WATERPROOF & BREATHABLE
To keep feet dry, shoes or boots must obviously be waterproof, while being breathable. The waterproof level shouldn't prevent air from circulating when you exercise, otherwise moisture from perspiration will make your feet wet and you will feel cold .
When it comes to the waterproof level, opt for a boot if the snow is rather fresh and light or like spring snow, or consider combining shoes and snowshoes to improve your lift and therefore avoid sinking into the snow too much.The less the foot is in contact with the snow, the more likely it will stay dry. If the snow is rather packed, both boots and shoes work very well, it's up to you to find your optimal comfort: the boot offers more warmth, the shoe is often lighter and more breathable.