October has passed, the days of falling yellow leaves and heavy rains are beginning to fade, and the smell of frost in the air is finding its way to your nostrils all too often. Aside from getting your winter coat out of the closet and wondering where those thick wool scarves ended up during the year, there is probably another question crossing your mind. What’s going to keep your feet warm and dry for the next few months?
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There are so many things to cover when equipping yourself with a quality pair of winter work boots. First of all, how well are they insulated? How comfortable are they? Do they give good maneuverability, or does all that insulation make them too rigid? Does the sole provide good traction to prevent slipping on frozen surfaces?
If you are a worker and need a pair for your job, then there’s also safety to consider and the fact that you will be spending at least 8 hours a day wearing them.
Naturally, every winter boot model will be made to be warm, comfortable, and durable. However, “winter” can mean a whole lot of different conditions that need addressing. For instance, how low of a temperature will you be exposed to? Do you spend your time in the boots staying still or participating in some activity? Are there a lot of slippery surfaces to walk on?
Insulation is something everyone will consider when buying a pair of winter boots, but not a lot of people know how much insulation they need. After all, winter temperatures can vary greatly, so there are different insulation types and thicknesses to cover all possible conditions and needs. Insulation thickness is measured in grams (G) and it represents the thickness of the insulating material.
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Not quite for snow and winter, but more adequate for cold weather. With moderate physical activity, this level of insulation will likely keep your feet warm in normal autumn temperatures, but they still might be a bit too thin for you if you spend most of your day sitting outside.
We are now getting into the winter levels. If temperatures are getting near freezing and it’s starting to look like snow - start thinking about at least 600G of insulation. If you’re active during your day, this should be enough to keep you warm and dry.
For harsh winters, with sub-freezing temperatures. This insulation thickness will affect your mobility, so it’s best suited for those who are mostly stationary during the day. Baring really extreme temperatures, this should be enough to keep your feet warm even with minimum activity.
This amount of insulation is intended for the most extreme temperatures, accompanied by snow and ice. Frostbite is a real danger in these cases, so if you are exposed to such conditions for longer periods, G or more will be necessary. It is suitable for very little activity, as this amount of insulation limits mobility drastically.
Long gone are the days where you would just buy whatever keeps your feet warm. Depending on the nature of your need, there is a variety of insulation types to choose from.
We’ll go over each specific type of insulation.
The worldwide favorite and reigning champion when it comes to insulation technology. Probably the most advanced insulating material available, it uses fibers much smaller than any other insulating material, making it more effective as you can fit more of it into the same amount of space.
It is lightweight, very flexible, and extremely durable as it does not compress over time. Hence it’s very good at keeping the shape even after a long period of use. It is also breathable and wicks away any moisture from the inside, providing great conditions for your feet in prolonged periods of wearing.
The traditional, yet still effective form of insulation. Unlike most modern insulation types, this one is not built-in so it can be taken out at will and washed or allowed to try after it gets wet. This, however, means that moisture can find its way to the inside of your boot, and the insulation provided in terms of heat-efficiency is not optimal.
Shearling insulation offers great comfort as it is very soft and fluffy, making the boots easy to wear for longer periods. It also does a great job of keeping your feet warm even in extremely cold temperatures. However, most shearling insulated boots are not made for rugged outdoor environments, but for day-to-day activities.
If there is any other type of insulation that can match the efficiency and quality of Thinsulate - it would have to be Litefire. In the process of its creation, it is first laid down in a gaseous state before being turned into a solid one. The result of this is an incredibly breathable material that is highly resistant to both water and wind, while still being very lightweight and thin.
Also, instead of layers and layers of insulation for collecting your body heat, Litefire reflects that heat right back, providing better long term warmth for your feet. Optional additional insulation can be added if needed as well, so you really need not worry whether your feet will be warm and dry should you opt for this insulation type.
