If you want to make it through the winter comfortably and safely, check out our list of important features to look for in winter boots. By investing in the right gear, you’ll save your health and your feet during the holiday seasons and throughout the colder months.
Inspection Is Everything
Before making any final decision on purchasing footwear, you should always give it a thorough look-over. When inspecting your boots, check for things like water tightness, the spacing of rivets in the stitching, blemishes or cracks, or discoloration.
If the boots don’t feel right when you’re wearing them, it’s worth looking at your other options. On the other hand, if you inspect them and they feel and look fantastic, you might be on your way to picking a fine pair of boots.
Sizing and Fit
One of the most crucial things you can do when looking at a new pair of boots or shoes is to check their sizing. The sizing and fit will determine everything, from the boot’s lifespan to how long your feet can keep up before you feel exhausted.
If your boots are too tight, they will hurt, and incorrect sizing isn’t something that breaking the boots in will fix. Meanwhile, a loose fit means they will slide, which comes with its own problems. If this happens, it will cause friction inside the boot, which will rub and blister your feet. It also means that you lose crucial stability and risk rolling your ankle.
A good rule of thumb for wearing boots is that they should feel comfortable and snug but not too loose or overly tight. Always stand, sit, and walk around in your boot to ensure it will feel right throughout your day.
Weight Factors In
You might notice that your boots have some heft when you put them on. They must be durable and firm but not so heavy that they weigh down your legs. While this could cause you to strengthen your legs over time, it will most likely exhaust you, especially in the winter.
If you have a long hike or any activities in store that will require you to be on your feet for extended periods, heavy footwear can make you miserable. Winter slush and moisture add extra weight to your boots, making weight a crucial factor when choosing winter footwear. Keep this in mind as you try on your boots and test them for comfort.
The Purpose of Your Boots
Speaking of hiking, you’ll need to ensure you know the purpose behind the boots you choose before making your purchase. If you’re using them for casual wear, you won’t need to look for as many details to get what you want out of them.
However, suppose you’re planning on hiking, working, or any other intensive activity. In that case, you’ll need to focus more on how the boot you have in mind will protect you and hold up against wear and tear. Things like durability, flexibility, and material all come into play when determining which winter boot suits your needs.
Support Is Foundational
If you’re traveling long distances or even just trekking on ice and snow, having great foot support becomes paramount. You’ll need heel, arch, and ankle support for either activity. You’ll also want to find a sole with a grip to keep you from slipping. With these features, you will enjoy your winter boots for many years with few to no problems.
Functional Closures
Not all boots have closures, but your winter boots should. If your boots have functional closures, this will help with a variety of essential things.
First, they will keep the heat from escaping your boots while you weather the harsh cold. Second, closures prevent moisture from snow, rain, or slush from seeping into your boots and soaking your feet. Damp, cold feet can lead to illness, which is why your winter boots must have effective laces or closures. Older styled boots will have gussets, which are straps on the sides of the calf, which can also work to serve this purpose.
Levels of Insulation
If you’re looking for boots that are suitable for mountaineering and hiking, you likely want to find a pair with multiple layers of protection against the weather for your feet. These layers keep your feet warm and dry. Many boots provide the option of taking them out for lighter journeys, which can make your boots more effective as a year-round footwear option. But when the temperatures drop below zero, you’ll need those layers in place.
Height of Your Boot and Heel
The height of your boots provides you with elevation and allows you to trek through heavy muck and snow. Without high heels, you can walk further, but you will have a harder time navigating rough terrain. Another benefit you lose out on with shortened boot heels is the added arch and ankle support. You’ll appreciate that feature when you’re outdoors trudging through dense snow.
Raw Material Quality
If you’re wearing men’s leather country boots, you’ll notice that in most cases, they were handmade. This origin greatly affects how well the boots hold up over time and how well they wear. As you choose a cowboy boot, consider the quality of the materials and the craftsmanship to determine if it’s up to your standards.
Check the Reviews
One of the most important things you can do is look up the reviews and ensure you’re spending your money on what you want. By considering feedback from other customers, you’ll have a firm idea of the quality of the product that you have in mind. Always consider both positive and negative reviews to gain a complete picture of the boots long before you make the decision to buy.
Finding a pair of boots without trial and error would be difficult without knowing these key features to look for in winter boots. Use this list instead to have everything you need to get the right pair of boots and stay comfortable through the winter. Don’t let the chilly season catch you by surprise; act now to get the winter boots you need.
