10 Best Ice Fishing Boots 2023 for Warmth in the Cold Winter

Last Updated on March 20, 2023

 

Another January and that means ice fishing. Have I got everything I need? A pair of the world’s best ice fishing boots is 2023’s tip-top priority on my list. If I can’t keep my feet warm & dry all day long, the other gear hardly matters. And those boots also need strong, grippy tread for reliable traction on ice and slush.

Here are my recommendations to get you started. These are the best insulated waterproof boots for men and women headed out for a day on a frozen lake. Any one of these will keep your tootsies toasty in winter’s coldest weather.

In this list, I’ve focused on proven boots from top manufacturers like Korkers, Sorel, Kamik, LaCrosse, Baffin, Muck, and Zamberlan. These folks have long track records of making the best artic-grade insulated ice fishing boots on the planet… reliable, versatile, and just plain comfy. Let’s see what they’ve got for us in 2023.

Table of Contents: Best Ice Fishing Boots of 2023 [Show/Hide]

• Best for the Money: Korkers Polar Vortex 1200
• Best High-End Pair: Zamberlan 3031 Polar
• Best on a Budget: TIDEWE
• Best for Women: Korkers Neo Arctic
• No Laces, Just Buckles: Baffin Impact
• Versatile Boots With Removable Lining: Clam Sub Zero X
• Lightweight & Made in the U.S.A.: Kamik Canuck
• Stylish for Wearing Around Town: Sorel 1964 Pac
• Classic All-Rubber Winter Boot: Muck Arctic Ice
• Ice Fishing/Hunting Hybrid: Kenetrek Mountain Extreme 1000
• Cleats/Crampons for Extra Traction: Kahtoola MICROspikes
• Criteria We Analyzed When Reviewing Boots
• Final Thoughts: Best Ice Fishing Boots of 2023
• More Fishing/Hunting Gear & Resources

Best for the Money
Korkers Polar Vortex 1200

Specs: 4.25 lb/pair; 11″ high
Insulation: 1200 grams Thinsulate
Pros: Swappable tread patterns; BOA twist-tighten cable laces
Cons: Soles have limited flex; can run small
Best for: Ice fishing and snowmobiling

Our versatility award goes to these boots from Korkers, with features that guarantee dry feet, warmth, and surefooted traction. It’s easy to slip into these, wear them comfortably all day long, and customize them on-the-fly. Perfect for ice fishing, snowmobiling, and cross-country hikes through frozen woods and marshes.

I’m especially impressed by their swappable outsole system with tread options ranging from ‘inside the house’ all the way up to carbide-studded glacier scramblers. A 6-layer footbed with Thinsulate plus aerogel keeps your toes warm down to -60° F.  Plus, there’s a 100% waterproof breathable liner covered with waterproof leather.

If you’re going to spend hours outdoors doing anything in sub-zero conditions, you can’t go wrong with Korkers. Heck, I’d buy ’em just to have a choice of the half-dozen outsole tread plates. I also like their BOA lacing system, with its easy twist dial adjustments. These boots check all the boxes, and then some.

Best High-End Pair
Zamberlan 3031 Polar

Specs: 4 lb/pair; 11″ inches high
Insulation: 4mm + PE thermal insole; rated to -4° F.
Pros: Very flexible; GORE-TEX waterproofing; cushy footbed and collar; Vibram Arctic Grip; resoleable
Cons: Expensive
Best for: Anyone wanting solid warmth paired with bushwhacking cred

Zamberlan’s Polar Hunters are definitely on my wishlist, both for ice fishing and as an extreme cold weather hunting boot. Handmade in Italy with legendary attention to detail, these have super-grippy Vibram soles, integrated Kevlar gaiters, a heat-trapping aluminum thermal layer, and the convenient BOA lacing system — an obvious high-end choice for outdoor enthusiasts craving the very best.

The Polar Hunters share many features with Zamberlan’s famous mountaineering boots, but in a much more nimble package. They’re warm and comfy, and their flexible high-traction soles shine when bushwhacking or cruising on trails. And in slush or deep snow, you’ll praise their built-in insulated gaiters.

And (dare I say it?) these boots are slim and stylish… but trimmed in camo and safety orange to keep you humble. While others shuffle around in their warm but cumbersome bolt-on boots, you’ll be both spry and toasty, regardless of the terrain.

Best on a Budget
TIDEWE

Specs: 5 lb/pair; 16″ high
Insulation: 6mm Neoprene; rated to -4° F
Pros: Affordable; tall shafts offer good protection; highly-rated
Cons: Runs small; can be tight in the calves; some reports of easy punctures
Best for: Cold weather exposures to rain, mud, slush, and snow

If you’re looking for simple, affordable, and well-reviewed winter footwear, TIDEWE’s Rain & Snow Hunting Boots may be just the ticket. These are rugged insulated workboots, equally at home on the ice or in the yard. The heavy-duty reinforced rubber shell is 100% waterproof and rated down to -4° F. Nothing fazes the TIDEWEs — standing water, ice, snow, or mud.