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If those two terms tend to confuse you and make you wonder what the difference is between them, here is a short summary. Whether it is boots, shoes, a watch, or a , you may see a waterproof or water-resistant sign on them, and it wouldn’t hurt knowing what the manufacturer means by that.
Waterproof means that the product, in our case a boot, can be completely submerged into water and the material simply would not soak any of it. Such boots are usually made of synthetics or rubber, materials that shed water, and don’t let a drop through. Be it rain pouring from above, treading through a puddle, or even keeping your foot in it, your feet will not get wet.
However, not everything is on the bright-side here. Given that the materials used for waterproof boots are not so flexible and actually tend to be a bit stiff, they will often give less comfort than those made of more flexible, non-waterproof materials. Of course, in these modern times, everything is being done to increase comfort and make up for it in different ways, be it padding, insoles, or other methods.
Another con here is that these waterproof materials also tend to be less breathable. Yes, they keep the water at bay, but they also keep the air inside, not counting the small amount that finds its way up the shaft. The material itself doesn’t breathe, so should your feet start to sweat, they may create a dark, damp atmosphere inside your boots. These are the ideal conditions for fungus and bacteria to thrive in, which may lead to bad odors, or even worse, feet infections.
You could find alternative ways to deal with this, of course, such as socks that wick away your sweat drops or breathable lining. It depends on your needs and the amount of sweat you produce, so consider all matters when picking your pair of winter boots.
Water-resistant means that the material is keeping the water at bay for a certain period of time. If submerged, just like in the waterproof example, the water-resistant pair of boots would repel the water for a short period before starting to soak.
These materials are more breathable than those of waterproof boots and will allow the air to flow in and out. Aside from air, it also lets moisture escape from the inside, providing better conditions for your feet. For these reasons, they can not provide the same amount of protection from water and will eventually soak if left exposed to it for too long.
With water-resistant footwear, it is important to pay attention to the seams, as these are the spots where the water is most likely to find its way to the inside of your boot. Another thing to keep in mind is that if you are treading through muddy puddles or any other form of dirty water, your boots will soak it up eventually, providing good conditions for bacteria to grow. So washing your water-resistant boots after they’ve been soaked in unclean water is a strong recommendation.
For extra hard-working individuals that are not spared of heavy-duty work even in freezing temperatures, safety is another concern that has to be covered. So aside from comfort, durability, good insulation, these boots will have to provide the workers with protection from falling objects, piercing damage, or any other potential form of harm.
Where the tip of the boot is concerned, there are a few options to consider, depending on the amount of protection your toes need.
Soft Toe: Regular boot tip. This option gives you no extra protection for your toes and is usually picked by people that don’t expect to be exposed to this form of harm. It does leave the tip of your boot in it’s most flexible state.
As usual, with these recommendations, we will try to cover a few models that have proved best and are widely used in certain jobs, activities, or just for day-to-day use. However, when picking your own pair, take your time to find what is best suited for your needs and the conditions you’ll be facing.
A great hiking model from Danner that you will not regret buying if you are into long hikes over rough, snowy terrain. With 200G of Primaloft insulation, this boot will keep your feet warm even in freezing temperatures as long as you keep moving. And since they are optimized for hiking, we will assume that you do intend to keep on moving.
The Vibram SPE midsole is a comfort masterpiece, striking a perfect combination of rubber and EVA foam. It adapts to the foot very well and provides great long-term comfort and impact absorption for those exhausting days of treading through mountain peaks and snowy, rock-covered paths.
Vibram also features an extra grippy outsole - Megagrip. It will keep excellent traction on almost any surface, including snow, slush, and muddy slopes.
A well-insulated work boot that includes the necessary safety features for heavy-duty work conditions. Apart from providing foot protection with a Composite Toe, this model also offers great comfort for longer wearing periods. The boot is 100% leather with a rubber sole and has G of LiteFire insulation. Despite this insulation thickness, this boot is still flexible enough to be used while moving and working, thanks to the nature of LiteFire materials.
