Choose the right boot for the right activity!

Purchasing winter boots often becomes more complicated than it really should. We frequently opt for an all-around model that will be suitable for as many activities as possible, and that is why we generally end up with freezing toes.

The type and intensity of the activity to be practised should be considered when choosing your boots. You should also choose appropriate insulation adapted to the activity if you want to keep your feet dry and warm. Of course, each person is different, so your purchase should be made according to your needs and personal characteristics.

Here are some important pointers to keep in mind when shopping for your next winter boots.

SNOWMOBILE BOOTS

Temperature: very cold, -40 °C to -20 °C
Activity level: stationary, low
Activity type: snowmobiling, carriage rides, dog sleighing, shovelling, etc.

The snowmobile boot has a removable felt for insulation. This type of boot is therefore ideal for activities where there is little movement and for which the calorie expenditure is low. The synthetic insulation will keep the heat released by your foot trapped inside the boot. If you use it for more intense activities, it will lead to sweating and eventually to being cold.

Tip: blood circulation is not as good in a boot that is too small, and a boot that is too large will allow too much cold air to circulate inside. It therefore goes without saying that you should choose the right size boot. . . but how to know which size is the good one? When trying on the boot, remove the insulation layer and press your heel against the boot. If there is a space of one inch between the big toe and the front end of the sole, the boot fits just right.

FUR BOOTS

Temperature: very cold, -40 °C to -20 °C
Activity level: stationary, low
Activity type: shovelling, carriage rides, dog sleighing, etc.

A fur boot uses the natural characteristics of fur to keep you warm. This type of boot is generally worn during activities where there is little movement and low caloric expenditure. It is important to choose real-fur boots rather than synthetic-fur boots. Why? Simply because real fur does not freeze in the cold. It creates a microclimate around your feet, which will keep you warm and protect your toes from the wind. Just like for snowmobile boots, the majority of fur boots have a removable felt layer, so avoid wearing this type of boot for more intense activities—it will lead to sweating and discomfort due to the cold.

SNOWSHOE BOOTS

Temperature: between -20 °C to 0 °C
Activity level: intense
Activity type: snowshoeing, walking, etc.

Boots that are specially intended for more intense activities such as snowshoeing and walking are actually designed to support a lot of movement and high calorie expenditure. Moreover, they often contain a breathable membrane that lets the moisture generated by the feet escape to keep them dry and warm. Their insulation usually ranges from 200 g to 600 g, where the highest weight is associated to the warmest boot.

Tip: regardless of the activity, it is recommended to choose synthetic or merino wool socks to keep your feet warm. The important thing is to avoid cotton socks because they are known to retain moisture. Also, you should never wear the same socks you wore during the day (or even while travelling to your destination) since they will already have some humidity trapped, and once moisture enters your boots, it is difficult to get it out.
To see our selection of socks.

CITY BOOTS

Temperature: light cold, -10 °C to 8 °C
Activity level: medium to low
Activity type: everyday life, shopping, working, walking, etc.

Casual boots are designed for a medium to low activity level and have a more sophisticated look. They usually have an insulation of about 200 g. Boots of this category that are lined with sheep's wool offer superior heat preservation. It is ideal for everyday activities and for making it to work with dry feet.

Tip: choose a model with a 100% waterproof base, which will protect you from all the bad weather and uncertain temperatures (wet snow, rain, mud, etc.).

Hoping that these tips will help you when choosing this year's winter boots, I wish you warm and dry feet!