Ducks know a thing or two about staying warm and dry in the winter, which is where a man named Leon Leonwood Bean (L.L. Bean) got the idea for a new kind of outdoor shoe. Whether you're trekking up a mucky hiking path or shoveling snow off of your driveway, duck boots are a reliable way to ensure your feet stay dry and your socks remain slush-free. They're made up of a lower rubber and a waterproof textile or leather upper, giving the ultimate protection from torrential downpours and snow storms alike—well, at least for your feet.
When looking for your go-to pair, it's important to consider fit (go up a half size if you'll be wearing them with bulky socks) and function (will they be worn for brisk fall camping trips or for standing up to thick winter snow?). Keep scrolling for our roundup of the best duck boots that pull their weight no matter the need.