BOOTED & SUITED
It's cold, it's slushy, it's wet, and it's November, which means one thing: it's time for winter boots. Whether you make the switch because you can't bear the thought of ruining yet another nice pair of pumps, or hate having cold feet, good boots are a godsend in winter weather. Chunky lace-ups, pull on moto styles, and more, Rebecca Tay discovers five pairs just waiting to be unboxed.
MOUNTAIN MUST
You can't really do a winter boot story without including Sorel, founded in Ontario in 1962 and now headquartered in Portland, a city that's no stranger to wet weather itself. This 1964 CVS style is a classic that has truly stood the test of time, thanks to a combination of a waterproof coated canvas upper; a recycled felt inner that's warm and toasty, but also removable for easy washing; and a handcrafted, waterproof, vulcanized rubber outsole with strong grip. We're pretty sure this is what it means to be weatherproof.
Sorel, sorelfootwear.ca | $160
FOR THE ADVENTURER
So you're familiar with Clarks Wallabees, those gum-soled suede lace-ups worn by teachers, grandpas, and cool high schoolers alike, but did you know the brand is a go-to for more weatherproof outdoor wear, too? Case in point: these Orianna Alpine boots, which feature chunky, grippy rubber soles, cute red laces, and leather uppers that soften with age, making them perfect for long winter walks.
Gravity Pope, gravitypope.com | $210
WINTER WHITES
If you haven't heard of Ketch, bookmark it now: It's the Canadian online retailer bringing shoes from around the world to you, from labels such as Vionic, Miz Mooz and Bueno, the Turkish brand behind these Dream Chelsea leather boots. We love the idea of white boots for winter: they're a great, unexpected, and fashion-forward way to soften up a tough or dark-hued dress and dreary day. Ketch, ketchshoes.ca | $189.95
MOTO CROSS
It may be the case that your wardrobe doesn't contain any sporty, outdoorsy items: no ski jackets, no practical boots, no Gore-tex at all — in which case, these Moto boots are probably a more suitable winter style for you than anything too rugged. Wear them over jeans or with flowing skirts or dresses — that's what dominates your wardrobe anyway, after all — and rest assured they'll still keep your tootsies dry, thanks to high-quality, full-grain waterproof leather.
Roots, roots.com | $248
BUDGET BUY
Timeless classic, pop culture icon, is there any box that Timberland doesn't check? But if those tan lug-soled lace-up boots aren't for you, consider these Skyla Bay slip-ons, which marry the comfort and ease of sneakers with the warmth of a winter boot. The faux fur lining is made with at least 50 per cent recycled materials, while the leather uppers come from a tannery that uses less water and energy and generates less waste than traditional tanneries.
Simons, simons.ca | $90