These boots are well-reviewed, with some customers saying the TIDEWEs compare favorably to similar Muck brand boots, but at half the price. The TIDEWEs won’t win any beauty contests, but many hard-working cold-weather outdoors types love ’em.

TIDEWEs are footwear for prolonged cold-weather work more than cross-country travel. Ice fishing is a compatible scenario, and the price is easy to bear, so why not give them a try? They may just be a perfect fit.

Best Ice Fishing Boot Designed for Women
Korkers Neo Arctic

Specs: 5 lbs/pair; 16″ high
Insulation: 8mm neoprene w/ fleece lining; rated to -60° F.
Pros: Extremely warm; soft & comfy; easy on-and-off; swappable traction soles
Cons: Comes with only one traction sole; other soles are $40-$70 each
Best for: Women who want warmth on the ice without sacrificing style or comfort

We raved about the men’s Korkers Polar Vortex model, above, and here’s the Neo Arctic, an enhanced version specifically for women. Both models are ideal for ice fishing since they share the same key features — extreme warmth, waterproofing, tall shafts to keep out slush and deep snow, and quick and easy transitions to the indoor world.

Women will appreciate the Neo Artic’s refinements: Effortless pull-on entry, plus a heel tab for hands-free kick-offs. Adjustable rear gussets to ease in pant legs for a secure seal. And a sleeker design in general.

As always, there’s the OmniTrax Interchangeable Sole System that lets you peel off, say, the carbide-studded soles you wore on the ice in favor of a smooth rubber sole for walking on wood floors.

No Laces, Just Buckles
Baffin Impact

Specs: 7.4 lbs/pair; 15″ high
Insulation: Multi-layer wool and hollow-fiber insulation rated to -145° F.
Pros: Ultra-warm; buckles are easy to use when wearing gloves
Cons: Heavy; too bulky to fit inside bib legs; sizing runs small
Best for: The coldest weather on earth

Ever had to fuss with boot laces while wearing thick gloves? Even zippers are clumsy, so big buckles are really the only option. This Canadian company has the footwear you’ll need when venturing out on a balmy -145° F. day in the Arctic Circle. (I got chilled just typing that number)

Baffin boots are legendary for their warmth. And their big buckles are easily opened and adjusted when wearing insulated mittens. You’ll never be cold sitting on your bucket.

These boots offer major bragging rights. Sure, they’re 50% heavier (and a lot bigger) than other boots here, but you’ll never have to check your toes for frostbite.

Versatile Rubber Boots With Removable Wool Lining
Clam Sub Zero X

Specs: 4.25 lbs/pair; ~12″ high
Insulation: A removable wool lining, rated to -40° F.
Pros: Warm; waterproof; reliable
Cons: Sizing runs small
Best for: Fishing and chores in sub-zero temperatures

These Clam Sub-Zeros are classics — a 100% waterproof wader-style rubber shell with a minimalist drawstring closure. No laces to adjust, they just grip your leg to keep the heat in and the slush out. The felted wool liners are warm and are easy to remove for drying or if the temp climbs. Nothing fancy, but it’ll do all you need it to.

Other boots may talk about their ‘advanced technology,’ but on the Clam Sub-Zero that’s limited to a reflective cuff and a heel kick tab for removing them at day’s end. The Sub Zeros have the feel of a hunting & fishing heirloom passed down over the decades — proven, comfortable, and toasty warm.

Lightweight & Made in the U.S.A.
Kamik Canuck

Specs: 3.1 lbs/pair; 13.5″ high
Insulation: 8 mm removable Zylex liner rated to -40°F.
Pros: Made in USA; good value; high-quality
Cons: Woven uppers not totally waterproof; sizing runs large
Best for: Various winter outdoor activities

These Canucks were a pleasant surprise — a quality, highly affordable, Made in USA boot from a 120-year-old Canadian company. Maybe that’s why the sizing runs large!

These boots have waterproof rubber bottoms with 1000 denier nylon uppers, plus knobby outsoles for traction. The Canucks are lightweight compared to other boots listed here, and have a 3-layer removable Zylex liner that’s warm and breathable. An adjustable snow collar holds everything in place.

Nothing cutting edge here, but a pleasing combination of solid features and good value. Way to go, North America.