Contact us to discuss your requirements of eva winter boots. Our experienced sales team can help you identify the options that best suit your needs.
Storm Defender Waterproof Breathable protection guarantees you warm and dry feet in most types of wet conditions, while still allowing the air to circulate, providing your feet with a much-needed gasp of fresh air.
An incredibly well-rated all-round shoe from Timberland. Extremely durable, confirmed by a great number of buyers, they can withstand hikes through mud, snow, streams, or any other rough terrain you might encounter. All this, while still having the stylish looks to be worn on your way to the office during the workdays.
This model is also very comfortable and doesn’t have too deep of a shaft. It provides good arch support and is made from lightweight materials, making it very easy to be worn all day. So if you are just looking for a quality pair of winter boots for everyday use that will also serve you on your occasional hike or a mountaineering excursion, this is definitely a pair you should at least consider.
As you can see, there are quite a few things to consider when buying a pair of winter boots for the season. Take all of the above into consideration, and then browse our collection of the highest-quality winter boots there are.
As autumn fades and winter begins to set in, you have to swap out your cozy wardrobe for thick coats, heavy pants, and warm boots. As anyone who’s lived in a cold climate will tell you, the right winter boots not only keep your feet warm and dry but also keep you comfortable and steady.
But the search for the perfect winter boots can be an intimidating task. Fear not! We’re here to guide you through the shopping process, with decades of experience to draw upon from freezing Canadian winters Our commitment to cutting-edge technology, comfort, functional design, and style has made us a trusted choice for generations. From insulated winter boots that balance fashion and functionality to advanced waterproofing technology made for extreme conditions, Royal Canadian Boots is committed to excellence.
Join us as we use expert insights to demystify the process of shopping for the perfect winter boots.
Even with experience, a harsh winter is a daunting opponent. Each scenario places different demands on a set of boots. Given the differences in terrain, climates, and activities, you have to be prepared for changing climates, conditions, and personal habits.
For city slickers, insulated winter boots that strike a balance between fashion and function on slick and icy sidewalks are preferable. These boots are designed for moderate cold and offer dependable traction on urban surfaces. For hiking enthusiasts and those in rural settings, waterproof snow boots ensure warmth and comfort on icy paths and snowdrifts. Meanwhile, extreme mountaineers and winter athletes require other types of boots like mountaineering, snowboard, or Pacific (“pac”) boots.
Let's delve deeper into these various scenarios and help you identify the boots best suited for each.
The key to choosing the right winter boots hinges on understanding how you plan to use them. Different winter boots are tailored to different activities and environments.
Insulated winter boots shine in moderate conditions. They blend style, comfort, and functionality for commuting, running errands, or socializing with your friends. Similarly, slip-on snow boots provide convenient, cozy wear for casual, low-impact winter outings.
For those venturing out into the snow and slush for work or recreational activities like snowshoeing or hiking, waterproof snow boots ensure dryness and warmth. Meanwhile, extreme conditions call for specialized solutions. If alpine adventures are your thing, mountaineering boots' combination of insulation, waterproofing, and stability is a must. Meanwhile, snow sports enthusiasts looking to carve up some fresh powder won't take to the slopes without the comfort and support of snowboard boots.
For fans of outdoor adventures in especially cold and wet conditions - ice fishing, for instance - there are pac boots. Pac boots’ combination of waterproofing and warmth provide comfort and an invaluable shield against cold-related issues like frostbite.
Consider your preferred winter activities when choosing a pair of boots to ensure that your feet stay warm, comfortable, and well-protected.
At their core, cold-weather boots are about insulation. How well a pair of boots fends off the elements and keeps your feet toasty and dry depends on their insulation materials and technologies.
One popular option for moderate conditions is Thinsulate. This lightweight synthetic insulator offers warmth without adding bulk. PrimaLoft, meanwhile, is renowned for its water resistance and heat retention in wet and snowy conditions. Finally, natural down's exceptional warmth-to-weight ratio provides comfort and coziness in frigid climates.
