If you are looking for the best boots for Iceland, the most important things you need to consider are your time of visit, the fit, and insulation, among others. Below, I have handpicked my favorite products based on these features. So, read on to learn more about why they might matter to you.
I have been to the gorgeous country of Iceland a few years ago, and one thing that I regretted during my first trip was when I wore inappropriate footwear. I was not expecting how quickly the weather could change and how treacherous the trails are. By the end of my hiking excursions, my feet were wet and full of blisters from the harsh conditions.
Fortunately, I have learned my lesson and realized that wearing the proper footwear could have made a huge difference. That is why when I went to Iceland for the second time, I made sure that I brought comfortable hiking boots.
Below, I will discuss my favorite products in detail. I will also include a list of their pros and cons, so you can easily compare them with one another.
And if you aren’t sure about how to choose don’t worry! I will also guide you through the factors to consider when purchasing the best boots for Iceland. To wrap things up, I will answer some of the frequently asked questions about boots in general.
Continue reading on to learn more about these and more!
Why You Need a Good Pair of Hiking Boot for Your Trip to Iceland
Before I discuss my top picks, I would first like to talk about the benefits of wearing a quality pair of boots for Iceland.
As I previously mentioned, the weather in Iceland can change quickly, especially when visiting in January. Although temperatures rarely go below zero, it can get very cold. But it is the wind, rain, and snow that will affect you the most.
Besides the unpredictable weather, Iceland is known for its uninhabitable terrain that consists mostly of mountain peaks, plateaux, and lowlands. It can be difficult to hike due to the challenging trails.
Hence, it is important to invest in high-quality hiking boots when visiting Iceland. They can protect your feet from the cold and improve stability on various terrains. Some models are also waterproof, which allows you to hike on snow and ice with confidence. Finally, they can provide soft cushioning and ankle or heel support to ensure comfortable wear throughout the day.
A Quick Comparison of Our Favorites
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Top 7 Best Hiking Boots for Iceland in Winter or Summer
In my opinion, here are the best hiking boots for Iceland, whether you are visiting during the winter or summer. Each pair of hiking shoes have enough insulation and grippy outsoles to improve your overall hiking experience in this beautiful country.
1. Columbia Women’s Ice Maiden II Snow Boot – Editor’s Pick for Women
The first product in this list of the best Iceland hiking boots is the Columbia Women’s Ice Maiden II Snow Boot.
These winter boots use textile and genuine leather upper. Both these materials offer durability and waterproofing. Together with the seam-sealed membrane, this pair of snow boots can keep your feet dry when hiking in Iceland.
Additionally, these waterproof boots come with 200 grams of insulation. Hence, they can provide much-needed warmth in the snow.
Meanwhile, the lace-up closure allows for an adjustable yet secure fit. Plus, the faux fur collar can keep snow and other debris from entering the boots.
Furthermore, these snow boots for Iceland feature a Techlite lightweight midsole. It provides high energy return and superior cushioning to ensure long-lasting comfort.
On top of all these benefits, the Omni-Grip advanced traction rubber sole gives you greater stability on various surfaces. It can ultimately prevent you from slipping on the ice.
Finally, most reviews for this pair of waterproof hiking boots were positive. If there is any critique, it would be the narrow size of the boots, which might not be ideal for those with wide feet. A few users also said that the traction of the winter shoes on pure snow is relatively weak.
The pros far outweigh the cons, though. For this reason, I deemed the Ice Maiden II Snow Boot as the best women’s winter boots when visiting Iceland.
Pros:
- Waterproof leather and textile construction can keep your feet dry
- The boots have 200g of insulation to provide substantial warmth in cold weather
- A Techlite lightweight midsole for long-lasting comfort
- Lace-up closure allows adjustable and secure fit
- Omni-Grip advanced traction rubber sole for stability on various terrains
Cons:
- The boots tend to run narrow, which might not be ideal for those with wide feet
- A few users said that the traction on pure snow is relatively weak
2. Columbia Women’s Ice Maiden Shorty Snow Boot – Runner-Up
If you like the previous product but prefer an ankle-high fit, consider getting the Columbia Women’s Ice Maiden Shorty Snow Boot.
