Header image credit - @presentseason & @skyfrost
Deciding what boots you need for each type of weather can be difficult, especially if you aren’t looking to buy separate ones for rain and snow. So, could you buy rain boots and wear them in the snow? While the simple answer is yes, there are other factors that you need to consider before making the final decision.
Are Rain Boots Different From Snow Boots?
While you might think that both rain boots and snow boots are functional for all types of weather, there are some differences that can make rain boots inappropriate for the snow.
Here are some of the differences between each type:
The Materials They Use
Rain boots can withstand wet and muddy conditions. While this may also be in a cold environment, the temperature might not be as low as it would be in the snow.
Also rain boots are mainly designed using only two materials, PVC and rubber. These make for excellent waterproofing, but they typically don't insulate well and your feet will get cold quickly at lower temperatures. That’s why we decided to line our rain boots with 4mm of neoprene, which is the same material used in wetsuits. This helps keep your feet and toes insulated and warm during the winter months, making our rain boots wearable all year long, in even the below freezing weather!
Snow boots by contrast are built with multiple types of materials including wool, nylon, leather, and rubber. They are intentionally designed to keep your feet warm and dry, though they may become too hot as the temperature starts to rise.
Temperature
Wearing rain boots in the fall or early winter weather will be the best temperature for your feet to feel the most comfortable. However, the colder the temperature becomes, the colder your little toes will get, since rain boots aren’t designed with freezing weather in mind.
With snow boots, colder temperatures are ideal for keeping your feet comfortable without being too hot. However, wearing them in milder conditions, or during spring rains is likely to make your feet sweat and overheat, making your snow boots uncomfortable to wear for any length of time.
How To Find The Right Pair
Many of the features you will find in rain boots and snow boots are the same regardless of which type you choose. However, the design of the boots and the manufacturer can make a difference in their overall quality and how long they last.
Choosing high-quality rain boots such as those we offer here at Merry People can make them more versatile and comfortable than lower quality ones.
You need to find a pair of boots that will be comfortable for long distances, especially if you like to go on long walks or plan to wear your boots all day long. You want a boot that is flexible but also provides comfort and support.
Rain boots will often come in a variety of colors such as red, yellow, and even pink. This will give you some choice when it comes to matching your boots with different outfits.
If you are wondering “are rain boots good for snow?”, because you only want to buy one pair, then keep in mind that higher quality boots tend to deal with snow much better. Merry People boots are a good option that suit both below freezing temperatures and also the milder seasons.
Conclusion
Both rain boots and snow boots are designed for a specific purpose which is perfect if you plan on buying both types. However, if you just want one type for snow and rain, then you need to consider which will give you the best of both without being uncomfortable. Thankfully there are many good options for where to buy a good rain boot.
Adding socks and choosing a higher-quality boot opens up more options as well, but it’s best to check directly with the manufacturer if their boots were designed to be worn in both rain and snow.
