
Another cute ankle-height option, these Hunter boots have an adjustable toggle pull at the top of the boot shaft so you can cinch the top to prevent snow or rain from seeping in. That said, both the outer shell and the inner fleece lining are 100 percent waterproof, so even if moisture somehow manages to sneak in there, your boots will still be able to keep your feet warm. In fact, the insulation is rated to provide warmth all the way down to -4°F/-20°C, making these a fabulous option for folks living in extreme cold. Some reviewers found they ran small, especially with thicker socks, but almost all raved about how warm and comfortable they are once you have them on. “I bought these for Iceland and it was -16 degrees,” writes one reviewer. “These kept my feet lovely and warm. The grip was great. I was on a frozen lake and I never slipped. They didn't feel heavy as I walked for hours”
FAST FACTS
- Size Range: US 5 to 11
Best Color Options
4. PiumeStudio Luna Padded Ankle Boots
What We Like
- lots of color options
- water resistant
- pull-on design
What We Don’t Like
- not sufficient for extreme cold
PiumeStudio
If you’re looking to make a bold color statement, these pull-on booties are by far your best bet. There are tons of vibrant hues to choose from—cobalt, plum, orange creamsicle, sunshine yellow—in addition to a slew of chic neutrals, like chocolate brown and warm beige. The nylon outer shell is water resistant and filled with a down alternative that’s lightweight and plenty cozy. They’re also 100 percent vegan. The brand recommends sizing down one from your usual, as they tend to run big, but be sure to double check the size chart to convert from Italian sizing to U.S.
FAST FACTS
- Size Range: IT 36 to 40
Fashion Forward Pick
5. The North Face x Undercover SOUKUU Down Booties
What We Like
- insulated with 700-fill down
- water repellent
- great traction
What We Don’t Like
- available in whole sizes only
The North Face
Beloved outdoor gear brand The North Face recently teamed up with Japanese artist and designer Jun Takahashi for a collaboration dubbed SOUKUU. It combines all the best tech and high quality you expect from The North Face with Takahai’s chic sensibilities, making the pieces a must-have for any sartorially minded outdoor adventurers. Even if the only hikes you plan to engage in are walking from your home to the grocery store, these boots are sure to keep you feeling cozy and warm thanks to the 700-fill goose down insulation. They also have a zipper down the front to make it easy to pull them on and off, and the materials are all water repellant. The boots come only in whole sizes, so if you’re between two you should opt for the larger to ensure enough room for thick socks.
FAST FACTS
- Size Range: US 5 to 11
Best Traction
What We Like
- pull-on design
- waterproof lining
- bungee cord adjuster
What We Don’t Like
- reportedly runs small
Suicoke
These boots are incredibly warm, despite their short shaft height, thanks to the 3M Thinsulate insulation. The outer nylon shell is also fully waterproof, and the top has an adjustable drawcord you can cinch above your ankle. The rubber sole reportedly has phenomenal traction for walking on icy pathways or wet sidewalks. Because these are a unisex boot, those with narrow feet may find they run a little large. However, reviewers still suggest taking your usual size, or one large if you have wide feet, to better accommodate thick winter socks.
FAST FACTS
- Size Range: US 7 to 12
Best Under $100
What We Like
- affordable price point
- partially made from recycled materials
- good traction
What We Don’t Like
- no indication of water resistance
Puma
Although Puma does not note whether or not these boots have been treated with any kind of water resistance, they do have a super-warm insulation that’s partially made from recycled materials (for an eco-friendly twist). The rubber sole will protect your feet from wet and cold from below, and the criss-crossed cords can be tightened for a more snug fit if need be. There’s a cozy faux-shearling inner lining, as well, to ensure your toes remain toasty warm on even the coldest of days.
FAST FACTS
- Size Range: US 5.5 to 11
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