https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/winter-boot-wisdom Style Advice for Fashion Lovers en-US Wed, 08 Apr 2026 19:37:06 +0000 http://bbpress.org/?v=1.0.2 q https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/search.php https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/winter-boot-wisdom#post-2353808 Tue, 27 Feb 2024 05:37:50 +0000 Anonymous 2353808@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>I look for easy on and easy off, a warm fleece lining and something that matchs or blends with a winter coat. I now wear warm wooly socks with boots but when I was in a warmer area I did not size up but wore the just nylons or thin socks or no show footies. Sizing up for socks depends on the sock and boots. I size up for thick wooly socks but not for thin ones or mesh. Try on to be sure. Some socks will accommodate boots, others will not. It depends on how soft they are and how they fit you. &nbsp;</p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/winter-boot-wisdom#post-2353805 Tue, 27 Feb 2024 03:14:38 +0000 Anonymous 2353805@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>This is for leather boots only: coat the boots with Vaseline and put them inothe oven at 150-200 degrees F. The Vaseline will soak into the leather, waterproofing them. </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/winter-boot-wisdom#post-2341326 Wed, 11 Oct 2023 18:39:01 +0000 Val MN 2341326@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>Lots of good advice here. My two cents on sizing up to make room for socks: I generally don’t. Many winter boots are designed to accommodate winter socks. On waterproof vs. water resistant: in a suburban setting where you are in and out of the car and not outside in falling snow for extended periods of time, water resistant is sufficient. Oh, and my go-to brand for lower priced, decent quality winter boots: Kamik. </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/winter-boot-wisdom#post-2341305 Wed, 11 Oct 2023 12:30:38 +0000 unfrumped 2341305@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>Very interesting thread. My city gets occasional winter snowfall, so my need for snow proof / waterproof grippy boots is intermittent &amp; harder to maintain a pair, let alone capsule, with best fit from year to year. Lighter hikers with warm socks are used more often. Hence I’m quite interested in gaylene’s gaiter recommendations!</p> <p>I would be terrible at boot shopping under pressure on the trip. </p> <p>Which brings me to, do you have super- easy to fit feet and high tolerance for wearing random brands? I’d be worried about boots I’ve never worn before ( even just thoroughly around the house) and not had a chance to use pick the right socks ( I have a lot of socks, so if I’m packing my footwear at home, I’m able to try out/ pack the right weight socks. </p> <p>If your feet aren’t fussy, you coukd get away with a type of Duck boot as suggested, plus the right socks. I’m not as clear on whether you want better, more versatile boots you could use at home but that you can adapt via one of the suggested methods. </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/winter-boot-wisdom#post-2341214 Tue, 10 Oct 2023 09:30:12 +0000 Bijou 2341214@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>Thank you for this thread. We are heading to Japan in December and DS only has fabric sneakers. I will need to get him some hiking boots or at least waterproof sneakers for the snowy conditions (we plan to do some skiing whilst there). Something I would never have thought of until too late! </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/winter-boot-wisdom#post-2341192 Mon, 09 Oct 2023 23:33:41 +0000 Anonymous 2341192@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>Yes To Sizing Up!! It really depends on the snow- which I wouldn't expect in October anywhere.</p> <p>Here's some of my non heeled boots:<br /> Aquatalia snow boots. Would wear in deep snow and bitter cold cause fleece lined.<br /> Black waterproof Blondos- for normal winter days.<br /> Fur lined Sketchers- for walking in the cold and just a small bit of snow. </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/winter-boot-wisdom#post-2341172 Mon, 09 Oct 2023 19:00:48 +0000 Gaylene 2341172@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>A couple of other considerations:</p> <p>A boot or shoe with a soft rubber sole gives more traction than a leather-soled one, especially on ice or packed snowy trails/sidewalks. And watch out for inexpensive snow boots whose rubber soles harden as soon as the temperatures drop otherwise you’ll be skating instead of walking.