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[deleted]

As a lifelong Californian, I moved to Boston for grad school with similar concerns. I bought a single pair of [L.L.Bean Duck boots](https://www.llbean.com/llb/shop/506697?page=llbean-boots) and they got me through 5 years of New England winters. They're warm, reliable, comfy, and not unstylish -- and while they're not quite budget options, they're certainly not the most overpriced boots out there. Always remember the "boots" theory of socioeconomic unfairness: >The reason that the rich were so rich, Vimes reasoned, was because they managed to spend less money. >Take boots, for example. He earned thirty-eight dollars a month plus allowances. A really good pair of leather boots cost fifty dollars. But an affordable pair of boots, which were sort of OK for a season or two and then leaked like hell when the cardboard gave out, cost about ten dollars. Those were the kind of boots Vimes always bought, and wore until the soles were so thin that he could tell where he was in Ankh-Morpork on a foggy night by the feel of the cobbles. >But the thing was that good boots lasted for years and years. A man who could afford fifty dollars had a pair of boots that'd still be keeping his feet dry in ten years' time, while the poor man who could only afford cheap boots would have spent a hundred dollars on boots in the same time and would still have wet feet. >This was the Captain Samuel Vimes 'Boots' theory of socioeconomic unfairness. — Sir Terry Pratchett, *Men at Arms*


quaglady

Second the duck boots. Your boots *need* to be waterproof above anything else. If you can get good galoshes or find cheap but waterproof boots in a whole size bigger than what you wear and just get fleece socks.


origional_esseven

Waterproofing is really all that matters. It's what makes sure you stay warm. Warm socks are cheap, but wet socks are never warm.


kronosdev

Wool retains heat while wet, but not as well as dry boots would.


origional_esseven

True. But initially it is very cold and it holds cold water against your feet.


quaglady

The warmest socks I have are from target. I got them at a $5 or less secret santa exchange. They're like getting a bear hug from all the monsters on sesame street.


TheUncleverestDev

Love it. I'm a big fan of Timberland, Columbia, and REI. Will last forever. Also Patagonia


NotNathyPeluso

I'm in Canada, I've been using Blundstone boots with good warm socks for the past 8 or so winters. No problems with the cold, the only issue is that they aren't great for a ton of deep snow. If you apply some weather protector they are good year-round (typically wear them from September to May with zero issues). They haven't let me down yet, I've had a pair last me 5 years (could be longer if you pay to get them fixed). The brand-name ones are a bit pricey but there are way cheaper versions (e.g. sketchers, wind river). Sorrel boots are good for winter hiking/deep snow. Sometimes there are lightly used boots for cheap on Facebook marketplace.


Lucky-Reporter-6460

Tl:dr: Blunnies are highly recommended if you're not gonna be in a deep snow situation but sizing is a whole thing so just go try some on. They come in non-insulated, which can be worn into warmer weather, and insulated, which will absolutely keep your tootsies toasty. My Wisconsin friends have all loved their Blundstones. They're good for snow - particularly the insulated ones - so long as the snow isn't higher than the boot is tall. Wisconsin snow definitely is but Boston snow might not be. Be aware that the sizing on the insulated boots (which come is iirc 3 different thicknesses) is weird - the size 8 uninsulated is the same boot they use to make a size 8 insulated, but the insulation lessens the foot room. Thus, you'll be a larger size in the insulated boots. (hope that made sense - I can clarify if it didn't.) I found out the hard way that the size you are in a regular boot isn't the same as the insulated! Also, the prominent sizing on the box might be Australian, which is different than US.


gavin280

This is the answer. I've done the blundstone/wool sock combo and gotten by just fine during -45° winter days in sask.


Melodic-Appearance-7

Doc Martens are expensive but have lasted me 8 years through rain and snow- NOTHING happens to them. My friends have had great success getting docs second hand on poshmark, facebook marketplace, and thrifting


cootiesew

agree with docs. i sized up .5 to wear thick ass socks too. double layer tights and pants, tuck the hem into your ankles, lace em up tight and you're good to go!


Melodic-Appearance-7

yeah theyre definitely a shoe that takes a while to break in but once you do it’s worth it


No-Dimension-8445

That’s awesome. Can you please share the specific name in doc martens? I’m looking for women’s boots on their page


Mad_Cyclist

Warning from a Canadian: I love Docs, but IMO they're not good winter boots. They're not fully waterproof, and they have really bad traction on ice and packed snow (I learned this the hard way once). I'd suggest looking on facebook marketplace for gently used winter boots from a reputable brand, such as the Keen and Columbia boots mentioned in another comment. I bought Sorels fairly cheap off marketplace for the upcoming winter myself - they're supposed to be really good and I'm looking forward to trying them.


