5 Heated Insoles For Ski Boots That Actually Work!
The Thermic C-Pack Set 1700s are my choice for the best overall heated insoles for skiing. These insoles run for a stellar 17 hours on the low setting with their C-pack batteries. They provide ample heat, charge quickly, and come with a global charger. This means the heated insoles can work on your next international ski trip.
These are the most expensive heated insoles on my list, and the heating element can get very hot in the highest setting. However, the batteries sit in the top velcro strap of your ski boots for a fit that doesn’t require any extra brackets.
This is a great lightweight, low-profile solution to those frigid skiing days. Plus, the durable build means it’ll last for years.
Cold feet while skiing can easily shorten or ruin a ski day. Not only are they uncomfortable, but if left untreated, cold feet can lead to serious complications like frostbite. Getting a pair of the best heated insoles will help keep your feet reliably toasty when winter shows up.
With consistent heat, long battery lives and easy assembly, heated insoles pack quite the punch. Armed with a pair, you can shred harder for longer on days that send others inside. Don’t let the cold stop you from enjoying great conditions and fresh powder!
My Review Process
I’ve been skiing for 25 years. For the first half of that time, I didn’t think there were any permanent solutions to cold feet on the slopes. Like many, I just suffered through the coldest weather. But, after spending time with various ski boot heaters, I’ve finally zeroed in on a few reliable options for whatever nature throws at you.
I’m here to offer practical skiing solutions for cold temperatures. If you’re uncomfortable on the slopes, you’re much less likely to enjoy skiing. Keeping your feet warm and happy can help you shred harder for longer.
Best Overall Heated Insoles for Ski Boots
The Thermic C-Pack Set 1700s are my choice for the best overall heated insoles for skiing. These insoles run for a stellar 17 hours on the low setting with their C-pack batteries. They provide ample heat, charge quickly, and come with a global charger. This means the heated insoles can work on your next international ski trip.
These are the most expensive heated insoles on my list, and the heating element can get very hot in the highest setting. However, the batteries sit in the top velcro strap of your ski boots for a fit that doesn’t require any extra brackets.
This is a great lightweight, low-profile solution to those frigid skiing days. Plus, the durable build means it’ll last for years.
Best Heated Insoles with Long Battery Life
If you’re looking for long-lasting heat for your ski boots, the Hotronic Upgraded Universal S4+ is an excellent option. The set comes with two battery packs, associated wiring, and insoles. You can also just as easily use existing insoles and place the Hotronic heated element over top.
The included instructions are a bit confusing, but there are several youtube videos out there that help. Additionally, while it comes with wire brackets to hold the external batteries, they are flimsy. For a better fit, you’ll probably need to buy something a little sturdier, like the slide strap bracket.
But despite the minor drawbacks, the Hotronic ski boot heaters have the power to ease cold-footed discomfort from first chair to the end of the ski day.
Best Heated Insoles for Larger Skiers
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This no-frills solution is a great solution for any larger skier wanting warm feet. I love the wireless setup, which alleviates the need for any wire brackets. The insoles are also rechargeable and super easy to install; simply slip them into your ski boots.
On the downside, the remote control is the only way to turn it on. If for some reason, the battery power dies or the remote won’t work, you’re left with just a pair of insoles. Make sure to turn the insoles to the off position when they’re not in use, or you'll drain the battery.
The Thermacell Rechargeable Heated Insoles deliver consistent results without any installation headaches or wires, and that alone makes them attractive. The insoles also come in multiple sizes up to XX-Large, which should accommodate most, if not all, bigger skiers.
Best Budget Heated Insoles
If you’re on a budget, the Thermrup Electric Heated Insoles are the right call. They’re available at a great price, come with 4 heating levels, and are easy to install. Additionally, they come with an included battery strap that secures the battery to your leg so there’s less of a chance it’ll fall off while skiing.
The included insoles work well, but they are pretty flimsy. Before putting them into your ski boot, make sure to cut them to the right size and then carefully push them in. If you try to force the insoles in too quickly, the material could scrunch up or start to rip.
However, if you need a cheaper option that will give you a day's worth of heated feet, Thermrup has you covered.
Best Heated Insoles for Extreme Cold
While not technically insoles, these disposable foot warmers are ideal for the coldest temperatures. Each foot warmer will supply 8-10 hours of use, easily enough to last a whole ski day. The consistent performance and ease of use make them particularly attractive.
Unfortunately, you create a lot of trash with this disposable option. There isn’t much value over time because the foot warmer stops working after one day of use. But if you have a particularly cold stretch at a resort coming up, you can rest assured knowing these foot warmers will work when all else fails.
Heated Insole Buying Guide
Most heated insoles are easy to operate, but you need to know their uses and limitations. Check out the points below to make sure you get the best heated insoles for your needs.
