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Nov 11, 2024

10 Best Winter Boots For Women 2024 - Forbes Vetted

If snow is on your winter forecast, a pair of reliable boots is a worthwhile investment. The best winter boots for women offer sufficient warmth and great traction, all while remaining comfortable

If snow is on your winter forecast, a pair of reliable boots is a worthwhile investment. The best winter boots for women offer sufficient warmth and great traction, all while remaining comfortable over long periods of time. After interviewing multiple experts and testing 14 pairs of winter boots through an entire winter season, the UGG Adirondack III Boot emerged as our pick for the best women’s winter boot overall, thanks to its premium materials and versatile design. The Sorel Joan Of Arctic is the best tall boot to handle any wintry weather, keeping feet toasty and dry.

We tested over a dozen pairs of women's winter boots to determine which were the best for handling ... [+] the elements.

The following is a list of the top winners from our testing process:

Finding the perfect pair largely depends on the activities you do and the conditions you’ll face: Those in need of a slip-proof boot should look for ones with a grippy outsole, like the Muck Boot Company Arctic Ice, while those who live in particularly wet climates need a waterproof rain boot like the Cougar Ignite. We picked a range of other options to suit every lifestyle, too, whether you plan on shoveling the driveway, commuting on slushy streets or partaking in an outdoor activity. Below, find the 10 best winter boots for women, as well as three picks that didn’t make the final cut but are still worthy of our recommendation.

Ugg

Sizes: 5 to 12 | Materials: Suede and leather | Colors: 3 total, including Chestnut and Mustard Seed | Insulation: 200g DryTech insulation, wool | Outsole: White Spider Rubber | Shaft height: 7 inches | Waterproof: Yes

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The UGG Adirondack III Boot is an impressively well-made boot with exceptional performance across the board. The durable construction is bolstered by high-end materials like leather, suede and natural wool, along with detailed stitching that gives it a premium feel. In addition to being some of the warmest boots on this list, they’re comfortable right out of the box and have stayed looking fresh after an entire season of testing. One of the best parts of this boot is that you get the versatility of choosing between wearing them with the cuff rolled up or down, allowing them to best suit the activity you’re doing and giving you two style options to pair with your outfits.

The Adirondack III boots are capable of handling anything winter throws at them. They’re tall enough (and sit tight enough to the leg) to keep deeper snow out, and they’re not too stiff, providing a relaxed and comfortable feel when walking city streets and snow-covered trails. With the cuff rolled down, you do give up some heat retention, but you gain more freedom of movement for activities like snow shoveling or dog walking.

The UGG Adirondack III are tall enough to keep deeper snow out while providing a relaxed and ... [+] comfortable feel when walking city streets and snow-covered trails.

As mentioned in our full review of this boot, UGG gives the Adirondack III a temperature rating of -25.6 degrees Fahrenheit. While we wouldn’t recommend taking them on a polar expedition, they’re plenty warm for most activities. Among the boots we tested, they kept feet the toastiest in winter temps down to around 0 degrees Fahrenheit (if your winter isn’t that cold, they might even be too warm). They handle slush and wet snow without issue, with the insulation keeping feet dry and warm even when conditions outdoors are wet, and while not as grippy as The Original Muck Boot Arctic Ice Muck Boots, the sole on the Adirondack III was grippy enough to prevent slipping on ice.

They do take a little more care to clean because of the suede (which may also be prone to salt staining if you’re walking city blocks), but after a winter of wear, the boots have held up incredibly well, with the treads still looking well defined, the stitching intact and no shedding of the wool lining.

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Amazon

Sizes: 5 to 11 | Materials: Full-grain leather and ballistic nylon | Colors: 4 total, including Timber Tan and Clay Grey | Insulation: 200g Heatseeker Eco Pro | Outsole: Rubber | Shaft height: 10 inches | Waterproof: Yes

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The North Face Shellista IV excels as a winter boot due to its impressive warmth-to-weight ratio, all-around practicality and stylish design. (The brand has since discontinued this version of the boot and updated it with the newer Shellista V, which is pictured above.) Priced around $100 lower than our top overall choice—the UGG Adirondack III—the Shellista offers exceptional value while keeping feet warm, dry and comfortable in snowy and slushy conditions. The higher shaft, coupled with a lacing system that allows for a secure fit at the top, effectively keeps snow out, making them ideal for activities like shoveling driveways or trekking through deep powder. Plus, the boots’ sleek profile allows for easy concealment under pants when in town.