</p> <p>A&nbsp;decent fit around the ankles and heel is necessary if you plan to walk in your boots—pull-ons are convenient but can be sloppy to walk in if you are going any distance. The other disadvantage of a pull-on is its open top which results in a boot full of snow if you are shovelling or moving through drifts. That’s why gaiters are essential for hikers or anyone who treks through snow—keeps your lower legs toasty and, more importantly, your feet dry. True winter boots designed for deeper snow often have an inside gaiter attached to the top of the boot which you can tighten around your leg.&nbsp;</p> <div><div><br /></div><div>Check inexpensive laced boots to make sure that the tongue has a gusset and <i>is attached to the boot to at least the high ankle on both sides</i>. Cheap boots often eliminate the gusset, or attach it only on one side, but the result is the same—a boot full of water and slush at the first puddle.&nbsp;</div><div><br /></div><div><i><b>Final tip</b></i>: <i><u>Driving in a winter boot can be dangerous</u></i> because winter boots tend to be heavy and bulky—two characteristics which interfere with your ability to safely use the gas and brake pedals. If you’ll be running errands using a car, you’ll have to compromise. That’s why a lighter ankle boot with a gaiter might be more adaptable for your circumstances than a snow/winter boot.&nbsp;</div></div></p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/winter-boot-wisdom#post-2341141 Mon, 09 Oct 2023 15:01:14 +0000 Carol 2341141@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>Sorrels are known for handling weather--I still have some from middle school. Uggs are great if you're just going to be handling snow and kicking around town. I don't need to size up, unless I plan on wearing many layers of socks..&nbsp; </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/winter-boot-wisdom#post-2341138 Mon, 09 Oct 2023 14:53:30 +0000 Kyle 2341138@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>Thank you to everyone for sharing your invaluable experience and wisdom. This is all so helpful.&nbsp; </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/winter-boot-wisdom#post-2341129 Mon, 09 Oct 2023 12:49:30 +0000 Mary Beth (formerly LBD) 2341129@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>I live in Atlanta, but we usually go to Ontario and NYC in December to visit family, and we do a lot of walking. &nbsp;For my part, I size up half a size in leather boots, wear thicker socks and add gel cushion insoles for all the extra walking. I usually take two pairs of boots, which keeps my feet/legs/lower back happy.</p> <p>When fall comes around, I brush my boots, wipe with a leather wipe, polish (if needed), and spray all over with a leather protector. &nbsp;Pro tip: I pay special attention to spraying the seams, where the boot attaches to the sole. &nbsp;Don’t ask me how I know to do this. &nbsp;&nbsp; </p> <p></p> <p>ETA: &nbsp;I’ve lucked out on not having to shovel snow. &nbsp;If you know you’ll be in the snow-shoveling business, pay attention to our Canadian members’ recommendations for styles!</p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/winter-boot-wisdom#post-2341126 Mon, 09 Oct 2023 12:37:19 +0000 RobinF 2341126@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>We also get a lot of lake effect snow here in West Michigan. As others have said, you may want to wait until closer. It does seem like winter is coming later these days but it's also not unusual to get a snowstorm around Thanksgiving so you never know. I have gotten inexpensive pull on snow boots at discount places like Burlington and TJ Maxx that I use for snow shoveling and the like. Not exactly like this but similar. They aren't stylish but they do the job.</p> <p> </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/winter-boot-wisdom#post-2341090 Sun, 08 Oct 2023 22:58:23 +0000 Jules 2341090@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>Well at that time of year the stores will be fully stocked with boots, so I’d probably just wait and see if I need them when I get there. Yes it can be a pain to need to shop on a trip but sounds like you’ll be near malls and big box stores, you’ll know the conditions and be able to try them on in person. </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/winter-boot-wisdom#post-2341085 Sun, 08 Oct 2023 22:22:04 +0000 Angie 2341085@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>Excellent suggestions! Nodding along with all of it ;)</p> <p>Different Winter weather requires different types of boots.