When there is not so much time left before the winter season, and if you’ve already bought a good pair of rain boots, you can be tempted to stick with them in snowy conditions.
So, in this case, you probably wonder if you can wear rain boots in the snow, and probably think to buy a pair of snow boots instead.
The answer is yes, you can wear the rain boot in the snow, but it can also depend on which type of climate you live in, how icy the streets are, and how much walking you will have to do.
Depending on the severity of the conditions and the activities you plan to do, this can be not a bad option.
In this article, you will know if it is such a good decision to wear rain boots in the snow, and also a few little tips which can help you to keep your feet warm in winter.
Can you wear rain boots in the snow?
So, can you wear rain boots in the snow?
As was already mentioned above, you can do this. But, you must consider some factors like how cold the weather is if there is some snow outside, and so on.
It is very important, what kind of weather usually in winter, in the place where you live.
If you live somewhere with mild winters, rain boots should be quite fitting for the snow. They will keep the snow from soaking into your feet as winter boots would. If it isn’t terribly cold outside, you will be alright.
The exact situation goes with short outings. If you drive to work and need a pair of boots to keep your feet dry for the time you walk to the car, then rain boots will be okay.
The situation changes significantly if you live in an area with quite harsh winters. Rain boots will not protect from the cold as winter boots do.
In case you will go in very cold weather with rain boots, it can be uncomfortable and even dangerous. Frostbite is a possibility.
Why wearing boots in the snow is not such a good idea?
You can wear your rain boots in the snow, but there are two concerns, such as warmth and traction. Because of this, the idea of wearing rain boots in the snow is probably not so good.
The main issue with rain boots is that they are not made for the purpose to be worn in winter. These boots are made of rubber and due to that can’t give your feet good insulation or warmth.
Also, rain boots are on the thinner side, and this keeps them light. But, they aren’t meant for insulation just for protection from getting wet.
Rain boots mostly don’t have incredible grip, although they do provide some degree of traction. They keep a smoother, sleeker profile and retain their lightness because of it.
If it’s quite lightly snowing and the sidewalks aren’t covered, all will be all right, but if there’s laying packed snow or ice, then there is quite a big risk of falling and injuring yourself.
So, although you can wear rain boots in the snow, this decision is probably not so great.
But, luckily there are tips, using which you can make your rain boots more fitting for winter.
How to wear rain boots in the snow?
As it was said, there are some hacks, with help of which you can keep your boots in good condition.
- Choose the right pair of boots.When you select rain boots with the intention to wear them in winter, it is advisable to buy a perfect pair that will be waterproof and insulated. If you wish to keep your feet warm and dry, these boots will help with that.
- Pair them with the right socks.If you want even more protect your feet from the cold, it would be good to purchase pair of socks and add them to your rain boots.Thick socks that were made of wool are probably the best option. This is because they will help keep your feet warm and dry. It can be done by keeping moisture away. You can choose a lovely thick pair of socks.
- Add an extra layer of protection.Also, to save warmth, you can add one more layer. You can do this by using boot liners. They are usually made from a waterproof and insulating material, which will help to trap warmth and keep snow out.
- Apply waterproofing spray.If you want to extend the life of your rain boots, then it is good to use a waterproofing spray before each wear. With help of the spray, your boots will be looking like new. Also, if you use the spray, this will make them waterproof.
So, wearing rain boots in the snow is not the ideal option, but it is possible. Especially with these little hacks.
Also, you can use the boot inserts. Let’s talk about it in more detail.
What are boot inserts?
Boot inserts are paddings, which are very warm and well-insulated. With them, your feet always will be warm in winter.
This method can help you pass all the winter not worrying about how you can freeze your feet in the snow and very cold air.
Although the boot inserts are quite warm, sometimes they can be not insulated enough, in case the winter is very cold. This is because, they were made for the purpose to keep your feet dry and warm around water, not in a snowy area.
If you want to keep the warmth of your feet in such a situation, you may need one more pair of inserts. But in this case, it is probably would be better to purchase a pair of snow boots.
The best boots for both snow and rain are Duck Boots
Duck boots are technically a type of rain boot and they are quite unusual. They can quite easily keep your feet dry without any issues.
This type of rain boots good for both rain and also for snowy weather. This is because it has insulation material for heat retention.
Duck boots have many advantages, including warmth and water protection.
Also, the fact, that they over-ankle fit allows you to move more easily which sometimes can be quite difficult in bulky and heavy snow boots.
So, these are probably the best rain boots for the winter.
How are rain boots different from snow boots?
