Yes, most snowshoes should have big enough bindings to accommodate mountaineering boots. But they probably won’t be as comfortable as hiking boots or as warm as insulated boots. If you already have mountaineering boots, you can go ahead and wear them snowshoeing. But if you’re looking to buy something specifically for snowshoeing, insulated hiking boots are the best choice.

I would definitely go to your doctor first and figure out what is going on. Then, I would do Keen winter hiking boots with insulation (they are good for wide feet and should fit your insoles) and pair them with heated socks – that way you can turn off the heat if it’s too much. If you find your feet are getting sweaty, maybe skip the heated socks and do wool blend socks instead and bring two pairs so you can switch part way along if your socks are damp.

What do you suggest? Sweaty cold feet. Wide feet. Need to wear custom insoles.
Today I wondered if I need a different winter boot. I have Keen winter boots…but don’t remember the make.

thanks for the advice.

You can use any waterproof hiking boots. As I say in the post, it’s a good idea to wear warm socks and gaiters to keep the snow out. Timberlands aren’t really hiking boots, but if you find them comfortable, they will work as long as they are waterproof.

My recommendation would be to talk to a podiatrist about orthotics or insoles to address your arches and underpronation. All of the boots on this list should work with orthotics since they have removable insoles.

I also have narrow feet so I know how hard it can be to find boots that fit. Unfortunately most of the brands that make narrow hiking boots (La Sportiva, Scarpa) don’t make winter hiking boots. I’ll be updating this post soon in anticipation of the next winter season and I’ll see if there are any good narrow winter hiking boots to recommend. In the meantime, I have been wearing the Salomon Vayas and find they work well for my narrow feet.

Thank you.