If you’re in the market for new boots like Sorel. But with a wide variety of brands out there, you are confused about which one to pick. In this article, we are going to list the best shoe brands like sorel along with their description that can make you decide what they can offer you.
About Sorel
Sorel Boots is among the most popular footwear companies in the industry. The entire collection of Sorel Shoes is renowned for its toughness and comfort. It was founded in 1962. Now, Columbia Sportswear owns and controls it. Thousands of reviews and feedback from consumers worldwide confirm this. Sorel is the top winter boot production company around the globe.
14 Best Boot Brands Similar To Sorel But Cheaper
You can get affordable winter boots from stores similar to Sorel, so you don’t have to spend too much money. They have winter boots for every need, from weatherproof leather boots to cozy shearling-lined styles. Looking for affordable cold-weather boots similar to Sorel? We’ve got you covered with our top picks for budget-friendly stores.
1. L.L.Bean
L.L.Bean is one of the most trusted brands like Sorel when it comes to durable, high-quality winter boots. They offer a wide selection of cold weather boots at reasonable prices.
L.L.Bean has boots specially designed for activities like snowshoeing, winter hiking, and everyday wear. Their waterproof leather and rubber boots are rated to keep feet warm and dry down to -40°F with ThinsulateTM insulation.
One of their most popular boots is the Bean Boot, which has a leather upper and rubber lower. It’s a classic winter silhouette that provides great traction on slippery surfaces.
Key Benefits:
- Wide selection of winter-ready styles
- High-quality materials and construction
- Reasonable prices compared to Sorel
- Made in the USA
2. Merrell
Merrell is an outdoor footwear company best known for their hiking boots and trail runners. They make a few styles of casual winter boots that are competitively priced with Sorel.
Their Thermo Rogue boots have waterproof leather and 200g MSelect WARM lightweight insulation to keep feet toasty. The Vibram® Arctic Grip outsole gives stability and traction on icy surfaces.
For more lightweight warmth, the Oakridge boots have a waterproof suede upper, faux fur lining, and rubber outsoles designed to bite into snow and slush.
Boots start around $130 and go up to $200 for premium leather styles. Sign up for their newsletter to get 15% off your first order.
Key Benefits:
- Lightweight and breathable warmth
- Athletic design with good traction
- Waterproof materials
- Budget-friendly pricing
3. Columbia
Columbia Sportswear has been making top-quality outerwear and footwear for over 80 years. Their winter boots use innovative technology to keep feet warm without overheating.
The Columbia Ice Maiden boots have a waterproof leather and textile upper with 200g insulation. The Techlite lightweight midsole provides long-lasting cushioning and high energy return. While the Omni-Grip non-marking traction rubber outsole provides stability on slippery surfaces.
For less casual winter wear, the Minx Mid III boots have a leather upper and faux fur collar with seam-sealed waterproofing and a lightweight midsole for comfort.
Key Features:
- Innovative warmth technologies
- Waterproof and breathable designs
- Lightweight cushioning and support
- Boots for casual and active winter wear
4. Sperry
Sperry is primarily known for their boat shoes, but they also make a couple of winter boot styles that offer protection from the elements without breaking the bank.
The Saltwater Duck boots have a waterproof leather and rubber upper, with ThinsulateTM insulation and a Wave-SipingTM outsole for traction on wet surfaces. Inside is a soft micro-fleece lining for warmth and comfort.
For a more fashionable silhouette, the Walker boots have a quilted upper, faux fur lining, duck boot-inspired details, and a molded Wave-Siping outsole.
Key Highlights:
- Signature Sperry boat shoe details on winter silhouettes
- Waterproof materials
- Traction outsoles for icy conditions
- Budget-friendly prices
5. Timberland
Timberland is known for making durable, quality leather boots. They offer many classic waterproof winter boots that provide warmth, traction, and protection without being too costly.
The 6-Inch Premium Waterproof boots are made of premium full-grain leather with seam-sealed construction. They have a padded collar for comfort and 400g of PrimaLoft® insulation for warmth. The rubber lug outsole provides traction in snowy conditions.
