[Updated 10 Dec 2019]
So the year-end holidays are coming up, and you're already eyeing all the different winter wonderland destinations to tick off your travel bucket list before the year comes to a close. But wait a second - if, like us, you live in a tropical country, adjusting to the cold weather can come as a huge shock!
Credit: Giphy
Most people pay lots of attention to buying the right winter coats, the right earmuffs, the right beanies, and so on... but WAIT! Getting the right winter shoes is equally (if not even more!) important to make sure you stay warm when you're travelling to colder climates. It's doubly important in snowy weather when the roads can get slick and slippery if you don't wear the right footwear! If you're clueless about winter shoes that'll help to keep you warm, though, don't worry - here are our 8 picks for winter travel shoes that'll help you brave the cold in winter while you're travelling for your year-end holidays!
1. Timberland Boots
This one's probably the first thing that comes to mind when you think of all-purpose shoes. Come snow, rain, or sunshine, Timberland boots are guaranteed to keep your feet warm and dry all day long ?
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They are a tad pricey, but for the quality that you get with each pair of Timberland boots, we're not complaining! These babies are likely to last you years and years, through all the winter trips you've ever dreamt of taking.
Think of it as a worthy investment specifically to keep your feet snug and warm. Trust us-you won't regret it! We recommend getting waterproof for maximum durability against the elements.
Credit: Timberland Middle East on Facebook
Although the signature Timberland boots come in the colour Camel, Timberland also carries boots in different colours in addition to styles (highcut, ankle boots, etc.), so you can browse around and get the one you like the most.
#HHWT Tip: Do be sure to break-in your boots before wearing them on a trip (i.e. wear them around for short periods of time frequently so they soften and meld to your feet shape) - you don't want to bring them out only to get blisters!
Where to buy: Shop online at timberland.sg or timberland.my or search for a store near you on their website. Also available on Zalora.
Price: Around SGD200 / RM600 onwards
2. Dr. Martens
A long-time mainstay of rebels, musicians, hipster and young fashionistas everywhere, Dr. Martens are a must-have for those of you who'd like to retain an edgy feel to your outfits without sacrificing warmth.
Credit: Dr. Martens on Facebook
For winter, specifically, look out for their fur-lined varieties which will insulate your feet and keep them safely warm and toasty all throughout.
Credit: Dr. Martens on Facebook
Maroon is probably the most popular shade of Dr. Martens out there, but if you'd like to stand out from the crowd, they've got stunning prints ranging from marble to floral too!
#HHWT Tip: Do avoid Dr Marten shoes made with a material called Soft Buck, including certain versions of the 1460 boots, as this contains pig-skin lining. The shoe model will specify the Soft Buck material if it is used.
Where to buy: Buy online or locate a store near you on their website.
Price: From around SGD 200 /RM600 onwards
3. UGG Shoes
When it comes to cosy shoes that can keep your feet warm, UGG shoes are famous.
Credit: Milano Shoes on Facebook
The brand originates from Australia (though today it's based and operated in the US!) and is famous for its sheepskin boots. The fur-lined boots keep your feet cosily warm and toasty in the winter months.
Credit: UGG on Facebook
While the most famous style of UGG shoes is its Classic boot (which are water-resistant), UGG now also makes a variety of styles which are also more durable if you'll be travelling in wetter environments (such as waterproof rain and winter boots, hiking boots, and so on). You'll want to check out the Ugg McKay boots: these are one of their best-selling series, because of their versatility (as they are easy to slip on) and style factor combined.
So far there is only one UGG store located around our shores, in Singapore's Paragon Mall, but hopefully, more will open in the future! Alternatively, if you travel to Australia, you'll find plenty of UGG stores there where you can pick up a pair.
Where to buy: UGG store located in Singapore's Paragon Mall (#02-51)
Price: From around SGD150
4. Decathlon shoes
Looking for some hiking or waterproof boots that won't break the bank? Decathlon to the rescue! This sporting goods brand sells everything from sportswear to exercise gear, including a wide selection of walking and hiking shoes.
You'll find a good selection of waterproof shoes and boots that are a great option, as they aren't too pricey but can still get the job done! And while you're there, you can even pick up jackets, gloves, beanies and other gear you'll need for your winter getaway.
Where to buy: Buy online at decathlon.sg, or decathlon.my or look-up up a physical store on their website.
Price: From around SGD 200 /RM120 onwards
5. Columbia boots
Credit: Columbia Sportswear Malaysia on Facebook
If you're looking for heavy-duty footwear to trudge about in snowy or icy conditions, check out Columbia! This American brand specialises in rugged and durable outdoor clothing, equipment and footwear and is meant to endure harsher elements.
Credit: Columbia Sportswear Malaysia on Facebook
They have a variety of waterproof boots, all which come with great traction support and some even come with a proprietary Omni-Heat technology that's made to withstand very cold temperatures and keep your feet warm.
Where to buy: Physical stores available in Malaysia and Singapore
Price: From around SGD 130 /RM400 onwards
6. Twenty-Eight Shoes
Perhaps your winter getaway won't be in somewhere snowy or icy. And maybe you're looking for shoes that are suitable to wear during colder days but still look fashionable and stylish? Well, Twenty-Eight Shoes may just be the answer!
Credit: Twenty eight shoes on Facebook
This Hong Kong brand makes shoes for all kinds of weathers, and you'll find plenty of beauties on their site that will keep you looking chic during your winter getaway. From Chelsea boots (ankle boots that are pulled on), knee-high boots or boots with added flairs like studsor buckles, Twenty-Eight Shoes will have 'em.
Credit: Twenty eight shoes on Facebook
Another plus point: they also make rainboots! So if you're going somewhere that's expecting a lot of rain, you'll be able to keep your feet dry even as your trudge through puddles!
Where to buy: Available on Zalora Malaysia and Zalora Singapore
Price: From around SGD 130 /RM400 onwards
7. Chelsea boots
We're giving a special mention to a particular style of shoe: the Chelsea boot!
These babies are especially timeless and comfortable. What's more, they're super easy to wear because of the stretchy elastic panel that's part of its design: no need to worry about the hassle of taking off your boots when you need to take wudu!
Many brands that sell boots or winter-appropriate footwear tend to carry a variation of this universally popular style of shoe (including Timberland and Dr Martens), so do keep an eye out if you're looking to get your footwear from a preferred brand!
Where to buy: Available on Zalora Malaysia and Zalora Singapore. Also look out for this particular style with your favourite shoe brands!
So there you have it, now you're all set to keep your feet warm during your end-of-year vacations! Whether you prefer style over comfort or comfort or style, you'll definitely find something to suit your tastes ?