I Think These Are the 7 Best Shoes to Wear When It's Cold

Winter presents many sartorial dilemmas. Will your chunky knit fit under your tailored coat? Is one pair of tights enough to withstand the chill? How many layers can you wear without looking like Joey Tribbiani wearing all of Chandler Bing's clothes? The biggest quandary of them all, however, is which shoes to wear over the course of the next few months.

We don't want to sound dramatic, because there are, of course, worse things than having cold feet, but nevertheless, it's not exactly enjoyable. So whether you're heading out for a wintry walk or are planning your footwear for party season, warmth is a key factor to consider.

Naturally, practicality should also be considered, but that doesn't mean you have to scrimp on style. From the pair of boots that serves up form and function in equal measure to the flats you can wear with tights as well as bare feet without the risk of frostbite, keep scrolling to discover the best shoes for winter. You can also shop the pairs we love.

1. TRACK-SOLE BOOTS

Style Notes: Thanks to Prada and Ganni, chunky-sole boots are proving all the rage this winter, which we're incredibly happy about. Not only will they help us navigate the slippery pavements with ease, but they'll also breathe new life into our party dress after the big night. 

2. STACKED LOAFERS

Style Notes: Similar to track-sole boots, stacked loafers are the ideal solution to wear in the winter months. The thicker sole will help lessen the chill that comes through from the ground, while the high cut of the tongue will afford you more coverage. 

3. HIGH-CUT BALLET PUMPS

Style Notes: Much like the aforementioned loafers, ballet pumps that come up high on the foot will afford you more shielding from the elements than many other flat-shoe styles. Stick to wipe-clean leather (real or vegan—whatever your preference may be) and wear with either skirts and tights or jeans and jazzy socks. 

4. KNEE-HIGH BOOTS

Style Notes: Knee-high boots have made a major comeback this autumn, and for that, we'll be forever thankful. Incredibly warm (especially with jeans tucked in), they'll look equally chic styled for the office or a night out. 

5. SHEARLING-LINED

Style Notes: Give your toes a toasty treat with a pair of shearling-lined shoes. Whether you opt for backless mules or ankle-grazing boots, this additional detail will make your feet so much warmer—not to mention comfier. 

6. MARY JANE HEELS

Style Notes: If you’re excited to wear a fancy pair of party shoes this season, Mary Janes will prove to be the ultimate investment. Closed-toed pairs are the only ones we'll consider for extra warmth, while handy cross straps will offer you more support than spindly heels, which are a no-go in the ice. Plus, they look great with socks, too. 

7. OVER-THE-KNEE BOOTS

Style Notes: I perhaps don’t need to explain why this shoe type makes our list, but over-the-knee boots are one of the toastiest shoes of them all, as they come up so high on the leg.

Next Up, Autumn/Winter 2021 Trends: The Only Fashion Looks You Need to Know

This post was originally published at an earlier time and has since been updated.