These Boots Were Made For Walking

I moved to Chicago in September of 2008. My mother and grandmother, Alabamians, made sure I was fully prepared to tackle the impending Winter. Puffy coat, heavy scarf, wool socks, balaklava, snow boots and a host of other Wintry things were purchased, ensuring that I, delicate flower that I am, would not be freezing to death. Most of these things have since been replaced, but I'm still wearing those snow boots. I'm not even ashamed to admit that they are Croc boots; they are incredibly warm and dry and comfy. However, they are finally starting to show their age after three Winters full of snowy commutes to work and class and internships and the grocery store.

Their wear and tear has led me on a quest to find the perfect pair of new snow boots, even though I'd rather be scouring the internet for clearanced out glittery Kate Spade heels. So, what constitutes the perfect snow boot? For me, it needs to be functional (my toes need to be dry and toasty) and at least a little bit pretty. Snow doesn't slow down my social life, so why do my boots need to be horrible looking and drag down my look? (Even the Croc boots have a little bit of decorative fuzz on them. They really aren't as horrible as I know you think they are. But maybe our bond has me biased...) They also need to be easily cleaned, since walking these city streets is not always a spotless task. My current boots disassemble and the fabric parts can be thrown in the wash while the plastic parts are scrubbed down elsewhere. Quality is a huge sell for me. The less frequently I have to replace my snow boots, the more I can spend my money on things that really matter, like Chanel 75 lipstick or the aforementioned glittery Kate Spade heels.

Here are the 9 major contenders:

1.) Sorel, Joan of Arctic



I wasn't totally sold on these at first, but I love bad puns and, then, I saw someone at Trader Joe's wearing them during last week's snowstorm and they were so cute in real life! The fur is very furry, not weird fakey fuzz and the water was rolling right off of them. I also think the criss cross in the front is great.

2.) Kate Spade, Leigh



These are such a pipe dream, but I love them. The bow, the fur, the heel. If only I were a little less prone to slips, trips and falls where snow and ice are concerned...

3.) The North Face, Women's Millenial Boot



I love the laces on these boots. The traction looks great on the bottom and I've never had something from The North Face that didn't keep me incredible toasty. The website says they are waterproof, but I'm a little skeptical.

4.) Land's End, Weatherfield



Look at those toggles! Form and very very functional; the traction on Land's End boots keeps even the kultziest wearer upright on icy days.

5.) The North Face, Nuptse IV Fur Boot



These look like real snow boots; I have no doubt that they are high quality and well-made. I also like that the fur accent matches the color of the boots exterior, rather than contrasting.

6.) Sorel, Cate the Great



I really love the look of these boots. I feel like they would make my running to the grocery store for blizzard neccessities outfit of a sweater and skinny jeans look really polished. The stitching is a great accent as well, along with the small tuft of fur that peeks over the top.

7.) Land's End, Women's Zip-Up Powder Run



These are definitely not the cutest boots on this list, but for just shy of $80, you get a lot of bang for your buck. Warm, waterproof and skid resistant, these boots are at an awesome price point without sacrificing all form for function.

8.) Merrell, Vera Peak



I love the details on these boots; the leatherwork on the front is really gorgeous. However, the lack of lining is a big downside for me. Also, I'm afraid they are a little too pretty for my rough and tumble Winter needs (Ok, ok. So maybe I'm just walking to the gym and the train mostly, but still, I can put the hurt on a pair of shoes...) and that I would destroy them.

9.) Crocs, Berryessa



I love my Croc Boots. These are the closest thing they have now to my originals and I'm not crazy about the look of them, but I know that Crocs makes a great, weatherproof and sturdy snowboot. So, I'll consider it...

Kisses,

AJS