The best winter boots: not only at home outdoors
Winter boots are warm and comfortable shoes that help you access demanding terrain in less-than-perfect weather. Inevitably, such shoes have become very popular in the city for cold, rainy and snowy days. Their urban popularity has grown to such an extent that many manufacturers offer models with a look reminiscent of normal city boots but with built-in features that allow you to get more out of them for more demanding use. Despite the modern look, they continue to offer optimal protection and functionality for cold and wet weather, while also looking great with jeans and trousers. Read on to learn more.
CONTENTS 1. WINTER BOOTS: MAIN FEATURES 1.1 MATERIALS 1.2 THE MEMBRANE 1.3 THE SOLE 1.4 THE UPPER 1.5 THE LINING 2. THE BEST WINTER BOOT BRANDS 2.1 MEN'S BOOTS 2.2 WOMEN'S BOOTS 2.3 KIDS' BOOTS
1. WINTER BOOTS: MAIN FEATURES
As already mentioned, winter boots are especially useful for protecting your feet during demanding outdoor activities, or whenever your feet need good protection from cold and wet weather. The best winter boots provide optimal comfort and warmth and play a very important role in mountain and winter clothing; as you probably know, if your feet aren't warm and protected, your whole body suffers. Winter boots must be made of durable materials, have good cushioning and above all be waterproof.
1.1 MATERIALS
The most important things in a good pair of winter boots are the workmanship and quality of the materials. Among the most common materials used are real leather, synthetic leather in polyurethane (PU) and Nubuk. When choosing a pair of boots, pay particular attention to the membrane, sole, upper and lining.
1.2 THE MEMBRANE
The most important feature of a pair of winter boots is the protective and waterproof membrane used, its purpose to protect the foot from cold and wet. This membrane should ideally be waterproof and breathable. Here are some of the most impressive membranes we've come across: - GORE-TEX membranes are ideal because they offer both high breathability and protection from wind and moisture. This allows you to tackle even the most intense activities with dry and cosy feet, preventing the foot from overheating or getting cold; - The M-Select DRY membranes, developed by Merrell, guarantee dry and warm feet; - The KEEN.DRY membranes, made by the company KEEN, are designed specifically for use in footwear and have 3 tough layers of polyurethane. - Another notable brand is Columbia, which develops fabrics with high-performance membranes thanks to technologies such as OMNI-TECH™ or OMNI-HEAT REFLECTIVE™, which guarantee exceptional waterproof and breathable properties.
1.3 THE SOLE
A winter boot's sole is usually made of rubber and EVA foam; these materials provide great grip even in wet and snowy conditions. A good sole must therefore be non-slip with some kind of tread as well as being well glued or sewn to the upper of the boot, because it's here that water can otherwise easily penetrate. It's good to regularly check the condition of the sole: when it's too worn, it is good to re-sole it or even buy a new pair, because a sole that does not guarantee good grip can make it very difficult to walk on slippery surfaces.
1.4 THE UPPER
The upper is the layer of the shoe that protects the foot from the cold and wind. The material of the upper can vary depending on the type of boot: for those to be used on snow and in the intervals between sports activities, it's a good idea to choose uppers made of synthetic materials and with good padding, while for boots to be used in urban environments or for less intense activities, you can also choose shoes with less technical characteristics, more suited to the urban environment.
1.5 THE LINING
The lining, i.e. the layer on the inside of the boot, is often waterproof and padded, and is usually made of fabric, fleece or even Gore-Tex material. Again, this depends on the boot's intended use.
Many think of tough winter boots as cumbersome and unattractive, with functionality and comfort prioritised over looks. And although it used to be more difficult to find a stylish pair of winter boots to match your outfit, things are different nowadays, with many new models perfect for wearing in the city thanks to their trendy and casual look.
[vc_zigzag]
2. THE BEST BOOT BRANDS
2.1 MEN'S BOOTS
There are many quality brands making winter boots: Merrell, Lowa, Kamik, Sorel, Columbia...the list goes on. However, many models are still primarily winter boots designed more for the mountains and snow than for urban use (although they can of course also be used in the city). In recent years, outdoor fashion has invaded the urban jungle. Nowadays, many outdoor boots and jackets bought never go anywhere near the mountains, instead being worn and enjoyed solely in the city. It's for this reason that many manufacturers offer casual boot models that, without disregarding the characteristics of a winter boot, have a more modern and urban look and style. We want to show you some models, brands, trends and styles, classic and new, to help you conquer the asphalt.
A classic that never seems to go out of style: the most famous and recognisable boots together with Doctor Martens. This model has hardly changed in its 40 years of production, except for the incorporation of more modern technologies. Although available in several colourways, this classic remains the most popular. The soft and resistant leather helps make the boots waterproof and the EVA sole adds that extra comfort your feet will appreciate in winter.
The main reason everyone should have a pair of Chelsea boots is their versatility. Named after the first company to manufacture them in 1851, the term 'Chelsea boot' didn't actually come into vogue until the boots' resurgence in the 1950s. From the Rolling Stones to millennials, these types of boots stand out because they can be worn with formal and casual clothing. In addition, tough waterproof models are ideal for winter. They don't look bad on anyone.
But wasn't this an article about winter boots? Yes, but also about footwear trends. If you haven't noticed how popular sneakers are, you must've been living under a rock. Nowadays, everyone has at least one pair of running shoes and more than half of them are only used for walking. The comfort of their soles makes them ideal for all-day wearing. In addition, the tough materials and membranes used keep our feet dry and warm.
2.2 WOMENS BOOTS
Hiking boots will never go out of style. They're made from high quality and sustainable leather and feature CFC-free DWR surface treatment with a PROOF ECO membrane that's water-repellent and keeps your feet dry. These medium-high cut boots tend to have good insulation and are exceptionally comfortable.
What would winter be without rain? And what better than a pair of wellies to make you feel like a child again as you jump around in puddles? With more and more colours available, many new models also include lining that adds that extra comfort that's so welcomed during the winter months.
The Chelsea Boot Company was created in 1851. Almost two centuries later the model they made for Queen Victoria, who ordered a pair of boots without laces as the normal ones got stuck in her stirrups while riding, is still an icon. Comfort and style defined: chelsea boots not only look good, but feel great too.
2.3 KIDS' BOOTS
This type of mountaineering boot is great for children. The fleecy lining is perfect for keeping their feet comfortable and warm, and the waterproof construction keeps the rain out. Thanks to the grippy sole, your sprogs be able to safely run about on any terrain.
If there's one thing kids like, it's jumping in puddles. After all, that's what wellies were designed for! And what's better than providing them with the right footwear and not having to scold them? Many modern models have special soles for maximum grip and inner linings for improved comfort.
Cool urban style for kids. These snow boots resemble a classic city boot in many ways, but allow your youngsters' feet to stay dry and warm during even the coldest winters. They're also perfect for wearing under jeans and trousers.