Stylish snowproof boots?

[mjs64]

I live in Southern California and don't need them here but visit the ILs in the Twin Cities once a year. Every time I'm there I ruin a pair of shoes. I don't want snow boots per se but a pair that is weatherproof that I could get some mileage out of. So not too trendy but not ugly. I would use them mainly for walking outside. FIL is a big fan of walking everywhere despite the cold. Bonus of they would work here as well. Would Hunters work or are they uncomfortable/going out of style? I would spend money for something that would last awhile.

[DrSally]

Hunters may work, but I honestly don't see a lot of people walking around in rainboots in the winter--too cold. People really like Sorel's (Joan of Arctic or Cate the great), but that's pretty expensive for your use). I have these to wear on an everyday basis (I use taller snow boots for shovelling or playing outside):

http://www.shoes.com/en-US/Product/7...rid=GoogleBase

They're waterproof, black microfiber, have a little wedge lift, and can be worn under bootcut pant. Pretty warm, and come in wide. When covered by a pant leg, they look pretty nondescript and not too chunky, IMO. I got them for around $50 IIRC.

ETA: The other thing I also wear in the winter is LE suede sherpa lined clogs. They're pretty warm, and don't seem to get ruined by the snow (of course you can't walk in deep snow in them, but basic shlepping around to and from the car).

[TwinFoxes]

Arivecchi loves her Hunters. You can get boot liners to make them warmer. I think for a short trip east, they'd work great. I have Cate the Great's, and I agree, they are way overkill for what you need.

[SnuggleBuggles]

A lot of us have Bare Trap Ellery boots on here.

http://www1.macys.com/shop/product/b...2-_-21-_-MP221

eta- I get lots of compliments on mine (I chose gray). They are super warm and comfy too!

Beth

[mjs64]

Hmm. Didn't even think about the warmth issue. That's the other problem: I'm always freezing there! Everyone says it's because I don't have the right gear. And I don't. DH does because he grew up there. I was thinking something a little higher (calf wise I mean). We are considering a move to the twin cities in the near future, so maybe I'll check that other brand too. Could be a Xmas gift...What do your play in the snow boots look like Dr. Sally?

[DrSally]

They're just old Eddie Bauer Sorel knock off's. They're actually not very warm, and I should get some Sorel's this year.

You're freezing indoors or outdoors? Layering really helps. Also, if you can get your hands on some smartwool socks, they somehow warm up your whole body. I would check LE overstocks for some things--like fleeces, silk long underwear etc. Moving from S. calif to MN? Are you crazy

[Kindra178]

Keen has awesome flat soled, leather and waterproof (they are really waterproof - I went sledding a couple years ago in Baby Bern Keen boots) boots that you could get some CA mileage out of, especially on your 50 some degree days. You could wear with skirts at home, nothing on your legs.

Look at the KJ's (I just got them and I love them)

http://www.zappos.com/keen-kj-boot-slate-black

Baby Bern

http://www.zappos.com/keen-bern-baby-bern-boot-purplie

or Shelby

http://www.zappos.com/keen-shelby-hi...ack-full-grain

[mjs64]

Freezing outdoors. FIL likes to go on an hour long walk with the family every day. Maybe DS will change that. Part of the problem is my feet are always wet. And thin gloves, and thin coat (no parka)... There's just no need for all of these items here. If I'm not at work, I'm in flip flops. I own maybe 4 pairs of socks. For working out.

Yeah so maybe I am crazy for considering a move. But we don't have family here and (now you're going to hate me) I'm bored with the never changing sunny weather.

Anyhow, still need to make sure my feet stay dry and I don't ruin shoes!

[DrSally]

yeah, dry feet will help tremendously. Wool socks and any kind of insulating boot will hel you a lot. Doesn't your MIL have a spare down coat you can wear while you're there?

[mjs64]

Keen has awesome flat soled, leather and waterproof (they are really waterproof - I went sledding a couple years ago in Baby Bern Keen boots) boots that you could get some CA mileage out of, especially on your 50 some degree days. You could wear with skirts at home, nothing on your legs.

Look at the KJ's (I just got them and I love them)

http://www.zappos.com/keen-kj-boot-slate-black

Baby Bern

http://www.zappos.com/keen-bern-baby-bern-boot-purplie

or Shelby

http://www.zappos.com/keen-shelby-hi...ack-full-grain

Yes! These are really cute options and look like they would work here and there. Thank you. Maybe I'll try more heavy duty snow boots if and when we do move.