Remember those bulky, utilitarian winter boots from your childhood? The ones you'd kick off in the corner as soon as you got to school? This season's offerings prove that those days are long gone. For the 2025 winter season, form and function can finally go hand in hand.
No More Compromise: Winter Boots Get a Style Upgrade
Gone are the days when you had to choose between staying warm and looking polished. The latest winter boot styles seamlessly integrate practical features like waterproof leather, superior traction soles, and cozy shearling linings into sleek, fashionable silhouettes. Whether you're navigating city streets or heading to a wintry getaway, the right pair is designed to be a foundational piece in your wardrobe, built to last through the season and beyond without forcing you to make any sartorial sacrifices.
Five Standout Pairs to Elevate Your Winter Wardrobe
Rebecca Tay has curated a selection of five practical-yet-stylish boots that are perfect for the Canadian climate. Here are the top picks to try on now.
CALL IT SPRING SAPHIRE BOOT IN BROWN
These Saphire knee-high boots from Call It Spring are a game-changer. They are completely vegan and cruelty-free, offering definitive proof that you don't have to forfeit warmth for style. Engineered to withstand sub-zero temperatures, they maintain a refined and elegant profile. A key feature is their cushioned insole, which is made from 30 per cent recycled mattresses, adding an element of sustainability to your comfort.
Available in black with a tonal liner or a striking brown with a cream shearling lining, their versatility makes them an ideal companion for midi skirts. They are a perfect choice for the commute to the office or for a special event where you need to look put-together from the door to your destination.
Call it Spring, callitspring.com | $113.99
GRAVITY POPE NOKIAN HAI RUBBER BOOTS
If you're skeptical about stylish rubber boots, the Nokian Hai model will change your mind. Founded in 1898, the Finnish brand Nokian brings unparalleled expertise in handling harsh winters. These vibrant red rubber boots feature a shorter, more flattering upper that works beautifully with skirts or allows you to neatly tuck in your pants.
A hidden wedge sole provides a subtle lift, and most impressively, they are frost-proof to a bone-chilling -40 degrees Celsius, making them exceptionally well-suited for Nordic and Canadian winters. Style them with barrel-leg jeans or a dress and tights for a surprisingly chic, weather-ready look.
Gravity Pope, gravitypope.com | $160
KETCH VIONIC OLYMPIA LACE-UP BOOTS
For those who love an utilitarian aesthetic, the Vionic Olympia lace-up boots are a perfect fit. While they have a hiking-inspired DNA, their streamlined silhouette and slight wedge sole firmly place them in the fashion arena. They add a cool, rugged edge to any outfit.
The styling trick with these boots is to play with contrast. Balance their outdoorsy vibe with more feminine or tailored pieces, such as a flowing skirt, a floral dress, or a sharp, tailored coat. This creates a city-savvy look that is both seriously stylish and ready for anything the urban winter can throw at it.