These winter boots feature the same waterproof leather and textile construction. There is also a seam-sealed membrane that can keep your feet dry and comfortable throughout the day.
Additionally, the 200g insulation provides much-needed warmth during windy or cold conditions. It is rated at -25°F (-32°C), ideal for your winter vacation to Iceland.
Furthermore, the soft faux fur collar can keep snow and other debris from entering the boots. Meanwhile, the lacing aglets make it easier to adjust and secure the fit of the hiking shoes.
Plus, these hiking boots for Iceland have a leather reinforced toe and heel. It can protect your feet from shock and injuries.
As for the midsole, this pair of hiking boots use Techlite technology for long-lasting comfort, superior cushioning, and high energy return.
Finally, the Omni-GRIP non-marking traction rubber outsole gives you strong traction on most ground surfaces. Hence, there is no need to worry about slipping or falling on the snow.
Despite these advantages, it is essential to learn the downsides of this pair of hiking boots for Iceland. First, the sizing tends to run small, so you might want to order a larger size than usual. Second, a few users said that the insulation was not enough to keep their feet warm.
Nevertheless, the Ice Maiden Shorty Snow Boot is still worth considering. These hiking boots combine both function and style that can complement your winter wear.
Pros:
- 100% leather and textile construction offers function and style
- 200g insulation can keep your feet warm in cold weather
- Faux fur collar and reinforced toe/heel area protects your feet against outdoor elements
- Lightweight midsole with superior cushioning and high energy return for long-lasting comfort
- Omni-GRIP non-marking traction rubber outsole provides strong grip on different terrains
Cons:
- The sizing runs small, so it is best to order a larger size than usual
- A few users said that the insulation was not enough to keep their feet warm
3. Bogs Men’s Classic High Waterproof Insulated Rain Boot – Editor’s Pick for Men
Men planning to visit Iceland during fall or winter can consider investing in the Bogs Men’s Classic High Waterproof Insulated Rain Boot.
This pair of boots use neoprene and natural hand-lasted rubber construction. Both materials provide a form-fitting upper that can provide maximum support and movement. At the same time, they ensure a 100% waterproof build.
Additionally, the shaft measures around 12 inches from the arch. Hence, it can keep dirt, snow, and other debris from entering the boots.
What’s more, the four-way stretch inner bootie and large boot opening make it easy to take the boots on and off.
Plus, these insulated boots are comfort rated from temperate to -40˚F or sub-zero conditions. Hence, they can provide substantial warmth on cold, snow days.
On top of all these benefits, Bogs feature a non-slip and self-cleaning rubber sole. It gives you much-needed stability on uneven or slippery surfaces.
However, before buying these boots, it is best to check their downsides. First, the boots are relatively heavy and bulky, which can be clunky for long walks. Second, some users said that it took some time to break in the boots completely. So, expect your first few wears to be slightly uncomfortable.
Overall, though, the Bogs Men’s Classic High Waterproof Insulated Rain Boot is among the best boots for Iceland today. It is my top pick for male hikers and tourists.
Pros:
- Natural hand-lasted rubber and neoprene construction offers waterproofing and durability
- Stretchable inner material makes it easy to take the boots on and off
- The insulation is comfort rated from temperate to -40˚F or sub-zero conditions
- Contoured fit for maximum support and movement
- Non-slip, non-marking, and self-cleaning rubber outsoles
Cons:
- Relatively heavy, bulky, loose-fitting boots might be clunky for long walks
- It requires a lengthy break-in period, which might be uncomfortable to wear during the first few times
4. Sperry Women’s Saltwater Snow Boot
The Sperry Women’s Saltwater Snow Boot is another excellent pair of boots worth considering for your trip to Iceland.
These snow boots feature both leather and nylon upper with a waterproof rubber exterior. These materials ensure durability and flexibility that can last you for a long time.
Additionally, the micro-fleece lining and cushioned insole provide much-needed warmth and comfort. Together with the 200g Thinsulate insulation, these hiking boots can effectively combat cold and wet water, ideal for winters in Iceland.
