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Are Moon Boots Good for Snow? I Tested Them While Skiing in the Dolomites
These trending boots have become a cold-weather staple for many winter enthusiasts. Daisy Lester, Senior Shopping Writer, Thursday 29 January 2026 10:32 GMT
From the glamorous slopes of Courchevel and Val d'Isère to the picturesque resorts of St Moritz and the Dolomites, Moon Boots have become synonymous with apres-ski fashion and resort style. Despite their recent surge in popularity among influencers and A-list celebrities, these distinctive snow boots actually boast a rich 60-year heritage on the mountains.
The Storied History of an Iconic Design
First introduced by Italian designer Giancarlo Zanatta in 1969, the original Moon Boot drew direct inspiration from the Apollo 11 moon landing. Zanatta cleverly mimicked the insulated, futuristic, and bulky appearance of the overshoes worn by astronauts Neil Armstrong and Buzz Aldrin during their historic lunar mission. The fundamental purpose remained the same: creating footwear that was just as practical for terrestrial snow as the astronauts' boots were for extraterrestrial exploration.
Throughout the seventies and eighties, Moon Boots evolved into a genuine status symbol within ski resort culture. Iconic photographs from that era frequently captured skiers sporting vibrant red or crisp white Moon Boots paired with dramatic faux fur coats. With their uniquely colourful and rounded aesthetic, they stood completely apart from anything else available on the market at the time.
The original lace-up design has remained remarkably unchanged over the decades, yet its cultural influence has expanded dramatically. This is evident through numerous high-profile collaborations with brands like Adidas, Jacquemus, and Moncler, alongside countless high-street imitations. Having transcended their space-age origins, Moon Boots are now experiencing unprecedented popularity.
Contemporary Popularity and Cultural Impact
Today, celebrities including Dua Lipa, Hailey Bieber, and various members of the Kardashian family regularly showcase Moon Boots in winter hotspots like Aspen, and even on the streets of London. Meanwhile, Mariah Carey famously brings out different styles each Christmas for her promotional activities.
The trend shows no signs of slowing on social media either. TikTok is flooded with videos offering styling advice for Moon Boots, and each ski season sees major retailers such as Asos and Selfridges frequently selling out of stock. However, with prices ranging from approximately £135 to £300, the crucial question remains: are these viral boots truly worth the investment? To find out, I took a pair on a week-long ski trip to Italy's stunning Dolomites region.
Putting Moon Boots to the Test
Encouraged by friends' recommendations and persistent TikTok persuasion, I selected a cream-coloured style of the classic Italian boots for testing. As a first-time skier who was also new to dressing for snowy conditions, I wanted the Moon Boots to integrate seamlessly with my cold-weather wardrobe, from jeans and shearling coats to leggings and knitwear.
Beyond mere style considerations, I meticulously evaluated their comfort, practicality, and durability. Most importantly, I assessed whether they represented a worthwhile investment on top of the considerable costs associated with ski passes, accommodation, equipment, and flights.
First Impressions and Design Features
The boots arrived thoughtfully packaged in a satin storage bag, perfect for suitcase organisation. I chose the cream shade hoping it would complement various apres-ski outfits, but one of the great joys of Moon Boots is the extensive colour palette available. Catering to diverse tastes, options range from classic black and white to green, pink, red, metallic finishes, and many more.
This variety makes a significant difference in a resort setting. While I initially feared Moon Boots might appear too ubiquitous, the spectrum of shades ensures each wearer can express individual style. Uniquely, the snow boots are designed as symmetrical, fitting either foot. However, consistency in wearing them is advised as the foam interior gradually moulds to the shape of each foot, enhancing support and comfort over time.
Performance in Winter Conditions
Featuring a convenient slip-on design, the lined interior provides a wonderfully warm embrace for your feet. The boots offer a low-profile ankle height combined with a lightweight chunky sole equipped with suction and tread pads. These elements prove invaluable when navigating uneven or slippery terrain.
They are also marketed as 100 per cent water-repellent, a claim that held up impressively during testing, whether facing a snow blizzard or trudging through post-thaw sludge. Additional features like laces and a drawstring at the top ensure a snug, adjustable fit that can be customised for optimal comfort.
Comfort, Durability, and Everyday Wear
The quality of construction is immediately apparent. Their remarkable lightness creates an almost weightless sensation, particularly welcome after removing heavy ski boots. Yet, they demonstrate durability and grip in challenging conditions comparable to many dedicated hiking boots.
During my trip, I wore them constantly: from boot room visits and walks into town to dinners and breakfasts. The nylon construction reliably kept my feet dry, and I was pleasantly surprised by the level of support during extended walks in the snow. It's worth noting, however, that I wouldn't recommend them for long hikes, as the sole lacks dedicated arch support and the bulky design can somewhat restrict movement.
Style Versatility and Aesthetic Appeal
The iconic style of Moon Boots remains virtually unrivalled. I adored their chunky, rounded silhouette when paired with thermal leggings and form-fitting ski trousers, yet the low-profile design also worked surprisingly well with baggy jeans. So convinced was I by their comfort and laidback aesthetic that I wore them throughout my journey home, including on the plane.
The primary drawback, especially considering the price point, is their limited wearability in everyday non-winter scenarios. You might attract curious glances at the local supermarket or pub. However, for regular skiers who visit the slopes annually, or for anyone who enjoys cold-weather holidays, Moon Boots represent a timeless investment that blends heritage with contemporary fashion.
The Final Verdict on Moon Boots
With their supremely lightweight construction, effective water-repellent finish, and exceptionally comfortable fit, Moon Boots prove to be a practical purchase for any ski trip or winter holiday. The retro design injects undeniable style into cold-weather wardrobes, whether you opt for popular classic colourways or more unique faux fur styles.
The extensive range of available styles makes it easy to find a pair that suits personal taste, ensuring you won't simply blend in with every other skier at the resort. While cheaper alternatives exist, the original Moon Boot remains unrivalled in terms of quality, comfort, and timeless style. It's a legacy brand that continues to justify its reputation season after season.
Testing Methodology and Evaluation Criteria
To thoroughly assess Moon Boots, I wore a pair during a week-long ski trip to the Dolomites in Italy. Throughout the testing period, I focused on several key criteria:
- Comfort: As with any footwear, comfort is paramount. While style matters for snow boots, my primary concern was whether Moon Boots could provide all-day support and adequate cushioning.
- Practicality: I evaluated how well the boots performed across various snowy conditions, from light snowfall to full blizzards and wet sludge.
- Style: Given the initial investment required, I considered the timelessness of the design and how effectively the boots integrated with my existing cold-weather wardrobe.
- Cost per Wear: I analysed the overall value proposition of Moon Boots, calculating how much use I derived from them during a typical ski week.
Why you can trust this review: As Senior Shopping Writer at The Independent, Daisy Lester specialises in reviewing fashion and understands what constitutes a well-crafted, comfortable, and stylish shoe. Regarding winter boots, she identifies which brands successfully balance affordability with quality, seeking trend-aware styles that also represent enduring investments. She applies the same rigorous testing methodology used in her other comprehensive guides.
