When winter sets in, the boots you choose aren’t just accessories — they’re protective gear for your feet, ankles, and overall musculoskeletal health.
Dr. Miguel Cunha, board-certified podiatric surgeon and founder of Gotham Footcare in New York City, treats an influx of preventable cold-weather injuries every year: Chilblains, frostbite risk, ankle sprains, plantar fasciitis flare-ups, tendon strain, and painful blisters from poorly structured boots.
Across his many media interviews and Gotham Footcare resources, his message is consistent:A proper winter boot must keep you warm, dry, stable, and supported — or it’s putting your feet at risk.
Not just “weather-friendly.” Dr. Cunha stresses waterproof leather or rubber upper, sealed seams, and cozy insulated linings.Wet feet mean quicker heat loss and increased fungal or bacterial growth.
He recommends a small heel elevation — less than ¾ inch higher than the forefoot.This reduces strain on the Achilles tendon and improves stability and posture.
The boot should not collapse or fold in half easily.A firm midsole and structured arch improve shock absorption and prevent heel or arch pain.
Slip-resistant rubber soles and winter-specific tread patterns help reduce falls on ice — a major winter injury culprit.
Lining like shearling, fleece, wool, or Thinsulate keeps feet warm without turning the boot into a sweaty, fungus-friendly environment.
Two to three inches above the ankle helps stabilize joints on slick or uneven surfaces.
Space for thicker socks and wiggle room to maintain circulation.A removable insole lets patients use custom orthotics when needed.
Below is the clean, curated roundup combining boots Dr. Cunha has historically recommended, the ones Gotham Footcare features in their guides, and new boots that meet his podiatric standards.
Why Dr. Cunha would recommend them:
Dr. Cunha specifically states in one review:“I recommend The North Face Shellista V Mid Boots as a supportive boot for winter conditions.”
These are the workhorse boots of the roundup — great for commuters, long walkers, and anyone facing real snow.
In podiatry-focused winter footwear guides, the Sorel Joan of Arctic is consistently highlighted for insulation, support, and durability — everything Dr. Cunha emphasizes.
These are the podiatrist-approved, style-friendly boots.
These are ideal for travel, city-to-trail days, and people who dislike heavy snow boots.
Perfect for anyone living in the upper Midwest, Canada, or rural snowy areas.
Why Dr. Cunha would recommend them (with caveats):
Dr. Cunha’s perspective:Classic UGGs are fine for house-to-car wear, but for real winter walking, choose structured options like the Adirondack III.
Where they’re mentioned: Gotham’s “Environmentally Friendly Option.”
A strong pick for people with bunions, hammertoes, or wide forefeet.
Why Dr. Cunha’s advice supports these picks:
Based on updated models that fit Dr. Cunha’s criteria (rigid midfoot, built-in arch support, warm insulation, waterproofing, and strong traction), the following newer boots align with his recommendations:
These reflect what he consistently advocates for: rigid midsoles, supportive cushioning, foot stability, and reliable traction on winter surfaces.
1. Try boots on with your actual winter socksA boot that fits with thin socks may cause circulation problems when thicker socks are added later.
2. Replace insoles if neededMost winter boots can accommodate custom orthotics — something he strongly encourages for people with flat feet, high arches, or chronic foot pain.
3. Prioritize traction above allAccording to Dr. Cunha, slips and falls are one of the most common winter foot and ankle injuries — and the right outsole prevents many of them.
4. Break them in earlyWearing new boots on a long day out causes friction blisters and tendon strain. Break them in gradually.
Choosing the right winter boot is not about trends — it’s about foot health, warmth, and safety.The styles above are the closest match to what Dr. Miguel Cunha of Gotham Footcare recommends based on biomechanics, cold-weather injury prevention, and structural support.
If you want personalized guidance — especially if you struggle with foot pain, flat feet, bunions, or plantar fasciitis — schedule an evaluation at Gotham Footcare for a professional footwear assessment.
At Gotham Footcare in NYC, we strive at recognizing your individual needs and desired outcomes while formulating an effective and personalized treatment plan with the highest quality care available.
What sets Gotham Footcare apart from other podiatry offices is our dedication to providing you with the education you need to make well-informed decisions regarding your care. Regardless of what your foot and ankle trouble may be, at Gotham Footcare our team will work tirelessly to help you feel better. At Gotham Footcare, we help you put your best foot forward.
By submitting this you agree to be contacted by Gotham Footcare via text, call or email. Standard rates may apply. For more details, read our Privacy Policy.
Downtown: 233 Broadway, Suite 1775, New York, NY 10007
Midtown: 501 5th Ave, Suite 506, New York, NY 10017
Call Today: (212) 921-7900
Mon 8:00am – 6:00pm Tue-Thurs 8:00am – 7:00pm Fri: 8:00am – 6:00pm
Podiatrists Marketing
© 2025 GOTHAM FOOTCARE | All Rights Reserved | Sitemap | Privacy Policy | Accessibility