Whether on a training exercise, deployment or in the field, a proper pair of military boots is one of your most vital pieces of equipment in a European cold weather environment. Protecting and supporting your feet properly is very important in these conditions as the likelihood of injury and discomfort is much higher in cold climates. Wet, cold and/or icy weather all pose additional risks and these must be accounted for by your footwear. Adding a pair of thicker winter-specific socks and a thermal insole will increase warmth and comfort in the boots you wear over the autumn and winter period. We have picked out boots for cold weather with this in mind.
What You Should Look Out For In A Pair Of Cold Weather Military Boots
- Warmth - One of the core requirements of a top-quality military boot is that it helps to keep its wearer warm. Linings such as a GORE-TEX Professional Performance membrane are great for this in conjunction with a pair of winter specific socks.
- Slip Resistance - Cold conditions often come with wet, slippery and even icy ground, which means that you need to have high levels of slip resistance to make sure that you’re properly protected.
- Comfort and Support - Particularly when moving over uneven terrain, making sure that your military boots are providing proper support and comfort is key. Look for boots that have cushioned and shock-absorbing soles and proper ankle protection.
- Waterproofing - Keeping your feet dry in wintery conditions is very important for maintaining a warm body temperature. Make sure that your cold-weather boots have solid protection against water.
LOWA Breacher Boots GORE-TEX MID
One of the best military boots for cold weather is the LOWA Breacher GORE-TEX boot. The Breacher boot offers great protection against both injury and water with its ankle-high upper, and the Cordura material gives it high levels of durability and abrasion resistance. The Vibram Vanguard sole has anti-slip protection, so you can have total confidence when traversing wintery terrain.
LOWA Combat Boots MK2 GORE-TEX
The LOWA Combat Boot MK2 GTX is ideally suited for cold weather conditions. Featuring a Vibram Vanguard outsole and a GORE-TEX professional performance footwear membrane, these top-quality military boots are equipped to perform. They are incredibly comfortable too, taking advantage of a two-zone adjustable lacing system to conform to the anatomy of your foot, and a flexible polyurethane midsole for great cushioning.
LOWA Z8N GORE-TEX C Boots
This pair of exceptional LOWA military boots has been designed from the ground up as a middle-ground between the versatility of a hiking boot and the durability and protection of a military boot. The GORE-TEX extended footwear lining provides fantastic comfort in all sorts of conditions, remaining breathable while also keeping you warm. Meanwhile, the hydrophobic Nubuck leather makes the boot incredibly waterproof and abrasion-resistant.
