The Barking Dog is seldom early, but never late. Here it is. The Comfortable Winter Boot guide for 2011. These might just work for 2012 too.
1. Best boot for wide feet: It's hard to find just one negative review online; everyone loves their Keen Betty boots. They're super warm, waterproof, provide great support and traction; plus they fit wide feet better than most snow boots. Order up a half size as they run a little small and you want to be able to wear with thick socks on the coldest of days. $110-120 at Zappos. Get a great deal on the Keen Betty Boot at eBay.
2. Most bang for your buck: For $75 you get a waterproof, warm, cute and comfortable boot. Fits narrow to medium width feet best. Available at Zappos.
3. For the cold-footed fashionista: 90 favorable reviews, only 4 critical at Zappos. If you're looking for a stylish boot that's insulated, waterproof and walkable, this is it. True to size. $155 at Zappos. If you happen to read this tonight, you can get 20% off the Janey at PlanetShoes.com with code DEAL1 until midnight.
4. Best arch support: The Stormy is from Dansko's Sausalito collection--excellent arch support, cushioned footbed, lightweight sole. If you have a high instep, these might be hard to slip on. $160 at Zappos, $159.95 at The Walking Company (free fleece blanket with purchase over $150 through the weekend).
5. Best Muck-Around Boot: Go ahead and walk through that cold, muddy puddle. With the 7mm neoprene lining, your feet remain toasty and dry. Don't let the online classification of "rain boot" fool you, these can take on a sub-zero blizzard. Easy-on, easy-off with the help of those nifty handles. Best deal at Amazon: Get 20% off already marked down price (discount at checkout). You can get a pair for $62 instead of $90!
6. Best orthotic-friendly boots: You didn't think I'd leave out the ubiquitous Ugg on a winter boot guide, did you? Not all Uggs have a removable footbed, but the Ultimate line does which is great news to those that need the support of a custom orthotic. If you've owned Ugg boots before, you know how cozy and soft they are from toes to ankles to calves. Plus, the Ultimate has much better traction than the Classic. I highly recommend replacing the flat insole with Lynco shearling orthotics (these will work in most snow boots with a roomy footbed). The Ugg Ultimate Braid is available at Zappos for $230. Limited sizes are on sale at The Walking Company for $169.
7. The best comfortable, red-laced boot: I couldn't come up with a specific category for this boot other than it's absolutely darling and I love it and the red laces. So do the few reviewers that have discovered the McQueen at Zappos (this specific color combo is called "chipmunk/chili pepper." Don't they look like something from Clark's Originals? The Columbia McQueen's got something called "Omni-heat" technology which is techno-speak for "super warm thermal lining." Fits medium to wide width feet best. $140 at Zappos.
Do you have a favorite winter boot? Leave a comment and let us know.
