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Five tips on finding the right pair of boots
A new year could mean a new style for some, including giving boots a try. Despite their tough exterior, boots are relatively easy to wear, as they can suit both casual and formal styles.
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When choosing a pair of boots, make sure to choose a material that not only suits your lifestyle, but also your willingness to look after the material. (Courtesy of Timberland/File)
As we enter a new year, some may choose to refresh their style, including giving boots a try.
Boots are relatively versatile, as they can suit both casual and formal styles. In addition to comfort, they can also provide good support for the feet.
Timberland, a company behind classic boot designs for the past 45 years, shares in a statement several tips on how to choose the right pair that looks good and feels right.
1. Find the correct size
Feet may change in size due to weight fluctuations, so it is important to measure the length, width and arch of the foot so that you really know the correct size of your feet. Make sure to measure both feet, since the left and right feet may not always be the same size.
In addition, you should try and buy shoes in the afternoon or evening, as feet swell slightly after being active all day.
Finally, use socks when trying a pair of boots to ensure that the shoes remain comfortable even with a layer of socks.
2. Feel for comfortable insoles
The insole is the inner part of the shoe that touches the sole of the foot. A good insole supports each part of the foot but remains flexible and adapts to the foot's movement.
When trying a pair of boots, walk around the store so you feel how comfortable your feet are in motion. In addition to walking, stand on the tips of your toes to see if your toes have enough space to stretch out without being pushed to the tip and top of the shoe.
Then, raise your heels as if going up the stairs to test whether your heels are shifting in the shoes. A good boot will grip the heel just right so you can walk comfortably.
Read also: What to know before buying those expensive running shoes
3. Check for flexibility
You should also test the flexibility of the outside and top of the boot, as both parts also affect comfort.
The test can be done in several ways, namely bending the toebox, or the front of the shoe where the toes are, in an upward motion. The boot must be flexible enough to bend slightly, but not so much as to bend in half.
Also check if there is support for the arch section and always choose a boot that has wide and thick heels, as it would help maintain balance.
4. Search for a waterproof outer
Boots can be used for both indoor and outdoor activities. For someone who is actively doing outdoor activities, especially, make sure to choose a pair that has a waterproof exterior.
This waterproof material will allow you to use the boots in any weather condition, whether it is sunny or rainy. The seams of the shoe must also be tight enough to protect the feet from getting wet and moist.
5. Choose the right material to suit your lifestyle
Boots can be made from either leather, from full-grain to nubuck, or synthethic material like high-tech fabrics such as Cordura, which are resistant to abrasions. Make sure to choose the material that not only suits your lifestyle, but also your willingness to look after the material.
Leather boots soften and mold to your feet as you use them, but you must put in extra care to keep the leather from cracking. Meanwhile, synthetic material is easier to maintain but usually lacks the classic elegance leather boots offer. (kes)