The North Face Shellista IV were some of the lightest boots we tested.

The 200 grams of mostly recycled polyester insulation ensures efficient heat retention, while the padded tongue provides extra warmth and comfort to the top of the foot. They weren’t as warm as the Manitobah or UGG winter boots, but they were plenty warm for a 2-hour walk in 25-degree weather. Given how durable and protective they are, they were among the lightest boots of the ones we tested, which makes them easier to walk in for long periods.

Although the Shellistas may not match the Arctic Ice Muck Boots’ performance on slippery ice or have the high-end aesthetic of UGG boots, they excel at keeping feet dry when standing in ankle-deep running water. The boots shed moisture, thanks to their construction with full-grain leather and nylon, which also allows for easy cleaning.

Sorel

Sizes: 5 to 12 | Materials: Leather and synthetic materials | Colors: 12 total, including Fawn and Cattail | Insulation: Recycled felt inner boot, 2.5mm bonded frost plug, faux fur trim | Outsole: Rubber | Shaft height: 12 inches | Waterproof: Yes

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With a shaft height of 12 inches, the Joan Of Arctic boot from Sorel keeps calves as warm as feet. The pair has a temperature rating of -25 degrees Fahrenheit, so you can expect them to stand up to seriously cold temperatures. Combining a felt inner lining (that’s washable and removable) with a bonded frost plug and a faux fur trim, these boots do an excellent job of retaining heat and keeping moisture out. The upper is constructed of waterproof suede, which felt soft and already broken in. The lace-up design also ensures a secure fit; just keep in mind that taking these on and off does take some effort. Also, the lower portion of the boot is a bit heavy due to the durable rubber, which is a tradeoff for the extra protection against sleet and snow.

Amazon

Sizes: 5 to 12 | Materials: Leather and textile | Colors: 5 total, including Dove and Elk | Insulation: 200g insulation | Outsole: Rubber | Shaft height: 9 inches | Waterproof: Yes

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The quilted panels on these Columbia boots provide ankle support without sacrificing flexibility. Columbia’s signature Techlite midsole makes these boots extremely comfortable, while a layer of insulation ensures your feet stay warm. During testing, we found this style to be incredibly comfortable and lightweight.

The price is also quite reasonable, with the only downside being that these boots are not fully lined inside with the faux fur that’s on the trim. However, there’s a very cozy felt interior liner that’s perfectly acceptable. Unlike some mid-calf boots that are stiff and hard to walk in, the Ice Maiden II boots felt flexible and nimble on the go. The seam-sealed leather can stand up to wet snow and rain, while the Omni-Grip rubber outsole allows you to easily tread across slippery surfaces. We also appreciate that this boot comes in a variety of black, brown and gray hues and patterns.

Nordstrom

Sizes: 5 to 11 | Materials: Full-grain leather and suede | Colors: Oak | Insulation: Sheepskin shearling | Outsole: Rubber and EVA | Shaft height: 8 inches | Waterproof: Yes

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Manitobah Mukluks was founded in Winnipeg, Manitoba, which is known for its incredibly cold and harsh winters, and if the Pacific Half Winter Boots can keep feet warm there, they can keep them warm just about anywhere. They merge traditional mukluk style with contemporary materials, and while not the most agile boots in this lineup, they have the slipper-like comfort the brand’s moccasins are known for. They can be worn all day, whether you’re standing, walking or playing outdoors.

Much like the UGG Adirondack III boots, the heavy leather and shearling lining worked well to trap heat inside the boots, keeping them comfortable even while standing around in frigid weather. After a two-hour walk, the temperature inside the boot never dipped down. And because sheepskin shearling does an exceptional job of temperature regulation, they didn’t cause feet to overheat, either. They’re rated by the brand to -1 degree Fahrenheit, but they’re warmer than some boots with a much lower temperature rating.

