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Sorel or Columbia? Caribou vs Bugaboot snow boots compared

Nesim Yılmaz · 09.11.2026

For proper snow and cold, many people choose one of these two: the classic Sorel Caribou or the Columbia Bugaboot. Both are waterproof and warm – but they feel very different day to day.

At a glance

Warmth

With its thick felt liner the Caribou is very warm when you're standing around – clearing snow, waiting for a bus, at a Christmas market. The "−40" rating is the brand's own figure with no standard test behind it, and reviewers think it's optimistic. A bonus: you can take the liner out and dry it overnight.

Walking and everyday use

The Caribou is heavy and a bit clunky – fine for short trips, less so for long walks. It also runs large; many people go half a size down. The Bugaboot is lighter and more agile, better if you walk a lot in winter.

UK note

Most British winters are wet rather than deeply frozen. If you rarely see real snow, a waterproof walking boot with good grip may serve you better than either – see our winter boots guide.

Our verdict

• Very cold winters, lots of standing, classic look: Sorel Caribou.
• Lots of walking, town and light trails, less weight: Columbia Bugaboot.

Money-saving tip

Snow boots are cheapest in the January sales – but popular sizes go fast. To be sure of your size, buy around Black Friday.

See winter boot deals