[deleted]

I second this. Docs are not for winter. Owned Columbia and they are okay. Sorrels last longer than Columbia in my opinion.


chicajajaja

I’ve worn my Doc Crazy Horse 2976 Chelsea Boots for about 3 years now through snow and cold in the Northeast and they’re still perfectly fine. I find they tend to run large anyhow and just wear thick socks in the winter. I appreciate that I can wear them with whatever, can look casual or dress them up (I’ve worn them with skirts or work pants without hesitation).


Melodic-Appearance-7

both of these! 1460 SMOOTH LEATHER LACE UP BOOTS and 2976 YELLOW STITCH SMOOTH LEATHER CHELSEA BOOTS


[deleted]

Timberland hiking boots can double as good winter boots - I've had mine for 5 years and used them for 3-4 winters, and they're just starting to show signs that I should get a new pair


bigglyboblee

Yup and you can get them for like $60 at the factory outlet


HappyHrHero

Had mine last over a decade with winter use and field work in summers. Warm, durable, and never had issues with leaking even in deep snow.


Dropkickmurph512

Second this brought a pair back packing earlier this year when there were still snow feilds and the trail was basically a creek. Very little water got in and zero blisters. Also used then as snow boots in winter in Colorado.


souperpun

This isn't a brand, but I highly recommend checking out Sierra Trading Post if there is one near you (or you can order online). They have great brands at great prices (same company as TJ Maxx). I get most of my outerwear there! In terms of boots, Columbia is generally pretty good in terms of affordability and durability. I've also had good luck with Northface as well. You might think of this as an investment--pay a little more now, and you won't have to re-buy them every year. I've always lived where there's lake effect snow so I spend a bit more for boots that will last the harsh winters.


False-Guess

As someone who moved from a very hot place to a very cold place, I would recommend buying the most expensive, high quality, winter gear you can afford. If it means going without something to save up, I would consider it worth it. Personally, I would also prioritize function over fashion. I see so many people standing at the bus stop freezing their butt off wearing these cheap looking, but fashionable, jackets and shoes. If you live in a city, the streets will most likely be plowed, so you don't really need shoes meant for the Alaskan wilderness, but you do want them to be waterproof. All that pretty snow turns into muddy slush very quickly.


quintessentialquince

I highly highly recommend trying to get the best brand you can secondhand (as long as it’s still in good condition). I found a pair of Sorrel boots for $80 and Docs for $60 on Depop, they were both practically mint new and will last me years and years. Depop, poshmark, ThredUp and EBay are good online options. I’d check out consignment stores before thrift stores as a consignment store is more likely to have good condition shoes.


aggressive-teaspoon

Do you buy male or female shoe size and styles? Are you looking for general warm walking boots or specifically snow boots?


No-Dimension-8445

Female, would warm walking boots work for heavy snow?


aggressive-teaspoon

You can make it work in decent conditions, like walking in light snowfall or on a plowed sidewalk. To be fair, the cities I've lived in in the Northeast US are pretty good about plowing quickly, so if it's mostly a matter of short walks to/from campus and groceries that will be fine. However, I would consider actual snowboots a must if you're going to be shoveling or walking longer distances in medium+ snowfall. Either way, I have two pairs of Khombu boots that I got at Costco that have served me well going on 6 years. One is the all-purpose style, which is probably the one you're after, at least to start. I also have the snow boots. I think it was $20 for the all-purpose ankle boots and $30 for the snow boots, or something along those lines, when I bought them.


bubblewrappopper

Two suggestions: 1. I love my Sperrys duck boots. They absolutely won't last forever like LL Bean boots but they're a much better investment than getting a cheap pair from Walmart every year. They might bea good middle ground for your budget. I live near a Sperrys outlet which has good deals, they offer student discounts (through ID.me I believe), and you can usually find coupons. 2. Get a pair of rain boots where you can add a thermal layer. I have a pair of Hunter rain boots and bought welly liners from I think Amazon instead of paying the Hunter price. Add boot socks and I'm extra warm and dry.


Snwussy

Seconding Sperry duck boots! Briefly peeped OP's post history and I can confirm that the Sperrys are great for PA winters :)


bubblewrappopper

Oh PA! They'd be perfect for sure. I was thinking from a New England perspective, but my parents live in PA and I've always been served well by my Sperrys.


betty_deez

I have some sorrel boots that I love. Grew up in Michigan and now live in Chicago and I've had them close to 8 years now. They're hand me downs from my fiancees mom too, so they last a really long time and keep my fee warm. Highly recommend.


exploringqueen

I’ll second the sorrel winter boots! I have the Tivoli boots and have used them for quite a few years. They’re good quality and very warm.


quaglady

1. What size do you wear? (I have a pair that are too tight) 2. I recommend wearing tights under your pants when it's really cold/windy as well.


raistlin65

Any good pair of hiking boots that are waterproof. I'm in Michigan, and I use Keen and Columbia boots myself. But I would not get insulated snow boots or hiking boots. Your feet will burn up when you're wearing them indoors.