They’ve also got a handful of details that make them more unique than other boots we wore, like the rubber and EVA sole designed by Haida artist John Brent Bennett that leaves gorgeous footprints in the snow. The thick leather laces aren’t as easy to tie or get tight as standard laces, but when left a bit loose, they slip on and off t does leave potential for snow to fall in through the top).

They passed the ankle-deep water test, but given the leather and suede details, they’re best suited to dry climates where they won’t have to contend with too much sleet and slush. They are prone to staining, especially if you walk salt-covered city streets, so they require a little more care to keep them looking fresh, but it’s worth it for the comfort and warmth they provide.

Nordstrom

Sizes: 6 to 12 | Materials: Rubber | Colors: 2 total, including Black and Dark Green | Insulation: 7mm Neo-Tech waterproof insulation, faux fur lining | Outsole: Rubber | Shaft height: 8.5 inches | Waterproof: Yes

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If staying extra warm and dry is a priority for you, then you’ll want to consider Bogs’ Arcata boots. Featuring 7mm of Neo-Tech waterproof insulation and a soft faux fur lining, the boot is designed to keep feet toasty in temperatures as low as -58 degrees Fahrenheit. Plus, an inner bootie with four-way stretch keeps excess moisture at bay, so you don’t have to worry about any unwanted odors.

Overall, these were a favorite pair to keep on for long periods of time throughout the day; the inner lining is so comfortable and the traction is excellent on this pair, no matter if you’re trudging through snow or commuting in sleet. The signature pull-on design, a common feature among Bog boots, makes it convenient and hassle-free to get these boots on and off. Although some moisture can potentially seep in through the hand-grip holes on the sides, the faux fur trim does a good job at providing a buffer. Because this boot is so insulated, however, it may not be the best pick for those who live in milder climates.

Nordstrom

Sizes: 6 to 11 | Materials: Rubber | Colors: 2 total, including Black and Green | Insulation: Faux shearling lining | Outsole: Rubber | Shaft height: 6 inches | Waterproof: Yes

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With a cozy faux shearling lining, this rubber rain boot is both stylish and practical for keeping your feet and ankles warm while offering excellent waterproof protection. In addition to being a rain boot, the Cougar Ignite also has a temperature rating of -14 degrees Fahrenheit, which means it’ll stand up to sleet and snow as well. The goring on the sides ensures a snug fit without the need for laces. The faux shearling lining also prevents the rubber from digging into skin—a common issue often found with rain boots—so the comfort level here is also great. The lug sole felt very grippy on pavement in the early morning, which is often when it’s slipperiest. Just note that fit on the Ignite is snug due to the shearling lining. If you have a medium-sized foot it won’t be an issue, especially if you wear these with thin socks.

Sorel

Sizes: 5 to 12 | Materials: Suede | Colors: 5 total, including Tawny Buff and Black | Insulation: Textile lining | Outsole: Rubber | Shaft height: 4 inches | Waterproof: No

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For those who want a boot that’s sleek and casual, this wedge option from Sorel is our top choice. It has a soft suede upper and a fabric lining, offering light insulation from the cold—for this reason, it’s a better fit for locations with milder winters. The rubber outsole provides plenty of traction on slippery surfaces, while the goring on the sides ensures a snug fit without any break-in time required. Style-wise, you can pair the sleek Out N Abouts with jeans and dressy slacks and wear them straight through the evening without needing to change for dinner. While these definitely won’t carry you through several inches of snow, they stayed comfortable after several hours of walking. That, combined with their slim profile, makes them great travel shoes, too.

The Original Muck Boot Company

Sizes: 5 to 11 | Materials: Rubber and neoprene | Colors: Black | Insulation: 5mm neoprene with fleece lining | Outsole: Vibram Arctic Grip All Terrain with XS Trek Evo | Shaft height: 12 inches | Waterproof: Yes

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For cold weather boots that can flex between snow, ice and rain, the Arctic Ice Muck Boots are durable, warm and have the best slip resistance of any boot we tested. The neoprene and rubber construction is fully waterproof, and while they’re not as cozy as the sheepskin-lined UGG or Manitobah boots, the additional fleece lining is sufficient if you’re being active. This makes them great for shoveling snow and doing yard work, and they’re fairly lightweight given how rugged they look.

