By Christian Dare
In recent weeks the temperatures across this country have plummeted from bearable to frigid. Winter is definitely here and although you may have gotten away with a pair of shoes or leather boots in past years, this just might be the time to finally invest in proper winter footwear. Picking up a pair of proper winter footwear will not only save your feet from bone chilling temperatures (and possible frost bite) but it will also save your leather boots and shoes from being destroyed with the salt and snow.
Winter footwear has come a long way from the knee high lace up boots of our childhoods; many Canadian brands have gone more fashion forward with a reliance on tech to keep your feet and toes warm (and dry). Here are some of our favourite winter footwear options that will keep your feet warm no matter what winter weather throws at us.
The Bobcaygeon Boot from Baffin
With styling inspired by traditional winter footwear, the Bobcaygeon boot is an homage to the roots of this Canadian heritage brand. Made with low-impact and environmentally sustainable B-Tek™ Eco materials, the Bobcaygeon features a tall height, nylon upper with leather accents and faux-fur collar. A front lace fastening system offers secure comfort, while a pull loop at the back for allows for ease of entry.We love that these boots have been tested worldwide for ultimate warmth and comfort. Available in two different colours: black and tan; we would opt for the black for a dresser look or tan for a more rugged look. The boots have a comfort rating of -40°C.
* Retails for $160 from www.baffin.
Canada Goose Men’s Journey Boot
With a modern take on the traditional hiking book, the Journey boot by Canada Goose might be the perfect combo of fashion forward design and classic outdoor detailing. For example, the iconic squared off-toe was inspired by classic Hiker boots used in the Alps yet the oversized rubber bumper is the dreams of modern minimalist designers. Constructed out of a combination of luxe leathers (and suedes) and high tech materials, this boot ensures you stay dry and warm, even down to -15°C. Available in two different colour ways.
* Retails for $795 from www.canadagoose.com.
Pajar’s Yak Men Lace Up Boot
Now if you winter boot aesthetic leans more to a full out classic hiking boot, we would opt for the Yak Lace Up Boot from Pajar. And if you are not familiar with the brand, you are about to get schooled. Pajar Canada is a five-generation family owned Footwear and Outerwear company based in Montreal, Quebec. Founded in 1963, this small family brand has grown to become a worldwide leader in the design and manufacture of winter boots. Now back to the boot, the Yak is constructed from durable leathers (and suedes) and features an ultra light thermal rubber traction lug sole. This boot should keep you warm all the way down to to -20°C. Available in 3 different colours: black, cognac and dark brown.
* Retails for $325 from: www.pajar.com.
The Buxton Lace Men’s Waterproof Boot from Sorel
Our next boot heads back down to the subzero temperatures; the Buxton from Sorel is rated to keep you warm and dry at temperatures as low as -32°C. Described by the brand as sneaker meets boots, the Buxton feels like a compact winter boot with slicker lines and less bulk than a traditional boot. Constructed with waterproof suede, leather and textile upper to ensure a fashionable boot. Featuring seam-sealed waterproof construction and 200g insulation for maximum comfort and warmth. Available in 3 colour combinations.
* Retails for $190 (on sale for $152) from: www.sorelfootwear.ca.
Vessi High Top Alta
Finally, we have a newer Canadian brand on the list – Vessi. With an even newer take on winter footwear – a high top sneaker. The High Top Alta is all about the combination of warmth meets style with a focus on fully waterproof. These high tops are constructed with easy-to-clean vegan leather on the sides paired with the brands signature waterproof Dyma-tex® knit. The shoes are designed to keep your feet cozy and comfortable all season long. But be warned, these aren’t the type of winter footwear you journey into knee deep snow in the -40°C backcountry. Rather, they are the perfect winter city high top that can tackle puddles of slush, light snow and -5°C temperatures. FYI, these waterproof high tops come in mens and ladies sizes. They are available in 3 colour ways and two widths.
* Retails for $210 from: www.vessi.com.