As for the fit, the shaft contours your feet for all-day comfort. Plus, the rawhide lacing system with rustproof eyelets guarantees a secure fit.
There is even a side zipper closure, so you can easily take the winter boots on and off.
Finally, these boots have a non-marking rubber outsole with IceTREAD technology. This innovation can provide a strong grip on snow and ice.
There are still a few cons to this product, though. First, some customers said that the laces were flimsy, which makes it pretty difficult to adjust the fit. Second, a few users reported receiving fake shoes, so make sure to check the tags.
With that said, the Sperry Women’s Saltwater Snow Boot is still one of the best hiking boots for Iceland. I really appreciate its duck-inspired look and all-terrain outsoles.
Pros:
- Leather and nylon upper with waterproof rubber exterior for durability and flexibility
- Micro-fleece lining and cushioned insole ensure all-day comfort
- Rawhide lacing with rustproof eyelets for a secure fit
- A side zipper closure makes it easy to wear the boots
- Non-marking rubber outsoles with IceTREAD technology to provide strong traction on snow
Cons:
- Some customers had difficulty putting on the boots and taking them off due to the flimsy laces
- A few users received fake shoes, so make sure to check the tags
5. Timberland Women’s White Ledge Mid Ankle Boot
Women who want to hike in Iceland during the summer can consider buying the Timberland Women’s White Ledge Mid Ankle Boot.
It features 100% leather construction from an LWG silver-rated tannery. This material gives the boots a classic and feminine look that can complement most everyday wear. Besides aesthetics, the leather is also waterproof and durable, which can last you for years to come.
Additionally, these hiking boots have a padded collar and a fully-gusseted tongue for all-day comfort. At the same time, the tongue can keep dirt and debris out.
Moreover, this pair of boots for Iceland come with rustproof and speed lace hardware with lace hooks at the top. Together with the large ten-inch boot opening, they easily allow an adjustable yet secure fit.
Plus, the dual-density EVA midsole offers lightweight and shock-absorbing cushioning for optimal ankle support. Thus, there is no need to worry about encountering rough terrain with these hiking boots.
Lastly, Timberland Mid Ankle Boots use a rubber lug outsole to ensure excellent traction on various surfaces.
Despite these benefits, there are still a few cons worth considering. First, the leather material can easily get scruffed. Second, some users said that the boots chafed their ankles, even after the break-in period.
Nevertheless, the Timberland Women’s White Ledge Mid Ankle Boot is still among the best hiking boots for Iceland.
Pros:
- Leather construction offers attractive design and durability
- The padded collar and tongue can keep dirt and debris out for all-day comfort
- Rustproof and speed lace hardware with lace hooks for an adjustable yet secure fit
- Lightweight and shock-absorbing EVA midsole
- Rubber lug outsoles can provide strong traction on different surfaces
Cons:
- The leather material easily gets scruffed
- Some users said that the boots chafed their ankles, even after the break-in period
6. Timberland Men’s Anti-Fatigue Hiking Waterproof Leather Mt. Maddsen Boot
The Timberland Men’s Anti-Fatigue Hiking Waterproof Leather Mt. Maddsen Boot packs several features ideal for hiking in Iceland.
First, these best hiking boots use a premium full-grain leather exterior. Together with the TimberDry eco-conscious waterproof membrane, they can keep your feet dry and comfortable in any weather.
Additionally, this pair of waterproof boots for Iceland boasts anti-fatigue comfort technology. Hence, they can prevent you from getting tired easily, ideal for walking for long periods.
Furthermore, the fully-gusseted tongue can keep dirt and other debris from entering the leather boots. Plus, the relatively tall shaft protects your feet from harsh outdoor elements.
As for the outsole, the Mt. Maddsen Boot uses rubber material for a strong grip on different surfaces.
Finally, Timberland offers a limited warranty on its products. Feel free to ask for a refund or return if the item did not meet your expectations.
But before finalizing your purchasing decision, it is essential to check the downsides of these hiking boots. First, they tend to be narrow, which might not be ideal for those with wide feet. Second, they lack insulation, so I would not recommend them during the winter.
