Best in Snow's...Boot's not Tires
Image via Pintrest
I usually get very excited when shopping for something new that I actually need. But snow boots, meh…they kinda suck to shop for given that it usually means winter is on the way. I need my snows to be actual workhorse boots - especially suited for walking the dog in all types of weather and to keep my toes warm in the hockey rinks that can become super frosty in the winter months. I even occasionally shovel snow (unbelievable, right?) and I hate being cold, so fashion kinda has to go out the back door and practicality becomes paramount. Luckily today there are many styles of boots that look great while keeping your tootsies toasty. Here are my top pics for warmth AND hot looks:
These Artica boots from Brown’s ($268) are similar to the Ugg Adirondack Tall, but with a gentler price point. Exclusive to Brown’s, Artica boots are waterproof with synthetic lining so no animals were harmed in the making of these babies. Artica’s come in a wide variety of styles and are worth a look at.
I’ve gone through a couple of pairs of Sorel Joan of the Arctic boots, but I’m liking the crazy crocodile teeth sole on these Tivoli IV Tall Boots. On sale now through Sorel for only $170.00 the Tivoli IV in Curry is chic and warm. They have a microfleece lining and fur trim for an extra touch of cute on this hard working winter boot. They are also available in black, grey and major which is a brown/grey mix.
If you love the Timberland’s that all the kids are wearing these days, you can pick this slightly elevated version with the Courmayeur Valley Boot. I love the nubuck colour (like the kids do) but they also come in grey and black (shows salt, so be careful with these in black). And hey, it’s not a bad thing to imitate the teens - you just need to put your own grown-up spin on the style. These babies are $210 plus 20% off for Black Friday.
Pajar boots consistently rate very high in the warmth category. Proudly Canadian for five generations, many of their styles are make right in Quebec. They offer some very cool snow boots, apres ski styles and fashion boots. The Valerie Boot is great crossover work boot/apres ski style. I love the black/white laces - super cute. The Valerie’s are shearling lined and good for temps as low as -40…perfect if you ever live through winters in Montreal or Ottawa. The $485.00 price point is not for the faint of heart and they do not pay for returns if you order online. It’s always important to read the fine print before adding to cart.
I’m interested in the Castlegar Boot from Royal Canadian, but not 100% sold on the zipper because zippers always cause problems, especially when mixed with the snowy, salty icy conditions of our winters. Zippers is great for an easy on/off situation though…get your dirty minds out of the gutter! Fussing with laces (or buttons - lol) can be a bit of a pain so is a zipper a good solution to the problem. Or it’s entirely possible that I’m getting old and lazy. For $300 the Castlegar is a stylish midrange boot that can take you into -30 temps. I think they’re worth a try faux lace situation and all.