&nbsp;</p> <p>If you're shoveling snow and are in a lot of snow - snow boots!</p> <p>My rubber boots that are pull-on do well in slush. The lace-up snow boots will seep through water. They are great in DRY snow.&nbsp;</p> <p>Ice, lots of rain, and a bit of snow - weatherproof WARM boots or hi-tops with non-slip soles. That's Seattle. I'm outside a lot so my feet get cold unless I have thicker leather soles - my hi-tops have fleece lining!!! I also like boots with more ankle coverage. Warmer.&nbsp;</p> <p>Remember that you can weatherproof boots with spray instead of buying weatherproof leather boots. I wear both.&nbsp;</p> <p>I'm in dressier boots most of the time. They do just fine! When it's VERY grotty - I pull out my casual boots.&nbsp;</p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/winter-boot-wisdom#post-2341039 Sun, 08 Oct 2023 10:08:05 +0000 lisaflex 2341039@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>I am in cleveland......non slip (good grippy) soles. water proof. just depends when and how long you will be outside. you want to be comfortable and have warm dry feet! closer to the lake there is more wind which can make it feel colder.&nbsp; </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/winter-boot-wisdom#post-2341021 Sun, 08 Oct 2023 01:17:21 +0000 Gaylene 2341021@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>I’d be more concerned about slippery soles if I thought I’d be walking in rain, snow, slush, and/or ice. Over the years, I’ve favored Blundstones, Fryes, sturdy leather walking shoes, trail runners, and hiking boots which have all served me well in places as diverse as Toronto, the Yukon, the PNW, mountain towns, and the Maritimes.&nbsp;<div><br /></div><div>Instead of buying footwear you are unlikely to wear for more than a week once a year, waterproof a leather shoe or boot that has a grippy walking sole, pack a couple of pairs of wool socks, and toss in a set of gaiters if you think you might be slogging through deep snow or slush. A set of gaiters takes next to no room in your luggage and (unless you are into fancy mountaineering styles) are usually under $40–much cheaper than any decent snow boot. A pair of gaiters work better at keeping my lower leg and feet dry in snow and slush than any snow boot I’ve ever owned, last for decades, and can be worn with almost any style boot or shoe.&nbsp;</div><div><br /></div><div>If you aren’t familiar with gaiters, here’s a link:<br /><a rel="nofollow" href="https://www.rei.com/learn/expert-advice/gaiters.html">https://www.rei.com/learn/expe.....iters.html</a></p> <p></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div> </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/winter-boot-wisdom#post-2341011 Sat, 07 Oct 2023 20:40:11 +0000 Carla 2341011@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>Do you have a pair of leather combat boots? &nbsp;Just spray them with a double dose of water proofing, and wear wool socks. &nbsp;</p> <p>The black ones are leather and &lt;$100 CAD. &nbsp;The red ones were double the price and are lined in wool fleece for the coldest days. &nbsp;These get me through southern Ontario winters. &nbsp;</p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/winter-boot-wisdom#post-2341005 Sat, 07 Oct 2023 18:59:01 +0000 Kyle 2341005@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>Oh, and it’s not exactly city sidewalks in terms of an urban environment. It’s going to be suburban and will include running errands, so in and out of stores and parking lots, and going in and out of a newly constructed home. Any shoveling of the driveway will be done by us, and there won’t be any landscaping at all yet.&nbsp;<br /><div><br /></div><div>If any of you are familiar with Cleveland weather you know that lake effect snow can be brutal.</div> </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/winter-boot-wisdom#post-2341003 Sat, 07 Oct 2023 18:54:31 +0000 kkards 2341003@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>So I live “down the road” from your destination &amp; even though we get way less snow then Cleveland I’d say that the snow is coming later it used to. I’d probably not do anything until a week before your trip. Why spend money on something you don’t need.