I was using a cheap-ish pair of "apres" boots made from nylon, and found that they still became damp and cold after a night walking around in the frosty dew. They were also ill-fitting and were sock-munchers - they pulled my socks down all the time, adding to the discomfort. My last pair also didn't last long.
I've been trying to source my old favourite brand of Canadian snow boot, "Sorel" here in Australia, but found that they are very expensive and the company is now defunct anyway. Sorel boots were used by all sorts of people who live and work in cold climates - and here in Australia they were used extensively by lift operators in the snow fields. Fleece-rimmed, with thick felt inner boots and sole liners, they have fully vulcanised rubber soles and sides reaching over the toes, with waterproof NuBuck leather uppers.
After a good deal of searching around, I came across a similar American brand "Western Chief", made by the Washington Shoe Company out of Seattle, WA. They are now being brought into the country here by a local distributor and retail out of Victoria (so far). These boots are in use by lift operators at Hotham and Buller. I called the new distributor (http://www.westernchief.com.au/) and spoke with a lovely lady called Elizabeth. Call her yourself (03-9572 3966) and ask her for prices and where to get them from, and really make sure that you mention me (from Ice In Space) - they are very reasonable. The "Nasqually" snow boot is only available in mens and womens sizes, but they have other types to suit children.
I'd just like to ask that prices are not discussed here on the forum, as I would be going against Elizabeth's wishes in having them displayed. We, as a "special" group of friends of the company, are being afforded some low-volume, very competitive pricing that we've been asked to keep private. If you'd like to know the price yourself, just PM myself or Dennis or better yet, call Elizabeth directly.
I'm by no means affiliated with this company, but would just like to pass the info on if you're interested. I know that Geoff (GTBanOwl) sells nylon apres-style boots which are more than adequate (and certainly better than the cheapies I had), but these are just the next level up and are designed to be used as proper work boots as well.
Their website in incomplete, but if these interest you, speak to Elizabeth - she's very helpful and pleasant.
A couple of photos of mine. Function way before form - and VERY comfy. Mine are US size 10 (Au size 9). She'll advise you on sizes to suit you. Mine are one size too big so that I could pull on an additional pair of thick socks.
Thanks Chris, for the heads up and a very informative write up sharing your research and results – they look just the job for those cold nights.
Was one shoe size up enough to allow for thicker socks, as I definitely like to leave some space in my boots? I find the air warms up and keeps my feet warm whereas boots that are even slightly too tight seem to be less effective, perhaps even restricting circulation?
Cheers
Yes, I went for one size up so that I could don two pairs of socks simultaneously - and still leave a little room for warm air. As you say, tight boots are cold boots!
Thanks Chris! Looks like I can look forward to warm tootsies at the Qld Astrofest and they looked rugged and outdoors’ish, for us craggy, hardy mountain men! LOL!
Not in the market just now, but they look good. If anyone is calling, you might tell her we may have a market for her. I would be grateful if you ask her if Melbournites can pickup and avoid freight charges? Thanks. Eric
Just beware - they're as comfy as slippers - so you'll probably wear them around the house as well like I do.
look out here are the cardigan men...........
they look pretty good, so if i read this correctly, the shoe size of 10 ends up being an 11, the "inner boot" is your normal shoe size or the size of the matching boot, and you still wear socks with the inner boot?
They look the part, I still have my 'Sorrel's from when I worked up in the snow, great boot. I use a spare pair of liners, with heavy socks, in the observatory, nice and light and warm on the feet.
Thanks ChrisI have a pair of the other boots you mentioned, the sole came away from the upper which I glued back on again, another problem besides them not liking moisture is where the rubber surround joins the upper they split because of the constant bending
I will be in touch with Elizabeth ASAP
they look pretty good, so if i read this correctly, the shoe size of 10 ends up being an 11, the "inner boot" is your normal shoe size or the size of the matching boot, and you still wear socks with the inner boot?
Hi David
I gather that the inner boot is what the size is actually describing. You can buy felt inner boots on their own too. Rule of thumb is to tell Elizabeth what your Aussie shoe size is (she can verify it by having you measure your foot length while standing on a ruler) and whatever US shoe size that ends up being, just order the next size up. This way you can fit really thick socks and have a little room.
Nisqually Sno-Paks are built to keep your feet comfortable down to -40F and durable to last season after season.
• Deluxe Sno-Pak
• Full Grain Nubuck Leather Upper
• Removable Wool Felt Liner
• Wool Fleece Cuff
• Waterproof Soles w/ Steel Shank
• Natural Rubber Bottoms
• Air-Grip Sole for sure footed traction
• Thermolite Insulation
• Comfort rated to –40 °F
Thanks ChrisI have a pair of the other boots you mentioned, the sole came away from the upper which I glued back on again, another problem besides them not liking moisture is where the rubber surround joins the upper they split because of the constant bending
I will be in touch with Elizabeth ASAP
These look pretty solid, without being inflexible Ron. They're not quite as stiff as some of the Sorrel models, which I think makes them a little better suited for my use.
That's them Dennis - and don't the Americans get shoes cheaply! LOL! I guess that the market is huge, and they don't have to be shipped around the world first.
Not in the market just now, but they look good. If anyone is calling, you might tell her we may have a market for her. I would be grateful if you ask her if Melbournites can pickup and avoid freight charges? Thanks. Eric
Hi Eric - yep, pickup from the store! Give her a call and she'll give you a location.
As a precaution against obtaining an incorrect size, I sent the attached photo to Elizabeth to indicate my foot size. You might want to do something similar, but using your foot.
As a precaution against obtaining an incorrect size, I sent the attached photo to Elizabeth to indicate my foot size. You might want to do something similar, but using your foot.
Cheers
Dennis
Same size foot as me Dennis - sure it's not mine???
Looks like you're going to end with a pair of 10's!
