Snow may be sparse in Chicago, but stepping into the frigid outdoors still requires bundling up! Most of us who’ve braved a Windy City winter know to invest in a puffy, down-filled coat, thick gloves and a warm hat. But what sort of winter boots are best for your feet?

Winters in Chicago

While it’s common to see many different types of shoes during the winter in Chicago, what’s the “perfect” footwear for keeping feet warm and dry with enough traction for ice and snow? Answer will vary on who you ask. But if you’re asking us….

Keeping your feet dry in the winter months is perhaps even more important than keeping your feet dry in other seasons. Cold, wet feet in winter months can lead to serious problems.

For one, chilly, moist feet can cause frostbite—especially in those with diabetes. In addition, the cool, damp environment inside boots is perfect for fungal growth. This can infect the skin and lead to the athlete’s foot, or target the nails and cause thick discoloration. These infections are often difficult, costly and time-consuming to treat. They can also lead to bacterial infections of the feet or nails.

Meanwhile, the fit of boots is also important. Poor fit can result in foot and ankle pain, heel or tendon pain—even nerve pain. Make sure to try on the boots with the appropriate thickness of sock.

Last, does the boot have traction on ice? Are you wearing boots for fashion or function?

Although it may look right, it may not be what’s best for your feet.

Here’s a look at some popular boots you’ll see on people’s feet this season—perhaps even your own—and the pros and cons of each.

Rain Boots

Sometimes dubbed “wellies,” and produced in a rainbow of colors by brands such as Hunter. These boots are popular among women in Chicago—and their style is favored by celebs such as Kate Middleton and the Olsen twins.

Pros: They’re waterproof, and block rain or snow from soaking into socks. You can make them warmer by adding socks or specially made boot-liners.

Cons: Be prepared to pay if you want Hunter boots, often upwards of $150. There are cheaper brands, but the cheap ones may gap, let rain or snow soak in, or cause slipping in the snow.

Shearling Boots

Let’s face it, Chicago gets cold. Even with socks, rain boots are no match for the next Polar Vortex. Fur-lined Uggs or copy-cats that are knit, down-filled or fleece-lined were made to withstand the sub-zero.

Pros: Uggs will still let you feel your feet while waiting for the CTA during a cold morning commute. These boots can also repel light, powdery snow.

Cons: They’re only warm as long as they’re dry. Step in enough slush or a puddle, and your feet will wind up wet!

Duck Boots

Made popular by companies such as L.L. Bean, the boots are part-rain boots with a waterproof rubber coating on the foot and laces criss-crossing the front of the leg.

Pros: Opt for a shearling-lined version for a boot that’s both warm and waterproof.

Cons: Stripping off the shoes—especially if the laces are caked with snow and your hands are still gloved—can be messy and cumbersome. In addition, the shape could potentially put pressure on the toes.

Snow Boots

It may seem obvious, but take note of how many people trudge around town in loafers, even—tennis shoes. It’s Chicago – winter snow is as certain as taxes. We recommend visiting a retailer such as North Face or Columbia for boots that are warm and snow-proof. Since the holidays are over, odds are good of finding boots on sale.

Pros: There are often no laces, and many can be pulled off—meaning you often don’t even have to deal with a zipper.

Cons: It’s no surprise, but boots are very bulky! Also, boots may be worn heavily by the elements and the salt in the streets.

Conclusion

Still stumped about which boots to buy? You should ask the experts…like us at Ankle N Foot Centers. We may not be able to control the weather, but we can help you weather winter with advice about the right boots!