Icebug Ivalo BUGrip

When 16 engineered carbide tip studs – on each boot – engage, your confidence soars even as others are wishing they’d brought ice skates. This well-styled brand knows winter shouldn’t slow your progress, and Active Junky testers have agreed since their first pair climbed Andean mountain roads while nearby cars struggled to reach Valle Nevado Resort. Front zippered entry is fast and ensures a reliable fit even as the midsole stabilizes the foot without being attention-seeking (as in, making your arch feel it at every step). The upper’s selective use of suede gives the predominantly-ripstop nylon build a more refined look to eclipse other performance options. Sizing is generous, allowing for a thicker sock or heated insole to extend the comfort range. While not waterproof, Icebug Ivalo winter boot shakes off everything except pounding rain or full immersion. In our view, lighter weight and surer traction more than compensate in this foul-weather roadster.