When the weather is cold, wet, snowy or icy, you will need a pair of top-notch winter boots. Below are some of my top picks in men's winter boots, designed to keep you dry and warm, even in some of the worst conditions.

When you're done looking over the list, you may want to check out readers' feedback on which brands make the warmest winter boots or share your own thoughts on the topic.

The North Face 'Chilkats' - Insulated Winter Boots

Protection with a capital "P" is what you'll get with these stylish boots from The North Face. With waterproof uppers, 200g Primaloft® insulation, rustproof hardware, and more winter-beating technologies than I could possibly list, these boots also have a great, rugged look.

Kamik 'Nationplus' - Easy Care Winter Boots

With self-cleaning lug soles, and waterproof suede and nylon uppers, these boots will take care of you, and themselves. Great for guys who don't like or need really tall boots, these rugged, above-the-ankle boots are still tall enough to keep the snow out, and are comfort-rated to -40 degrees Fahrenheit.

Columbia 'Bugastump Omni-Tech' - Hiker-Style Winter Boots

Looking like a cross between hiking boots, trainers, and winter boots, these big, bad boots from Columbia feature 200 gram Thinsulate insulation to keep you extra warm. And thanks to their ballistic mesh uppers with leather overlays, they're pretty cool-looking as well.

Pajar 'Max' - Winter Boots for Men

There are times when you need a winter boot that's not quite so winter-bootish, and that is when styles like the Pajar 'Max' come in.

With classic chukka styling, these boots can easily take the place of shoes in any casual situation, while the suede uppers and shearling lining will help keep you warm on chilly days.

Of course, if conditions are snowy, icy, or extremely cold, you'll definitely want to stick with one of the more protective boot listed above. Or, check out my top picks in men's snow boots.