The 11 Best Duck Boots of 2024, Tested and Reviewed

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Stay warm and dry with our favorite hybrid winter footwear.

In This Article

Travel + Leisure / Jackie Cucco

Looking for boots that are as well-suited to wintry national park adventures as they are to slush-covered sidewalks on your upcoming city break? For those who want the best of all worlds, we present the trusty duck boot: a footwear solution that combines a waterproof rubber shell with a chill-beating leather upper and interior insulation. These hybrid boots can also be classically stylish with different options to complement all activities, tastes, and genders.

To help you find the best duck boots, we tested 19 pairs, wearing them out in the rain and examining them for comfort, traction, durability, waterproofing, and value. Men’s and ladies’ snow boots were rated for all of the same attributes as well as the level of support provided. From the most insulated duck boots for winter to the pairs with the best traction to keep you from slipping in the rain, here are our standout favorites.

We scored these boots perfectly across the board but particularly loved their warm yet breathable comfort.

We did slip once when wearing the boots in extremely icy conditions.

Pairing a woven textile and suede upper with a sturdy rubber duck boot, the Columbia Women’s Moritza Shield Omni-Heat Boots proved to be completely waterproof even when we stepped deliberately into snow banks or walked through thick slush. They’re breathable, with lightweight synthetic insulation, a thermal-reflective lining, and a faux-fur collar to keep your feet cozy but never too hot. We found them comfortable right out of the box (one of our team members actually referred to them as “a hug for your feet").

The TechLite midsole offers sufficient arch support, with super comfy cushioning that forms to your feet for impressive impact absorption. We felt that the thick outsole gave good energy return with every step, too, making these boots suitable for walking long distances. We wore them in snow, mud, and rain and only slipped once on ice-covered concrete, suggesting that the OmniGrip non-marking rubber outsoles are reliable for stability in all but the most extreme conditions.

Finally, the boots seemed to repel water and mud and were easy to wipe clean with no signs of wear and tear after three months of testing. Two-tone colorways add visual interest with colors such as fawn/canvas tan, Sedona sage/beetroot, and elk/river blue.

The Details: Sizes 5 to 12 | 1.65 pounds | Suede and woven textile upper, synthetic and faux fur insulation, rubber sole

These boots ticked all our boxes for style and comfort while ably fulfilling their ultimate purpose: to keep our feet dry and warm.

If you regularly walk through deep snow, bear in mind that the upper fabric is relatively thin.

Our initial impression of the Sperry Women’s Syren Gulf Duck Boots was one of top quality. They look and feel beautiful, and although they are the same shape as traditional duck boots, we found them significantly lighter than other pairs we tried. This makes them ideal for all-day, everyday wear. With a soft fabric upper and cute lace detailing, they’re fashionable enough for city life but with the added convenience of a zippered closure and the comfort of a memory foam footbed.

We found them comfortable right out of the box and liked that they grew increasingly so the more we wore them — and after three months of real-world testing, they're just as cozy. You can tighten the laces for extra ankle support when you need it, and the microfleece lining is warm without ever being too hot. The boots kept our feet completely dry even when jumping in puddles. The non-marking rubber outsole features razor-cut siping for reliable traction on wet and dry surfaces, while color choices range from the practical (black and navy) to the more unusual (gray with a plaid pattern).

The Details: Sizes 5 to 12 | 1 pound | Fabric upper, microfleece lining, rubber sole

These boots offer the ultimate blend of proven function and on-trend, combat boot style.

They’re heavier than most options on this list but are still comfortable to walk in.

The Hunter Women’s Explorer Duck Boots channel rugged camo-cool with a thick platform. The quality of their construction and materials was obvious from the moment we unboxed them. There was no breaking-in period required, and we found them completely comfortable with solid arch and ankle support suitable for walking long distances. The upper is made from recycled polyester with a recycled fleece lining. This combination was warm and breathable, and completely waterproof even when we dipped the boots in a creek.

A cushioned collar and EVA footbed add to the boots’ comfort. We found that the chunky, high-grip outsole shed mud and other debris easily thanks to its deep treads. The traction was impressive, too, with our T+L team member saying the boots were even grippier than her favorite hiking boots. Pull tabs and a kick spur make it easy to get the boots on and off. We tested the black-and-white colorway, and the white material didn’t stain even after jumping in muddy puddles. After three months of regular use, these look good as new and have become even more comfortable.

The Details: Sizes 5 to 11 | 3 pounds | Synthetic and recycled polyester upper, recycled polyester lining, rubber sole

These are the kind of boots that just make life easier, offering good-looking, hard-wearing warmth and waterproofness without too much bulk.

While they’re perfect for their intended purpose, we found them too warm to wear indoors for any significant length of time.

