Expert picks for comfortable and durable shoes that have maintained the pep in their step – even in the biting cold

• The best winter jackets for women picked by experts – and on sale

• Eight winter clothing essentials Scandinavians swear by – from heated socks to ‘allværsjakke’

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I have a confession to make: I don’t own a pair of snow boots. And after New York City’s latest snowstorm, my daily commute to the office left my socks soaked and my toes frozen.

To help you avoid my fate, I asked for recommendations for comfy, long-lasting boots from people who spend far more time outdoors than I do. They include a ski instructor, a dog sled musher and a former National Geographic “Adventurer of the Year.”

Best affordable women’s boots:
Sorel Whitney III Waterproof Winter Booties

Best women’s boots for outdoor activities:
Merrell Thermo Chill 2 Mid Waterproof Boots