The temperature is getting colder and soon winter will be here. And that means you need to buy boots for the season. Dress and winter boots come in so many styles that shopping for the right pair can seem like a daunting task. While you may want to look fashionable, fit and comfort are critical when buying boots. Therefore, before you spend your hard-earned money, here are a few tips you should consider.
1. If you live in a cold-weather climate, you need at least two pairs of boots for the winter – one pair of dress boots in a classic style and another pair of boots suitable for snow and slushy weather. Also, to protect your dressier footwear, you should keep your snow boots in a tote bag with you in case the weather should turn during the day while you’re at work.
2. Have both of your feet measured by a professional with a Brannock measuring device at least once a year or learn how to do this yourself. Since one foot is usually larger than the other, buy your boots to fit the larger foot. You can always have the other boot altered to fit your smaller foot, if necessary.
3. Try on boots in the late afternoon or evening since your feet expand during the day.
4. Try on boots with the socks or stockings you’ll normally wear with them. The weight of your socks or stockings can affect the fit of your boots.
5. Buy boots that conform to the natural shape of your feet with roomy toe boxes. Your toes should have some wiggle room. Don’t cramp or crowd them in your boots; otherwise your feet will ache later.
6. Fit your boots so your arch is properly supported. (Note: Boots like Uggs® do not provide your feet with proper arch support.) Your boots should fit to the ball of your foot – not to the toe length. For more information on foot measurements, shoe sizing, and how to obtain a proper shoe fit, refer to the Shoe Fitting Guide and Shoe Fitting Pointers at the WalkEzStore.
7. Fit your boots also to your calves and the length of your leg to ensure they fit properly. Otherwise, the boots will be uncomfortable and not look their best. Tall dress boots that reach between the knee and mid-calf in height are suitable for almost all occasions and can be worn with dresses, trousers, or jeans.
8. Try on both boots and walk around the store – checking for toe room, foot slippage, and heel sliding.
9. Don’t expect new boots to stretch later if they’re too tight. They probably won’t.
10. Classic colors like black and brown will complement your wardrobe.
11. Generally, a wider, lower heel on the boot is better for walking. However, if you’re looking for a high-heeled dress boot, stick to a 2-inch limit in heel height for greater stability and wardrobe versatility. When buying a winter boot, the outer sole should provide maximum traction for walking on snow and ice.
12. Women’s boots come in a variety of materials. If you’ll be wearing your boots outside, choose materials that will keep your feet warm and dry. Leather should be treated for winter with leather-protecting products, such as mink oil, to repel moisture and salt from snow. Although suede is a nice choice, it may not be practical for wet weather since water can damage the shape and brushed finish of the suede. If you do buy suede boots, make sure they are coated initially with a fabric protectant and that you treat them periodically.
13. Inspect the boots to ensure they’re constructed well to keep out water or snow. Examine the inner lining to see if it’s as seamless as possible and firmly attached to the inner wall of the boot, so it doesn’t tear easily.
14. If you suffer from any foot conditions or gait issues, it’s wise to have a biomechanically enhancing arch support device for all your shoes. The ezWalker® Performance Insole can realign your body by providing your feet with a proper foundation in your boots. Since the ezWalker® is custom-made for both of your feet, it also helps reduce or eliminate foot pain. No matter what type of shoes you need to wear, there is an ezWalker® to help you maintain all-day comfort and pain relief. Order your ezWalker® Performance Insoles today. Also, you should try on your new boots with your ezWalkers® to ensure they fit correctly.
15. A good quality pair of boots may cost a little more, but they’ll last longer and be a better investment than a cheaper pair that falls apart after a month.
16. Understand the store’s return policy, and wear your new boots around the house for awhile to double-check that there are no issues with your choice.
By following these tips, you’ll ensure you’re buying quality boots that fit well and are comfortable. Otherwise, chances are your boots will spend more time in the closet than on your feet.
For more information on ezWalker® Performance Insoles, visit our website. Stay in step and stay in style with ezWalker® by WalkEz. Remember … when your feet feel good, you feel good.
