7 pairs of expert-approved winter boots
Yahoo Lifestyle Canada is committed to finding you the best products at the best prices. We may receive a share from purchases made via links on this page.
Winter is on its way, and if you haven’t yet started thinking about the right gear, now might just be the time to start.
Choosing the right puffers, accessories, and footwear can mean the difference from freezing outdoors to feeling comfortable and ready to take on the day. That’s especially true if you’re trudging through mounds of snow and slush for months on end, as is the case for many of us across the country.
To find out what you should be looking for when it comes to winter footwear that not only protects against the cold and snow, but also contributes to proper foot health, we chatted with Cyrus Florendo, D. Ch, a chiropodist at Toronto’s Feet First Clinic.
When it comes to finding the right footwear for winter, Florendo recommends looking for these key features.
“A proper boot will have good tread, reducing the risk of slipping, good insulation to keep your feet warm and will have waterproof material to prevent your feet from getting wet.”
Rubber soles are ideal for providing traction on slippery sidewalks, while features like wool lining and Gore-tex fabric add warmth and waterproofing that you can trust to keep feet happy at any temperature.
For added comfort and fit customization, he also recommends looking for boots with adjustable laces, and removable insoles so that there’s plenty of room should you decide to swap them out for a pair of custom orthotics.
As for fit, finding the right sized boots is key for optimal foot health.
“Boots should feel snug around the heels and forefoot with room for your toes to move. Footwear should not be overly tight or big,” Florendo says.
Rather than opting for a larger size to accommodate layers of socks, Florendo suggests sticking with your usual size and opting for boots that are well-insulated instead.
Some classic styles that he recommends? Hiking boots, desert boots, and work boots, Chelsea boots, and rain boots are all great options that work for both men and women.
Take a look at some of Florendo’s top picks for winter boots that will keep your feet looking and feeling their best all winter long.
Blundstone "The Leather Lined" Classic Chelsea Boot
SHOP IT: Amazon, from $229
Sorel Men's 1964 Pac Nylon Waterproof Winter Boots
SHOP IT: Sport Chek, $135
Sorel Womens Winter Carnival Cold Weather & Shearling
SHOP IT: Amazon, $135
Clark’s Orinoco Spice Waterproof Boot
SHOP IT: Nordstrom, $120
Collection By Clarks Vargo Leather Chukka Boots
SHOP IT: Hudson’s Bay, $104 (originally $160)
Sauvie Snow Men's Winter Boots
SHOP IT: Bogs, $140
Ugg Women’s Adirondack III Tall Boots
SHOP IT: Ugg, $370
Let us know what you think by commenting below and tweeting @YahooStyleCA! Follow us on Twitter and Instagram.
