1. My Hunter Clogs - for staying dry
Some recent reader questions had a common theme:
"Besides the Bean boots, which shoes are appropriate for the colder months?"
"Would you consider a post regarding what good sturdy shoes can keep feet cozy and protected in this cold weather, and not snow boots or (obviously) the unacceptable UGG. I was out painting watercolors with my son for an hour and a half today and my loafers just don't cut it any more but when I went to my closet I realized I have five pair of loafers, two Birkenstocks, a few ballet style flats, and snow boots. I'm lacking in appropriate footwear and thought of your always spot-on practical and purposeful recommendations. Thanks for your consideration!"
"What shoes do you recommend for dog-walking on paved streets in the winter? I love my boat shoes in the summer but want something practical I can wear with warm socks. I already own a pair of Beans boots but need something else ...."
For me this has always been one of the most challenging sartorial categories. Boots aside, it seems as if I have to choose between having:
- Dry feet;
- Warm feet; or
- The ability to walk a reasonable distance in comfort.
2. My L.L. Bean Boots, Rubber Moc - also for staying dry
3. My Birkenstock Felt Clogs - for staying warm
4. My Merrell Moab Ventilator - for comfort and support (but not beauty)
12 comments:
Hi Muffy, Great post...what would you suggest for men? I currently wear a pair of LLB Maine Hunting Boots from the late 80s and a newer pair of LLB Rubber Mocs. Thank you, David
My daughter has the Hunter "Wellies". I really like the clogs and might have to get myself a pair!
Trivia, FWIW:
One problem that mankind has had since pre historic days, was keeping shoe laces from coming untied, at inappropriate times.
Those LLB gum soles are the 100% best, unless you are in deep snow.
However, the rawhide laces are hard to keep tied.
Here is a guaranteed way to keep them from coming untied, until you are ready;
http://www.fieggen.com/shoelace/secureknot.htm
Works for any shoe laces, but make those gum soles a lot easier to wear.
Hunter boots, either the wellie type or Newmarkets.
The Bean "ducks" are always a personal favorite, although they tend to freeze my feet if I wear them in the car any length of time.
I wear Ariat Quantum Performer Pro Women's Paddock Boot. They are waterproof and comfortable.
Hi Muffy, I'm relatively new to your blog (though I've fast become a fan!). I have to disagree with you on one thing. Regarding the Hunter clogs, I personally wouldn't advise anyone to buy Hunter clogs or Wellies any more as they are not made in China and the quality is no where near what they once were. However, I can recommend Aigle or Le Chameau. Both slightly more expensive, but worth it in the end I believe.
Sorry, I meant to write "now made in China", not "not made in China". Sincere apologies.
For Men, my suggestions are: Blundstone jodphur boots that are waterproof, the slip on Muck Boots brand, also have a pair of wellies made by Hunter but are called Argyll, if seen the Prince of Wales wearing them. Naturally the classic LL Bean hunter boots. Orvis Gokey boots are great also.
David - See j.mosby's comment.
kirbydog - I have always loved my old wellies as well, which is why I tried the clogs this season, but take look at Samantha's comment.
Wharf Rat - You are so right! Thank you for the link.
lulu - Excellent suggestion. Thank you.
John - I agree. I am thinking about trying Bean's shearling lined mocs, but hesitate as I often have a difficult time with their sizing (they don't offer half sizes) and thick linings can make it trickier to get it right.
Samantha - I had no idea. I just went ahead and ordered them assuming they were like my old boots. Thank you for pointing this out, as well as for the recommendations.
j.mosby - This is great. Thank you!
Wharf Rat: Thanks for the link. I just practiced. My knot does not look pretty (I need to practice with longer laces) but it sure is secure!
If you live someplace that's cold, gets a lot of snow, you need something that's warm & waterproof, consider Dubarry boots. I bought some in Saratoga two years ago, have worn them in 15 inches of snow, rain and ice. My feet have never gotten cold or wet. They are expensive so if you have to have something new or fashionable every year, this isn't the brand for you, but they are the great boots and apparently last for years.
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