I’m a travel writer, so I’m sure you would think that I’m an expert at picking out gear for a trip. While this is usually true, I – like everyone else – fall victim to choosing style over function from time to time, especially when it comes to footwear. While planning for a recent week-long trip to Vail, Colorado, my husband, knowing my tendency to pick cute over practical, advised me to focus on finding a warm pair of winter boots instead of choosing something that I considered stylish (and would probably end up causing major discomfort later on).
But I didn’t want to choose between the two; I wanted something that would keep up with the elements without being embarrassing to wear in Vail. Luckily, just a few days before my trip, I found the Sorel Tivoli IV Tall Snow Boots (which are currently up to 47 percent off at Amazon) and they checked off all of the boxes: they are comfy, waterproof, warm, and – bonus! – cute. I was pleasantly surprised to find myself actually wanting to wear them on my winter getaway, reaching for them instead of my well-worn pair of Uggs.
Sorel Women’s Tivoli IV Tall Waterproof Boots
Though I’m not a skier, I was out and about enjoying the wintry weather all week in Vail, for anywhere from five to eight hours at a time. The boots are rated for “light snow” by the Oprah-approved footwear brand, so I wasn’t sure if they’d be warm enough for the chilly temperatures. But they’re waterproof with insulated microfleece linings and definitely kept my feet toasty warm and dry, even on snowy days up in the Rocky Mountains.
I wandered the shops of Vail Village and Lionshead for hours (and made the 1-mile-or-so long trek between villages) in the Sorel Tivoli IV Tall Winter Boots with no issues. I also took a day trip to Beaver Creek, getting more steps in while window shopping, and my boots were warm and super comfortable the whole time. Even when wearing wool socks, my feet didn’t get overly warm as I popped into stores to shop or stopped for après-ski happy hour at an indoor restaurant.
Sorel Women’s Tivoli IV Tall Waterproof Boots
If you’re like me and need good tread on snow or ice, you’ll appreciate the heavy-duty grip on these rubber-soled boots. I didn’t slip once during the entire trip, and I felt secure walking on the snowy road to reach the nearby shuttle stop.
The tall shaft of the Sorel Tivoli IV Tall Snow Boots worked best with skinny jeans and protected my ankles and calves from slush and chilly winter winds, and the laces allowed me to wear the boots either loose or snug. I will say, however, that at first, the insoles felt too firm and I was a little worried they’d hurt my feet. But they actually became more comfortable the longer that I wore them, almost like they were molding slightly to my feet.
Sorel Women’s Tivoli IV Tall Waterproof Boots
One important thing to know about these boots is that you’ll probably want to size up. I’m normally a size 5 or even smaller in some shoes, so I initially ordered a 5.5, which squished my toes a bit. The size 6 boots arrived just in time for my trip and were a perfect fit — roomy, but not too loose. Some reviewers say that the sizing is just right, so it’s best to plan ahead and leave yourself some time for an exchange to find the right size.
Speaking of reviewers, Amazon shoppers have given the boots more than 1,600 perfect five-star ratings. One happy shopper said, “These keep you warm, they are the prettiest ones online, and they keep you dry. Good traction.” Another described them as “rugged pillows on my feet,” adding how “warm and cozy” they are.
And now that I’m back home in Minnesota, I find myself still reaching for these boots. I’ve worn them for errands and also for a casual lunch date with friends when I don’t want to worry about slipping or getting cold. Needless to say, the Sorel Tivoli IV Tall Snow Boots are definitely worth it, and you don’t want to waste any time snagging your own cozy pair while they’re on major sale.
Or if these aren’t your style, keep scrolling for more toasty warm winter boot options for women.