From the packaging to the boots themselves, our initial impression of the Sorel Women’s Caribou Waterproof Boots was one of exceptionally high quality. They were still in mint condition at the end of testing and were so waterproof it was hard for us to photograph this section of our test: the water beaded and rolled off too quickly. They’re easy to get on and off, surprisingly lightweight, not too bulky, and available in three attractive colorways. Essentially, they’re the ideal everyday cold-weather boot.

Uppers are made from waterproof, seam-sealed nubuck with a vulcanized rubber shell. The aero-trac outsole provides plenty of traction and is also non-loading, meaning you won’t pick up tons of compressed snow on your travels around town. The boots fit true to size and were instantly comfortable, with a roomy yet cozy toe-box and a removable felt inner that hugs the calf and ankle. Arch support isn’t particularly noticeable, but there is space for an insert if needed.

The Details: Sizes 5 to 12 | Nubuck upper, vulcanized rubber shell, felt inner and midsole

These boots are lined with shearling lamb fur for unbeatable warmth while remaining waterproof and breathable.

They don’t have great traction on flat or slick surfaces.

We wore the L.L.Bean Women’s Bean Boots in various wet conditions, including rain, snow, and ice, and found them to be some of the warmest and most comfortable pairs of boots we’ve ever tried. They do require a breaking-in period (the lack of heel support takes a while to get used to), but we noticed that the more we wore them, the more comfortable they became. L.L.Bean offers several variations of Bean Boots and we tried the 8-inch shearling-lined pair, which provided excellent insulation against the cold. While they were extremely warm and completely waterproof, they were also quite breathable and didn’t leave our feet feeling overheated while wearing them.

These boots have a unique rubber outsole tread but we were not impressed with their traction – we found ourselves slipping and sliding on many flat surfaces, including brick sidewalks and wet grass. We didn’t have any issues with concrete, however, so we recommend wearing these on textured surfaces or in more rural areas for the best outcome.

Although the traction is something to be mindful of, we still think these are versatile boots that are worth the price. Warm, comfortable, waterproof, and made with high-quality materials, they feel like they’re going to last for a long time.

The Details: Sizes 5 to 11 | 1.4 pounds | Leather and rubber upper, shearling lining, rubber outsole

We were really impressed with how sturdy, supportive, and lightweight these boots were, making them great for everyday wear.

The aesthetic is more “hiking boot” than rubber-based duck boot.

The Ugg Men’s Emmett Duck Boots shined in every testing category. They’re fashioned from seam-sealed, waterproof leather and rated for temperatures as low as -25 degrees Fahrenheit, making them ideal for various weather conditions. The gusseted tongue is treated with a water-repellent coating, and when we poured water over it, the inside remained completely dry. A textile lining and foam footbed contribute to the boots’ exceptional comfort, which only increased the longer we wore them. They were firm yet flexible and lightweight enough that it was easy to forget we had them on, and the ventilation was impressive – even when worn inside with thick socks.

A dynamic support shank offers stability over a wide variety of terrains and we felt that our arches and ankles were always sufficiently supported. The spider rubber outsole is very grippy (so much so that we tripped a few times when wearing them inside because the boots caught on the carpet unexpectedly). In rain and snow, they performed perfectly, but we also enjoyed wearing them while running errands in dry conditions. We loved the quality materials and construction and the fact that the boots were easy to wipe clean. They still look brand new after three months of testing. Colors include chestnut, black, and stout (dark brown).

The Details: Sizes 7 to 14 | 15.6 ounces | Leather upper, textile lining, foam footbed, rubber sole

These boots are warm, supportive, and comfortable from the first wear.

We wish these had a little more ankle support for hiking or wearing in rugged environments.

Sturdy, warm, and lightly cushioned, the Sperry Avenue Duck Boot is our most versatile pick for men. We wore these several times over the course of a month and found them comfortable from the first wear. We wouldn’t consider them breathable, but they didn’t make our feet sweaty or uncomfortable after long wears. These boots also had arch support that felt similar to tennis shoes and good ankle support without stiffness or restriction. We had no problem wearing these all day – no blisters, red spots, or foot pain of any kind.

We didn’t experience any issues with traction while wearing these on regular surfaces, slippery rocks, and muddy roads. They seem to be made with high-quality materials that showed no stitching or bonding issues throughout the duration of our initial tests. That being said, they’re still remarkably light, weighing less than 1 pound per pair. We think they’re a great option for those who want a pair of boots that can stand up to all kinds of elements and be worn in various situations.

The Details: Sizes 7 to 12 | 15 ounces | Leather upper, thermal lining, rubber outsole

These are stylish, high-quality boots that work flawlessly in terms of keeping out the wet and cold.

