The Keen Anchorage III Waterproof Boot ($149) is all about winter comfort and function while keeping a casual look for wearing around town or to work on snowy days.

Since I ski patrol throughout the winter I spend a lot of time with angry feet in ski boots and need something that is comfortable yet capable in the snow for before and after work. These boots are exactly what my feet want after being in plastic coffins all day. 

These boots have little to no break-in effort and are some of the most comfortable boots I’ve worn. I found they fit pretty closely to my street shoe size with lots of wiggle room for cold, stiff toes. I could consider even a half size down next time around due to their relaxed fit.

Because these boots are slip-ons there isn’t much opportunity to tighten them down if needed except for maybe changing my socks up, so it might be nice to try these on before purchasing if you’re concerned about them being too loose. Keen also puts 200 grams of their Keen. Warm insulation made from charcoal bamboo which not only makes these boots super warm (down to -25 F) but I’ve found also pads out the boot quite nicely. 

KEEN Anchorage III Waterproof Boot Review

Functionally, I’ve really enjoyed using these boots for everyday stuff around the town and home in the snow but I wouldn’t consider them for any longer hikes due to their relaxed fit and no laces. They are great for slipping on/off for quick jaunts out to the mailbox or grocery store without having to tie laces like on a burlier snow-boot.

The 4mm multi-directional lugs give a lot of confidence when moving on ice and other slick surfaces. Keen also made these with a waterproof Nubuck Leather outer layer and mid-high cuff which I’ve really appreciated on those slushy days wading through puddles of ice water. These boots still looking stylish enough for everyday use where other boots can often look too technical. 

The Keen Anchorage III Waterproof Boot really nails the winter-lifestyle boot for everyday casual use with no sacrifice in comfort. 


KEEN Anchorage III Waterproof Boots - Men's | REI Co-op $149.95

Austen Beason

A transplant of the Midwest, Austen immigrated to the promised land of western Colorado in 2012 in search of good climbing, deep snow, quality rivers, and a college degree when his goofing off allowed. He learned pretty quick the difference quality gear can make on the outcome of a day (or days) in the mountains and began looking for the best gear to abuse.

In the summer Austen is an avid whitewater kayaker, bouncing his boat down the steep, rocky waterways of Colorado, trad climber in search of the route less traveled, and works as a federal river ranger along the Gunnison River. During the winter Austen spends his time telemarking around the backcountry of western Colorado and working as a ski patroller up on the continental divide.

Austen says, “A hundred days of skiing and paddling each per year and you’ll figure out what is wrong or right with your equipment, especially when your lively-hood depends on it.” Austen also has his American Avalanche Association Professional Level 1 avalanche certification, EMT-B, and ACA swift-water rescue cert, as well as a member of the Search and Rescue team in Gunnison County for 6 years.