Useful Things To Know When Purchasing Rain Boots

In the summer, it can be quite easy to find the right shoes. They may be anything from flip-flops to open-toed sandals. The weather is likely to be dry and warm, so people can focus more on the style of their shoes than their function. 

When it comes to winter, it’s a very different thing. People want to keep their feet warm and dry because of the rain and snow. Their footwear is likely to be more practical than fashionable. Having said that, it’s still possible to buy stylish footwear for use during this season. This can even apply to rain boots – and that’s what this article is all about. 

The Value Of Wide Calf Rain Boots

It’s an undeniable fact that men and women have different needs and tastes when it comes to footwear. As regards to the options for women, there is an increasing number of shops that cater to those with wide calves. (This would be anything higher than a 16’’ circumference). Because the boots are slightly larger than normal, they can help women with larger insteps or such medical conditions as lymphedema. 

Think About Comfort

When someone tries on a pair of boots, it can be similar to choosing shoes. Make sure your toes comfortably reach the end and are not squashed. Your heel should rise up and down as you walk – but not too much! Anyone who gets either of these things wrong may well end up nursing painful blisters. 

If someone is considering wearing thick socks in their boots or a second pair, they need to allow enough space in the boot for this. 

If the boots are too tight, they will rub against the feet and legs and may even restrict the person’s blood flow. If someone is in between sizes, it is advisable to wear the next largest size. 

Understand Their Purpose

Any potential buyer of boots needs to be sure of their future use. Will they be used for short dog walks or hill walking? Heavy-duty boots may seem like a great choice for someone who wants a long-lasting buy, but they will be heavy to wear and feel clunky. This makes them unsuitable for long walks. 

On the other end of the spectrum, it’s important to understand the limitations of buying short boots that are thin and look like shoes. They may be comfortable and light but may be easily pierced by sticks or rocks if used for clambering around in nature. 

Height Is Important

Long boots will be perfect for anyone walking through streams or heavy snow. If they have cinch collars at the top they will be great for keeping the snow from falling into the tops of the boots. 

We’ve all seen people who need a helping hand to get their boots off. Long boots are certainly harder in this regard. It’s worth thinking about this, particularly when we buy boots for our children! 

How Easy They Are To Clean

As with shoes, boots made from synthetic materials may allow less scope for a person’s feet to breathe. As a result, they may become hot and sweaty with use. 

On the plus side, they are likely to be very easy to clean (compared to such shoe materials as leather or suede). All the boots will need is a quick wipe over, and they will be new looking once again. 

Grip Is Important

Short boots that go on short journeys act more like shoes. Anyone who needs proper walking boots should be looking for traction and grip. Without this, it will be easy to slip or fall. 

Lug boots are simply brands that have indented lug soles. They are perfect for providing that extra level of grip when walking on slippery paths or slopes. 

Insulation Means Warmth

When the weather is freezing, they need footwear that will keep their feet warm. Boots that have a fleece lining or lamb’s wool insoles will be perfect for the job. Having said that, they will be too warm to wear during the summer.  

If someone has uninsulated boots, they can adjust them to suit the temperature. In summer they will simply keep the rain out. In winter a pair of thick socks can be worn to provide extra warmth. They must be breathable and able to cope with a little damp. (Make sure there is space for them in your boots, as mentioned earlier). 

Once a quality pair of boots have been purchased, they will be ready for use. It might be a routine ‘walk around the block’ with the dog or an exciting trek with friends. If they are fit for purpose, they should serve you for many years.