It’s winter time in town, and you’re beginning to feel the chills. You’ve bought the gear to keep yourself warm. But you still need to tick the footwear off your checklist. Don’t worry. This guide will help you with some shoes to wear in winter besides boots.
Now, if you go to the store and can’t find the right boots, you need alternatives. I’ll guide you through some of them in this post.
When it comes to winter, we must prepare for a few different things. It’s the several winter elements like snow, sleet, rain, etc.
Your feet must also get enough attention during the winter season. You might not feel the pinch in mild conditions. But your feet must stay warm at all times in extreme weather.
The Need for Footwear in Winter
Apart from your aesthetic winter outfits, accessories play a vital role in winter wear.
Back home, you might have enough stock of beanies, gloves, mittens, etc. But is that the case with your winter shoes as well?
Winter can bring you face-to-face with many of its harsh elements. You might experience wind chill, slippery roads, frostbite, etc. Now, you must ensure that you’re safe amidst all this harm.
Photo by Valeriia Miller
You don’t need to worry further if your feet are well protected.
As the temperatures drop, you’re body and feet will be happy with as much warmth as possible.
Tips to Buy Shoes to Wear in Winter Besides Boots
Like all other types of clothing, follow a checklist for your footwear too. You won’t fall short of options for the season. But, they must agree with a few pointers.
So, let’s help you out in picking the ideal type for your winter footwear.
1.Does It Provide Warmth?
Warmth is a must for your clothing choices in winter. This feature should be a given for your winter shoes. Do you experience extreme winters in your area?
Then, you must ensure that your shoes can withstand the temperatures in your region. Also, you need a good lining material for the required warmth.
2. Feel the Comfort for Long Hours
Once those shoes are on, you wouldn’t want to get rid of them. But, you must ensure that the shoes are top-quality. That’s what allows comfort and longevity to grow.
You must buy shoes that have a simple structure. Don’t look for something fancy or complex, as it can add to the comfort. And don’t forget to assess how you feel while walking.
3. Your Feet Should Be Able to Breathe
Your winter shoe’s breathability is a crucial factor to look at. It plays a role in the comfort and safety of your feet.
If the breathability is missing, you might risk yourself with infections. So again, the lining fabric of the shoe must be winter-friendly.
4. It Should Have a Firm Grip
You must look for stability above everything else in your winter shoe. Rubber would be one of the most popular choices for a good grip. Apart from rubber, look for other durable fabrics that will walk you through winter.
5. The Moisture and Snow Shouldn’t Affect Your Feet
Your winter shoes must be waterproof, among other features. Like wet clothes, you won’t want to roam around in wet shoes. It can cause discomfort and health concerns.
Do your shoes have gusseted tongues, gaiters, and cuffs? These elements allow winter shoes to be waterproof.
Your winter boots must also not retain moisture for long periods. Again, it affects your comfort levels while walking around town.
6. Shoes Must Have Good Ankle Support
Always ensure to pick a pair with decent ankle padding. It prevents any hurt caused for long periods after you wear them.
You can also go for a laced pair or one with a firm grip and support.
7. The Weight Matters
The weight of your shoes is expected to be heavy. It’s because you add an extra layer of lining for warmth, good padding, etc.
But make sure to buy a pair that you’re comfortable enough to walk in. Only select a pair that suits or feels suitable for you.
Read more: What to wear in Finland in Winter
The Types of Shoes to Wear in Winter Besides Boots
When we discuss winter footwear, the first guess might always be boots. But you can wear other shoes in winter besides boots.
Here are some excellent options you could add to your winter wardrobe this season. So, I’ll walk you through the different types mentioned here.
Sneakers
Sneakers will forever be comfort personified. You can wear them casually on the streets or at winter parties.
If you’re wearing sneakers during a winter trip, check the conditions of the surroundings. Does the area experience snow or rain frequently?
If that’s the case, you must ensure that your sneakers are waterproof. It keeps your feet dry and prevents the snow from seeping through.
Photo by Pavel Danilyuk
If the snow manages to seep in, your socks will get wet. Along with that, your feet, too, might freeze.
Also, wear detachable crampons if you come across black ice or slippery roads. They should be attached to your sneakers. The crampons also give you a good grip while walking. In turn, this makes it easier to walk in the snow.
Ankle-High Outdoor Shoes
As the name suggests, these shoes come up to the ankles. These shoes are an excellent option for the winter season. They’re available in leather, faux leather, and waterproof fabrics. They also give better coverage for your feet.
Some of them are also available in heeled varieties. There’s a benefit to this feature. It ensures that you’re elevated when you walk in the snow.
Photo by Danik Prihodko
Once you buy them, also ensure that they’re non-slippery and anti-skid. If these shoes come with a warm lining, you should understand they’re suitable for the cold weather.
Uggs
Uggs are yet another option that is traditionally made for winter. They’re also lined with a warm insulating material. They’re available in a wide variety of styles. The list includes:
– Slip Ons
– Regular Shoe Length
– Ankle Length
– Above Ankle Length
Photo by J Moana Yoon
You can easily shop them for daily casual wear at home.
Gum Boots
Gum boots are also known as rain boots. This footwear is either made of rubber or a combination of rubber and fabric.
They will protect the feet in wet or muddy conditions.
Image by vecstock
You can also wear gum boots in different weather conditions, including snow. They might not be the most stylish option available in the market. But they will keep your feet warm and dry. Plus, they have the potential to add a fun element to your outfit.
They can also prevent the odd, slip, trip, or fall. Also, your feet will be safe when some object is about to fall on them.
