THE NORTH FACE womens Thermoball Traction Bootie - Warm, Waterproof

Our review of the THE NORTH FACE womens Thermoball Traction Bootie finds it best suited for women who need a lightweight, warm, and waterproof winter boot that still feels easy to wear around camp or town. The single biggest reason to buy is its combination of 100% recycled ThermoBall insulation and a DryVent waterproof membrane, which locks in warmth even when conditions are damp while keeping weight low. In practice the boot performs like a hybrid between a lined winter camp shoe and a technical snow boot, offering reliable warmth, good traction, and easy on/off convenience for short hikes and cold-weather chores.

Key Features

• Waterproof protection: The DryVent membrane and non-PFC DWR finish keep feet dry in snow and slush so the interior insulation can keep working.
• Insulation that stays warm when wet: Improved 100% recycled ThermoBall traps heat in small air pockets, maintaining warmth without adding bulk.
• Durable recycled upper: A 100% recycled ripstop upper and synthetic mudguard resist abrasion and extend the life of the boot in rough winter use.
• Stable traction: A grippy rubber outsole provides confidence on icy campsite tracks and snowy sidewalks.
• Comfortable underfoot: The OrthoLite Eco LT footbed delivers cushioned support for all-day wear around basecamps or running quick errands.
• Easy entry and snow management: Pull-on loops and an adjustable collar bungee help with on/off and block snow from entering the shaft.

Who It's For

This boot is ideal for women who spend time at cool basecamps, campgrounds, or town winter errands and want a lightweight insulated option that is also waterproof. It works well for those who prioritize warmth-to-weight ratio and recycled materials while still needing a shoe they can slip into quickly at night or after a day of winter activity.

It is less suitable for extended alpine mountaineering or long backpacking journeys where a full-height technical mountaineering boot or heavy insulated boot with ankle lockdown is required, and some users who prefer a roomier toe box should check fit carefully since reports on sizing are mixed.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Warmth from ThermoBall insulation without heavy weight, making them easy to pack and wear.
• Waterproof DryVent membrane and DWR finish keep feet dry in wet snow and slush.
• Durable recycled ripstop upper and mudguard stand up to campsite wear and abrasion.
• Rubber outsole and collar bungee add traction and protection from snow entry.

Cons

• Fit can run narrow or small for some users, so trying on or sizing up may be necessary.
• Not intended as a heavy-duty mountaineering boot for long technical routes.

Specifications

Brand	The North Face
Upper	100% recycled ripstop with synthetic mudguard
Waterproofing	DryVent membrane with non-PFC DWR finish
Insulation	100% recycled ThermoBall synthetic insulation
Footbed	OrthoLite Eco LT cushioned footbed
Outsole	Grippy recycled rubber outsole

Our Verdict

The Thermoball Traction Bootie is a smart choice for women who want a lightweight, waterproof winter shoe that prioritizes warmth, sustainability, and easy on/off convenience. It delivers strong value for casual winter use, basecamp wear, and short outdoor chores, though users with wide feet or those needing heavy technical insulation should consider alternatives.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are these boots waterproof?
Yes. They use a DryVent waterproof membrane plus a non-PFC DWR finish to keep feet dry in snow and slush.

Will they keep feet warm if they get wet?
The ThermoBall synthetic insulation is designed to retain warmth even when damp, offering better wet-weather warmth than some loose-fill insulations.

How do they fit?
Fit is mixed: many find them true to size, but others report a narrow or small fit, so trying them on or sizing up is recommended if you have wider feet.