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No matter how hard I try, I just can’t understand the obsession with Blundstone boots. Clearly, they are functional. I get that. I live in Colorado and I spend most winter weekends traveling to and from the mountains to go skiing so I understand the need for tough, weather-ready boots. If you’ve ever spent time in snow spelled places, you probably can too.
With the potential for freezing temps, knee-high snow or icy roads, I need something that will keep me warm, dry, and stable in weathering conditions. That said, I don’t need to compromise on design and here lies my issue with the popular aussie footwear. While sturdy and durable, the boots fall short on color and texture making them hard to style with varying winter outfits.
In shopping for performance footwear, let’s not forget the power of versatility! I’ve learned, in my slightly (read: extremely) skewed way of justifying my credit card bill, that if a shoe can be worn both on the mountain with technical gear and in the city with more formal wear, I essentially get two pairs of shoes for the price of one. Don’t check my math there.
All this to say, we don’t need to skimp on style to be prepared for the elements. Whether you’re going out to dinner or galloping through the snow, there are more style-friendly options than purely functional footwear. Check out our 7 fashion friendly alternatives that are insulated, waterproof, and sturdy enough to keep you stable while putting your best foot forward. Browse the capsule below.
Fubuki – NISEKO 2.0, $120
I was first introduced to this boot when I saw Kellyn Wilson, one of my favorite mountain tastemakers, wearing them on Instagram. The shoes’ bold design hid in the back of my mind and not too long after, I saw them again on Kajsa Larsson’s page (another favorite to follow!) Now I’m not one to shy away from a dramatic shoe and this boot is no exception. But its boldness isn’t the only detail keeping my attention. The makers of this shoe claim it’s unlike any other cold-weather boot as it is both lightweight and incredibly warm. Their confidence has me curious enough to place this boot at the top of this edit (and the top of my must-buy-next-list). I personally prefer the sand color but they have plenty of other vibrant colorways if dopamine dressing is your thing.
Sorel - BREAKTHRU CONQUEST SNEAKER BOOT, $175
To no one’s surprise, Sorel’s sneakerboot made it onto our list. This shoe is a beloved favorite of many, and for good reason. With a waterproof suede upper and a microfleece inner-lining, this shoe will keep you warm and dry, all while looking chic. Whether you're changing out of your ski boots or running errands around town, you’re bound to feel effortlessly supported with each step.
UGG Ashton Addie, $180
Gone are the days of snow and salt stained Uggs. While we all know and love the classic original style boots, we also unfortunately know the damage they are susceptible to when exposed to harsh elements. This reimagined cut eliminates worry with a rubber and waterproof leather outsole. We love how this boot is both practical and chic with a chunky, grip-ready heel. The best part? It has the same plush feel as the fan-favorite model, only this lining is made from recycled wool!
LL Bean - Snow Boots, with Tumbled-Leather, $159
I’m certainly not the first to say this, nor will I be the last. L.L. Bean is having a moment! From the Boat and Tote trend that took over Tiktok to the return of the duckboot, we just can’t help but get swept up by the nostalgic feels of this heritage brand. Beyond the familiar feels of this There is something so classic about the tumbled-leather that makes us undeniably attracted to this shoe. We don’t care if your dad wore these to shovel snow back in the day, we still love them!
Canada Goose - Journey Boot, $750
Inspired by traditional hiking footwear, Canada Goose crafted this boot to be a versatile all-mountain option. And being the cold-weather experts that they are, they’ve made sure it can withstand temperatures as low 5°Fahrenheit. On the venn diagram of fashion meets function, this boot falls smack dab in the middle. Beyond all of the practical features (like waterproofing and outer sealing), the team at Canada Goose has also woven thoughtful details into this winter boot, like a tread design inspired by the Canadian Maple Leaf. We can’t help but fangirl over the artful homage!
Hunter - Women’s Wanderer Insulated Tall Slouch Snow Boots, $250
If you’ve thought about Hunter boots only as classic rubber rain boots then think again. Hunter has entered the group chat this season with a new attitude and completely new look. Their Tall Slouch Snow Boot brings an imaginative
energy to winter styling with a completely adjustable silhouette. Beyond its modern design, this shoe is both comfortable and functional. What’s more, it has an OrthoLite® footbed and insulated fleece lining, so your feet feel more comfortable than ever while withstanding temperatures as low as 5°Fahrenheit.
VANS - ULTRA RANGE EXO HI GORE-TEX MTE-3 SHOE, $215
If you’re a fan of the Van’s Old Skool Shoe, you’ll love its cold-weather cousin, the MTE-3. While touting a waterproof upper, this shoe also has a breathable waterproof inner-lining, making it easy for your foot to stay calm and collected through the most wicked conditions. We love how the technical features are disguised in this shoe’s classic design.
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