Winter Shoe Essentials
The holidays are officially over, and winter is just getting started in NY. If you live in the northeast, or a cold climate, like me, then you understand the struggle of winter footwear. My perfect winter shoe needs to match my lifestyle. During the winter months, it takes a lot for me to leave the house. Dressing up and going out on the weekends seems like a lot more work, and I tend to prefer those cozy nights at home. I keep my wardrobe casual, and my footwear is the same.
When picking a winter shoe, my priorities are warmth, durability, and functionality. Over the years, I have unfortunately wasted money on poor quality shoes that fall apart by the time April arrives. I recently learned to invest in quality brands, and I am so glad that I did. My winter shoe essentials may have a higher price tag, but they will last you many winters to come!
My Winter Shoe Essentials
Sorels – If you buy one shoe from this list, it should be these. They are warm, waterproof, and have great traction. I consider these a must-have for any cold weather climate! There is a reason they keep returning year after year, read the reviews! I have tried dozens of winter boots, and none of them stand a chance against these
UGG Boots – I think I have owned at least one pair of these since I was in the 9th grade. They have become a winter weather staple for me. Now, they have several styles available, and most of them are on sale at a great price! They are not waterproof, but I wear them on the really cold days in NY and they keep my feet warm.
Over the Knee Boots – This is a new one for me. They are definitely a more trendy item, but the pair I own is actually on MAJOR sale! I wear these on occasions where I might need to look a little more ‘put together’.
Booties – A good workwear option, if you can get away with it! I am not ashamed to say that I think I wore the same pair of booties to clinical at the pediatricians office for my entire winter semester. These taupe ones are super comfortable, and will last you the entire season!
Sneakers – I feel like I have to include these because I am a nurse. I am not going to pretend that I work out in these bad boys, but they do stand up to 12 hour shifts at the hospital. Adidas can be pricey, but they are comfortable and will give you a lot of milage!
Riding Boot – My Tory Burch riding boots were a splurge purchase from the Nordstrom Anniversary sale 3 years ago. They are probably my most coveted item in my closet. The leather still looks beautiful after many wears, I always get compliments when I wear them. Since they are leather, they will be stiff at first, but after a few wears they form to the shape of your foot nicely.
Hunter Boots – These are a new purchase for me. I have never owned a rain boot until this year, and man am I sad I missed out. These are easily the most worn shoe in my collection right now. They are so easy to slip on and off. They are waterproof but they won’t keep your feet warm. I wear boot socks underneath when necessary, and they will be a great transition shoe to spring.
Slippers – The love I have for my J. Crew Factory slippers is real. I wear them anytime I am home, and they are the warmest slipper I have owned. They have a nice rubber sole, so they can be worn outdoors (although I don’t recommend it) and come in several colors. They are on sale for $24 right now!
What are your winter shoe essentials! Let me know in the comments, I love hearing your recommendations!
xo, Kristen