Price
A good pair of heated insoles can cost anywhere from $60-300. My best overall option, the Thermic C-Pack Set 1700 BT, is at the top end of the range. Several options have extra batteries for purchase as well.
Comfort
Most heated insoles will provide added comfort. If you have foot issues like pronation, plantar fasciitis or collapsed arches, look for thicker heated insoles with arch support.
For example,my budget pick is listed at a great price, but its thin insole may not provide ample comfort or arch support. In contrast, the Hotronic, Thermacell, and Thermic insoles are thicker, making them a more suitable choice for those seeking additional support and comfort.
Build Quality
Many heated insole options come with wiring and a battery connector, so there's a bit more of an installation process. Also, if the connection is broken, the insoles won't heat.
When you ski in the moguls or trees, the battery could fall off because these setups require external batteries. Look at the brackets or cradle included to see how securely the battery attaches to your ski boot. Secure straps or battery strap attachments help.
The Thermacell option is wireless, which alleviates the disconnection issues. However, since the batteries are in the insole, you can’t simply replace them if they don’t work. Make sure the charging port works correctly, or there’s no way to power up the heating element.
Heat Coverage
You'll feel the most heat along the bottoms of your feet because the heating element is directed to the insoles. The heat will circulate along the length of your foot, so you should feel it from heel to toe.
Take a look at the heating settings as well. Most options come with multiple heat settings. Be aware that the higher heating settings will drain the battery faster. Make sure the battery charger, associated wiring and connectors are all attached snugly, or the heat won’t circulate as effectively.
Battery & Battery Life
The best option for battery capacity and type is the C-Pack battery, included with the Thermic C-Pack Set 1700 BT. Nimh and Lithium-ion battery packs provide optimal warmth as well but tend to run out of battery power first. It's also a good move to get extra batteries in case something happens with the included pair.
When charging, make sure to allow plenty of time. Several options will recharge their battery cells quickly, but it can often take hours. If you set the insoles to charge right after a ski day, they should be ready for the following day.
Heated Insoles vs. Heated Socks
Heated insoles aren’t the only heating solutions for cold feet. Heated socks operate similarly, with external batteries that warm the sock.
There are a few advantages to heated socks. Heated socks warm your skin directly, which can help on extremely cold days. They can also be washed, provided you remove the battery and follow all instructions.
On the negative side, some socks only have warming elements on the top or bottom of your feet, which can reduce their effectiveness. The heated socks also make direct contact with your skin. This means they take the brunt of any foot sweat that comes from a day of skiing. Over time, they can get pretty stinky.
3 Tips For Keeping Feet Warm When Skiing
The heated insoles in our guide are fantastic ways to stay warm. However, there are other things you can do while skiing to increase your level of comfort.
Tip 1: Get The Right Fit
Ski boots are one of the most important elements of skiing. A large part of a successful skiing setup depends on getting the right ski boots. Use our ski boot size chart to get started. Then, also check out our article on the best ski boots for every skier.
Tip 2: Adjust Your boots
Cold feet can be caused by boots that are too tight. When boots squeeze your feet, blood has trouble getting down there to warm them up. Loosen your boots on chairlifts and when you take breaks to help.
Tip 3: Dry Your Boot Liners
Wind, cloud cover and fresh powder can all impact how cold your feet get. After a big day of skiing, make sure to dry your boot liners with a boot dryer. This helps ensure a warmer liner for the next day and keeps odors down.
Summary
The best-heated insole option around is the capable Thermic C-Pack Set 1700 BT. Hotronic’s Upgraded Universal S4+ Version is another reliable solution with impressive battery life. Budget shoppers, on the other hand, will find a lot to love in the Thermrup Electric Heated Insoles.
Common questions
Ski boots aren’t manufactured with a heating element constructed into them. However, there are attachments that you can get if you want extra heat. One option is heated insoles; another is heated socks.
The best-heated insoles have numerous settings, provide hours of heat, and come with a reliable charging method for the batteries.
All ski boots come with insoles. Without them, you’d be skiing on hard plastic, which could easily create more foot problems. If you want to increase your level of warmth and comfort, consider heated insoles.
The short answer is that you can ski without them. However, custom insoles and heated insoles mirror the unique shape of your foot, providing both performance and comfort. If you have foot problems like collapsed arches or pronation, custom insoles really help.
If you have cold feet then you may have boots that are too tight. Try loosening them when you’re walking or on a chairlift to see if that helps. You may also have circulation issues, in which case the extra warmth from heated insoles will help a lot.
I’m happiest on long backpacking trips into little-known pockets of wilderness, skiing down backcountry mountains, and on all-fours, scrambling the rocky spines of alpine ridges. When I'm not adventuring in the outdoors, I'm most likely writing about them.
*The information on this site is based on research and first-hand experience but should not be treated as medical advice. Before beginning any new activity, we recommend consulting with a physician, nutritionist or other relevant professional healthcare provider.
