ISPO Award Winner 2025: Helly Hansen Arctic Shield Pro Boot HT

The beating heart of any true winter boot is insulation, and the Arctic Shield Pro Boot HT sets a new standard with a combination of 600 g PrimaLoft® insulation and OrthoLite® O-Therm™ — the world’s first aerogel-infused open-cell PU foam used in an insole. Aerogel is renowned for its exceptional thermal properties and provides unparalleled underfoot insulation by blocking the transfer of cold from the frozen ground while maintaining a comfortable and lightweight feel. 

This dual-layer approach provides lasting warmth, even when temperatures drop well below zero. Outdoor enthusiasts, dog walkers, winter hikers, and urban commuters alike will enjoy a boot that reliably keeps their feet warm from pre-dawn steps to late-night returns. 

It's not just about staying warm; it's about staying consistently warm. By combining the proven insulation of PrimaLoft® with the cutting-edge temperature regulation of O-Therm™, the boot avoids cold spots and maintains insulation even when compressed underfoot – a common weak point in traditional winter footwear. 

Designed for serious winter conditions, the Arctic Shield Pro Boot HT's materials reflect this intention. At its core is HELLY TECH®, Helly Hansen’s proprietary waterproof and breathable technology that offers the best protection from snow, slush, water, and wind. This technology ensures that your feet will stay dry, even during long days spent in wet and variable winter conditions. 

The specialized HH Snow-Grip outsole is built for unpredictable winter terrain, such as slick sidewalks, packed snow, slushy trail sections, and mixed shoulder season conditions. The rubber compound and lug pattern are specifically engineered to enhance stability and traction on packed snow and slush, giving the wearer confidence with every step. 

HH Pro Guard, a reinforced material built for durability in exposed zones, protects critical areas that are prone to abrasion or impact, especially in deep or crusted snow. It reinforces the boot’s ability to withstand tough terrain, such as frozen fields and forested trails, where hidden branches or crusty ice can damage standard winter footwear. 

For those who regularly face harsh winter weather—urban explorers, snowbound commuters, and weekday adventurers who refuse to slow down—this boot offers hardy protection that maximizes security and comfort. 

"Earning an ISPO Award is a testament to the innovative design of the Arctic Shield Pro Boot HT," said Markus Westerberg, Helly Hansen's design director for footwear. "Our Norwegian heritage gives us firsthand insight into the demands of real winter conditions, and we design with those challenges in mind. The Arctic Shield Pro Boot HT was built to deliver dependable warmth, comfort, and protection, whether you’re moving through slush or exploring rugged, unpredictable terrain.”

The performance of winter boots is not just about insulation or waterproofing; it’s also about how the boot interacts with the foot during hours of movement. The Arctic Shield Pro Boot HT incorporates numerous design elements refined specifically for winter mobility and comfort. 

One standout detail is the locking hook, which allows wearers to adjust the fit of the lower and mid-foot zones independently. This is a valuable feature when transitioning between low-impact walking and more dynamic movement on the trail. This customization improves comfort and stability. 

The high shaft length provides protection in deep snow and keeps slush and powder out, even during demanding outdoor adventures. The boot’s internal design is also crafted with sustainability in mind; the lining, laces, webbing, and Strobel are all made from 100% recycled materials.  

Despite its rugged, performance-focused design, the boot remains impressively comfortable. The breathable, abrasion-resistant materials have high-performance finishes that enhance durability and longevity. The combination of softness inside and robust protection outside makes this product suitable for outdoor missions, winter travel, and daily wear. 

Finally, its clean, purposeful aesthetic blends functional winter design with a versatile look suitable for urban and outdoor settings alike. With men's and women's colorways — black and off-white — it seamlessly adapts to winter wardrobes while signaling performance at its core. 

• The OrthoLite® O-Therm™ insole is the world’s first and only aerogel-infused open-cell PU foam, providing unmatched thermal insulation.
• It has a locking hook for dual-zone lacing.
• The high-shaft design provides protection in deep snow