Multiple experts told us that this style’s outsole would be one of the grippiest out there, and it was. The broad, deep lugs along with the embedded fibers in the rubber allowed them to outshine all other boots in our traction tests, which included walking across a skating rink and scaling a wet, slippery ramp.

Thanks to the broad, deep lugs of the grippy outsole, the Arctic Ice Muck Boots outshined all other ... [+] boots in our traction tests.

These mid-calf boots were the tallest we tested (the shaft height is 12 inches), covering more of the leg and providing better protection in deep snow. They lack built-in handles like those found in the similarly designed Bogs, which is better for keeping snow out. However, there was a slight gap between the leg and the stretchy neoprene top, which did allow some snow to fall in when shoveling. They do have pull tabs, but getting them on and off can be done hands-free, which is extra convenient if your arms are full and you need to remove them.

The Arctic Ice Muck Boots are also incredibly durable, and after one winter of testing, they appear almost new. They lack the stylish factor and don’t pair as well with everyday outfits, and they could do without the small hits of bright pink that signify they’re the women’s model, which may not appeal to everyone.

Blundstone

Sizes: 6 to 11 | Materials: Full-grain leather | Colors: Rustic Brown and Black | Insulation: Thinsulate with removable sheepskin footbed | Outsole: TPU | Shaft height: 7 inches | Waterproof: Yes

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Blundstone has a big following, and its thermal boot holds true to its versatile Chelsea design that people love, but with Thinsulate insulation and a shearling footbed to make it a worthy boot for moderate winter climates. The classic look makes them suitable for both work and leisure, so you can wear them while commuting to the office, running errands and going out to dinner. Most fans online cite Blundstone’s immediate comfort as a reason for loving them, but they need a few wears before breaking in. Once they mold to your foot, they’re comfortable enough to wear for an entire day on your feet, and they only get better with wear.

The Blundstones are great for daily commutes or running errands where you won’t be out in the cold ... [+] for extended periods, plus they offer a sleek, minimalist look that pairs well with various outfits.

The elastic side panels and pull tabs make slipping them on and off quick and convenient. Even though they have the lowest shaft height of any boots on this list, they offer better protection from the snow than some of the higher options because they suction tight to the ankle. This, combined with the waterproof leather construction and latex sealed seams, makes it difficult for snow or water to find a way in.

The downside to the thermal Blundstone boots is that they have average warmth and traction. They were sufficiently warm when walking, but when standing still, they didn’t provide as much insulation as others, so we wouldn’t recommend them for really cold temperatures. However, for daily commutes or running errands (where you won’t be out in the cold for extended periods), these boots offer a sleek, minimalist look that pairs well with various outfits. You also get more wear throughout the year, making these a solid three-season choice.

Sorel

Sizes: 5 to 12 | Materials: Leather, shearling and wool | Colors: 4 total including Velvet Tan and Black | Insulation: 200g insulation, wool | Outsole: Rubber | Shaft height: 7.25 inches | Waterproof: Yes

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Now upgraded to the Tivoli Parc V (pictured above), we tested the now-discontinued Sorel Tivoli Parc IV, where it landed in between our top pick, the UGG Adirondack IIIs, and our more affordable pick, The North Face Shellista IV. At the time of testing, the Parc IVs were more expensive but performed about the same as The North Face boots, albeit with a more stylish look and a higher-quality feel. For a slight step up in price, the UGGs outperformed the Sorels in comfort and versatility because the cuff on the UGGs rolls down, giving you two styling options. (Similarly, the Parc Vs have an over-$200 price tag.) That said, these are great boots, so if the style speaks to you, they’re plenty warm, have decent traction and are well constructed.

We tried three additional pairs of winter boots, and while they didn’t fare as well in our tests for one reason or another, they did make the initial cut to be considered. And because they each shone in their own impressive way, they might still be a solid choice for you depending on your own personal preferences.