For more lightweight insulation, the Mt. Maddsen Mid Waterproof boots have 200g PrimaLoft® insulation, a waterproof membrane, and anti-fatigue footbeds for all-day comfort.
They also offer more affordable nylon and fabric hiker-style winter boots. So you can get the Sorel alternative if you are on a budget.
Key Highlights:
- Waterproof leather or fabric construction
- Seam-sealed for weather protection
- Prima loft® insulation for warmth
- Anti-fatigue comfort footbeds
- Excellent traction control on snow and ice
6. Crocs
Crocs may seem like an unlikely winter boot brand, but they make a few styles that are surprisingly warm, waterproof, and budget-friendly.
The Crocs Classic Lined LiteRide boots have a CrosliteTM foam upper lined with fuzz for warmth and lightweight comfort. It has an adjustable slingback strap and the LiteRide outsole is durable, cushy, and slip-resistant.
For more rugged conditions, the AllCast Luxe boots are fully waterproof with a leather upper and faux fur lining. The LiteRide outsole gives comfort and stability on slippery surfaces.
Their boots cost between $45 – $130 with discounts up to 50% off during seasonal sales. Enjoy free shipping on orders $49+ in the US.
Key Highlights:
- Soft, plush linings
- Treaded outsoles for snow/ice traction
- Water-resistant or fully waterproof models available
- Superior comfort and cushioning
- Budget-friendly price point
7. UGG
UGG is synonymous with fuzzy, uber-warm winter boots and slippers. They offer many styles with premium sheepskin lining and suede or leather exteriors to keep feet toasty.
The Classic Short II boots have an iconic silhouette with suede upper and plush sheepskin lining. The Treadlite outsole provides traction, while the sheepskin wicks away moisture to keep feet dry.
For casual wear, UGG’s faux fur and sheepskin-lined styles with EVA soles offer cozy warmth around town. There’s plenty of cute, comfort-driven options for nearly half of Sorel’s retail prices.
Key Highlights:
- Signature UGG sheepskin lining for warmth
- Genuine or waterproof leather constructions
- Durable, lugged rubber outsoles
- Moisture-wicking wool interior
- Stylish, casual appeal
8. Frye
Frye is known for its quality leather boots like Sorel. They make a few fashionable winter boot styles suitable for everyday wear in chilly weather.
The waxed suede Paige Tall boots are pre-treated to repel water and stains. They have a lightly cushioned footbed, distressed leather upper, and rubber outsole for traction.
Frye’s signature harness boots, lug-soled moto boots, or shearling-lined campus boots offer sleek leather style with enhanced grip and warmth for winter. Expect carefully sourced leathers and attention to detail.
Key Highlights:
- Premium leather constructions
- Handcrafted quality and detailing
- Signature lugged outsoles for traction
- Shearling lining for warmth and comfort
- Timeless, fashion-forward styles
9. DSW
DSW is a major shoe retailer that carries many affordable Sorel lookalikes under their own brand names. You can find casual, fashionable styles from brands like Crown Vintage, Unisa, and Rockport.
The Crown Vintage Bayhan boots have a water-resistant leather and textile upper with faux shearling details. The EVA outsole is lightweight with good traction.
For a sleek leather look, the Unisa Talmc boots have strap and buckle accents and a lugged rubber sole. Faux fur lining adds warmth and style.
Boots average $60 – $100, with large seasonal sales that can slash prices in half or more. Loyalty members get free shipping on every order. Returns are free for DSW Reward members.
Key Benefits:
- Array of brands and styles to choose from
- Mostly under $100
- Mixed material uppers (leather, textile, suede)
- Faux fur and shearling lining options
10. ECCO
ECCO is known for comfort technologies and crafting quality leather shoes and boots like Sorel. Their winter boots offer weatherproof protection for everyday wear.
The Exostrike boots have an oiled nubuck leather upper that repels water. The midsole provides cushioning and rebound, while the rubber outsole grips on slippery surfaces.
For more rugged conditions, the Exohike hiking boot has a premium yak leather upper, Gore-Tex lining for waterproofing, and a sturdy Vibram® outsole.
