We know that cars can't handle snowfall in Vancouver, but do pedestrians fare any better?
We're a city well-equipped for rain but sneakers don't exactly keep your feet warm and their treads aren't prepared for the slippy conditions caused by ice and snow. These winter boots from Vancouver brands and retailers range in weight, warmth, and price but they all have one thing in common: they're made to withstand winter weather conditions.
Here are the best places to shop for snow boots in Vancouver.
MEC
MEC might be the most obvious spot that comes to mind for winter boots. The giant retailer has lots of mid-range options for women, men, and kids of all activity levels. The diverse array also means the price points are more accessible such as $57 youth boots to $250 lined tall ones for women.
Australian Boot Company
Long before Blundstones became a must-have in everyone's closet, the Australian Boot Company was selling them out of their store on West 4th. The Canadian retailer, named for a trip to Australia that started the family-run business' interest in shoes, was the first store to introduce Blundstone and R.M. Williams to Canada with their stores in Vancouver and Toronto. They've got the widest selection of Blundstones outside of Australia including some limited editions that you might not find anywhere else. They also offer FREE boot shines and conditioning for Blundstones, regardless of where you bought them.
Native Shoes
The Vancouver company, Native Shoes, is known for making little rubber shoes for kids. For adults, Native Shoes used to be suitable "next to the door" shoes, you know the ones but over the years it has evolved its offering to include sturdy boots for hiking and snow for kids and adults alike. They even opened a store on Water Street in Gastown.
Vessi
Vessi has just completed a successful $1 million Kickstarter campaign to manufacture an adventure-ready sneaker with the grip and coverage of an outdoor boot. The Cloudburst boot has the same waterproof technology that made Vessi a local celebrity brand and breathable knit fabric that hugs the ankle making it suitable for the few inches of snow that Vancouver has to contend with.
Arcteryx
Just like MEC, Arcteryx has a wide range of kit for all winter weather activities and that includes boots. The price averages around $250-$300 but they are certainly durable and come in lots of different colours and ankle heights. Many of the boots are also suitable for hiking and trekking all year round.