Columbia Keetley Shorty Boot: These have 200 grams of insulation plus Columbia’s Omni-Heat Infinity technology, which adds a heat-retaining space-blanket type material to the inside of the boot. They’re ankle height, so not the best for deep snow, and the tongue design is a little frustrating; rather than lay flat against my leg to block snow, it falls forward, and during one snowfall it acted as a snow catcher, funneling snow down into the top of the shoe.

Bogs Classic Mid Snow Boot: Because these have integrated handles to pull them on, snow can make its way into the boot if trudging through deeper trenches. They’re just as warm as the Arctic Ice Muck Boots and look less clunky, so if you’re in a mild climate that doesn’t see a lot of snow or ice, they’re three-season wearable, from fall through spring.

Xtratuf Insulated Legacy Lace Boot: Xtratuf is known for its storm-proof slip-on rubber boots that cater to blistery, wet coastal winters. These lace-up boots aren’t as waterproof as the Arctic Ice Muck Boots, and on slick, wet ice, they’re not great, a test that the Arctic Ice Muck Boots aced. There are better rugged winter boots on my list, and more stylish everyday boots, which is why these didn’t take a top spot.

We focused on versatile, everyday boots that can handle different winter activities, and each had the features most people need to keep their feet warm, dry and comfortable outdoors. Co-author Roberts tested nine pairs of boots, wearing the same pair of Darn Tough Merino Wool Hiking Socks with each. Forbes Vetted deputy editor Kari Molvar tested out an additional five pairs of boots, keeping in mind the same factors as Roberts when making her observations.

We tried the boots on and took notes about fit and comfort. They were worn for extended periods during outdoor activities, daily errands and dog walks. Roberts spent a minimum of two hours in each pair of boots walking three to five miles on snow-covered trails. The boots were worn for multiple days running errands, which included school drop-offs, park adventures and navigating slippery city sidewalks and slushy streets.

At the KITE Research Institute, they rate traction with the Maximum Achievable Angle Test, which sees harnessed participants attempting to walk on a sheet of ice that gradually raises on an incline. KITE tests on both wet and cold ice, and Roberts did her best to replicate these tests by walking on skating-rink ice (wearing a helmet and protective pads), as well as making a slippery incline using a slide, hard-packed snow and water, scoring each pair on grip.

We noted the perceived warmth of the boots, and Roberts used a digital thermometer with a temperature gauge sensor tucked under her foot. She recorded the temperature of my foot when she stepped outside, after one hour and again after two hours. She tested the waterproofing of each boot by standing in ankle-deep water for five minutes, before removing the boots to check for moisture penetration.

The boots were scored on design and practicality, looking at how easy they were to get on and off and lace up, and whether they were able to keep snow out. At the end of the winter season, the durability of each boot was evaluated by scrutinizing the construction, looking for signs of damage and wear.

Winter boots come in many different constructions—short, tall, lightweight, heavy-duty, mildly insulated, extreme warmth and everything in between. Different boot styles will work better for different climates and activities, so start by choosing a winter boot that suits your lifestyle. When looking at features, here’s what the experts recommend paying close attention to:

Winter boot insulation is key; it creates a barrier, preventing heat loss and keeping feet cozy. But just how much you need depends on individual preferences, the climate you’ll be exposed to and the activities you’ll be undertaking. Around 200 grams of insulation is the standard in casual everyday winter boots. If you have a tendency to get cold, always opt for the warmer option. Look for boots with high-quality heat-retaining materials like Thinsulate, PrimaLoft, wool or felt. Insulated linings, such as fleece, faux fur or shearling can provide extra warmth and comfort, especially if you’re standing or sitting outdoors. Many winter boots will have a temperature rating, which will give you an indication of how cold a temperature you’ll be able to stay comfortable at, but there’s no standardization among brands, and the ratings are not always accurate, so take them as a rough guideline.

All the experts we spoke with stressed the importance of having winter boots with excellent grip (slipping on ice is the number one cause of winter injury). Like with temperature ratings, “There’s no international standard to test winter footwear,” says Sophia Li, a staff scientist and manager at University Health Network’s KITE Research Institute, “Manufacturers are able to label their winter footwear anyway they want, so consumers have no idea which footwear is good for icy surfaces.” (Li and her team have tested the traction on more than 600 types of footwear—and most have failed to score a coveted snowflake rating.)

