Quality wool socks are needed in cold (this is 100% true of any boot, and all warm boots will cause feet to sweat even if they "breathe" it's not like there is much of any actual "breathing" happening. Socks are the key). That said, my Woody max are what I wear for anything below 25 degrees including icefishing and late season hunting at below zero temps. I've had mine for 10 years now, and with some shoe-goo where some tears have occured from rough use, they are doing well. My next pair I will go with the black/farm versions instead of camo for at least a $40 savings Arctic Sport I believe, is the Woody-max equivalent.