While the best part of any ski trip or vacation is your days on the slopes, there is a lot of fun to be had once the skis come off. Apres-ski (French for “after skiing”) is the phrase for the post-skiing social and fun activities that will happen at any ski resort or lodge.
My name is Christine, and I’m an avid skier who has been on the slopes for decades. That also means I’ve had hundreds of apres-ski sessions over the years. I know what to look for when it comes to the best boots to put on after a long day on the mountain.
The Columbia Snow Canyon Omni Heat is my pick for the best apres-ski boots. These are an extremely comfortable and warm pair of boots that will let you enjoy any much-needed food or drinks at the bottom of a run.
I’ll give you a few different options for after ski boots in this post. My goal is to provide you with models that will deliver comfort and warmth – both of which are well-deserved after a long day of skiing.
Let’s jump in and get started.
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Who Should Get This
The apres-ski boots listed here are great for anyone who likes to participate in after-ski activities, especially if they’re outdoors. If you want to be comfortable and warm, no matter the activities that come your way, you should consider getting some apres boots.
These boots can also be used away from the resort or lodge. They can be great for winter walks or even something as simple as staying warm while shoveling your driveway. Every skier needs a good pair of winter boots when they aren’t skiing.
If you don’t like to engage in any apres-ski activities and just go back to the hotel room, you may not need these boots. Also, if you already have a pair of warm and comfortable boots, those may suffice as well.
Best After Ski Boots: Top Picks
Here are my top picks for the best after-ski boots. Every model you see in the sections below is highly recommended and will keep your feet in good shape during cold weather.
1. Columbia Snow Canyon Omni Heat
- Best for: Overall
- Key features: Comfortable, warm, waterproof, good traction, multiple colors available
- Insulation: Synthetic
- Waterproofing: Omni Tech
- Cost: $$
The Columbia Snow Canyon Omni Heat comes in at the top spot for the best apres ski boots. This is a warm and comfortable option that will let you enjoy every drink or snack in front of you after a long day of skiing.
The boots are built with an Omni-Tech seam-sealed membrane that does a great job of providing waterproof capabilities that will keep everything dry. This is also a very breathable material so that you won’t overheat.
The boots also have a longer mid-calf length that can provide extra warmth and make them look really stylish. They are available in multiple colorways to match your style preferences as well.
The extended length might be a downside for some skiers, and they aren’t highly flexible for long-distance walking.
==> You can also get it on Columbia Sportswear or Zappos or Anaconda.
2. Sorel Caribou
- Best for Men
- Key features: Warm, comfortable, good traction, multiple colors available, trusted brand
- Insulation: Leather
- Waterproofing: Seam-sealed waterproofing
- Cost: $$$
The best after-ski boots for men is the Sorel Caribou. Sorel is a trusted name in the winter boot industry, and this model is a perfect option for skiers who just got off the slopes.
I really like the size of these boots – they aren’t too big or too small. They are easy to throw in your car and change into after skiing.
The Caribou features an all-leather construction that makes them extremely durable, and they will last for years if they are well taken care of. A rubber sole gives you excellent traction in the snow so you won’t be slipping and sliding around.
These are on the expensive side, and even though they are waterproof, you’ll want to give them another waterproof treatment after a year or two of heavy use.
==> You can also get it on Sorel or DICK’S or Zappos.
3. The North Face Alpenglow
- Best for: Kids
- Key features: Comfortable, easy to put on, seam-sealed waterproofing, bungee laces, warm
- Insulation: Synthetic
- Waterproofing: Seam-sealed
- Cost: $$
Kids and their parents will appreciate everything that the North Face Alpenglow boots have to offer. This is an excellent after-ski option for any little ones you have with you on the trail.
The boots have an easy-on/easy-off design that will let kids change from their ski boots to these in seconds. They are incredibly comfortable and completely waterproof, thanks to a protective rubber shell design.
The Alpenglow also comes with bungee laces that help to keep snow out while also being easy to secure with gloves on.
They are a little bulky, which can be trouble for any clumsy kids out there.
Also Read: Best Ski Boots for Kids
==> You can also get it on Skis or Buckman’s.
4. The North Face ThermoBall
- Best for: Pull-on Option
- Key features: Easy to put on, lightweight, comfortable, warm, multiple colors available
- Insulation: ThermoBall Eco
- Waterproofing: Water-resistant
- Cost: $$$
If you want the ease and convenience of a pull-on option, the North Face ThermoBall is the way to go.
These boots are designed to slip right on with minimal effort, and they will give you a lot of comfort and warmth to enjoy your apres-ski as long as you want to.
ThermoBall Eco insulation keeps the boots warm without adding much bulk and a synthetic mudguard helps keep snow at bay.
These are only water-resistant and not entirely waterproof, so they shouldn’t be used when walking through deep snow for extended periods.
==> You can also get it on The North Face or Zappos or Backcountry.
How to Choose the Best Apres Ski Boots
Here are some essential things to keep in mind when shopping for the best apres ski boots. There are many different winter boots to choose from, and picking out the best option is recommended.
Warmth
While some apres-ski takes place in restaurants or a warm lodge, this isn’t always the case. Much of your time will be spent outside, and it can get considerably colder the later into the night your adventure takes you.
As a result, you want to ensure the boots you pack for after-ski activities are capable of keeping your feet warm. If not, you won’t have a very good time. Look for ample insulation and windproof materials to help keep your feet and toes nice and cozy.
Comfort
The boots that you choose should also be comfortable to wear. You might be doing a lot of walking up and down the ski town streets and want to do so comfortably. Even if you aren’t walking, your feet will be tired from skiing all day.
Your boots should offer support as well as cushion your feet. Uncomfortable boots can be annoying to walk in and lead to foot pain and things like blisters. You can always use inserts or liners for another layer of customized comfort.
How They Look
Boots are an important part of your outfit, so you will also want to make sure they look good. Be sure to consider their style, color, and the type of clothing that would look the best with them.
If they’re comfortable but look awful, you likely won’t want to wear them at all, so ensure you get ones you enjoy. Some of the options I list here are available in multiple colors, so take the time to pick out what’s best for your style.
Useful Tips & Resources
When choosing the right apres ski boots, be sure to take your time and make the right choice. Not only in how they look, but also in their other benefits. Once you have purchased the right boots for you, you need to take care of them to make sure they last.
They will get a ton of use, often in cold, wet and snowy environments. Be sure to store your boots in a warm and dry place to keep them in as good a shape as possible. If the boots are mistreated, don’t be shocked to see them show signs of wear much more quickly.
Take a look at these tips for cleaning your winter boots, so they last a long time. If you end up choosing a pair of leather boots, take a look at the video below for some tips on caring for this type of material.
Final Verdict
The Columbia Snow Canyon Omni Heat is my pick for the best apres-ski boots of the year. This is a very warm and comfortable model that will let your feet stay in good shape after you’ve been skiing all day.
There are many options to explore when it comes to winter boots, but the models mentioned in this list give skiers everything they want and need for a great apres-ski session. You deserve a little comfort after a long day on the slopes!