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With cooler temperatures upon us, it may be time to go boot shopping.
Footwear doesn’t last as long as we think. “Even if the outside looks okay, after a few hundred kilometres, the capacity of the shoe to absorb [impact] is not there anymore,” says Dr. Sarah Cantin-Langlois, a podiatrist based in Montreal. Eventually, shoes lose their initial level of comfort and support and have a limited life, she says.
If you’re looking for stylish boots that can do double duty – ones that are both comfortable to walk in, and professional enough for work – you’ll want to look for a pair that has a rigid outer sole, according to Dr. Cantin-Langlois. They will likely offer better shock absorption.
“The way it works is if the sole absorbs most of the shock when you’re walking, then the foot doesn’t absorb as much, and then it creates less inflammation or tendency of developing any type of problem,” she says. “The easy test is to take the outer sole of your shoe and just try to fold it in two lengthwise – if you can fold it, then there’s a lot of flexibility.” And therefore, it’s not your best buy for comfort or support.
You also want to make sure that you’re buying boots in the right width. If a pair feels tight, you might need a boot that is wider rather than one that’s a size up. When a pair is too big “there’s a lot of movement within the boot when you’re walking, and that can create blisters and it can even lead to hammer toe deformity,” says Dr. Cantin-Langlois.
To check if you have the right width and the boot has a removable insert, take the insert out and place your foot on it. “If your foot is going over on both sides … then it means that the shoe will be too narrow for you,” says Dr. Cantin-Langlois.
Finally, for tall boots, you’ll want to ensure that the calf area will fit well all day. That means shopping for them, and trying on your favourite pairs, at the end of the day, when your legs and feet may be a little bit more swollen.
Six buys to try
When shopping for fall boots, look for the right fit, comfort features and design details that offer a polished look for coffee meetings, strategy sessions and brainstorms.
In the men’s section
(Left) A more refined version of the classic Blundstone Chelsea with a less rounded toe and slimmer profile, these pull-on leather boots can be worn pretty much year-round. Plus, they come with an extra set of removable footbeds so that you can ensure a better fit. Blundstone Dress #067 boots, $250 through blundstone.ca.
(Centre) The all-black detailing and polished leather on these boots make them a dressier option compared with similar lace-ups. For extra comfort, they feature a bonded-jersey lining and cushioning rubber sole. Dr. Martens Black 1460 Mono boots, $235 through ssense.com.
(Right) Cowboy boots are trending again this fall and Frye has been making them since the 1940s. This sleek, updated leather version featuring a scalloped topline would look great with dark denim or a pair of slim-cut trousers. The padded footbed will help keep you comfortable as you get your steps in. Frye Austin Western boots, $548 through simons.ca.
In the women’s section
(Left) Available in black and brown, this leather-and-knit boot incorporates dual density foam and padded insoles. The one-and-a-half-inch heel adds a bit of height but you’ll be able to walk comfortably in them all day long. Aldo Onitram boot, $150 through aldoshoes.com.
(Centre) These stretch suede boots would look great with both trousers and skirts, and can be dressed up or down. The square toe shape and covered block heel make it look more luxe, and it’s made with a silky, lightweight suede that can be spot-cleaned. Reformation Rosina boot, $498 through thereformation.com.
(Right) This pair of leather ankle boots is made with Ecco’s Fluidform technology, developed to offer your feet better anatomical support and more cushioning. They would look great with tights and a dress for the office, or leggings on the weekend. Ecco Sculpted Lx 45 boot, $295 through ca.ecco.com.