And the leather soles get mushy...and the salt used to melt the ice absolutely shreds the leather just above the stitching when it dries out. Western boots suck in the snow, and it's a quick way to ruin them. Even rubber-soled ones like some of Ariat's don't last, but they're better on wet surfaces.
Those are riding boots, or dress boots. They also make Western style boots with rugged soles for work. I have a pair and they're outstanding on all terrain, including snow. Here's an example:
I got them because we decided not to wear shoes inside our house, and unlacing my work boots several times per day was a real PITA. These take about two seconds to take off or put on.