How to buy the right snow boots for you

Snow boots have a job to do. It is no good purchasing a pair of snow boots that look fabulous but do not protect your feet from the weather, nor prevent you slipping on ice. Instead of waiting until snow is falling heavily to purchase new snow boots plan ahead. Think about what you want from your new snow boots before shopping for them. This way you should be able to purchase perfect snow boots for you.

Price
We may as well start with the price. Most people these days have a limited budget and so price will be a consideration. However, if you buy cheap and cheerful snow boots, they may not last long or fulfil your requirements. Set yourself a realistic budget and check out what is available within your price range.

Flat or heeled?
Many women find that very flat boots or shoes are uncomfortable. However, ideally snow boots should be fairly flat. If you must have snow boots with a heel ensure that heel is substantial in width and not too high.

Base of the boot
Good snow boots need to have a base or sole that is chunky ridged and makes slipping impossible or almost so. The material of the sole is important but so is the tread. The material needs to be 100% waterproof. Usually such soles are made of rubber.

The material of the actual boot
Unlike ordinary winter boots, snow boots are not made with fashion in mind. Obviously, some are more stylish than others but warmth and dryness are the important factors with these boots.

The outer part of the boot will need to be made from a strong waterproof material. Leather or nylon seems to work best. The seams are often reinforced to strengthen them. This will prevent water leaking in through the seams of the boots. Remember, when you choose the material of your boot, to think about longevity and cleaning. Some materials will last longer when exposed to snow. Some will also look good for longer, whereas other materials may be hard to clean.

The length of the boot
Snow boots that are only ankle high may not serve you well. In deep snow they will probably be useless. Think about what snow you usually experience where you live or work. Is it knee deep or simply a light dusting of snow on the ground? Stylish snow boots that are too high will be uncomfortable and may be impractical.

​Width of the leg of the boot
If your snow boots are mid-calf, or just below the knee, make sure that the leg is not to wide or too narrow. Too narrow can hurt your legs and actually make you feel colder. Too wide and snow and wind may get into your boots.

Finally
There are a wide range of snow boots on the market these days. The range includes children's, as well as adult's boots. Some have nice cosy, fluffy linings to keep you warm, whilst others rely on thick socks being worn also to add warmth. If you intend to always wear thick, fluffy socks under your boots remember to adjust the size you buy accordingly.

Inspect the boot's lining and check what material has been used. Some materials may leave the inside of your boots rather smelly after wear.

Remember traditional Welly boots you may have worn as a child?

After winter weather has departed, for another year, take some time to clean your snow boots thoroughly and store well for next year. In the long run this will increase the longevity of your snow boots and save you money. Of course if your purchase was more about fashion than snow protection one season's wear may be enough.