BUY ON AMAZON

Stylish for Wearing Around Town
Sorel 1964 Pac

Specs: 4 lbs/pair; ~13″ high
Insulation: Removable 9 mm felt liner rated to -40°F.
Pros: Iconic styling;
Cons: Low traction soles; sizing runs small; variable quality
Best for: Heavy snow and slush

Sorel’s popular and iconic insulated boots were introduced in the early 1960s, and this model is the descendent of their bestselling 1964 pac boot. More recently, the product line expanded to include fashionable around-town boots, but the 1964 remains a serious sub-zero workhorse.

The Sorel 1964 has a waterproof rubber bottom and a ripstop nylon top with a snow cuff. The shallow herringbone tread is optimized for snow, so consider cleats on the ice. Beefy laces, D-rings, and a thick felt liner that’s not quite as clunky as some. There have been some reports of variable quality in recent years.

These boots are rugged and warm, and Sorel’s distinctive styling is classic. But if outdoor fashion isn’t that important to you, the Kamik Canuck is a better value.

BUY ON AMAZON

Classic All-Rubber Boot
Muck Boots Arctic Ice

Specs: 4 lbs/pair; 16.1″ high in Tall version
Insulation: 8 mm of neoprene with a fleece lining, rated to -60° F.
Pros: Warm; a tall molded shaft; Vibram’s highest traction sole for ice
Cons: A bit pricey; can get sweaty; some reports of cracks
Best for: Fishing on dry and wet ice

The Muck Arctic Ice is a handsome pair of warm boots, very grippy, and with tall fitted shafts to keep the snow out. These have Vibram’s best sole for traction on ice, especially wet ice. To me, that says ‘made for ice fishing,’ which is why many hunters and fishermen wear Mucks.

The tall, form-fitting neoprene & rubber shafts are sleek, warm, and totally waterproof, but may require break-in and can be sweaty. Overall customer satisfaction is high, but some customers have reported splits developing in the molded shafts, perhaps due to break-in issues.

These are a bit pricey but you’ll definitely look great in them — people will assume you stole these streamlined beauties from an MCU superhero. But the real payoff is staying toasty warm all day long without having fallen on your butt even once. Priceless.

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Ice Fishing/Winter Hunting Hybrid
Kenetrek Mountain Extreme 1000

Specs: 4.5 lbs/pair; ~12″ high; 100% leather uppers
Insulation: 1000 gm Thinsulate, with Windtex weatherproofing
Pros: Warm; rugged construction; all leather, made in Italy; great ankle support and traction
Cons: Expensive; not fully waterproof; long break-in period
Best for: Those wanting versatility – Hunting, Climbing, and Ice Fishing

The Mountain Extreme 1000s are the most versatile, durable, and best-looking boots on this list. We’ve previously chosen them as one of our top overall hunting boots for men and women. They’ve got you covered, from late-season Colorado elk hunts to Minnesota ice fishing for bass in February. They’re not cheap, but the best seldom is.

With 1000 grams of Thinsulate insulation, your feet will never be cold. But these aren’t the typical bulky clunkers — more like nimble mountaineering boots. And the build quality is exceptional, with double- and triple stitching, a seamless leather tongue, a thicker midsole, swiveling lace hardware, and the highest-quality leather available.

But there are downsides: the climbing-grade midsole and the all-leather construction require a break-in period of at least 35 miles. Avoid blisters with short break-in hikes, and use leather wax to soften any stiff points. Also, leather boots will never be completely waterproof, so pack some gaiters.

The Kenetrek Mountain Extreme 1000s will keep your feet warm for multiple activities, spread out over more months of the year. They are both no-nonsense and genuine works of art.

BONUS: Cleats/Crampons for Extra Traction
Kahtoola MICROspikes

All the boots on this list are warm, but traction is equally important when you’re on extra slick ice. Nothing beats leightweight and packable metal cleats for winter hunting, hiking, and mountaineering.

Enter the Kahtoola MICROspikes, in the sweet spot of traction somewhere between modest city slicker models and scary dagger-like crampons. MICROspikes will keep you sure-footed with 12 – 1″ spikes that bite deeply into snow and ice.

Follow the sizing guidelines carefully as a proper fit is essential. And remember: if you want to skate on a frozen lake, bring skates, otherwise add Kahtoola MICROspikes to your footwear arsenal. Your tailbone will thank you.

Factors We Considered When Reviewing Products

 

No surprises here when considering what qualities go into a really warm boot for ice fishing. Warmth, of course, and the more the better. Wind and ice will suck heat out of your body, so don’t cut corners on the insulation ratings. Remember that synthetic fills stay drier, and removable liners are convenient but aren’t inherently as warm as integrated liners.

On the ice, traction also rules. Stay vertical at all times by looking for aggressive outsole tread or by adding sturdy cleats like the MICROspikes. You’ll be more relaxed and secure when you no longer have to worry about slipping.

Comfort also counts. Some boots are best for traveling short distances over easy terrain while others are better for longer hauls over challenging terrain. Anticipate your needs so your feet won’t complain.

