How to choose the perfect autumn/winter shoes from a shoemaking perspective
Choosing shoes for autumn and winter can be a difficult task. If you choose shoes based on appearance alone, you will likely end up suffering from cold, stuffiness, and inconvenience.
I love fashion and have tried many different things, but I have also experienced my fair share of failures. In this article, I will share my own experiences and summarize some points to consider when choosing "fall/winter shoes."
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What do you look for in autumn and winter shoes?
Choosing shoes for autumn and winter can be more difficult than you might think. In spring and summer, there's no problem if you choose something that's "light and breathable," but that's not the case when the cold weather sets in. Warmth , waterproofing , and stability are essential requirements for your feet.
However, simply increasing the cold weather protection is not enough. Different shoes are required for different occasions: when you wear a suit to work, when you go out for a casual walk on the weekend, when you travel or walk on snowy roads. Sometimes leather-style shoes are useful, other times the comfort of lightweight sneakers is reliable, and in severe cold, boots provide a sense of security.
I myself have had the experience of choosing shoes solely on design, only to feel that I made a mistake. I liked the look of them, but when I actually tried them on, I noticed their weight and how sweaty they were, so I ended up wearing them less and less. Now, I try to first imagine the occasions in which I will wear them. I feel that by finding a good balance between design, comfort, and functionality, I can find a pair of shoes that naturally fit into my daily life and that I can wear for a long time.
What I learned about autumn and winter shoes: Tips learned from small mistakes
When choosing shoes for fall and winter, I had a few "aha" moments. Rather than major mistakes, they were small realizations of "If I had paid attention to this, it would have been more comfortable." I've summarized the lessons I learned from these experiences as hints that I can use next time.
The unexpected effects of weight
When I chose thick-soled boots to prioritize warmth, my steps sometimes felt heavy when walking for long periods of time. While they gave me a sense of security, I realized that a balance with lightness was important when walking around town or traveling.
Indoor and outdoor temperature difference
Fleece-lined jackets are comfortable outside, but tend to trap heat indoors when the heater is on. If you choose a jacket that takes into account the temperature difference between inside and outside, you can stay comfortable all day long.
Pitfalls of materials that are weak against water
Wearing suede-like shoes on a rainy day can cause stains. Although they look nice, autumn and winter bring sudden rain and snow, so it's best to be mindful of waterproof and water-repellent properties .
Size changes depending on the thickness of the socks
Thick socks can make your usual size too tight, while thin socks can make it too loose, so it's a good idea to consider shoes that can be adjusted with insoles or a half size up.
The importance of slip resistance
Even if you choose shoes based on design, you may feel uneasy on icy roads. Checking the grooves and rubber texture of the outsole will make a big difference in your peace of mind when going out in winter.
Looking back, it's all a series of small realizations. When choosing your next pair of shoes, I feel that just being a little mindful of the occasion, material, and ease of adjustment will bring you much closer to finding shoes that suit you.
Points to keep in mind when choosing autumn and winter shoes
When I choose shoes for fall and winter, I now have a few criteria. In the past, I would choose based on intuition, such as "because I like the design" or "because they look warm," and often made mistakes, but with more experience, I have naturally decided on the things I check.
Lightweight and warm
Boots are a winter staple, but their weight can make walking long periods of time very tiring. When I tried on some bulky boots while traveling, my feet felt like lead by the time I got back to the hotel. Since then, I've prioritized lightweight, warm models.
Waterproof and easy to care for
Winter is a season when shoes often get wet not only from rain and snow, but also from water splashing from the road. After getting my favorite suede shoes wet and stained, I now always check whether they are waterproof or not. Furthermore, ease of daily care is also an important point for making them last longer.
Stability of the sole
Icy roads and wet surfaces can be surprisingly slippery. I once had a scary experience with shoes I chose based on design, and since then I've gotten into the habit of checking the depth of the grooves on the outsole and the texture of the rubber. Just being slip-resistant can make a big difference in how secure you feel.
Size and sock compatibility
When I wear thick socks, my usual size tends to feel tight, but if I choose a larger size, they tend to feel loose when I wear thin socks. I choose shoes that can be adjusted with insoles so that I can wear them comfortably throughout the seasons.
Matching with outfits
In autumn and winter, outerwear takes center stage, so shoes have a bigger impact than you might imagine. There was a time when I bought boots but they didn't go with the pants I had, so I rarely wore them. Since then, I've made it a point to choose my shoes while keeping the entire outfit in mind.
Looking back, none of these are special rules, but rather just ways to make your life more comfortable. I feel that choosing the right shoes for autumn and winter is not just about keeping warm, but about making small adjustments to make your lifestyle more comfortable.
Recommended fall/winter shoe styles
Autumn and winter are the seasons when the variety of shoes available is vast, making choosing even more fun. There are a wide variety of boots and sneakers, as well as different materials and details, so many people may have trouble deciding which to choose. Here, I'll introduce some representative styles that I've personally worn and found to be very convenient.
Waterproof sneakers
The appeal of these sneakers is the peace of mind they offer, allowing you to wear them without worrying about rain or snow. They're perfect for everyday shopping or short trips. I have a pair myself, and although they look like regular sneakers, they repel water well, making them very reliable. Many of them have simple designs, so they can be worn naturally with coats and jackets, which is a nice feature.
Side gore boots
The elastic on the sides stretches, making them easy to put on and take off. They go well with both slim pants and long skirts, so I reach for them when I'm not sure what to wear. In my case, there are days when I end up wearing these boots all the time when I go out in the winter. Because they're simple and classic, it's a great idea to have a pair on hand.
Boa-lined shoes
They keep your ankles warm, so they're essential on bitterly cold days. However, they can feel a little hot indoors with the heating on, so they're great for days spent mostly outdoors. I once wore them while playing with my kids in the park in the middle of winter, and they were so comfortable I almost forgot how cold it was. They're extremely useful if you choose the right occasion.
Hybrid shoes from outdoor brands
These high-performance shoes are cold-resistant, waterproof, and lightweight. They are perfect not only for outdoor enthusiasts, but also for everyday wear around town. I personally choose them when I travel and walk for long periods of time, and I appreciate their high cushioning and low fatigue. Recently, their designs have become more sophisticated, and they are becoming more easily integrated into everyday wear.
In autumn and winter, your feet tend to feel heavy, but choosing the right shoes for the occasion will make you feel much more comfortable. Finding your favorite pair will make going out in the cold season that much more enjoyable.
Summary: Autumn and winter shoes combine comfort and fun
Choosing shoes for fall and winter isn't just about keeping warm. Focusing on lightness and comfort will make your daily life more comfortable, while waterproofing and ease of care will help you enjoy your shoes for a long time. Furthermore, being mindful of how you coordinate your shoes will help them blend naturally into your everyday style and lift your spirits.
Having tried many different shoes myself, I've come to realise that a single pair of shoes can make a big difference in how comfortable you feel throughout the day. Autumn and winter are seasons when going outside can be a hassle, but choosing the right shoes can actually make it more enjoyable. Try to find the perfect balance between fashion and functionality to make the cold season more comfortable.