Climbing Colorado’s Mount Yale in February means embracing the cold head-on. The wind roared across the saddle at over 13,000 feet, the snow was knee-deep in places, and every exposed inch of skin burned from the chill.
Normally, my toes would be the first to surrender, but not this time. The KEEN Revel IV Polar Boots, available in both Mid ($190) and High ($210) versions, kept them warm, dry, and comfortable the entire climb. Named GearJunkie’s Overall Winter Hiking Boot, the Revel IV Polar line sets the standard for warmth, comfort, and all-season reliability.
My husband and I have been testing KEEN’s Polar line for more than a decade through long winters in Colorado and the Tetons, and these latest models carry that legacy forward. Both are built for true cold-weather adventure, with warmth ratings down to -25 degrees F in the Mid and -40 degrees F in the High.
Whether we’re breaking trail on snowshoes, climbing winter peaks, or hiking frozen forest roads, the Revel IV Polar boots have proven themselves again and again as some of the warmest, most capable winter hiking boots around.
In short: When the temperature plunges and trails disappear under a blanket of white, the Revel IV Polars keep you moving. They’re incredibly warm, waterproof, and confidence-inspiring underfoot, pairing high-level protection with KEEN’s signature comfort. This rarely achieved balance earns them the top spot.
Compare the KEEN Revel IV Polar boots to others we’ve tested in our guide to the Best Winter Hiking Boots.
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Extreme warmth: Mid rated to -25°F, High to -40°F -
Choice of mid or high shaft for mobility vs. deep snow -
Excellent grip on snow and ice -
Waterproof and breathable -
Pairs well with snowshoes and traction devices
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Heavier and stiffer than lighter winter hikers -
Rigid sole feels clunky for casual wear
KEEN Revel IV Polar Boot Review
Warmth
Few boots we’ve tested can rival the Revel IV Polar for raw warmth. The High version is rated to -40 degrees F, while the Mid is no slouch at -25 degrees F. Both share KEEN.WARM insulation and a heat-retaining insole that locks in warmth even during pre-dawn ascents and long, frozen ridge walks.
Our feet stayed comfortable while breaking trail through thigh-deep snow and standing still for long periods on windy summits. The plush fleece lining feels instantly inviting, and both versions balance insulation with breathability. The Mid breathes a little better on climbs, while the High traps warmth longer in deep snow or subzero temps.
Weather Protection
Both versions use KEEN’s waterproof, breathable membrane beneath a leather-and-mesh upper that shrugs off snow and slush. The High Polar offers extra coverage for wading through drifts and melting snow, while the Mid keeps weight lower and stride easier on long hikes.
We spent hours snowshoeing through melting snow and shallow creek crossings without a hint of moisture seeping in. Snow and slush bead right off the leather, and the gusseted tongue and sturdy cuff seal the elements out from the top down. These boots thrive in full winter immersion — from backcountry missions to icy trailheads.
Comfort and Fit
Comfort has always been KEEN’s strong suit, and the Revel IV Polar line continues that tradition. The boots fit securely through the heel and midfoot, with a roomy toe box that leaves space for thick socks without feeling loose. The padded collar and tongue remove pressure points, keeping them comfortable even under a heavy load.
The Mid version feels more agile and nimble, ideal for longer hikes or mixed winter conditions. The High prioritizes protection and warmth, with a taller cuff that shields against snow and wind but slightly limits ankle mobility. Both break in quickly, but if you value freedom of movement, the Mid is the better match — if you want maximum insulation and snow coverage, go High.
Traction
Underfoot, both versions share KEEN’s Polar Traction rubber — a cold-weather compound that stays soft and sticky even in deep cold. The aggressive lugs bite confidently into packed snow and ice, offering grip that rivals heavier mountaineering boots.
On steep, frozen ascents and rocky traverses, we trusted these boots completely. The High’s taller shaft provides extra leverage on sidehills, while the Mid feels lighter and quicker over distance. Compared to The North Face Chilkat V 400, the Revel IV offers a little more bite on icy climbs but slightly less flexibility on uneven ground.
Durability
After testing KEEN’s Polar line for over a decade, we can confidently say that these boots are built to last. The Revel IV continues that legacy with durable leather uppers that retain their shape season after season, tight stitching, and waterproofing that remains effective after years of use.
After 5 years of wearing the KEEN High Polar, it’s still our go-to winter hiking boot for big adventures. And, after a full season of heavy testing the Mid version in the Tetons, our pairs still look nearly new. The reinforced toe cap and heel guard resist abrasion from snowshoe straps and rocky trails. Every detail feels built for long-term abuse, making these among the most reliable winter boots we’ve ever owned.
Room for Improvement
The Revel IV’s durability and warmth come with a few compromises. Both versions are heavier than minimalist winter hiking boots, and the rigid soles limit flex on steep climbs or technical terrain. The High can feel bulky for short walks or casual town use.
Still, those trade-offs buy serious protection and stability. The Mid keeps things more balanced for hikers who want warmth without full weight, while the High remains our go-to for deep snow or subzero missions. If you want a lighter feel, the Merrell Moab Speed 2 Thermo Mid is quicker, but it can’t match the Revel’s warmth or grip.
Who Are They For? KEEN’s Revel IV Polar Boots
The Revel IV Polar is made for hikers who don’t stay home when winter gets tough. It’s ideal for long, cold hikes, snowshoeing, and winter peak bagging — anyone who needs serious warmth and traction.
We’ve been wearing the Polar line for more than a decade, and it still impresses with its protection, performance, and longevity
Choose the Mid for mobility or the High for deep-snow coverage and all-day warmth. If we had to pick one boot to handle every kind of winter condition, the Revel IV Polar would be it — the rare model that truly does it all.
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