Advertisement
Like Mother, Like Daughter- Cozy boots for winter
|
(click to enlarge) |
BEARPAW- Knit Tall
Details
A big part of the reason why I love winter so much is the delicious, cozy boots. I know that makes me sound like a typical girl, but it's the truth! The BEARPAW Knit Tall are so versatile, they really do shift seamlessly from style to style. I love that I can wear them tall with some skinny jeans, rock the slouchy look with a skirt or folded down when I want shorter boots. They really are like having three or four pair of boots in one.
The feel of the knit combined with the rubber wedge out-sole make them feel like I'm wearing slippers all day. I normally wear size 9.5, but since BEARPAW boots only come in full sizes, I went with a size 9. Once the knit loosened up a bit, they became so comfortable, I really don't want to take them off when I get home. I've already started scoping out what color I'm going to buy next! They are a great companion to your winter sweaters, and with the soft sheepskin foot-bed, I have to convince myself to wear them with socks; so comfy! These boots have become a necessary luxury for all my holiday parties.
|
|
(click to enlarge) |
BEARPAW- Kids Betsey
Details
Experience Why shouldn't little feet enjoy a little luxury? My twin daughters have fallen in love with these boots! They especially loved the unique, contrast foil floral print. The Betsey looks amazing with leggings, and I really liked how they add an eye-catching touch to any outfit. When asked how they liked the boots, my girls both responded that they were "super cozy, like slippers" and, added "they look like princess boots!" How can any mother deny their sweet little girl something that makes them feel like a princess?
With the high quality materials and excellent construction, I can be sure that my money is going toward a good solid product that will keep my girls' feet warm through the winter. Since we've had them for six months, I've seen how well they stood up through my twins and onto their little sister as well. From stitching to sole construction, very part of the boot has held up nicely up and they still look amazing. Considering how rough children are on shoes, this is a really big deal to me. My girls have thoroughly enjoyed the luxury of wearing such comfy boots, and considering how well they're made, I'm looking forward to picking out another couple pair to replace the ones they've outgrown. Whether you're buying for a boy or girl, I highly recommend BEARPAW boots.
|
|
(click to enlarge) |
Keen- Sunriver High Boot
Details
Experience
As they're made for some snow and hiking fun, I took them snowshoeing and was pleasantly surprised by how they performed. The dual-climate rubber out-sole hardens in the cold to allow for better grip in snow and ice, and the stiffer sole was appreciated. I used them in pretty cold snowshoe temps. and they were just right, but I wouldn't recommend taking them on any arctic expeditions; they're really made for snow play. That being said, if you added a good pair of wool socks, they'll keep you toasty in some pretty frigid temps, for hours. They were much lighter compared to the boots I've been using for snowshoeing and I could really tell the difference after a few hours. They're a great active boot for this winter!
|
|
(click to enlarge) |
Keen- Darby Boot
Details
Experience |
Gear Review: KEEN A86 TR
The Specs
Weight: 7.77 oz / 229.786 grams
- Synthetic lining
- Breathable textile mesh upper
- Non-marking rubber out-sole
- 3mm multi-directional lugs
- Removable high-rebound EVA foot-bed
- Protective toe-guard
The Experience
While I'm a big fan of the KEEN lifestyle and their shoes, I have to admit, I had some apprehension about putting them in the performance category. I was pleasantly surprised to be wrong. The A86 TR are comfortable right out of the box and even when worn barefoot (not necessarily recommended) I had no problems with chaffing or rubbing of any kind.
At first look, the asymmetrical lacing seemed more of a stylistic than useful feature, however, as I began running I found it to make for a softer feel on my foot than conventional lacing systems. Normally, I have to be careful with hot spots on the top of my foot if I get my laces even slightly too snug, but the A86 TR made this issue obsolete. The tongue on my right shoe did leave a slight gap once I had been running for a while, but nothing that effected my run; just left a thin strip of dirt on my sock. I consulted other KEEN fans online and they have had no issues with the tongue. The lacing ends a bit low so I had some slight concerns that my heel would move around too much, but it wasn't an issue. The shoe is so flexible and laces up nice and snug it left a very secure fit without being binding.
The cushion on this shoe is effective but minimal, so unless you're a seasoned minimalist runner, I would be cautious when rapidly increasing mileage. (which you shouldn't be doing anyway) That said, I'm currently putting only about 15 miles a week on trails with the A86 TR and have had no issues with any kind of foot, knee or hip pain. Because my mileage is so low right now, I had another athlete, putting in a lot more mileage, test the shoes as well. Her reaction was about the same as mine, "No joking, these are the most comfortable trail shoes I've ever run in... they feel like a moccasin."
The three directional lugs are effective on dirt, rocks and mud but when it got really muddy I did have some slippage issues. I have my doubts any shoes would have kept me upright through ankle-deep mud. The shoes are incredibly flexible and light and though I could feel the rocks and terrain as I ran, my feet felt well protected.
The sizing was right on for me, but KEEN advises that the shoe runs a half size small. If they are available, I would recommend trying them on before you buy to make sure you get the right fit if you plan on purchasing online. As an added bonus, they come in eight colors!
Overall, I'd have to say, KEEN has produced a solid trail shoe with the A86 TR and it has enthusiastic fans to show for it.
Retail $90.00
For more information about KEEN products go to: www.keenfootwear.com
KEEN Coronado- Recess is back!
Advertisement
Upcoming Events
Advertisement
Advertisement
Advertisement
Advertisement
Random Articles
Gear Review: Switch Eyewear- New for…
Details- Includes two pair of lenses; one pair of shatter...
SHARK AUTOMATIC & SHARK ABC
We were stoked when we learned last year about the...
Dunning Shirts By Gelder Lewis
Dunning Sportswear




