Winter Boots Mix Style With Practicality

The unmistakable sound of heels clomping on the sidewalk haunts the streets of Syracuse during the fall, but throughout the winter, four inches become a quarter inch rubber sole on the heels of winter boots.

Although Syracuse has gone 268 days without snow, winter boots are lining the shelves of shoe stores. In J. Michael Shoes on Marshall Street, Uggs are still a top seller.

Ugg boots are prone to salt stains and even with a moisture-guarding spray, can still be ruined by inclement weather. The new "Adirondack" model has shearling inside, but has waterproof leather on the outside.

"In the past, a lot of people have worn Uggs in the snow, but now they're realizing they can get the warmth and the style during the yucky weather," said Jim Hicks, the general manager.

Hunter boots are walking off the shelves, too. The popular rainboot brand has fleece socks that are sold separately, which keep feet warm and dry.

"For Syracuse, you want the practicality. You don't want no ice feet," said Kimberly Martinez, a freshman at SU, who's considering buying a pair of Hunter boots.

Hunter boots, however, run at about $115 and for heavier snow boots, they can cost about $240.

Hicks calls winter boots an "investment." Bruce Tidwell, an adjunct professor in the S.I. Newhouse School of Public Communication's fashion communications program agreed.

"You can buy the same boots at Target for less and wear them for a few years, since the season is so limited," he explained.

Men's Uggs, nicknamed "muggs," aren't a top seller at J. Michael. Timberland boots and hiking boots tend to be a steady trend from year to year.