A Winter Icon Since 1962
The Sorel Caribou Winter Boot has been a staple in cold-weather footwear for over 60 years. First introduced in 1962, it helped define the “Pac boot” category: a rugged, waterproof outer shell paired with a removable insulated liner. Designed for deep snow, freezing temperatures, and wet winter conditions, the Caribou remains one of the most recognisable and widely used winter boots on the market.
But in a world of modern synthetics, lightweight insulation, and technical snow boots, does the Caribou still hold up? We tested it across snow-covered trails, icy driveways, and slushy city streets to find out.
Key Specifications
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Weight | 2.1 kg (pair, Men’s UK 9) |
| Upper | Waterproof nubuck leather |
| Insulation | 9mm removable felt liner with Sherpa pile cuff |
| Waterproofing | Seam-sealed + vulcanised rubber shell |
| Midsole | 2.5mm bonded felt frost plug |
| Outsole | Vulcanised rubber with AeroTrac tread |
| Height | 24 cm shaft |
| Temperature Rating | -40°C / -40°F (manufacturer rated) |
| Fit Tip | Runs large—size down ½ size |
| Price | £165 RRP (often available for less) |
Design and Build Quality
The Sorel Caribou is built like a tank. The upper is made from waterproof nubuck leather, seam-sealed to prevent moisture ingress. The lower shell is a handcrafted vulcanised rubber boot, which wraps around the foot and extends up the sides to form a waterproof barrier against snow, slush, and puddles.
The removable 9mm felt liner is thick, soft, and warm, with a Sherpa pile cuff that adds both insulation and a classic winter aesthetic. The tongue is gusseted, meaning it’s sewn to the sides of the boot to prevent snow from entering through the laces.
The AeroTrac outsole features a non-loading lug pattern that sheds snow and provides decent grip on packed trails and icy surfaces. While not as aggressive as some modern winter hiking boots, it’s more than adequate for most winter chores and casual use.
Warmth and Insulation
Warmth is where the Caribou shines. The 9mm ThermoPlus felt liner traps heat effectively and insulates even in sub-zero temperatures. In testing, the boots kept feet warm during:
- Extended snow shoveling sessions
- Dog walks in -10°C conditions
- Standing still in snow for 30+ minutes
The removable liner is a huge advantage. It can be taken out to dry overnight or swapped with a spare if it gets wet. This makes the Caribou ideal for multi-day use, ice fishing, or working outdoors in cold climates.
Sorel rates the Caribou to -40°C, though this should be taken with a grain of salt. In practice, the boots are warm enough for most winter conditions, especially when paired with thick wool socks.
Waterproofing and Weather Protection
The Caribou is fully waterproof thanks to its:
- Seam-sealed leather upper
- Vulcanised rubber lower shell
- Gusseted tongue
In real-world use, the boots kept feet dry through:
- Deep snow
- Slushy puddles
- Wet, icy sidewalks
The rubber shell extends 9 inches up the boot, offering excellent protection against water ingress. However, the nubuck leather upper should be treated annually with a waterproofing spray to maintain its water resistance.
Comfort and Fit
The Caribou offers a roomy, relaxed fit typical of Pac boots. It’s designed to accommodate thick socks and allow air circulation for insulation. The toe box is generous, and the heel cup is moderately supportive.
That said, the fit can feel sloppy or loose, especially if you’re used to snug hiking boots. The thick felt liner compresses over time, which can lead to heel lift or reduced support. For best results:
- Size down ½ size if wearing thin socks
- Stick to your normal size if wearing thick winter socks
The lace system is basic but functional. The thick laces and metal D-rings are durable, though they don’t allow for micro-adjustments or a performance fit.
Traction and Stability
The AeroTrac outsole provides decent grip on:
- Packed snow
- Icy pavements
- Slushy sidewalks
However, it’s not as aggressive as Vibram Arctic Grip or Michelin winter soles found on more technical boots. On steep or icy terrain, the Caribou can feel slippery, and it’s not ideal for snowshoeing or winter hiking.
For everyday use—shoveling, walking the dog, commuting—the traction is perfectly adequate. For more technical use, consider pairing with ice cleats or choosing a boot with a more aggressive tread.
Weight and Mobility
At over 2 kg per pair, the Caribou is heavy and bulky. It’s not designed for long-distance walking or fast-paced winter hikes. The thick liner and rubber shell add weight, and the flexibility is limited compared to modern synthetic boots.
That said, the trade-off is durability, warmth, and protection. The Caribou is best suited for:
- Static or low-movement activities (e.g. snow shoveling, ice fishing)
- Short walks in deep snow
- Cold-weather chores and errands
If you need a boot for long hikes or snowshoeing, look elsewhere. But for maximum warmth and waterproofing, the Caribou delivers.
Durability and Longevity
The Caribou is built to last. Many users report owning pairs for 10+ years, with only the liners needing replacement. The rubber shell is nearly indestructible, and the leather upper holds up well with occasional care.
The felt liner is washable and replaceable, and Sorel sells spares separately. The laces and eyelets are sturdy, and the outsole resists wear even with regular use.
With proper care—drying the liner, treating the leather, and storing in a cool, dry place—the Caribou should last multiple winters of heavy use.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Extremely warm with 9mm felt liner
- Fully waterproof with seam-sealed leather and rubber shell
- Removable liner for drying and replacement
- Classic winter boot aesthetic
- Durable construction and long lifespan
- Great for snow, slush, and sub-zero conditions
Cons:
- Heavy and bulky
- Sloppy fit for long walks
- Average traction on ice
- Not suitable for winter hiking or snowshoeing
- Runs large—may require sizing down
Comparison: Sorel Caribou vs Baffin Impact
| Feature | Sorel Caribou | Baffin Impact |
|---|---|---|
| Weight (pair) | 2.1 kg | 3.4 kg |
| Insulation | 9mm felt liner | 8-layer foam + polyester |
| Waterproofing | Leather + rubber shell | Rubber + nylon shell |
| Temperature Rating | -40°C | -100°C |
| Best For | Everyday winter use | Extreme cold, static use |
| Price (UK) | £165 | £190–£220 |
The Caribou is better for general winter use, while the Baffin Impact is built for extreme cold and expedition-level conditions.
Final Verdict: Is the Sorel Caribou Worth It?
The Sorel Caribou Winter Boot remains a top-tier choice for cold-weather protection, especially for those who prioritise warmth, waterproofing, and durability over lightweight performance. It’s not the best boot for long hikes or icy scrambles, but for shoveling snow, walking in deep powder, or standing around in sub-zero temps, it’s hard to beat.
Its removable liner, classic design, and bombproof construction make it a winter staple that’s stood the test of time. If you’re looking for a reliable, warm, and waterproof winter boot, the Caribou is still one of the best in its class.