Although we didn’t experience any leaks because of it, it’s worth keeping in mind that the boots’ laces and zips are not waterproof.

Available in six on-trend colorways from tobacco/black to sage/dark moss, the Sorel Men’s 1964 Pac Nylon Boots are timelessly stylish, complementing your winter wardrobe while also keeping you protected from whatever the weather throws at you. We were impressed by the high-quality materials and construction, including a seam-sealed, waterproof nylon upper and a vulcanized rubber shell. Our feet never once got wet despite actively seeking out puddles to jump in, and the boots showed no signs of wear and tear at the end of testing.

These boots are also surprisingly lightweight given their all-season performance and durability. The herringbone outsole provides tremendous grip even on slippery surfaces. And the felt midsole and removable inner boot felt comfortable from the first wear, balancing snug arch and ankle support with a roomy toe-box. The bottom line? We loved these boots so much we found ourselves wishing for bad weather just so we could wear them.

The Details: Sizes 7 to 15 | Nylon upper, felt inner and midsole, vulcanized rubber outsole

Designer elements combine with a hardy build to create a versatile boot that you can dress up or down for most winter occasions.

The boots are fairly stiff, so a significant breaking-in period is required before they’re completely comfortable.

A leather patch debossed with the Ralph Lauren pony; a statement buckled strap; and a handsome leather and suede upper with classic, ridged molding: these are the style accents that make the Polo Ralph Lauren Men’s Oslo High Boot a fashion purchase as much as a practical one. We loved the look and the high-top, lace-up closure that provides a secure and adjustable fit. The boots were stiff at first and took roughly a week to break in but provided plenty of support throughout the test period. After three months of testing, we found them to be much more comfortable to wear, although we still wish they had a little more room in the ankles to improve comfort.

They felt slightly heavier than expected but still light enough to wear for extended periods without getting fatigued. The HydroGuard waterproof lining passed our tests with flying colors and kept our feet completely dry even when walking through a foot of snow. The traction held up well to cold, wet, and snowy conditions, too. As one would expect for the price, the construction and quality of these boots is exceptional, with no signs of wear and tear and none likely to show for years to come. Choose yours in black or Polo tan.

The Details: Sizes 7 to 14 | Leather upper, textile lining, synthetic sole

Despite being taller and more robust than many of the options on this list, these boots are surprisingly light.

They’re rated to -40 degrees Fahrenheit and can get a little too warm in milder weather.

Our first impression of the Kamik Men’s Nationplus Boots was that they are very well made, especially considering their reasonable price tag. They’re practical rather than particularly fashionable and ideal for winter yard work or casual outdoor fun. The seam-sealed, sustainable suede and rubber upper passed our waterproofing test with full marks. The boots are tall with a 10-inch shaft designed to stop snow from getting in over the top. Despite their height, we found them extremely comfortable and easy to walk in, although we wish the upper was a little more flexible.

They’re rated for -40 degree weather with a removable thermal insulation liner. We were always warm — in fact our feet got a little sweaty at times because the weather we tested in was relatively mild. The rubber sole is chunky yet surprisingly lightweight, offering great traction that our team member compared to “having off-road tires on [his] feet.” Colors range from dark brown to tan or charcoal, and there are some half-size and wide-fit versions available. After three months of tests, we noticed a little scuffing around the soles but no damage otherwise.

The Details: Sizes 7 to 12 | 2 pounds | Suede and rubber upper, rubber sole

These boots are comfortable, practical, and built to last with a high-quality design that has been perfected over the course of the last 100 years.

The laces are too short to lace all the way up and still have enough left over to tie comfortably.

The L.L.Bean Men’s Maine Hunting Shoes are a brand original that was first launched in 1912. In the century since, they have gone through many revisions and improvements but still offer the same moccasin-like sole for unparalleled connectivity with the ground beneath your feet. The leather upper molds to your leg for a custom fit and at 12 inches in height, provides plenty of protection from the elements. The boots kept our feet warm without sweating and stayed dry when we wore them through shallow creek crossings and a foot of snow. Three months of testing later, they continue to maintain their warmth and water resistance.

When kneeling or bending deeply, we could feel some stiffness in the leather. However, the boots were comfortable from day one although we only felt that they were fully broken in after around 10 wears. A steel shank provides superior arch support and stability over rough ground, while the rubber sole was grippy enough that we felt confident even in muddy and icy conditions. We were able to walk for hours without tiring, and we think that these boots will last for many years. They come in just one color: brown.

The Details: Sizes 7 to 14 | 3.8 pounds | Leather upper, rubber sole

Here are some other boots that we’d give honorable mentions to, although we found some minor setbacks during testing.