Choosing the right insulation depends on the expected temperature ranges you'll be facing and the activities in which you’ll be participating. By aligning insulation with the anticipated conditions, you’ll ensure your winter boots provide the warmth, dryness, and comfort you need to enjoy the snowy season.
After insulation, waterproofing is the most important factor to consider when shopping for snow boots. Proper waterproofing ensures that the wearer’s feet stay warm and dry in all conditions. A variety of technologies and advanced materials contribute to quality waterproofing.
Specialized membranes like Gore-Tex repel rain, snow, and slush without sacrificing breathability. These membranes keep external moisture out and wick sweat to prevent your feet from sweating excessively.
As with insulation, the right level of waterproofing depends on your climate and intended activities. For light snow or urban settings, boots with waterproof coatings may suffice. For more extreme conditions like deep snow or wet terrains, boots with advanced membranes are essential.
Icy surfaces demand footwear with solid traction to prevent slipping. It’s crucial to remember that the level of traction you need is directly related to the treacherousness of your conditions.
Selecting the right sole material and technology depends on the intensity of your winter activities. For urban wear, winter boots with outsoles with multidirectional treads will suffice. These treads improve traction on slippery and icy surfaces like city sidewalks by creating friction.
For more rigorous pursuits like work, hiking, or snow sports, boots with advanced technologies like ArcticGrip are a must. ArcticGrip uses special compounds and lug patterns to ensure the security of every step on even the iciest surfaces.
Prioritize traction in your boots and glide through winter with a confidence and grace that you never knew you possessed!
Winter boots aren’t a one-season luxury. A winter boot purchase is an investment in your long-term comfort and protection that should last for years.
Quality materials play a vital role in a boot's durability. Premium full-grain leather offers exceptional strength and resilience, even in harsh conditions. Materials like durable nylon or waterproof fabrics prolong lifespan while maintaining performance.
Construction methods further contribute to durability. Look for boots with reinforced stitching, robust lacing systems (BOA®, for instance), and sturdy eyelets. Also, advanced manufacturing techniques like cemented or Goodyear welt construction help longevity by strengthening the bond between the sole and the rest of the boot.
Choosing the right size for your winter boots will ensure comfort, warmth, and optimal performance during the colder months. Proper sizing not only prevents discomfort but also allows for the necessary air circulation that keeps your feet warm. Here's how to find your perfect fit:
Start by measuring your foot size accurately. Use a ruler or a foot measuring device, ensuring you measure both feet, as they may differ slightly. When it comes to sizing, keep in mind the differences between men's, women's, and children's sizes. Men's and women's sizing often vary, and children's sizes may follow a different scale altogether.
A snug fit is crucial, but avoid tightness that restricts blood circulation. When trying on boots, wear the same type of socks you plan to wear during winter activities. Aim to try on boots in the afternoon when your feet are naturally slightly larger. Look for a comfortable, snug fit that leaves enough room to wiggle your toes.
A properly fitted winter boot will keep your feet cozy without constricting movement. With the right size, your boots will become a seamless extension of your winter wardrobe, providing the warmth and comfort you need to embrace the season's wonders fully.
Armed with this comprehensive guide to choosing the perfect winter boots, you're ready to navigate the frosty season with style, comfort, and unwavering confidence. Remember, the right pair of winter boots can make all the difference in embracing the beauty of winter while staying warm and protected. Whether you're strolling through snow-covered streets, embarking on outdoor adventures, or conquering icy terrains, your feet deserve the best.
So, heed the advice of the experts, consider your activities, climates, and personal preferences, and make an informed decision. Your winter boots aren't just footwear – they're your companions in winter wonderlands. Choose wisely, and you'll be striding through snowflakes with a smile, knowing that every step is cushioned by warmth and comfort.
Now, go ahead and put your best foot forward – pun intended – as you step into the world of winter with boots that match both your style and the season's demands. Happy winter adventures!
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