Snow boots

[BleeckerSt_Girl]

I hike through the woods in deep snow and also go snowshoeing through woodland trials...pretty rough trails.

I really like these boots....
some nice thermal waterproof Merrell hiking boots, on SALE on Veteran's day, 15% off:
http://www.onlineshoes.com/productpa...n=m&pcid=32364

One cool feature on them is that they have heel ridges that are specifically designed to hold snowshoe straps nicely in place without the straps slipping down! So great! I get the boots big enough to wear two pairs good heavy wool socks in them for the frigid cold. The outer layer is actually like rubber and they are totally waterproof, plus they're insulated.
Then I wear some good woolen tights, some thin water resistant pants over them, plus a good set of gaiters like these:
http://www.rei.com/product/725915

Between the heavy wool socks, waterproof boots, wool tights, lightweight waterproof over-tights (like biking rain pants maybe, or light snow pants), and leg gaiters....you are going to be very well protected for snow hiking and snowshoeing! Your legs and feet will stay warm and dry. But the nice thing is that this combo will not be too bulky or weigh you down- you can still bend your ankles and knees and maneuver well over rough terrain I found. For this reason I prefer these shorter waterproof high traction boots with gaiters over them to keep the snow out and keep your lower legs warm and dry.
What you don't really want are heavy bulky mukluk type boots that are so popular these days- those are fine for 'playing' in the snow and around town...but they are often not agile for hiking over rocks and branches in the deep snow, or for any hilly trails through the woods.
This is all just my own experience...your mileage may vary.

You also might want to read the snowshoe thread:
http://forums.teamestrogen.com/showthread.php?t=12727