Overall, though, the Mt. Maddsen Boot is among the best summer hiking boots for Iceland. It is my top pick for hiking during the summer.
Pros:
- 100% leather construction with a TimberDry eco-conscious waterproof membrane
- Anti-fatigue comfort technology offers all-day comfort
- A fully-gusseted tongue can keep dirt and debris out
- Rubber outsoles for strong traction on various terrains
- The boots come with limited warranty coverage
Cons:
- The boots tend to run narrow, which might not be ideal for those with wide feet
- The lack of insulation will not keep you warm during the winter
7. Columbia Men’s Newton Ridge Plus Ii Suede Waterproof Hiking Shoe
The last product on this list of the best boots for Iceland is the Columbia Men’s Newton Ridge Plus Ii Suede Waterproof Hiking Shoe.
It uses a combination of leather, suede, and mesh. These materials ensure a breathable, flexible, and waterproof construction.
Additionally, the supportive cushioning and durable midsoles provide a high energy return. Hence, these hiking boots can prevent you from getting tired easily.
Moreover, this pair of hiking shoes include a lace-up closure. It allows an adjustable yet secure fit throughout the day.
Plus, the contrasting color combinations deliver a trendy style that can spice up your everyday outfit.
Finally, these boots have super-grippy rubber outsoles with a multi-terrain traction system. These can help you navigate rocks, gravel, grass, and roots with relative ease.
There are still a few downsides to this pair of hiking shoes, though. First, they tend to be narrow, which might not fit those with wider feet. Second, a few users said that the back of the boots scraped their heel.
Nevertheless, the Newton Ridge Plus Ii Hiking Shoe is still worth considering. It is one of the best boots for Iceland today, especially if you plan on hiking during the summer.
Pros:
- Leather, suede, and mesh construction ensures breathability, comfort, and waterproofing
- Lightweight, durable midsoles with supportive cushioning to give you all-day comfort
- Lace-up closure offers an adjustable and secure fit
- An advanced traction rubber sole with a multi-terrain traction system for greater stability
Cons:
- The sizing tends to narrow, so get a wider size if you have wide feet
- A few users said that the back of the boots dug into their heel pretty hard
How to Choose the Best Boots for Your Trip to Iceland
By now, you probably have a basic idea about the best boots for Iceland. But if you still have difficulties choosing the right one for your needs, do not worry!
Below, I will walk you through the different factors to consider before finalizing your purchasing decision. Hopefully, by the end of this section, you will be confident enough with your choice.
Time of Visit
The first factor you need to consider is your time of visit to Iceland. It will be a large deciding factor on the type of boot you will wear. And since Iceland is known for its unpredictable weather, choosing a pair of season-appropriate shoes is essential.
Below, I will discuss the four seasons in Iceland and what you can expect to experience in each one. This way, you know the best approach to take footwear-wise.
During the winter, the northern island of the country experiences freezing temperatures as low as -10°C (14 °F). These are manageable compared to other neighboring European countries. With that said, ground conditions can vary from knee-high snow to icy marshes. That is why your regular hiking boots would not probably cut it.
It is essential to pack winter hiking boots with enough insulation and waterproofing. Besides these features, you might also want to look into the outsoles. Doing so will help keep you dry, comfortable, and safe from falling or slipping on icy ground.
In the summer season, temperatures in Iceland average at around 10°C (50°F), but it is not uncommon to go as high as 20-25°C (68-77°F) and as low as 6-9°C (43-48°F). It is not always sunny, with rain downpours and strong winds all happening in just one day. Hence, it is best to choose versatile footwear, preferably a pair with solid waterproofing and strong traction on different terrains.
Finally, both spring and fall can be unpredictable weather-wise. It is safe to go with insulated boots with a water-resistant outer material to keep your feet dry. They are ideal for those who want to try more challenging hiking trails outside Reykjavik.
Insulation
Once you have decided on the exact time or season you will visit Iceland, the next thing to consider is the insulation.
Look out for the grams of insulation the boots have. The greater the gram value, the better, as it can keep your feet warmer.
