Sorel Caribou Horizon GTX vs L.L.Bean Bean Boots

The Sorel Caribou Horizon GTX is the better pick for deep cold and wet snow, thanks to its Gore-Tex membrane, 200g insulation and Vibram XS TREK EVO outsole. The L.L.Bean Bean Boot is the better pick for slush, rain and mud, with its rubber chain-tread bottom, full-grain leather upper and shearling lining. Reviewers praise the Bean Boot's durability and resoleable construction but note it runs narrow and has little arch support. Owners of the Caribou line like the warmth and grip but say the boot is heavy and stiff at first.

• Choose the Sorel Caribou Horizon GTX if you face real winter cold, deep snow and icy sidewalks and want a warm, fully waterproof boot with a grippy Vibram sole.
• Choose the L.L.Bean Bean Boot if you mostly deal with rain, slush and mud and want a classic, resoleable boot with a shearling lining and a roomy wide option.