Choosing safe footwear is a combination of many factors, she says. “It’s not only the material; it’s also the tread pattern and the whole shoe design.” It’s made more complicated because there’s a difference between wet and cold ice. “Melting ice is the most slippery, icy surface,” says Li, and for that she recommends looking for technology that utilizes embedded fibers in the rubber. For cold ice, a softer rubber that remains soft on ice is a good choice.

Slippery conditions will catch you off guard, says Li, “So the most important thing is to pay attention to your surroundings and walk carefully. There are so many occasions when you get distracted and you don’t pay attention—that’s when injury happens.” If you’re constantly walking on icy ground, you should consider add-on microspikes, says Mimi Nuelle, vice president of merchandising at outdoor retailer Backcountry.

“Don’t even think about getting a pair of winter boots that aren’t waterproof,” says Nuelle. “It’s nonnegotiable.” A lot of winter boots incorporate rubber around the bottom half of the boot, while others have a waterproof membrane like Gore-Tex or a DWR (Durable Water Repellent) coating. Just how waterproof your winter boots need to be depends on the climate you live in, but all the boots on this list have a degree of water resistance to keep your feet dry in wet, slushy conditions.

If you’ll be trekking through deep snow or wet conditions, taller boots that reach at least mid-calf or higher are recommended to keep snow out and provide better insulation. “Even when you’re brushing snow off of your car, you don’t want it getting into your socks and boots and getting your feet wet,” says Nuelle. On the other hand, if you anticipate lighter snowfall or engage in activities requiring more mobility, ankle-height boots can offer flexibility and ease of movement.

Ultimately, finding the right height in winter boots is about striking a balance between functionality, comfort and your specific winter activities.

Well-fitting boots provide stability and reduce the risk of slips and falls, especially on icy surfaces. A snug—but not too snug—fit also helps to maintain insulation and retain warmth, keeping your feet cozy in cold temperatures. Choosing the right size and considering factors like foot width, arch support and lacing systems is essential to finding winter boots that fit well and provide the necessary comfort and functionality for your winter activities.

While not a functional feature, a good pair of winter boots needs to match your personal style and wardrobe. We looked for boots that look good doing it all—commuting to work, running errands, walking the dog, playing in the snow with your kids. We chose a range of styles to suit most people, while making sure that each pair still provides the necessary features for winter conditions (that means no wedge or higher-heeled boots). We also eliminated boots that are too trendy and won’t last many seasons in someone’s wardrobe, looking for more classic and timeless picks.

A warranty provided by the manufacturer indicates its confidence in the product’s quality, protects against defects and offers peace of mind when purchasing winter boots online. It assures you that the boots are built to last and can withstand the demands of winter conditions. A longer warranty period often reflects a higher-quality product. Look for a flexible return policy that allows you to return or exchange the boots if they don’t fit properly or perform as expected.

Ebony Roberts has been writing about outdoor gear and apparel for nearly a decade, producing multiple product review guides for brands like REI, and as a gear columnist at Outside. In that time, she’s tested dozens of footwear styles and spoke with as many experts on the topic. From public appearances on podcasts to magazine interviews, she’s helped folks choose footwear to keep them safe and help them make the most out of their time outdoors.

Roberts consulted with two experts for this story, including prevention specialist Sophia Li, a staff scientist and manager at University Health Network’s KITE Research Institute—where her team has tested the slip resistance of hundreds of pairs of boots on wet and cold ice. She also interviewed Mimi Nuelle, vice president of merchandising at outdoor retailer Backcountry.

Forbes Vetted deputy editor Kari Molvar has reported on men’s and women’s apparel and accessories for over two decades. In addition, she oversees the publication of Forbes Vetted’s entire catalog of fashion stories. She is an avid walker and runner with extensive experience covering footwear topics, including the best walking shoes for women.

We updated product information and pricing to ensure accuracy and replaced out of stock items with current options.