So, for instance, 200g of Thinsulate is ideal for cool mornings or windy afternoons, which often occur in the spring or fall. However, it is not enough when you are planning to visit Iceland during the winter. You will want at least 1000g of insulation to provide substantial warmth and guarantee your comfort all day long.
Waterproofing
As previously mentioned, the weather in Iceland is unpredictable, with occasional rain showers even on a summer day. So, when hiking in the country, it is likely that you will encounter muddy or wet terrains. You can get cold and wet, which leads to discomfort and other complications over time.
That is why it is essential to invest in hiking boots with waterproofing or any kind of water resistance. Choose the outer material carefully. It must be able to repel water and any moisture to guarantee your feet are dry and comfortable throughout the day.
Comfort and Fit
Besides insulation and waterproofing, you might also want to consider the fit of the boots.
Make sure to get the right size by trying them on when shopping in stores. If you are browsing boots online, you can check the sizing chart of the manufacturer to guarantee that they will fit you. Look for a pair of shoes that contour your feet and fit snugly.
It is also best to consider the width of the shoes, especially if you have narrower or wider feet than the average person. If they do not feel comfortable on your feet, you are better off returning them or getting another size.
Outsole
You should also consider the soles when buying the best boots for Iceland.
The first thing to look into is the traction. Look for a grippy outsole—Vibram, ContaGrip, or Gripex—when hiking on rocky trails. This feature will ensure stability and prevent you from slipping or sliding on uneven ground.
The next thing to consider is the thickness of the soles, which can impact the amount of traction on the boots.
Thicker soles can absorb shock more effectively, which reduces any discomfort you may feel from hiking for long periods. The downside is that they are less flexible, making it difficult to get a proper grip on rocky terrain.
In contrast, thinner soles offer flexibility, so you can move quickly across different terrains. However, they do not provide enough protection for your feet.
It is best to invest in hiking boots that have a good balance between the two.
Weight
Although this factor is not specific to Iceland, the weight of your boots has a significant impact on your comfort and speed.
Heavier hunting boots feature greater insulation and support than lightweight models. However, they tend to be bulkier, which can lead to leg fatigue far more quickly.
In contrast, lightweight boots can bring you comfort and speed. But they usually lack in the insulation and support department.
With these in mind, it might be best to find a balance between the two factors. You should also know the type of trails you plan on visiting and the time of the year. Only then will you have a better idea of which pair of boots are ideal for your needs.
Warranty
The last factor to consider when buying the best boots for Iceland is the warranty. The longer the warranty coverage, the better. It tells you how much confidence the manufacturer has over their products. Finally, it allows you to request a return or refund when the product does not meet your expectations.
Frequently Asked Questions
What shoes are best for Iceland?
The best shoes for Iceland will depend on several factors, including the time of the year and the type of terrain you are planning to visit.
But to give you a general idea, waterproof boots with rugged soles are ideal for traveling to Iceland. Even if you are just walking to the major sights on the island, you can encounter rocky or muddy trails. Hence, it is best to choose a pair of boots that can protect you against these external factors.
Do I need snow boots for Iceland?
If you are planning to visit Iceland during the winter, it is a must to pack snow boots. These have thick insulation and waterproof construction. Hence, they can keep your feet dry, warm, and comfortable throughout the day.
Do I need hiking boots for Iceland?
Yes, a solid pair of hiking boots or shoes is essential when visiting Iceland, regardless of the time of the year. They can help make your walking or hiking trips more comfortable. Plus, they usually have grippy outsoles that increase your stability on various surfaces.
Conclusion
That sums up this list of the best boots for Iceland in winter or summer. I highly recommend each one as they have proper insulation, waterproof construction, and grippy outsoles.
But if you are looking for the best boots to wear during the winter in Iceland, I specifically suggest the Columbia Women’s Ice Maiden II Snow Boot. The leather and textile construction ensures durability and waterproofing. Additionally, the 200 grams of insulation can keep you warm and dry in the snow. Moreover, the lace-up closure allows an adjustable yet secure fit. Plus, the lightweight midsoles offer superior cushioning for long-lasting comfort. Finally, the traction is strong on various terrains, owing to the Omni-Grip rubber soles.