Now you know, that you can wear your rain boots in the snow, but you probably still wish to buy a pair of boots, that were made for using them in winter.
Before you decide if you need a pair of dedicated snow boots, you need to understand what separates them from rain boots.
- Snow boots usually are made using more durable materials than, those used for making rain boots. This is because this kind of boot must be able to withstand the very cold weather and heavy snowfall that they will be used in. To protect your feet from the cold they also often have insulation or fur lining.If you live in a milder climate or only need boots for wet weather, then wearing rain boots is a more practical and affordable option.If you live in an area with cold winters, heavy snowfall, and low temperatures, it makes snow boots quite an irreplaceable purchase.
- Usual rain boots mostly tend to be quite tall, with most coming up to the mid-shin or knee. Rubber boots are also less bulky and more fashionable.The hunter rain boots are a quite good example of tall rain boots. For making these boots, were used waterproof rubber materials. If you purchase these boots, your feet will be warm and dry in winter.Although rain boots are usually relatively tall, there is a type of rain boot, which height only reaches the ankle. These are quite well-known Duck boots.Also, there is a kind of rain boot, such as joules wellies that can be of different heights.Some of the models are not very tall. Probably someone can have some doubts, that joules wellies carry him or her through the winter. But they can do this.Still, it is better not to be outside for too long and not wear them in the extreme cold.
- Snow boots are usually pricier than rain boots. This is because they are mostly made using more expensive materials.Also, these boots often have additional features such as insulation or fur lining.
- If talking about the design, it can be sad, that the outline of snow boots sometimes can resemble a winter jacket. This is because it is quite voluminous and beautifully looking.But rain boots are more universal. There are several ways in which rubber boots can be styled to match almost any occasion. You can wear them with different cloth, such as skinny jeans, or leggings.
- Rain boots basically can be only boots, which were made using rubber or PVC. Also, unlike snow boots, rain boots are mostly unadorned.Snow boots can be made from a wide assortment of materials including leather, fabric, and wool. So, it can be wool, nylon, leather boots, and so on.
- Snow boots often have traction on the bottom. It helps to prevent you from slipping and falling on icy surfaces.Rain boots mostly don’t have such a feature. Due to that, the rubber soles can become quite slippery when they come into contact with snow and ice.
Now that you already learned the differences between snow boots and rain boots, it can help you to choose the right type of boot.
Frequently asked questions
Are rain boots the same as snow boots?
No, they are not the same. But, there isn’t so much difference between them. However, there are some things, that would be quite good to know.
Rain boots are mostly not as expensive as snow boots.
The snow boots are made from pricier materials. That is why usually their cost is not so low.
Snow boots typically have thicker soles. Rubber boots are thinner, which makes them light.
Also, by wearing snow boots in winter, you will keep your feet warm, even in case it is very cold outside. They are made to be worn out in very cold conditions in severe winter months.
But in the case you will wear rain boots when is a quite low temperature outside, this can quickly make your feet cold.
Can you use water boots in the snow?
Yes, you can wear water boots in light to moderate rains and snow. But in case there is very cold outside, then they are not such a good option. This is because waterproof boots are not made for use in extremely cold temperatures.
So if you are not planning to be outside for very long, it will be fine to use this kind of boots.
What can I wear if I don’t have snow boots?
In case you do not have snow boots, you can wear rain boots. This is not such a bad choice.
Also, you can use the boot liners, for additional warmth and protection. They will help to keep your feet warm and dry.
Can I wear rubber shoes in snow?
Yes, you can do this. But it is better not to wear them in the snow for a long time. And also it would be quite good to wear a pair of warm socks for additional warmth and comfort.
Are rain boots slippery in the snow?
How well rain boots grip the snow is dependent on the type of sole they have. Usually, rain boots don’t have textured soles, making them prone to slip when walking on snow.
But, some do feature heavier soles with better tread. These better grip the snow, making them not so slippery.
Do hunter rain boots work in the snow?
You can wear Hunter rain boots in the snow, but only for short periods.
So, if you only plan to walk to the car, Hunter boots can quite easily keep your feet dry. But they do not have much insulation, so it is better not to be outside for too long while you wear them.
Conclusion
It’s possible to wear rain boots in the snow. But it also quite often depends on which exact type of climate you live in.
In case you live in a milder climate, then rain boots would be a quite good option.
But if you live in an area with quite severe winters, then this type of boots is not the best choice, and it is probably would be better to buy a pair of snow boots.
Also, there are some hacks, such as using the boot liners, which will make using rain boots in winter more comfortable.
Read also: How to get rid of boot marks on legs? Complete Guide
