Cougar Shoes Review: The Only Shoes You’ll Need to Pack for Winter Weather

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Winter travel means multiple coats and bulky snowshoes, but Canadian company Cougar Shoes is changing the latter. Built to outlast the toughest of winter climates, Canada, Cougar makes durable, waterproof, warm, and yes, packable snow and rain boots.

I’ve been testing the Dani High Top Sneaker this winter and have traveled to Quebec, Chicago, and Boston in below freezing temperatures—the shoes are rated to -11 degrees Fahrenheit—with them to really put them to the test. If you’re in the market for winter shoes, I’ll save you the time of reading this whole review—buy these, you won’t regret it.

Sizing note: Cougar shoes are only available in whole sizes, so it’s recommended to size up, especially for wearing with thick socks.

Price and where to buy it: $160 on Amazon, Nordstrom, and Cougar’s website.

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How the Dani High Top Sneaker Rates:

• Usefulness: 9.5/10. The high-top sneaker can be worn for any activity, from the ski lodge to a city dinner. The only downside to this style is that they’re not as high for trekking in a massive snowstorm, but it’s also what makes them more packable. When worn with snow pants or activewear you shouldn’t have any issues in a blizzard. The plush fleece inner line is super warm and comfortable for all-day wear.
• Value: 9/10. While these shoes are over the $150 mark, they will last for years and can be worn in almost any winter travel situation.
• Durability: 10/10. The suede material is waterproof, and the bottom of the soles has excellent traction.
• Portability: 9/10. You won’t feel out of place wearing these on the plane (if, like me, you have to wear your snowshoes to save space). However, they don’t take up any more room than a low boot in your bag.
• Cool Factor: 10/10. I’ve gotten plenty of compliments (and questions about where to buy) while traveling with these shoes. They’re stylish, and the rabbit fur trim adds to their uniqueness.

Final Verdict: If you travel frequently in winter and are in the market for a do-it-all pair of winter boots, invest in these shoes. If this exact style isn’t for you, Cougar has plenty of other versatile and stylish options for winter and wet-weather travel.

More from SmarterTravel:

• The Thinnest, Warmest Winter Items for Packing
• The Worst Winter Gear for Travel (and What to Pack Instead)
• The Ultimate Ski Trip Packing List

Ashley Rossi is always ready for her next trip. Follow her on Twitter and Instagram for travel tips, destination ideas, and off the beaten path spots.

Editor’s Note: Reviews are based on usefulness, portability, durability, value, and “cool factor.” Some review products are sent to us free of charge and with no incentive to offer a favorable review. We offer our unbiased opinions, positive and negative, and will never accept compensation to review a product. If you have any questions or comments concerning our reviews or would like to suggest a product for review, please email us at editor@smartertravel.com.

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