I’ve lived in New York my whole life, and I’ve learned the hard way that a good pair of snow boots is worth the investment. There were times when I thought I could skate by with dainty booties on a snowy commute or that my sneakers would be enough to shovel my driveway in, but the soggy socks, frozen toes, and harsh falls are not worth it. Now I know winter boots are always a good idea—even better if they’re Kizik’s new Juno 2 High snow boots.
I was invited by the brand to try out the Juno 2 High Boot in Iceland, so I bundled up in my warmest winter coat and set out to put the new boots to the test, clocking 35,000 steps around glassy waterfalls, slippery rocks, and black sand beaches. With a pillowy exterior and velvety lining to keep feet warm, grippy bottoms that add traction on slick surfaces, and a slip-on fit that makes them easy to slide on and off hands-free, these boots are my new cold-weather wardrobe staple.
Kizik Women’s Juno 2 High Boot
Kizik
The Juno 2 is a modern refresh of an older Kizik boot style, now with a redesigned midsole and outsole. The updated midsole features molded EVA foam that makes the shoes comfortable for all-day wear, and the outsole has wide lugs with deep channels to add stability when walking on uneven or wet terrain. I wore them for action-packed days in Iceland, and the traction came in handy when hiking around Skógafoss and Seljalandsfoss waterfalls. The boots are packed with 400 grams of thermal insulation to prevent frigid air from seeping in, and the water-resistant nylon upper is lightweight, so it didn’t weigh me down.
These boots come in both tall and short styles, and both versions use Kizik’s genius hands-free technology. While traditional lace-up snow boots can be a pain to put on because they take time and effort to get the fit just right, I found the Juno 2’s slip-on function to be effortless. When you step into the shoe, the heel compresses down, then instantly snaps back into place for a secure fit every time without needing to bend down or use your hands. This would also be useful for people with mobility limitations. The taller version that I tried also has spring-lock laces, just in case you want to tighten or loosen the fit. I would recommend sizing up to leave room for thick winter socks, especially if you’re a half-size like me, since the boots only come in whole sizes.
Travel + Leisure
Kizik Women’s Juno 2 High Boot
Kizik
The short style may be more practical for city travel since it’s easier to pack, while the tall style provides extra warmth. I wore mine with tall socks peeking out over fleece-lined leggings with a down parka, and I was perfectly cozy even when spending all day outdoors. Both shoe heights are available in six pretty neutrals that go with everything, including white, black, navy, and a light blue. While my light shade got a bit muddy after my adventures, I was able to wipe most of the marks away with some shoe cleaner.
Shoppers love them too. “I bought them in the pristine colorway, and they feel so après-ski chic … I never thought I’d be wishing for winter weather to get here so I can wear these new Junos,” wrote one reviewer. Another shopper praised the ease of the slip-on function, saying, “Love that I can just put [my] foot in and out without bending when coming in from snow. Functional and fashionable!”
Kizik Women’s Juno 2 High Boot
Kizik
If you’re looking for new snow boots this winter, the Kizik Juno boots are as comfortable and as warm as slippers while still being water-resistant and protective for harsh weather. Plus, they’re stylish enough to make a fashion statement without the clunkiness of other winter boots. Whether I’m traveling to frosty destinations or braving blizzards at home, I finally feel prepared with my winter wardrobe this year.
Keep reading to shop even more cozy and comfortable snow boots from Sorel, Columbia, Merrell, and more, starting at just $54.
Shop More Winter Snow Boots
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Hunter Women’s Anne Ankle Boot
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Nortiv 8 Men’s Insulated Waterproof Terrey Snow Boots
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Merrell Men’s Coldpack 3 Zero Thermo Tall Waterproof Snow Boot
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