Arctic shoes protect feet from extreme cold temperatures and are rated to protect against -40° to -50° Fahrenheit. They are designed for function, not fashion, and come in two types: idle and active. They are typically waterproof and made with rubber and insulated materials like Thinsulate and Gore-Tex. Laces are important for fit.
Arctic shoes are designed to be worn in cold weather to protect feet from extremely cold temperatures. The rating system for arctic shoes shows the lowest temperature that the shoes protect against, which is typically -40° to -50° Fahrenheit (approximately -40° to -45.6° Celsius). Some, but not all, arctic shoes are designed to protect feet from deep snow and cold.
Other names for arctic shoes are yukon shoes, arctic boots, and pac boots. The defining qualities of arctic shoes are that they are generally designed for function and utility, not fashion. There are two basic types of shoes or boots designed for cold weather and snow: idle and active.
The first type is designed for people who sit or are relatively stationary when outdoors in cold weather. This type of arctic shoe is aimed at people who are ice fishing or waiting at a bus stop in the snow. These are generally bulkier, heavier, and taller than the other type.
A second type of arctic shoe is designed for people who are physically active and avoid deep snow. These shoes are generally lighter, better fitting, and lower than the first type. This type of footwear is mainly marketed for people who work outdoors.
All arctic shoes are typically waterproof. Melting snow can make your feet wet, making them feel colder faster. Extreme cold can cause frostbite, and having wet feet could speed up the frostbite process.
Rubber is commonly used in winter shoes and boots because it is highly durable and waterproof. In addition to its waterproof qualities, rubber can be molded in a way that makes it optimal for gripping a slippery surface. Rubber is not breathable, which can cause feet to sweat. Moisture-wicking socks are generally recommended with rubber-soled boots.
Some arctic shoes also have rubber shells. Rubber shells are molded to go around the entire foot, not just the sole. Some rubber shells attach to the top of the shoe at the ankle, while others go up the calf to form the full boot. Typically, an arctic boot with a full rubber shell will also have a removable liner.
The removable upper or lining of an arctic shoe is usually made of an insulated material designed to keep your feet warm. While the rubber keeps moisture out, the insulated material keeps heat in. Two common brand names in arctic shoe material are Thinsulate and Gore-Tex.
Thinsulate is a synthetic material that provides insulation. Traps insulated air and reflects body heat back to the foot. Thinsulate is a registered trademark of 3M Corporation.
Gore-Tex is a trademark synthetic fabric with a triple layer membrane. It is impervious to water, but still breathable. Gore-Tex keeps moisture out while allowing sweat to evaporate, helping to ensure feet stay warm and not wet.
The laces on an arctic shoe can be important to the fit. There are different styles of lanyards, including eyelets, D-rings, and hooks. The more active the wearer, the tighter the arctic shoe should be. If someone who is relatively inactive wears arctic shoes, they usually don’t need to have laces.
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