Columbia Bugaboot III Review

Dependable, affordable waterproof winter boots for everyday winter walks, shovelling and short hikes — score: 7.8/10; price: £72.10.

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The quick answer

If you want a no-nonsense winter boot that keeps feet dry, insulated and sure-footed on sidewalks and driveways, this is one of the best value options. At £72.10 you get sealed Omni‑Tech waterproofing, 200 g insulation and sticky Omni‑Grip lugs — but the boots are noticeably heavy and not intended for long winter backpacking or extreme sub‑zero use.

What we tested

We evaluated a men's US 9 Bugaboot III over three weeks of wet commutes, driveway shovelling and short winter hikes on packed snow and slush. Weight and insulation figures quoted are lab-measured (~26 oz / 737 g and 200 g insulation) and match our experience on icy pavements.

What it does well

Solid waterproofing Omni‑Tech membrane with sealed seams and a tall injection‑moulded shell stops slush and wet snow from soaking the lower foot; feet stayed dry after walking through slushy sidewalks and ploughed driveways.

Sticky traction for everyday ice The Omni‑Grip rubber outsole has deep, directional lugs that grip packed snow and icy pavements better than basic winter soles — you feel more confident on commutes and steps.

Cushioned comfort for city use Techlite EVA midsole provides visible cushioning and energy return, reducing fatigue on short walks and making standing on cold hard ground less punishing than boots without foam midsoles.

Durable upper and slush protection Waterproof full‑grain leather plus the molded lower shell resists abrasion and prevents splash-through at the toe and lower sides — this keeps the boot looking and performing well season after season.

Great value for daily winter duties At the listed price (£72.10) it undercuts many premium winter boots while delivering the core protections most people need for everyday winter use.

Where it falls short

Heavy for long days on foot At about 26 oz (737 g) per boot for a US 9, these are heavier than many modern winter hiking boots; you'll notice the weight on long winter treks or all‑day wear.

Only mid‑range insulation With 200 g synthetic insulation the boots are warm for typical winter days and short outdoor tasks, but they don't match 400 g or felt‑lined expedition boots — not a choice for extreme sub‑zero exposure.

Not aimed at technical winter hiking If your winter miles include long approaches, fast-moving ascents, or multi-day backpacking in cold alpine conditions, the weight and insulation make this the wrong tool.

How it compares

Closest competitor: Kamik Nation Plus. Both are rugged, waterproof winter boots at a similar budget-friendly price point, but I’d pick the Bugaboot III for everyday urban use because of the Techlite cushioning and better outsole geometry; choose the Kamik Nation Plus if you want a thicker felt-style liner and slightly different insulation profile for standing in deeper cold.

Buy it if you need dependable waterproof insulated boots for everyday winter walking, shovelling and short hikes. Skip it if you regularly do long winter backpacking or need extreme sub‑zero insulation and the lightest possible weight.

Buy now: £72.10 — available on Amazon (affiliate link).