Collection: Apres Snow Boots

Apres ski snow boots are warm and / or waterproof or water-resistant boots that are worn at the ski resort or in snowy conditions when you’re not participating in snowsports. In many countries they are simply considered winter boots. They are not suitable for skiing, snowboarding, or most other snow sports. Dog sledding or snowshoeing, however, are two possible exceptions.

We have apres ski or apres snow boots for women, men, children and babies. We're sure you'll find something affordable and suitable for your upcoming winter snow holiday.

We get asked this question a lot! We created an article answering all FAQs and more about apres ski snow and winter boots.

Although winter in Australia is warmer than most other snowy places around the globe, apres snow boots are still really important. The main reason is that given the warmer climate, this causes wetter and slushy snow. This snow and water can often be deep and dirty (especially in car parking lots), for which you’ll need taller (sorry oftentimes hiking boots aren’t going to cut it) waterproof (or at least ‘snowproof’) boots.

Also equally important are boots which have good grip for the morning icy conditions, and nighttime freezing temperatures. So apres snow boots are the best solution for Aussie ski resorts.

We do not recommend wearing runners or other lifestyle brands of shoes to the snow in place of snow boots. The most important reason for this is the rubber and lack of grip soles. Runners and for example Doc Martens, are incredibly slippery in the snow due to the rubber. Like many other lifestyle brands of shoes, the rubber is not designed for cold temperatures, meaning that when the temperatures get below freezing, the rubber no longer grips, and instead becomes very slippery. Vibram soles found in many hiking boots are a good example of rubber which is designed for extra performance in below-freezing conditions.

Also, lifestyle shoes are generally not insulated for warmth, have little waterproofing, are a lower profile meaning water can get inside easily, and are easily ruined. It’s generally better to buy or rent some specific snow boots for you and your family.

Unfortunately not. The rubber in gumboots is extra slippery in icy conditions as explained above due to the cheap rubber soles. Also, they do not provide any warmth.

We recommend specific winter kids snow boots. Also important are baby snow boots to keep their little extremities warm as being so young, they need extra protection.

There are many different styles of apres snow boots. My personal preference for wearing in Australia or if you have mobility issues, is a boot that zips or velcros on and off quickly. This means it’s fast to get on and off while wearing all your clothing and while in cramped drying rooms or lodge doorways.

Overseas and in especially icy conditions some people prefer boots that have a better (closer) fit like Kamik's laced boots. Laced boots take more time to put on and off but offers more stability and security in icy coniditons and generally added comfort while walking long distances.

Also important to recognise is affordability (generally the more you pay, the more you get for your boot), waterproofing (most snow boots are designed as ‘snowproof’), and warmth which is especially important if you’re travelling to colder climates such as those experienced in Canada or the Arctic.

Finding the right size is crucial for comfort and performance. It’s good to know that cheaper and more basic snow boots should feel like a pair of slippers. They’re cheaply made and are generally snowproof only. Expect this when buying cheaper boots for $120 and under.

Not always. A highly waterproof and breathable boot that has a waterproof and breathable liner is expensive and it’s also important to note that they will not be 100% waterproof in all conditions. A full rubber boot, like a gumboot, will keep 100% of the water out (or anything with a full rubber part without stitching) however this rubber is then not breathable. So if wearing these boots for prolonged periods, it’s a balance of breathability, waterproofing, comfort, style, support, and price.

We stock Kamik, Attiba, and XTM apres snow boots. Kamik is a Canadian snow boot brand designed for colder temperatures, and longer-term wear with less emphasis on waterproofing (in general, not all cases). Attiba snow boots have a flip ice spike feature which sits in the sole of the boot and gives added security for icy conditions such as Japan at night in Niseko or when worn by older adults or people carrying children who don’t want to risk a fall. XTM is a trusted Australia brand which also provide a more budget-conscious range of snow boots. XTM also make some better quality boots and back them with an excellent quality guarantee.

Yes! We love Kamik snow boots. They have a long history of making Canadian snow boots for all the extremes and daily conditions for outlasting Canadian winters time and time again. Invest in a pair of Kamik snow boots, you won't be dissappointed! Our all time favourite snow boot are the Kamik Rogue snow boots.

Yes! We love Aussie brand XTM. They have the best warranty policy and guarantee their products for life. They cater to a cheaper end of the market as well as dishing up some very high quality and durable snow boots. Read the product descriptions and don't just assume all boots are created equal in terms of waterproofing, warmth and fit.

Attiba snow boots have a much loved niche in the Australian apres snow boot market. They have flippable spikes in the soles, and a patented technology which make them provide exceptional grip and hold in very icy conditions. We also own a pair of these, although we don't find them as waterproof as our other brands in very wet Australian or overseas conditions. Avoiding puddles recommended.