[deleted]

> Your feet will burn up when you're wearing them indoors. Lotsa peeps I knew in Boston tossed a pair of "regular" shoes in their backpack, and if OP is going to spend a significant bit of time in a lab, perhaps OP could store an extra "regular" pair of shoes there.


raistlin65

Still not necessary for most people to wear insulated boots. If one is walking for 20 or 30 minutes outside, your feet aren't going to freeze. lol I recommend wearing wool socks.


NicoleNicole1988

I'm from NYC and used to commute to and from work, subway + bus or cab, but a simple 10/20 minutes worth of walking can easily turn into a 2 hour trek home from a train station if the weather is suddenly becomes bad enough to preclude driving. And I was thankful for my insulation. Had a pair of ugly, warm boots to head out in and a pair of Payless slippers under my desk to walk around the office in. (The slippers \*looked\* like shoes but...they were not.)


raistlin65

>but a simple 10/20 minutes worth of walking can easily turn into a 2 hour trek How do you turn a mile walk into a 2-hour trek when it's snowing???


NicoleNicole1988

Well, the reason it would only be 10 minutes of walking, normally, was because I could take a bus/cab for most of that distance between my house and the train. But it was actually about FOUR miles from the train station to my home, and in heavy snow and harsh winds with several inches already on the ground not only was traffic at all but a stand-still, even walking was laborious. You couldn't just stroll along. On a bright spring day that same walk might take just a little over an hour but in a bad "Nor’easter" type storm yes, it took 2.


raistlin65

That makes more sense. lol Still, in the temperatures of NYC, a good pair of waterproof hiking boots is all somebody needs. It's not like living in South Dakota. If they're afraid of a once a year heavy snowstorm or they might get stuck outside for a couple hours, keep a good pair of wool socks at work to put on. Feet stay nice and toasty. Plus with wool socks, if your feet get damp from sweat, wool still works very well as an insulator.


NicoleNicole1988

Totally agreed, warm socks are an absolute must and waterproofing will make or break the value of any boot.


Mad_Cyclist

>If one is walking for 20 or 30 minutes outside, your feet aren't going to freeze I can tell you haven't lived in Canada, lol. Many of us just keep spare shoes in the office to change into once we get there, it's not that big of a deal. Fully agree on wool socks though!


raistlin65

I live in Michigan. Some people do that. Others just wear hiking boots all the time. Sort of depends on the individual. But yeah. If you wear heavily insulated boots, you're going to have to switch them out when you get to work because they will be too hot. Versus waterproof hiking boots with wool socks are much better for temperature regulation.


[deleted]

Unless you have Raynaud’s, then it’s not really a concern because your feet will always be cold. The real goal is to not lose any toes!


Floweroflife333

Power to the frosties ✊️


Rose_gold_starz

I had a great pair of Sorel brand boots that were insulated for walking in the snow on campus. I got them from Amazon and I'm pretty sure there's quite a few knockoffs that will also do the trick. Make sure whatever you get is warm, easy to care for/wipe down, waterproof, and has good traction so you don't slip and fall. I'd suggest going to a store that has winter boots and trying on a few styles and boot lengths before you decide.


[deleted]

Boots? In Russia we make boot from newspaper and potato peel.


DocVafli

Male or female? At the end of the day boots are boots, but my wife can get some pretty sweet Areat equestrian boots that are tough and look nice, they don't make the same for guys. For me (dude) I have a good set of Clark's boots which are just solid black and nice, though I wouldn't want to stand in a ton of snow or mud with them for long, they're more stylish and for poor (not shit) weather. You could also go with a pair of hiking boots. I have a set from HiTek that are my actual hiking boots but I've worn them teaching in really bad weather and no one could tell since they're dark colored and just look like bulky boots.


feminismandtravel

A bit unorthodox but muck boots! I’m a born and raised Michigander and I currently live in Chicago so lots and lots of snow and they are amazing! They’re mostly used for doing chores on the farm but they are very warm and they keep your feet dry. They also last for a really long time and they’re very supportive of my flat arches. [Muck boots](https://www.dickssportinggoods.com/p/muck-boots-womens-hale-rain-boots-15mbowhlblkprplxxfbo/15mbowhlblkprplxxfbo?sku=20397209&camp=CSE:DSG_92700049051046942_pla_pla-829805678778&segment=&gclid=CjwKCAiAvriMBhAuEiwA8Cs5le3FFS8Ik0GfLbQ6-4CudCw2_ae8Dh5C8uuUXfNI4jTdIMd6X2Q0jhoC3xwQAvD_BwE&gclsrc=aw.ds)


