Sierra Designs Mountain Boot

Do not mistake these toasters for tent slippers. They are high-cut, 700-fill down, podiatric heaven. Lugged rubber soles and a solid-constructed EVA footbed give you traction on snow and frosty ground over short distances. An elastic cord cinches the top to seal out icy drafts and they are fully taped and waterproof to keep feet dry and warm.

What made these booties so great while camping this winter and spring is that I could keep them inside my sleeping bag. While winter camping, nature never fails to call during the coldest part of the night. The Sierra Designs down booties pulled on fast and easy to ensure a hasty exit from the tent and, because they stashed easily at the foot of my bag, they were already warm.

If you’re all about ultralight, and taking only what you need, make an exception for the Sierra Designs booties. They are a little bulky to carry in a pack, but after a day skiing or snowshoeing, or just slogging through snow, your feet deserve some TLC.