When snow blankets the Pacific Northwest, your choice of footwear can make all the difference between a cozy day and soggy socks. The shoes you should put away during the snowy season are often identified by their materials and construction, which can fail to withstand wet and slippery conditions. This guide will help you decide what footwear to keep in storage until spring, and what to wear today to keep snug, dry, and safe.
Lightweight Sneakers Aren’t Made for Snow
Lightweight, breathable sneakers might be your go-to for mild fall weather, but snow demands something sturdier. Most sneakers prioritize ventilation over warmth, leaving your toes cold the moment they come in contact with frigid air. Additionally, their thin soles offer little traction on icy sidewalks. If you’re tempted to keep wearing them for convenience, remember how easily they soak through when they encounter snow or slush!
Canvas Shoes Won’t Cut It
Canvas shoes, like your favorite slip-ons or casual sneakers, are notorious for soaking up moisture. Their fabric construction not only fails to insulate your feet but also makes them feel wet and uncomfortable in no time. Even if you add waterproofing spray, icy weather will overpower their flimsy structure. These are classic examples of shoes you should put away during the snowy season to avoid soggy misery.
Dress Shoes That Don’t Fare Well in Ice
Dress shoes often lack sturdy soles, and their sleek outsoles can easily slide on icy surfaces. Materials like smooth leather or suede may look sharp, but they struggle against snow and slush. Instead, opt for winter-specific dress boots that offer either a tough outsole or additional warmth. Reserve your standard dress shoes for indoor occasions and stash them safely until springtime events call for a switch.
Why Boots Are Your Best Friend
Choosing the right footwear for different weather conditions often comes down to the materials. That’s why you often need to switch to boots during the snowy season. While the soles generally also provide more traction, the material of most boots aims to repel moisture and keep your feet warm. This makes them essential for navigating slush-covered streets or frosty driveways.
Keep Some Shoes in Storage
Certain footwear types may have sentimental value, but practicality wins out during snow season. Whether it’s your beloved summer flats, canvas sneakers, or dress shoes, give them a break from unpleasant weather. Store them where they’ll stay safe from moisture, and imagine how much you’ll appreciate their preserved condition when spring finally arrives.
Snowproof Your Season With Smart Choices
Snowy days bring enough challenges without complicating them with ill-suited footwear. By identifying shoes you should put away during the snowy season, you’ll protect your feet (and your mood!) while staying both warm and dry. Swap them out for durable winter boots designed with traction, insulation, and water resistance in mind. With the right choices, even the harshest winter weather won’t dampen your plans (or destroy your favorite footwear)!
Sam Hopes is a 37-year-old mom of two living in Portland, Oregon. She works as a freelance graphic designer and part-time yoga instructor, juggling creative projects with playdates and PTA emails. Known for her warm personality and dry humor, Sam loves hiking in Forest Park, thrifting on Mississippi Avenue, and weekend visits to OMSI with her kids, Ella and Milo. She’s the kind of parent who forgets sunscreen but always remembers snacks—and a good laugh.