Bean Boots Are Not Snow Boots

Bean Boots

Revisiting this brief conversation I had with you all last week on Instagram! Someone asked what snow boots I like, and without hesitation, I said my Bean Boots. I put that response on my stories and got flooded with messages from people saying that their bean boots don't keep their feet warm in the snow. Some even asked for specific sock recommendations to help warm their bean boots further. 

It's not you, it's the Bean boots. 

I then shared this with you all: the traditional, 'regular' Bean boots are NOT snow boots. 

Did this spark a lightbulb moment for you? I didn't realize how many people did not know this! 

So, what better time to share than now, as snow is on the ground! 

Bean boots are generally for wet and/or muddy conditions. Think fall and spring! They have no insulation. The foot portion of the boot has a rubber exterior, and the reason your feet get so cold in the winter is that the rubber acts almost as refrigeration once the rubber absorbs the cold from the snow. A thick wool sock can help, but they're still not boots you want to rely on for snowy weather.

So then, what bean boots am I talking about that I wear in the snow? These particular bean boots are 8". The higher shaft gives you more ankle protection. The interior of the boots is lined with Goretex/Thinsulate insulation, which is the key. This insulation will keep your feet warm and dry. 

These are WARM, so if you live in a warmer climate, like the south or out west, like in Arizona, where you don't see much snow, these are likely too warm for you. If I wear these too early in the season, my feet get too warm. 

However, these are PERFECT for frigid, snowy winters. Right now, if I go outside to take Henry on a walk, this is what is on my feet. If you want even more warmth, they make shearling insoles to add to your boots. I have them but rarely add them as I find the Goretex/Thinsulate plenty warm. 

I've had these boots for over 10 years and are still in perfect shape. The quality is unmatched, and the design is timeless. This is a vintage photo from 12 years ago! They run big, and they only run in whole sizes. Size down one size from your usual size. 

You can also get them resoled for a fee. My dad has done this with him a few times, as he has had his since the 80s. I still do not need to do this. The soles on my boots are in pretty good shape. 

Another option is these tumbled leather boots lined with shearling. I like this look better than the smooth leather. However, I did not go with these because they are less waterproof in the tumbled leather, though you can waterproof them yourself. Also, the shearling is so soft and cozy, but it's easy for shearling to get matted down over the years and hard to fix. Think about any shearling footwear you own (Ugg comes to mind). It deteriorates quicker, so the boots would not hold up as long as the ones I have!

They make these boots for men, women, and children, so there is a good fit for everyone in most climates. I grew up wearing bean boots. My whole family wears them. They are part of growing up in snow, skiing, etc. Anyway, get yourself a pair of these boots; you will not regret it!