Every weekend for the last three, at least, one of the red tops has run a “breaking” news story telling us we’re in for Arctic weather conditions in the coming days. Apart from some cold fog and some icy starts to the day it is yet to materialise. And whether we choose to believe the warnings or not (which I think are based purely on the fact that it is now the season we call “winter” and that is when this stuff called “snow” generally falls), we have experienced some rather snowy winters in the last few years here in the UK, and so it pays to be at least a little bit prepared.
These are the new season snow boots from Hi-Tec – the St Anton. They have a leather upper with waterproof bootie, 200g Thinsulate insulation, and a moisture wicking lining. There is a durable rubber outsole, EVA sock liner and a very easy to use D-ring lacing system with laces that go on for miles!
What I really like about these, and yes, this is a strange first impression, is how wide they are… I mean, with my calves I often struggle with boots that come up any higher than my ankles, but these are good and wide and I can wear them over my jeans rather than having to choose my outfits carefully to make sure my trousers will fit over the top. This makes me very happy. I know; little things!
More helpfully, I can also confirm they are very warm and the decent hiking-boot-style outsole makes them perfect for wearing on muddy paths during the winter months. The fluffy furry stuff that is spread all down the front of the boots is continued inside which makes my toes feel rather comfortable and snuggly. Unfortunately that faux fur doesn’t fair quite so well when it’s wet and muddy – it gets soggy and dirty, which is a shame. Furry stuff like that should be kept on the inside where it can do its job of keeping you warm without ending up looking sad. I have worn these in some disgusting wet conditions, and have to say my feet have stayed perfectly dry so I know the waterproof bootie works, but the boots do take some drying out and brushing down when I get home.
I have to say I am looking forward to some proper winter weather so I can wear these in their natural habitat. I’ll let you know how I get on when the inevitable white stuff appears.
They offer very good value too – the St Anton is £80 from the Hi-Tec website (I have spotted them cheaper elsewhere, too, so be sure to look around).
What do you think? Comment below...