Stylish boots to kick off the new season

By: William Pattee

Staff Writer

Living in New York means unpredictable and often harsh winter seasons. A meteorologist can either be a friend or foe and the street you live on can go from sunny and postcard-worthy to a dangerous blizzard overnight. If you’re lucky, class could get canceled and you end up snowed in and watching your favorite movie. However, that’s not always the case, and if you have to trek to that 8 a.m., you’re probably going to want dry feet. Below, you’ll find five shoe options that will keep you going to class while in style.

The Classic

When it comes to balancing the need between a functional boot and a boot that works with your outfit, L.L. Bean has had your back since 1912 with their signature duck boots. They’re rubberized, they’re waterproof and they come in what seems like a billion different models. The chances of you being stuck with a pair that you don’t like are slim. But if you have a tough time choosing, your best bet would be to go with the classic 8 inch boot. You can also pair it with some thick socks for added warmth and easily transition into the spring when the snow has melted.

The Adaptation

If you’re on your way to present a project and need to look sharp, sometimes the typical snow boot won’t cut it. That’s okay, there’s no need to drag your penny loafers through 3 inches of snow. In fact, one of the hidden gems that menswear has to offer would be dress boots. They have what you need and still pair perfectly with your best suit and tie. The key to nailing this style? Go for brown with a chunkier sole.

The Tie-Breaker

Timberland boots are well-known to New Yorkers and there’s a reason these boots have made everyone’s holiday wishlist. Like duck boots, Timberland makes their signature boots in a variety of colors, without sacrificing the amenities: rubber sole, leather upper and padded collar that the snowstorms are no match for. Unless you’re dressed up, these will probably be your go-to boots. Grab them in the classic wheat color or experiment with the choices Timberland offers.

The Hiker

Perhaps you enjoy the snow and the upcoming season is your favorite. In that case, you need to be equipped for your outdoor needs. You don’t have to sacrifice style here, despite some of the hiking boots available on the market. Your most stylish options will always have leather options and a Vibram sole, like the K-6 from Eddie Bauer. These will transition from the classroom to the mountains flawlessly.

The All Out

At the end of the day, sometimes the snow doesn’t let up, and you need a boot that will cover you on the good days, the bad days and the snow-shoveling days. You need a boot that will stand the test of time, even amidst the worst New York winter storms. This is where the Sorel Caribou comes in. Tall, felt-lined and secured with metal rings for the laces, this boot will endure the harshest winters, so much so that Sorel guarantees them to be comfortable up to minus 40 degrees! It also features specific traction technology to handle ice and snow to keep you from sliding around on your way to class.