These Boots Are Made For Walking

The boot is definitely the footwear of choice this fall. As I was stopped at a light the other day near the American University campus in Washington, DC, I couldn’t help but notice the spectacular array of boots on parade. There were tall riding boots, over the knee musketeer style numbers, ankle length booties, vintage Frye boots and of course the ubiquitous UGGS. As soon as the autumnal weather hits, lovers of boots rush to don their favorite pair. So, what is their widespread appeal anyway? Well, they keep you warm, they are often more comfortable than shoes, they never go out of style and you can wear them with just about anything.  Since boots are a bit of an investment and you will want to wear them for many seasons, here are some pointers that hopefully will help you pick out both a comfortable and "stylin" boot that will become your fast friend:.

1. Take Your Time

If you buy boots (or shoes for that matter) when you are either rushed or in one of those impulsive moods, you will probably regret your purchase. Before you start shopping for boots in stores, do some research on the internet and pinpoint certain brands and styles that you like. Looking at the ratings and reading the customer reviews may help you assess whether a certain boot may be a good fit for you. You can also read weekly reviews and get email updates about comfort shoes at www.barkingdogshoes.com.Then go to several stores and try on all kinds of boots. Once you purchase a pair, “test drive” them at home for a week (only inside or the store will not accept your return) and at different times of the day to make sure they are totally comfortable.

2. Learn About Your feet

Go to a reputable shoe store or shoe department with well trained sales clerks and get your feet properly measured. Some stores like Foot Solutions (http://www.footsoutions.com/) will also conduct a foot analysis and digital foot scanning to determine whether you have any foot conditions that require special attention. Foot Solutions will also make custom inserts for you. Knowing more about your feet will reduce the likelihood that you will end up with a pair of boots that collects dust in your closet.  

3. Think About Your Needs

Are you on your feet a lot or do you walk long distances to and from work?

Do you live in a climate where a waterproof boot with good traction is a must?

Do you have a foot type or condition that requires a specific design quality such as a wide toe bed or extra shock absorption in the heel?

4. Pay Attention to Brands

Companies such as Naturalizer, Easy Spirit and Merrell have a solid reputation for well made, stylish and affordable boots. The Canadian company Blondo  is known for its well constructed waterproof boots. Pikolinos from Spain offers unique designs with superior craftsmanship and state of the art technology. All of these companies have their own websites and you can also look for these brands on Zappos and Amazon.com. If you are live in the Washington, DC area, you can find Blondo and Pikolino boots at Amano in Takoma Park, Md. Their website address is http://www.amanotakoma.com/. Visit this mini department store for a great selection of comfort boots and shoes as well as unique clothing, jewelry and gifts.

 See the photos of my three favorite picks, #1 Easy Spirit LOVEIT for $124.99, #2 Merrell Tetra Launch for $149.99 and #3 Pikolinos Genebra bootie for 179.00. You can see I'm enamoured with all shades of brown!