Key Benefits:
- Premium leather uppers with weatherproof treatment
- Cushioned midsoles for comfort
- Traction outsoles for icy conditions
- Understated, classic styling
11. Vionic
Vionic specializes in footwear with built-in orthotic support. Their casual winter boots are designed to be extra warm and supportive for all-day wear.
The Fawn boot has a water-resistant suede upper and faux shearling lining. A contoured orthotic footbed provides arch support and stability. The mini-lug outsole adds traction.
For more lightweight warmth, the Relax Crosby boots have a quilted upper, EVA midsole, and durable rubber outsole. Orthaheel technology helps realign the foot for relieve and support.
Key Benefits:
- Built-in orthotic footbeds for support
- Plush faux fur and shearling lining
- Durable, slip-resistant outsoles
- Under $150 pricing
12. Dr. Martens
Known for their punk rock style, Dr. Martens boots also deliver rugged construction that can endure winter weather. Their PVC outsole, welted construction, and signature air-cushioned sole make them comfortable, durable, and supportive.
Prices range from $140 – $180 for their winter-ready boots. This similar brand like Sorel offers free shipping and returns in the US. Sign up for emails and get 15% off your first order.
Key Benefits:
- Slip-resistant and rugged PVC outsole
- Goodyear-welted construction
- Cushioned air sole for comfort
- Heat-sealing for water resistance
13. A.P.C.
This French brand offers premium leather boots with clean, minimalist styling. Their uppers are made from Italian leathers that weather well. The rubber lug outsoles provide traction on slippery sidewalks and pavement.
Their boots cost between $520 – $555. Sign up for their newsletter to get 15% off your first order. Enjoy free 2-day shipping and returns in the US.
Key Benefits:
- Italian leather uppers
- Understated, sleek design
- Goodyear-welted rubber lug soles
- Premium craftsmanship and materials
14. Red Wing Shoes
Red Wing has been handcrafting sturdy work boots and heritage styles in Minnesota since 1905. Their winter boots have features like waterproof leather, Vibram® outsoles, wool cuffs, and 3M ThinsulateTM insulation.
Their prices range from $260 – $430 for their winter boots. You can also sign up for emails and get 10% off your first purchase. Red Wing offers free shipping in the US. You can explore it as one of the Sorel alternatives for their waterproof leather.
Key Benefits:
- Handcrafted in the USA
- Waterproof leather uppers
- Slip-resistant Vibram® outsoles
- Wool cuffs and ThinsulateTM insulation
Conclusion
While Sorel undoubtedly makes quality winter boots, the sticker shock can seem daunting. Luckily, you have options. These top Sorel competitors give you the same performance, comfort and style as Sorel, all for less.
Whether you’re looking for premium leather boots or vegan-friendly versions, the brands above have you covered. Their weatherproof technologies, cozy linings and top-quality materials are ready for winter’s worst.
Next time you need new kicks to battle the cold, turn to these Sorel alternatives to keep your feet warm, dry and happy without breaking your budget.
Frequently Asked Questions About Sorel
What are Sorel boots most known for?
Sorel is most known for their durable, weatherproof winter boots. Their signature styles feature rugged rubber shells, leather accents, faux or real shearling lining, and heavy lugged outsoles that grip well on ice and snow.
Where did the company Sorel originate?
Sorel was founded in 1962 by Kaufman Footwear. The company was named after Dr. Edouard Sorel, a physician who created functional boots for the harsh winters in Canada.
What is Sorel’s most popular boot style?
The Sorel Joan of Arctic boot is Sorel’s most iconic and globally recognized style. It features a faux-fur collar, full rubber shell, and durable waterproof construction.
How much do Sorel boots cost?
Sorel boots typically range from $120 on the low end to $260 on the high end. Their most popular Joan of Arctic style retails for around $170.
Are Sorel boots good quality?
Yes, Sorel boots are known for their premium quality and durability. They use materials like full-grain leather, waterproof membranes, and hand-crafted construction for boots meant to last.
Do Sorel boots run big or small?
Sorel boots tend to run slightly big. It’s recommended to order a half or full size smaller than your regular shoe size for the best winter boot fit.
Are Sorel boots comfortable?
With cushioned footbeds and fleece linings, Sorel boots are known for providing comfort despite their clunky exterior look. Their boots offer support while staying cozy.
