Tired of your feet getting wet? Here are some stylish solutions …
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It feels like a good week to talk about footwear, since we’re facing the bleak reality of packing away our Birkenstocks for another year. We need to face the fact that our flimsy trainers are not robust enough for this type of weather, either – there’s nothing worse than having cold wet feet for the rest of the day. So, what to choose for practicality when it comes to Irish weather?
I’ve long had a soft spot for Blundstone’s chunky workmenlike boots. I’ve admired them for years at London’s brilliant Labour & Wait store, which specialises in timeless objects from hardware to clothing. Blundstone’s hard-wearing boots are the perfect fit as they are seriously robust, with a pleasingly solid appearance. You could wear them for everything from gardening to walking on the beach, rain or shine. They are supportive enough for long walks, but remain chunkily stylish worn with jeans. This is a workhorse of a shoe – one that your dad would approve of as being sensible (worn with a “proper coat”, for once) – while still having a cool vibe.
I didn’t realise Blundstones have been around since 1870, and are still made by the same Australian company, with its HQ in Tasmania. There are now all kinds of different finishes, from suede to vegan microfibre. Choosing just one colour for the elasticated bit is a challenge as there’s everything from red and olive green to bright fuchsia pink; I love the bright lipstick-red option with a shiny black boot, with its Beano vibes. They even do heeled versions now, adding a touch more elegance to the occasion. There are kids’ versions too, although that’s a big spend on something they’ll grow out of annoyingly quickly. www.blundstone.ie
Head to the friendly, family-owned shoe store DOPL to see the best selection (alongside the biggest display of Birkenstocks, too).
DOPL is at 36 Wicklow Street, Dublin 2; www.blundstone.ie (free delivery over €50).
Our eyes have been completely caught by these Calvin Klein platform rainboots. This really is the ticker for function and style. Wear them with tights on the way to the office, or under long trousers that show off the epic platform. At €169.90 now; www.calvinklein.ie
Timberland cannot be faulted with their ever-protective, water-resistant, extra-durable shoes. These Timberland 6-inch lace up waterproof boots are perfect for racing around in the rainy – be it before work or on the weekend. You will be well protected, plus Timberland-style boots are very back-in. These are €220; www.timberland.ie
Now, these are certainly a step-up (pun intended) when it comes to an everyday shoe. If you are inclined to go for a heavy-duty walk, or are looking for an excerise shoe that won’t get sodden when hiking – we have firmly hopped on the Saloman train with these X Ultra 360 Mid Gore-Tex black boots (also in green.) At €165, they will cradle your foot and protect it from the elements; www.greatoutdoors.ie
As for the rest of your person, we should talk coats next …
