Why do we live here again? Snow squalls become freezing rain; freezing rain becomes icy sidewalks; icy sidewalks become a pain in our collective Canadian ass. Figure out your footwear now before it gets worse. Which it will.
1. Wet-snow days are the worst when you’re under-prepared. These bright galoshes (pictured above) are made of high-quality waterproof rubber so they won’t crack from the cold. And, while the faux-fur lining can’t withstand the harshest wind-chill, they’re better suited to slushy February puddles than a typical rain boot. $80. Yerian by Tretorn, Little Burgundy. 393 Queen W and others. 416-593-4794. www.littleburgundyshoes.com.
2. Sorels are the boots to buy when you’ve destroyed a pair or two every previous winter and become serious about the weather. The Kitchener-based brand is the definitive choice for a reason: this model, the Caribou, has a durable, rubber-grip sole, waterproof nubuck, and thermal felt lining for a comfy, heat-trapping cushioning, keeping you toasty down to -40°C.
$149.99. Caribou by Sorel, Get Outside Shoes. 437 Queen W. 416 593-5598. Also available at www.getoutsideshoes.com.
3. Pajar’s warm winter boots debuted in Montreal in 1963. This classic black water-resistant lace-up is wool-lined (they’ll provide warmth up to -30°C temps) and has serious grips for staying grounded on icy streets. $184.99. Archdale by Pajar, FeetFirst. 220 Yonge, Eaton’s Centre and others. 416-260-0497. Also available at www.feetfirstshoes.com.
4. If you must don a heel this season (and, before the icy-snowy dregs of mid-winter, it’s easy enough), try ALDO’s chunky, tapered western-style wedge, since it’s sturdier than most. At $100 they’re almost a steal, but the thin, grainy sole isn’t slip-proof. $100. Syvertsen, ALDO. 3401 Dufferin and others. 416-340-9882. www.aldoshoes.com.
5. This cognac mid-calf’s distressed finish and almond toe works a hard-and-soft look. Even better, its rubber-soled heel provides traction, and the oiled leather wicks away moisture. Sans lining, it’s best to pick up some thick socks to tackle the frost. $200. Jenifer by SPM Shoes & Boots, Little Burgundy. 393 Queen W and others. 416-593-4794. Also available at www.littleburgundyshoes.com.
6. Frye’s quality leather boots are think-it-through spendy, but these steel-grey beauts are hand-dyed, so each pair is unique and thus more wantable and worth it. The vintage finish camouflages salt stains, and the sturdy, rubber bottoms will hold up to heavy treading. FYI: You’ll need to waterproof the soft, matte leather. $428. Veronica Slouch by Frye, C Squared. 365 Queen W. 416-595-5606.