The 10 Best Duck Boots of 2024

Avoid cold, wet feet this winter

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Best duck boots collaged against green patterned background

Chloe Jeong / TripSavvy

There’s a reason duck boots are a classic option for tromping around in the mud and snow. People have been donning this traditional style to protect their feet from the elements for years. You may be most familiar with the iconic L.L.Bean duck boots (certainly highlighted below), but there are a bunch of options out there boasting warmer toes, grippier bottoms, and sleek style.

But first, let’s break down what makes a duck boot, well, a duck boot. At its most basic description, this boot style has a rubber foot and leather uppers. The entire shoe is weatherproof—it will keep you dry and warm in wet, snowy paths and environments—which is the main draw of this style. Consider how much you're willing to spend and take time to find the right fit (your feet will thank you later).

Best Overall

L.L.Bean Original Duck Boot

L.L. Bean Boot

L.L. Bean

What We Like
  • Handmade

  • Plenty of grip on icy surfaces

  • Iconic style

What We Don't Like
  • Runs small and narrow

  • Leather may be stiff at first

Madeline Bilis, travel editor and author of 50 Hikes in Eastern Massachusetts, is a diehard fan of the duck boots that set the standard for all those that came later. “As a born and bred New Englander, I’m obligated to sing the praises of Bean Boots,” she says. “They’re classics for a reason, and I’ve never once slipped on icy trails (or sidewalks!) thanks to their sturdy rubber treads. I’ve been known to sport the raven blue ones around the office, too.”

Material: Leather, rubber | Insulation: Thinsulate

Best for Hiking

L.L.Bean 6" Sherpa-Lined Boots

L.L.Bean Women's Bean Boots, 6" Sherpa-Lined PrimaLoft

L.L.Bean

What We Like
  • Updated take on the original

  • Made in the US by hand

  • Cozy without being clunky

What We Don't Like
  • Sizing can be tricky

Another style from L.L.Bean—a new, shorter boot with sherpa lining—is an excellent option for hikers looking for more flexibility with maintained ankle support. "When it comes to outdoor footwear, I always rely on the heritage brands," says travel writer Jordi Lippe-McGraw. "L.L.Bean's signature duck boots are still made by craftspeople in Maine, so my feet are guaranteed to stay warm and dry. While the design remains traditional, the brand's new sherpa-lined version of the boots in three nature-inspired hues enhances the comfort and sense of style." Available in sizes 6 through 11 and in three colorways, these duck boots pack extra warmth without adding too much bulk around your foot.

Material: Leather, rubber | Insulation: Sherpa fleece, PrimaLoft in the footbed

Best Budget

Polar Quilted Duck Boots

Polar Boots

Amazon

What We Like
  • Stylish

  • Waterproof

  • Affordable

What We Don't Like
  • Not suitable for extreme conditions

  • Grip not as good as other options

Polar’s Quilted Duck Boots come in under $50 but look far more expensive. While they don’t skimp on style, there are a couple of things to look out for: The quilted nylon will get wet, but reviewers share that it doesn’t impede the waterproof integrity of the boot (no soggy toes with these). The faux fur lining helps keep heat in the shoe, as well. With all of this in mind, these boots are an option if you won’t be battling crazy subzero temperatures. These duck boots are available in sizes up to 11 and come in three colors: black, charcoal, and tan.

Material: Synthetic, rubber | Insulation: Faux fur

Best for Outdoors

Eddie Bauer Boot

Eddie Bauer Hunt 8" Pac Boot

Eddie Bauer

What We Like
  • Sealed seams

  • Molded EVA footbed

  • Rustproof hardware

What We Don't Like
  • Takes time to break in

Look no further if you’re in the market for a pair of duck boots approved by someone who spends every day outside in some shape or form. Photographer and outdoor enthusiast Viktoria North recommends the Pac Boots from Eddie Bauer, particularly for “winter hiking and to cruise around walking in slushy, rainy weather.” The Pac Boots are available in sizes 6 through 10 and feature a waterproof full-grain leather upper exterior.

Material: Leather, rubber outsole | Insulation: 200 grams ThermaFill insulation

Best for Extreme Cold

Ugg Adirondack III Boot

Ugg Adirondack III Boot

Nordstrom

What We Like
  • Versatile

  • Plenty of tech for your money

  • Gusseted tongue with water-repellent coating

What We Don't Like
  • Pricey

  • Long break-in period

Luxury travel expert Christina Tan is a fan of the Adirondack III boots from Ugg: "I like them so much because they're comfortable yet stylish. They're designed with extra warming insulation and a cushioning insole, perfect for my flat feet, which get tired easily. Because they're waterproof, I wear them in the snow often, yet I can wear them in the city, as well." Available in sizes 5 through 12, these boots have been tested in temperatures as low as 32 below zero and have a special outsole designed to stay flexible through freezing weather.

Material: Leather, synthetic sole | Insulation: 200 grams of insulation

Best for Wide Feet

Propet Ingrid Duck Boots

Propet Boot

Walmart

What We Like
  • Vaporex insole helps retain heat

  • Wave tread pattern on outsole

  • Durable

What We Don't Like
  • Limited sizes

This waterproof duck boot comes in four widths (M, W, X, and XX) in sizes ranging from 6 through 11, making it one of the most inclusive duck boot options. Reviewers share that these boots offer a good amount of arch support, making them a comfortable option for wintertime hikers. When it comes to weatherproofing, the Ingrid boots come with a faux-fur lining and a 3M Scotchgard™ protective treatment that repels rain and snow.

