KEEN-parison: Which Kids' Snow Boots for Winter Warmth?

When you were a kid, one of the best feelings in the world was waking up to a snow day, right? Sled races, snowball battles, and building larger-than-life snow people remain fond childhood memories for many of us who grew up in snow-dusted parts of the world. The not-so-fond memories? Wet mittens and soppy socks. Luckily, kids of today can have all of those good times without the soggy feet part, thanks to our collection of cozy, grippy, and waterproof winter boots for kids.

All of our insulated snow boots use KEEN.WARM insulation. It’s extremely compressible and light for the warmth it provides, plus retains its insulating ability, even when damp. This season, we've added new insulation icons to our snow boots, so it's easy to see what the warmth level is. There's a fox for 100g (rated to -4°F/-20°C), a moose for 200g (rated to -25°F/-32°C), and a penguin for 400g (rated to -40°F/-40°C).

Warmth is the #1 factor when shopping for snow boots, but there are other features to consider — like easy on/off, versatile style for Monday to Sunday wear, and a lightweight design that makes it easier for kiddos to plow through that powder. Here's some help to pick the pair that’s best for your little snow angel.

Kids’ Lumi II Waterproof Boot
The extra-warm boot for kids who want to be outside no matter how low the temperature goes.

The way we see it, winter fun goes best with winter warmth. Ultra-cozy (but also ultra-lightweight), the updated Lumi is our warmest winter boot for big and little kids, built with KEEN.WARM insulation that’s rated to a shivering -40°F/-40°C. Heading out for a play day in the snow, or helping with outdoor chores, the KEEN.FREEZE rubber outsole keeps tiny feet sure-footed in slick or snowy conditions. When the sun starts to set, and it’s time for hot cocoa by the fireplace, the pesticide-free Eco Anti-Odor insoles ensure a stink-free house (and a lighter footprint on the planet too). We call that a winter win-win.

Kids’ Redwood Waterproof Boot
The tough leather boot for kids who play hard in the snow and on the trail.

Whether you’re layering your kiddo up for a full day of sledding or some cold-weather hiking, the durable, quick-drying Redwood is up for anything. One part snow boot and one part leather hiker, these boots for big and little kids are packed with premium cold-weather features. Snow-stopping gussets and KEEN.WARM insulation help little feet stay warm and dry in temps as low as -25°F/-32°C. To keep kids on the go (without slip-sliding around) they even come equipped with a high traction TPU outsole. Plus, these planet-loving snow boots feature a long-lasting, environmentally preferred leather upper and pesticide-free Eco Anti-Odor insoles (like all KEEN shoes).

KEEN Kids Hoodoo III boots

Kids’ Hoodoo III Waterproof Boot
The versatile boot for girls who run around on the mountain and explore town too.

Kids have a unique ability to see opportunities where grown-ups rarely do. Skidding across frozen puddles, burying each other in the snow, or stacking a leaning tower of icicles — kids need boots that don’t get in their way (but still look presentable when playtime is over). Designed to handle all of the opportunities that winter brings and then transition right into school or dinner out, the girls’ Hoodoo boot comes outfitted with an environmentally preferred leather upper and a fluffy fleece lining. The grippy, multidirectional lugged sole and KEEN.WARM insulation rated to -25°F/-32°C keep little feet warm and dry (so kiddos can focus on having winter fun instead of on their feet).

Kids’ Kootenay III Chelsea Boot
The slip-on boot for kids who need lightweight warmth that’s easy to slide into.

A warm and waterproof slip-on? Yes, please. The evolution of one of our bestselling waterproof boots for kids, the Kootenay III now comes equipped with lightweight KEEN.WARM insulation that keeps feet toasty in temperatures as low as -4°F/-20°C. Perfect for winter play, cold-weather errands, and everything in between, these cozy boots for big and little kids have a soft and fluffy fleece lining and a durable, environmentally preferred leather upper. Bonus points for the fact that your little one can easily get them on and off on their own.

KEEN Kids Kelsa boots

Kids’ Kelsa Waterproof Boot
The lightly insulated boot for girls who want winter footwear that feels more like a sneaker.

Gray skies and slushy streets—sometimes winter can feel a little dull, even for kids. Splashed with fun and colorful prints and lined with soft fleece, the Kelsa for big and little girls keeps winter cozy and bright. The KEEN.WARM insulation makes sure little feet stay warm in temps as low as -4°F/-20°C while the Luftcell, air-injected PU insole offers all-day comfort. The environmentally preferred leather upper and direct-attach midsole make the Kelsa boot durable and long-lasting so girls can get outside day after day and do what kids do best — play.

RELATED: 5 Tips for Choosing Kids' Snow Boots

Kids sure know how to make the most out of cold and wet winter days. Make sure their little feet can keep up and stay warm no matter the weather in comfy KEEN boots for every activity.

Not sure what size your kiddo needs?
Download our printable, easy-peasy Kids' Sizing Chart (pdf).