How to Choose the Right Boots for Winter
When the colder weather is on the way, that means it’s time to shop for boots.
With so many styles available, finding the right pair can feel overwhelming. While fashion matters, fit and comfort should always come first. Before you spend your hard-earned money, here are a few tips to help you choose wisely.
Start with the Basics
1. Have More Than One Pair
If you live in a cold-weather climate, you should have:
- A dress boot for everyday wear
- A weatherproof boot for snow and slush
Keeping a second pair at work (or in a tote bag) can help protect your dress boots if the weather changes.
2. Know Your Foot Size
Have your feet measured at least once a year by a Certified Pedorthist using a Brannock device or learn how to use the Brannock device and measure them yourself.
- One foot is usually larger than the other by at least a 1/2 size
- Always fit your boots to the larger foot
- Alter the smaller side if needed (A Certified Pedorthist is handy for alterations or teaching you how)
3. Shop at the Right Time
Try on boots in the late afternoon or evening, when your feet are naturally more swollen. This helps ensure a better fit throughout the day.
4. Wear the Right Socks
Always try on boots with the type of socks or stockings you plan to wear. The thickness of the sock can significantly affect how the boots fit.
Focus on Fit and Comfort
5. Choose the Right Shape
Look for boots that match the natural shape of your foot:
- A roomy toe box
- Enough space for your toes to move, which helps in balance and comfort
Crowded toes lead to discomfort, blisters, and long-term issues.
6. Make Sure Your Arch Is Supported
Proper arch support is essential.
Your boots should:
- Fit correctly at the ball of your foot, not just the width
- Support your foot structure
- Allow your big toe to dominate the propulsion phase of your gait
⚠️ Some popular styles (like Uggs®) offer little to no arch support.
7. Check the Overall Fit
Boots should fit more than just your foot.
Pay attention to:
- Calf width
- Shaft height (how high the boot sits on your leg)
- How the boots fit at your ankles; wrinkles at the ankles can eventually cause pain when you walk
Tall boots that hit between mid-calf and the knee are versatile and work well with most outfits.
8. Walk Around Before Buying
Always try on both boots and walk around.
Check for:
- Toe room
- Heel slippage
- Foot movement inside the boot
- Constriction in the ankle and shaft
9. Don’t Count on Stretching
If boots feel tight in the store, they’ll likely stay that way. Don’t assume they’ll stretch enough to fix the problem.
Think About Function
10. Choose Practical Styles
- Classic colors like black and brown are versatile and easy to match with your wardrobe.
- Classic styles will complement a variety of outfits, but a fun style is important if it fits your personality
11. Pay Attention to Heel and Sole
- Lower, wider heels are better for stability
- If choosing a dress boot, aim for a heel around 2 inches or less
- Winter boots should have good traction for snow and ice, and be waterproof
12. Pick the Right Materials
If you’ll be outdoors, choose materials that keep your feet warm and dry.
- Leather: Durable, but should be treated to repel moisture and salt
- Suede: Stylish, but less practical in wet conditions unless protected
- Thinsulate: Is a patented lining for keeping the feet warm and dry to below zero temperatures
13. Check Construction Quality
Inspect the boots:
- Look for solid stitching
- Make sure linings are smooth and securely attached all the way to the toes
- Ensure they can keep out moisture with a gusseted tongue design
- Be sure you get the type of outsole you need for the purpose you of your purchase
Don’t Forget Support
14. Consider Additional Support
If you have foot pain or gait issues, adding proper support can make a big difference.
If an over-the-counter arch support is your choice, make sure it doesn’t make the toebox of the boot too tight
The ezWalker® Performance Insole can help provide your feet with a stable foundation inside your boots. Since it is custom-made for each foot, it can help improve alignment and reduce discomfort throughout the day. And the 3/4 length design will ensure the toes have plenty of room. Because the ezWalker® is ultra-thin and ¾ length, it fits easily into most boots without affecting fit. When trying on new boots, it’s a good idea to bring your ezWalkers® with you to ensure proper sizing.
Make a Smart Investment
15. Quality Matters
A well-made pair of boots may cost more upfront, but they’ll last longer and perform better than cheaper options. Quality counts when it comes to comfortable feet.
16. Check the Return Policy
Before committing:
- Understand the store’s return policy
- Wear your boots indoors for a short period of time to confirm comfort
The Bottom Line
The right boots should look good—but more importantly, they should fit well and feel comfortable all day.
Take the time to choose wisely, and you’ll avoid buying a pair that ends up sitting in your closet.
Stay Comfortable In Winter
For more information on ezWalker® Performance Insoles, visit our website.
Stay comfortable, stay in step, and stay in style with these tips for a great boot fit with an ezWalker® performance custom orthotic by the WalkEZstore.
We guarantee that when your feet feel good… you’ll feel good.