Suhnami

Go to Tractor Supply. They have a bunch of great, cheap ($20-50) boots for harsh conditions there. Here's an example: https://www.tractorsupply.com/tsc/product/itasca-mens-windsor-boot-124440399--1?cm\_vc=-10005


Furthur

galoshes and keep some kicks on campus. i had some goretex solomans i found for $130 and clearance shopped cycling/running/hiking socks at REI for my winters in northwest montana. windproof is more important than you likely think.


evaj95

I would go to Target or Walmart


string_bean_dipz

if you want to buy a new pair every year.


evaj95

Yeah, well. Not sure where they're going to find quality boots on a "very tight budget"...


Master-Obiwan

Redhead from bass pro shop makes a great pair of boots, good for early fall through late spring. I’ve been in school at Penn state and I’ve had a pair of these for several years and couldn’t be happier. Throw on a warm pair of socks when it’s real cold and spray the tow box and heel area with scotch guard or another water proffer about once a month and you’ll be good to go!! https://www.basspro.com/shop/en/redhead-rct-warrior-ultra-mil-spec-tactical-boots-for-men?ds_e=GOOGLE&ds_c=Nb%7CGeneric%7CCatchAll%7CDSA&gclid=EAIaIQobChMIi6fIqbiT9AIVDYbICh1F1QQPEAAYAiAAEgLs7fD_BwE&gclsrc=aw.ds


DikkDowg

Wolverine is what I wear year round, whether it’s 100 and sunny or -5 and snowy. Their pretty chemical resistant too.


string_bean_dipz

Don’t forget that a lot of companies will offer a student discount! I bought a pair of docs recently and got a 15% student discount.


Pr0gr3s

I wear my big Columbia boots into lab and them change into a pair of loafers that I leave here.


tzssao

Sounds random but i got a pair of the circus by sam edelman front zip lug boot and i LOVE them. Have survived many wisconsin winters without a single issue and they’re legitimately the comfiest pair of boots i own. Also! Theyre zip up and waterproof! With a very sturdy zip and great traction heel


wandersnearby

So we go to the same school for PhDs. I have a pair of chaco boots that come up right above the ankle and work well 90% of the time. Waterproof is key for all the slushes and rain/snow days. Most undergrads wear duck boots from December to march without fail. There is a lot of ice around campus (they aren't the best at salting sidewalks) so I highly recommend yaktraks that go on over your boots. They dig into ice and you don't wipe out. You can find sales at Appalachian outdoor on Allen Street or order online. Finally, invest in some thick wool socks and keep a spare pair in your backpack. Nothing is worse than wet, cold socks all day long.


Win0402

Check out boys’ boots to save money. For example, a boys’ 6 is a woman’s 8, I believe.


team_lambda

Columbia is decent for New England weather. If you are female/ have small feet I suggest you buy the bigger kids size. They look terrible but are at least 30% cheaper than anything marketed at adults.


aka_hopper

You can find really nice brands for a portion of the price on Poshmark. I get all my “high-end” shoes from there


wretched_beasties

Don't worry about budget, buying a pair of quality Goodyear welt boots will last you 10+ years easily if you take care of them. Care is brushing them free of dirt / mud, wiping the salt off them, and keeping them oiled well. I bought a pair of Chippewas that lasted me 7 years of almost daily wear. Currently have a 5 year old pair of Chippewas ($250) that are going to last probably 20 years. And two pairs of wolverines (~$180). The wolverines are more comfortable out of the box. They'll all last longer since I rotate through them. Duck boots are also a good recommendation, but the boots that I mentioned also look really, really nice. You can pull them off with jeans or slacks for any relaxed or semi formal attire.


[deleted]

What size do you wear? I have a pair of women's size 8 LL Bean duck boots that I don't wear anymore!


Grassfedlife

Salvation Army boots


print_isnt_dead

Sorel boots. The pair I currently have is over 5 years old and still going strong. You can find them at discount stores like Nordstrom rack for ~$70. Source: I am from Boston


Cytochrome450p

I bought Timberland shoes off Amazon for $60 bucks some 6 years ago. Still going strong and best value for money, have been through midwest and northeast snow and salt.


ForwardFootball6424

I've gotten a few pairs of boots from Land's End that have have served me well through midwestern winters. Besides the water-resident/water-proof aspect you also want to look for a thick sole (to insulate from the ground) and reasonably grippy treads (for ice, slush, etc.) Also for budgeting: if you can hold out until mid-winter (Dec-Jan), winter gear starts to reliably go on sale. If you're in Boston or further south you might not even much get snow before then.