<br /> If you do get boots I think water resistant in good enough if you’re outside activity is generally from inside to car. If your actually going to be outside in the elements for any length of time, water proof is much better </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/winter-boot-wisdom#post-2341001 Sat, 07 Oct 2023 18:45:24 +0000 Kyle 2341001@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>Destination is Cleveland, Ohio, in late November or early December. There could be a lot of snow and slush, just one or the other, maybe rain, or sunny skies. That’s northeast Ohio for you. I was born and raised there but don’t go regularly or in the winter.&nbsp;I’ll probably wait until I see the forecast to buy anything, but I’m thinking ahead about what to look for IF snow is expected.<div><br />One of my questions — if I buy boots should they be waterproof, or is water resistant adequate?</div> </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/winter-boot-wisdom#post-2340992 Sat, 07 Oct 2023 17:05:02 +0000 kkards 2340992@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>I was going to say what LaPed said…where and when really matters. &nbsp;<div>Depending on where your going water resistant sneakers might be better than boots.&nbsp;</div> </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/winter-boot-wisdom#post-2340991 Sat, 07 Oct 2023 16:17:23 +0000 LaPed 2340991@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>Where in the US? Is this a city trip, or somewhere more remote/higher elevation? If you're mostly dealing with city sidewalks, I wouldn't worry too much about true winter boots for Nov/Dec weather. Any pair of solid leather shoes should be fine with a pair of warm merino socks; having a second pair of footwear so you can rotate and dry them out fully would be a good idea. My rule of thumb is that mesh, knit, and canvas are no fun when it's cold and wet, but most other shoes are fine. I'm in northern New England and mostly wear my Blundstones or other chelsea boots that time of year. Most likely there won't be much snow accumulation yet. And if you do encounter weather, you can grab something cheap from Target/Dick's Sporting Goods/Tractor Supply/etc. and, like Roberta says, donate before you leave. Women's and family shelters in particular are always on the lookout for winter clothes in good condition. </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/winter-boot-wisdom#post-2340990 Sat, 07 Oct 2023 16:14:44 +0000 Indigoprint 2340990@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>Oops.... </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/winter-boot-wisdom#post-2340989 Sat, 07 Oct 2023 16:13:47 +0000 Indigoprint 2340989@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>Where up north are you thinking? I only ask because of the weather pattern they are predicting different amounts of inclement weather for different areas. I live in Wisconsin and the prediction is for a mild winter with not much precipitation.<br /> That being said, I size up for bulky socks, look for good grippy soles and consider how I want to get them on and off.<br /> I have had good luck with Sorel, LL Bean, Lands End, Dr. Martens, Kamik, Blowfish, Converse and Earth Origins.<br /> Blowfish and Earth Origins were the most reasonably priced( fake leather). However the have worn as well and served the weather conditions as well as the others. </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/winter-boot-wisdom#post-2340988 Sat, 07 Oct 2023 16:04:11 +0000 Roberta 2340988@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>This is a tough one! I have a friend in Florida, I should ask her what she does if she visits Chicago in the winter. So far she has avoided that!</p> <p>Maybe you could borrow a pair while you are there? I think even cheap boots will cost you some bucks. They would probably be fine for a week and then you could drop them at a shelter or food pantry.</p> <p>i would look at Target or Kohl's to start - Target has these cute duck boots (if you like that style) -&nbsp;<a rel="nofollow" href="https://www.target.com/p/women-s-tiffy-duck-boots-universal-thread/-/A-88243574?preselect=88236071#lnk=sametab">https://www.target.com/p/women.....88236071#l</a></p> <p> </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/winter-boot-wisdom#post-2340985 Sat, 07 Oct 2023 14:23:49 +0000 Kyle 2340985@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>I may need to buy a pair of winter boots for a trip to the northern U.S. later this year. &nbsp;I haven’t experienced slush or snow for many, many years. What are your tips for finding a pair of booties that will stand up to cold, wet conditions? What should I look for? What should I avoid? Do I need to size up to accommodate socks? Any budget-friendly brands or stores to try since I would only need these for less than a week? </p>