OT - Help me find the holy grail of winter boots!

[Saartje]

I need a pair of winter boots. Unfortunately, I'm picky about shoes (one reason I'm just now getting boots, in my third winter in Chicago).

I want a pair that will look professional enough for me to wear them to the office. Insulated, but not so hot that my feet will be uncomfortably warm indoors. No pointed toes, and no heels above 1" or so. And they have to be available in size 11.

I am not a shoe hog, so I don't really know where to look for such a critter. Anyone have any tips on brands or stores to check out?

[TonFirst]

Sarah, I can't help you, but I feel your pain on the shoe size - I'm a 10.5.

You know, you may want to try Clark's - they tend to have a good selection of comfortable, waterproof, yet stylin' boots.

This one's cute:

http://www.clarksusa.com/product/Detail.aspx?prodId=20214&Level1=F&scroll=1138&page=1&Level2=4

Here's a pair from Land's End:

http://www.landsend.com/cd/fp/prod/0,,1_2_1930_59671_87822_66269_5:view=-1,00.html?CM_MERCH=PAGE_59671&sid=0337104184294171980

You may also want to try www.zappos.com.

[tiapam]

I was really surprised that Value City has nice shoe brands. I have not been there lately, though, so I am not sure about the boot selection. The price is right.

-Pam

Charlotte born October 2004

[WildMax]

Hi Ishie's mama-
I like Born and Josef Seibel for maximum comfort on my feet.
They are a little pricey but they're also sturdy...not to mention they stand behind their product. Born just came out with some boots but Josef has a more professional look.

My SIL a Nurse Practitioner in the Chicago area uses Dansko and Josef Seibel (sp?).

I also like Timberland but it is a more rugged look.

Good luck!

[squimp]

Ah, finally a question for a true shoe hog! These meet your criteria. but I'm not sure if you want short boots or tall boots.

http://www.llbean.com/webapp/wcs/stores/servlet/CategoryDisplay?page=winter-ridge-boots&categoryId=43313&storeId=1&catalogId=1&langId=-1&parentCategory=3653&cat4=1039&shop_method=pp&feat=ssdpb1039

Here's some boots that were recommended by Real Simple...

Good for Snow:
Havana Joe mid-calf boots lined with shearling $160 www.zappos.com
Rockport suede ankle boots $110 rockport.com

Good for Freezing temps:
BR Black suede lined with shearling $158 www.bananarepublic.com
Born shearling lined $165 www.bornshoes.com

[mattysmom]

I really like my La Canadienne boots
http://www.zappos.com/n/es/d/722000864/page/1.html

They are definitely on the more expensive side but they are super comfortable and totally weatherproof. And, you can sometimes find them on sale. They are also VERY comfortable.

Good luck!