Of course, we also considered durability, ease of use, features, build quality, styling, and more. Choose the factors that matter most to you and add them to your purchase decision matrix. If you choose wisely and the stars align, you may have boots with bragging rights for years to come.

Insulation

Removable wool felt liners were once the norm (think vintage Sorels), but now synthetics like Thinsulate dominate the market. These have the advantage of staying warmer than wool when wet, with some synthetics comparing favorably to the warmth of down.

Neoprene is a good thermal layer for taller boots because it’s elastic, holds its shape, and can be more form-fitting. Some synthetics also include an aluminum facing to add reflective, heat-trapping properties.

Waterproofing

A sturdy and seamless rubber outer shell is often the safest bet for staying dry. Woven synthetics or leather uppers are more prone to seepage, but double- or triple-stitching can minimize this, as can sealed seams. Breathable water-resistant synthetic layers aren’t perfect, but they can add a lot when used in combination with other materials.

And as with grandpa’s faithful Red Wings, all leather boots require more maintenance in the form of regular waxing, oiling, or spray-on treatments.

Comfort & Fit

Get as much of both of these as you can. Loose-fitting pac-type boots can be clunky and tiring. Form-fitting boots (especially leather) may require a break-in period before any creases or pinch points relax and no longer cause blisters or chafing.

Ease into any required break-in periods by walking shorter distances, and by taking such preventative measures as wearing thicker socks or applying moleskin or vaseline.

Tread/Traction

Since we’re talking about walking on ice and snow, stay vertical and you’ll stay drier, warmer, and happier. Look for boots with aggressive tread patterns or compounds that keep the rubber soft and flexible at low temperatures.

Competitors are nipping at the grippy heels of Vibram, but it’s still the brand to beat. And don’t forget about ‘chaining up’ with strap-on cleats, especially since you can use them on all the shoes you own.

Durability

Consider price, features, and performance, and decide how long you need them to last. Ask your outdoorsy buddies for their hands-on experiences, but also be aware that brand loyalty is often blind loyalty. Read online customer reviews, but discount the ones that sound too gushy or spammy. (Services like Fakespot can help with this.) On Amazon, I always look at the 3-star ratings first as they tend to be the most balanced.

Lacing/Buckle System

Laces are the primary method for closing boots and adjusting the fit. Most laces are made from sturdy synthetics, but the advanced BOA lacing system uses thin braided metal cables that are adjusted with a clever twist knob. Boot shafts are often topped with a snow cuff held tight by drawstrings with spring-loaded cord locks.

Buckles are mostly used in boots designed for deep snow and ultra-low temperatures, which means you’ll probably also be wearing bulky insulated gloves or mittens. In such conditions, you won’t want to remove your gloves to fumble with ice-encrusted laces or drawstrings, so prying open big buckles is much easier.

Price

Whatever gets the job done, at a price you can afford. Your call, but remember that investing in more expensive and higher-quality boots may save you money in the long run. Also, life’s too short for ugly boots, so be willing to pay a bit more for handsome boots you’ll be proud to wear.

Which Ice Fishing Boots Will You Rock in 2023?

 

There you have it, our recommendations for the best ice fishing boots of 2023. Which ones caught your eye? Are you looking primarily for the highest insulation rating, way down into negative numbers? Or is waterproofing most important, perhaps because you deal with a lot of deep snow or slush? Or maybe you once slipped on the ice and cracked your tailbone, so grippy traction is an absolute must-have. You’re in luck because there’s something here for everyone.

This list includes the best offerings from top companies like Baffin, Korkers, Muck, Kenetrek, Zamberlan, and others. They’ll all keep your feet toasty warm. Here are the top few I’ll be adding to my personal wishlist:

I’m really intrigued by the Korkers Polar Vortex boots because their many choices of Omnitrax interchangeable soles should handle everything from scaling glaciers to shoveling the walk. Plus, the gadget freak in me is drooling over the gears and total control of the BOA Fit lacing system.

My choice for ‘wallet friendly’ would be the Kamik Canucks. Top-rated and a great value, it’s a pac-style boot that speaks to me more than the rock-solid Clam Sub Zeros or the Sorels.

I’m also drawn to the Muck Boots Arctic Ice Extreme. I love the warmth and cushioning of neoprene, the boot’s tall fitted look, and its Vibram Arctic Grip outsoles sound totally state of the art.

Call me old school, but the Kenetrek Mountain Extreme 1000s are perhaps my biggest temptation here. That tall, slim, all-leather profile is, well, just plain sexy, and I won’t complain a bit about having to wax it.

These are my picks for the best boots for ice fishing in 2023. What are your temptations here? Please share your dreams and first-hand experiences in the Comments section, below. Thanks. Stay warm, vertical, and happy angling to all of us!

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