Eddie Bauer Women's Hunt Pac Deluxe Boot: We felt that these boots offered just the right blend of style and durability, with good traction, support, and high-quality materials. They kept our feet perfectly dry but were colder than expected when walking through snowy slush.

Nautica Men's Channing Duck Boot: These boots offered great traction and were fully waterproof and lighter than expected. However, we found the insole a little too stiff and noticed that the rubber part of the boot was easily scratched.

Our Travel + Leisure team tested 19 pairs of duck boots, first examining the laces, straps, soles, and hardware. We wore each pair on at least three outings during our initial testing period, wearing them for at least 1-2 hours per use, taking notes on comfort, traction, and breathability. We wore them in wet and cold weather whenever possible, walking around in the rain or snow, jumping in puddles, and putting their waterproofing abilities and traction to the test. In cases where we couldn't wear them in the rain, we stuffed the boots with paper towels and ran the exterior under a steady stream of water in a sink or bathtub, then let the boot sit for 5 minutes. After 5 minutes, we took the paper towels out to see if they got wet at all through the boot.

We also included two additional shoe picks from separate T+L tests for men's snow boots and women's snow boots (the "best winter boot" options on the above list), which had similar testing processes. Our staff members will continue to test the duck boots for an additional period of six months to make sure they stay durable and comfortable over time. We will update this list if our findings should change.

While aesthetics are obviously important, your main reason for buying a pair of duck boots is probably for protection against the elements. Choosing boots that have been well made from high-quality materials is the best way to ensure peak performance in poor weather while also getting the best possible value for money. Sealed seams are the key to reliable waterproofing, especially where the boots’ rubber shell meets the leather upper.

Leather should be the premium, full-grain kind, while fabric areas should be made from long-lasting, hard-wearing synthetics such as polyester or nylon. Hardware (including eyelets, zippers, and D-ring attachments) should be rust-proof for maximum longevity. The best outsoles are made from rubber compounds that have been developed to withstand freezing temperatures — vital in winter gear like men's snow boots. Vibram is one example, though many brands have their own names.

Although the basic elements of a duck boot are consistent from one pair to the next, they are not all made equal. Think about what you want yours for — particularly the kind of weather you’re most likely to encounter and your preferred activities. If you’re planning on going hiking or working outside in icy conditions, prioritize aggressive traction and ample arch and ankle support. Will you be wearing them occasionally or every day for hours at a time? If the latter, a cushioned, energy-returning midsole and a light to medium weight will help stave off fatigue. If you mostly want them for running errands or socializing in the city, you can probably get away with sacrificing some of these elements in favor of a more fashion-forward design.

If you’ll be wearing your duck boots in extreme cold, we recommend opting for at least 200 grams of insulation, snow cuffs to keep the weather out, and fully waterproof uppers to protect against deep snow. The taller the boots are, the more protective and insulative they will be. However, if you live in or plan on traveling to a destination with slightly milder winters, a shorter boot offers better freedom of movement and a lighter, less-tiring weight. There are ways to get the best of both worlds. Shorter duck boots with a D-ring attachment allow you to add gaiters when the weather worsens, while those with a removable insulated liner can be adapted according to the conditions.

The duck boot was invented in 1911 by one Leon Leonwood Bean when he combined the lightweight flexibility of a pair of leather uppers with the waterproof ruggedness of a rain boot sole. The hybrid design quickly became popular among Bean’s fellow outdoorsmen and in the century since, has gone through countless innovations to become a winter footwear staple known for both style and functionality. Any boot that combines a rubber outsole and shell with a leather upper is now known as a duck boot.

Although some duck boots are made for warmer weather and therefore lack the insulation necessary to keep you warm in the snow, others are made expressly for this purpose. Duck boots that are suitable for snow will be fully waterproof with sealed seams and a breathable, waterproof membrane that lets sweat evaporate while keeping precipitation out. They should have snow cuffs or a way of tightening the collar to exclude the cold and wet, and are often taller than standard duck boots. A rugged sole with plenty of traction is also key.

The majority of high-quality duck boots are designed to be a type of fully waterproof boot, with sealed seams and a waterproof membrane. Some may only be water-resistant, however, or waterproof up to a certain height (usually where the rubber shell meets the leather upper). These boots will typically be marketed as fashion footwear for use in the city rather than hiking or yard work. Although they won’t hold up to plowing through snow drifts or jumping in puddles, they will likely still keep your feet dry when navigating slushy streets or in light rain.

Jessica Macdonald has been writing about travel and outdoor gear for more than a decade and knows firsthand the value of a good pair of duck boots after years of caring for dogs and horses through soggy U.K. winters. The products in this article were selected according to extensive industry research and the results of real-life tests carried out by the T+L team.

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