How-to

Choose Shoes for an Icy Commute: Six Traction, Water and Fit Checks

Snowy commuting calls for more than a stylish silhouette. OSHA and NIOSH guidance helps you check tread condition, water protection, fit with winter socks and safe walking behavior.

5 min read2026-10-25

Save

OriginalWaterproof footwear guideSource: Columbia — Waterproof Shoe Guide

Your style checklist

Check each item as you go.

0/9 done

Progress is saved only on this device (30 days).

01

What you need

A photo or view of the candidate outsole
Your winter socks
Footwear water-protection and care information

02

How to

1. Inspect the sole. Look for defined tread and excessive wear. OSHA recommends insulated, water-resistant boots with good rubber traction when snow or ice cannot be avoided.
2. Read the product's water-protection wording and check seams and collar design. Do not confuse water resistance with a blanket guarantee of dryness.
3. Try the shoes on with the socks you will actually wear. Allow toe movement, minimize heel slip and avoid pressure that interferes with comfort or circulation.
4. Consider your full route: slopes, stairs and smooth indoor floors. Surface-appropriate removable grips may help outside, but remove them indoors when the product directions require it.
5. Before leaving, remove stuck snow, grit and mud from the tread and inspect cracks, leaks or damage. Carry dry spare socks when practical.
6. On snowy or icy paths, use short steps, slow your pace and take handrails. Detour around hazardous sections; do not assume that any footwear can eliminate slips entirely.

One more tip

No outsole makes ice risk-free. Take shorter, slower steps and avoid hazardous paths. Removable traction devices may be unsuitable for indoor flooring, so follow their surface-specific directions.

03

Photos, videos, and links

OriginalBoot fit and sizingSource: REI — Boot Fit Guide

Sources and media

K-fashion · winter fleece care · November 20268 min

Two KOLON SPORT FW26 Fleeces, Two Care Labels: Six Practical Checks

A Korean outdoor label's wool-blend hooded fleece and colorblock stand-collar jacket need different care. Compare verified fabric compositions, everyday styling and wash instructions before choosing.