Material: Nylon, suede, rubber | Insulation: 3M Thinsulate

Best for Women

Sperry Duck Boot

Sperry Saltwater Duck Boot

Macy's

What We Like
  • Microfleece lining

  • Stylish raised heel

  • Rustproof eyelets

What We Don't Like
  • Tight fitting around top of the foot

This pair of shoes from Sperry has what a lot of other duck boots do not: an easy-to-use zipper. Couple that with the more minimal approach in its overall style, and it’s much easier to build an entire outfit off these shoes…while also staying insanely warm. Available in brown/navy, brown/black, and gray/black, the boot also has a non-marking rubber sole with enhanced traction to protect against slipping. This style is offered in sizes 5 through 12 and comes in wide options.

Material: Rubber outsole | Insulation: Thinsulate

Best for Men

UGG Duck Boot

UGG Emmett Duck Boot

UGG

What We Like
  • Rated for extreme cold

  • Nimble

  • Seam-sealed construction

What We Don't Like
  • Not suitable for deep snow

At first glance, you may not even know these are tried-and-true duck boots. Ugg’s Emmett boot rises to the ankle, giving you more flexibility. These boots may be no match for tall snowdrifts, but they are weather-rated for temperatures as low as 32 below zero. The Emmett boot will feel more like a sports shoe than heavy-duty winter footwear, thanks to the lighter footprint and grippy rubber soles. These boots are available in two colors (black and stout) in sizes up to 14.

Material: Leather, rubber outsole | Insulation: Textile lining

Best for Kids

Sorel Youth Yoot Pac TP Boot

Sorel Youth Boot

Amazon

What We Like
  • Recycled felt inner boot

  • Vulcanized rubber shell

  • Lots of available sizes

What We Don't Like
  • Leg shaft is very stiff

These boots may be for smaller feet, but they pack all of the weatherproof punch you’d expect in adult duck boots. The sherpa cuff is not only a cute touch, but it keeps your little one’s feet warm through any impromptu snowball fights or stomps through fresh powder. The Youth Yoot boots are available in two colors, mesquite brown and quarry black, and come in kid sizes 1 through 7.

Material: PU-coated leather, rubber outsole | Insulation: Felt liner

Best for Comfort

L.L.Bean 8" Shearling-Lined Duck Boot

L.L. Bean Duck Boot

Amazon

What We Like
  • Lined with American shearling lamb fur

  • Made in Maine by hand

  • Versatile

What We Don't Like
  • Expensive

Available in sizes 5 through 11 and two widths (medium and wide), the extra shearling layer in these duck boots adds a cloud-like level of comfort not often found in winter footwear. You can wear this functional, stylish pair for a day spent on snowy trails or in muddy environments and then keep them on afterward to run errands or go to dinner. They're durable, stylish, warm, and comfortable due to their fuzzy interior.

Material: Leather | Insulation: Shearling fur, 200 grams PrimaLoft in the footbed

Final Verdict

There's no surprise that the boot that started it all tops our list. Handmade in Maine with supple leather uppers and grippy rubber soles, the L.L. Bean's Original Duck Boot is a classic for a reason. For a cost-effective option that delivers style and waterproof protection, go for Polar Quilted Duck Boots.

What to Look For in Duck Boots

Price

Expect to shell out at least $100 for a good pair of duck boots. Your feet will thank you the moment you hit the snow. If you’re looking for warmer boots, you’ll most likely pay more. If you’re looking to cut your budget a bit, remember that layering socks is a good alternative for warmth if you opt for cheaper, non-insulated duck boots.

Style

Most duck boots have a similar look: rubber foot and leather upper. These boots have laces, and they’re often a bit chunky looking. You can find them in all different rises, from ankle to knee-high.

Fit

You’ll want your boot to fit snugly on your foot but with enough room to layer a sock or two, depending on the level of warmth you want. If your boots are tight around your toes with a single pair of socks, consider sizing up half a size. The nice thing about duck boots is the lace-up style—you can control how tight the boot fits on your calf.

Frequently Asked Questions
  • How should I clean my boots?

    While each manufacturer has recommendations, there is a general consensus on how to keep your boots squeaky clean. Grab a sponge and soak it in warm, soapy water. Avoiding the leather sections of your boot, use the sponge to clean the rubber portions of the shoe. You’ll want to purchase a leather cleaner to keep the leather uppers clean and in good condition. You can also use a clean, dry rag to remove any moisture, mud, or dirt from your shoes. Set them aside, and don’t put them back on until they’re completely dry.

  • Should duck boots be insulated?

    This all comes down to personal preference and the environment in which you will most likely be wearing them. If you plan on wearing them in both rainy and snowy conditions, consider purchasing non-insulated duck boots so you can control the warmth by adding or taking away layers of socks. If you plan on putting your boots to the limit temperature-wise, opt for insulated boots. Most duck boots come with some sort of insulation, so pay close attention to the material description.

  • What are the best socks to wear with duck boots?

    Wool socks and other natural fibers will keep you the warmest, so think about the temperatures to which you’ll be exposing yourself. Polyester is also a great option to keep your toes toasty. Since the boots tend to reach higher on the leg, also consider a longer sock that hits above the boot, especially if you have issues with socks riding down your foot mid-stride.

  • How do I waterproof duck boots?

    While the rubber section of your boot will be naturally waterproof, you will want to prepare the leather for wet environments. Waterproofing spray for leather is easy to find and simple to apply. Some boots come with weatherproofed leather, but you’ll want to reinforce the water barrier at some point.

Why Trust TripSavvy

Erika Owen has over a decade of experience writing about travel and products. She spends much of the winter in cold weather and knows what makes an excellent winter boot. We’ve reached out to professional hikers and outdoor enthusiasts who depend on this boot style to keep them warm and dry through the harshest weather. Experts we spoke to included:

Madeline Bilis, travel editor and author of The 50 Hikes in Eastern Massachusetts, also contributed to this article.

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