Mens Winter Boots Canada
We want them pretty, we want them comfortable, we want them light and we want them warm! Because they represent an investment, it is essential to know what to look for on a winter boot to make sure you make the right choice, and to get your money’s worth.
There are a few important details to consider when choosing your winter boots. Yes, the look of a winter boot often plays a major role in decision making, but the technical details are also very important. Where and when you plan to wear your winter boots will have a major influence on what features might interest you when making your choice.
This guide goes over different features (warmth, grip of the sole, comfort and waterproof protection) and offers you some of our best models designed by the biggest brands.
Heat and temperature rating
The temperature ratings for winter boots are similar to the temperature ratings for sleeping bags or coats, in that they are most often used as guidelines. When shopping for your winter boots, temperature ratings will be a good comparative tool if you are hesitating between several models.
It’s worth pointing out that, like sleeping bags, one boot won’t be as effective for everyone. You are unique, and there are many factors such as your health, your activities, your surroundings and even something as simple as your choice of socks could influence your comfort level.
Another important point to keep in mind when shopping for your winter boots: always keep in mind what you want to use them for. Are you looking for a stylish ankle boot for your outings on the town, or rather a boot that will allow you to snowshoe in the woods like? And if you think your activity might make your feet sweaty, be sure to choose an appropriate pair of socks.
WINTER BOOT LINERS AND BREATHABILITY
There are many types of winter boot liners, such as removable felt slippers (often associated with “cap” type boots), sheepskin liners (often found on dressier boots), or Thinsulate linings. In general, for activities such as hiking or snowshoeing, a pair of winter boots with a removable liner are ideal, since the liner can be removed at the end of the day and dried. and reinserted the next day.
The breathability is another key factor to keep in mind during your search. If your feet are wet or sweating – and the moisture has no way to escape – your feet will get cold. This is an important criterion to consider if you are considering buying a walking boot, whether in the city or in the forest.
In general, GORE-TEX boots are known for their waterproof and breathable properties, which ranks them top in sales and makes them an ideal choice all year round.
Boots with a nylon upper are generally more breathable, but may not be as waterproof and need a water repellent finish (PU, DWR, etc.). The reverse is true with leather boots, as they are more waterproof, but less breathable.
For those whose feet sweat more, a GORE-TEX winter boot with the right breathable features will help keep you comfortably dry throughout your activities. As mentioned above, remember that your choice of socks will play a major role and can certainly help maintain a comfortable environment inside your winter boots.
If you are doing winter activities in warmer weather, regular woolen socks may be sufficient. On the other hand, if your feet sweat a lot and you participate in activities in colder conditions, sock liners under a good pair of warm woolen socks might be the perfect combination to keep your feet toasty warm. The lining will wick water and sweat away from your foot and the wool sock will keep your feet warm.
Sole grip
You’ve no doubt happened to stroll quietly on the sidewalk and suddenly fell victim to a patch of ice hidden under the snow. Most often in front of many witnesses of the scene. While no sole is completely ice-proof, some with more grip will help keep your feet on the ground.
This season, why not try a winter boot equipped with Vibram Arctic Grip technology? These soles are known for their exemplary grip on a variety of surfaces and are used on a wide range of footwear from winter boots to minimalist shoes. To find out which products are equipped with Vibram Arctic Grip technology, take a look at their sole: it will be colored with blue dots and the Vibram seal.
Most winter boots will have rubber soles. Rubber is often used in making the soles of winter boots because of its waterproof properties. It is a material that performs particularly well in snow, slush, puddles… in short, perfect for navigating the city in winter – regardless of the state of the sidewalks!
Comfort and size
A comfortable winter boot provides good support for the foot and arch, while promoting good posture while walking. Some winter boots can be a bit heavier and stiffer, so it’s always good to try a few to give you a better idea of which one would work best for you. Many models use lighter materials (e.g. Children’s boots) so you don’t have to drag your feet with each step. On the other hand, if you spend most of your time in sandals, you may find that winter boots tire your legs, it’s just a matter of habit!
If possible, it’s always best to try on winter boots with the socks (thin or thick) you plan to wear most often. It’s a misconception to think that you have to buy your boots one size larger in order to accommodate thicker socks. Wearing thin or thick socks is a matter of personal preference. Based on this idea, always try on the size you normally wear first, and then consider whether you would like to try a different one.
6 criteria to consider before buying a boot
The temperature indexes. Choose a boot that guarantees comfort down to – 30 degrees. Nothing less to face our Quebec winters!
Impermeability. Make sure the boot has been factory treated to waterproof it. “A treatment is not necessary at the time of purchase, but from the second year, we recommend doing an additional treatment at home to prolong the waterproof effect”, advises Marie-Hélène Marchand. Find out more in-store, as some brands are developing their own waterproofing technology with different names. For example, “at Olang, the term iso warm is our waterproof, ” she explains. The wording “water resistant” does not necessarily mean that the boot is waterproof.
The insole. Look for soles with an insulating and reflective silver film that retains heat inside the boot. Another important point, the soles must be removable. Very practical also if you need to dry the boot.
The outsole. “The first source of heat loss comes from the underside of the boot. For this reason, all Olang boots are made with thermoplastic soles, which is far better than rubber at keeping the boot warm and water resistant,” adds Marie-Hélène Marchand. Ask an advisor what the sole is made of, since there is a lot of rubber on the market. Look for non-smooth soles for better grip. “The crampons on our boots are not only used to prevent slipping on the ice, but also to limit direct contact of the sole with the snow to prevent heat loss,” she adds.
Lining. Wool is excellent because it is flexible, comfortable and light. Yes, it is more expensive to buy, but since it is a natural fiber, it breathes well and keeps the feet dry and, therefore, warm. It’s a winning choice! For a lower price, you can turn to thinsulate, a synthetic material that still performs well.
The flexibility of the boot. The boot should not be too stiff or too soft when you try to fold it. If it is too rigid, your child will not be comfortable to walk, but conversely, if the boot does not show any resistance, the quality is not there.