Purchasing the Perfect Insulated Boots
Keeping your feet warm and dry is one of the easiest ways to stay warm when the weather turns chilly. If your feet are warm, then the rest of your body is more likely to stay warm as well. Insulated boots are a great way to combat whatever the weather in your location throws at you. While they might not be needed in all regions, they are a natural fit for the coldest and snowiest areas of the country. Here are some tips for investing in a good pair of insulated boots.
Consider Height
Winter boots come in a variety of styles, ranging from just over the ankle to knee-height. A few inches of height can radically change how much the boots cost, so be sure you really want and need a taller style before purchasing it. Taller boots tend to be better for wetter weather since they provide more protection from snow on the ground. However, they tend to be heavy and harder to take off.
Get Removable Linings
Some insulated boots have linings that can be slipped in or out as needed. Linings that can be slipped in or out offer two distinct advantages. First of all, the lining can be removed when the weather is chilly but not yet cold so your winter boot can double as footwear for the fall or early spring. Additionally, you can also remove the liner to speed up the drying process when your boots get wet.
Check the Temperature Rating
Many winter boots come with a temperature rating that indicates the level of cold they can withstand. While this may not be necessary in warmer areas, it is a good idea to check the temperature rating if you live somewhere the thermometer regularly dips below freezing. You may also want to check the temperature rating on winter boots you plan to wear hiking or for another activity that takes you outside for long periods of time.
Insulation Types
Insulated boots come in a variety of different materials. Some are made from natural fibers like wool or fur, while others are made from synthetic materials. Natural fibers tend to be more inexpensive, but synthetic fibers are often lighter and tend to dry more quickly if they get wet. Make sure you don’t have any fiber allergies before investing in lined insulated boots. Here’s a more detailed guide that explains insulation and boots’ temperature rating
Traction
Check the soles of insulated boots to see whether they have adequate traction. Unless you plan on doing serious hiking or mountaineering, you will most likely not need boots with spikes or crampons attached. However, you do want a grooved sole with enough gripping power.
A comfortable pair of insulated boots can last you many years. Consider them an investment for many winters to come. Reputable online retailers such as Muck Boot Company are great places to explore your options and make your purchase.