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“From a technical standpoint, the only thing that’s truly waterproof is a rubber boot,” says Nicholas Niro, president and CEO of Montreal-based footwear brand La Canadienne. “The challenge with rubber boots though is that rubber doesn’t breathe … [and] it’s so important to wear breathable footwear to keep your feet dry in the winter.”
What you could opt for instead – if you’re looking for an office-friendly shoe or boot that can also withstand wet, wintry conditions – are footwear styles made with leather or suede that have been treated to be waterproof or water-resistant; they can repel water but will still be breathable. Seam-sealed construction uses tape or a sealant to prevent water from entering through stitches and seams, and rubber soles will offer better water resistance and grip than leather soles, advises Niro.
Just be aware that, like any other finish, the treatments that can make a shoe or boot waterproof or water-resistant aren’t designed to last forever. To take care of your footwear, Niro recommends cleaning the surface with a fine brush and water to remove dust and debris before letting it air dry.
“Never put your footwear in front of a radiator, because basically what you’re doing is you’re baking in any of the dirt or calcium [chloride] into the material,” he says.
Use a waterproofing spray to extend the life and impermeability of the shoe or boot. Just be sure to follow the instructions and avoid contact with any ornaments or hardware, because the spray may tarnish them.
Finally, consider keeping some shoe- or boot-cleaning wipes in your work bag or at the office to remove any stains from walking through salt-covered or slushy sidewalks. “That way, your shoes are polished for your day,” says Niro.
Six buys to try
Water-resistant and water-repellent shoes and boots that are stylish and sleek enough for the office, too.
In the women’s section
(Left) Designed in Edmonton and produced in a small factory in León, Mexico, these heeled ankle boots are made with a water-resistant leather. The easy-to-slip-on style features comfy memory-foam insoles and is available in both medium and wide widths. Poppy Barley The Two Point Five ankle boot.
(Centre) These Italian-made penny loafers have a thick rubber sole that will elevate your feet from light snow and slush. They’re part of a collection that is made exclusively with waterproof leather and suede. La Canadienne Tray leather loafer.
(Right) Available in brown and black, these sleek boots are designed to withstand wet and cold conditions. They are insulated and would look great with slim-cut and cropped trousers, as well as tights and leggings. Naturalizer Premium Bay waterproof block-heel boots.
In the men’s section
(Left) These stylish derby shoes from Pajar, a family-owned company in Montreal, are water-repellent and feature seam-sealed construction. The slip-resistant outsole includes a one-inch platform, which will help you stand above any sidewalk salt or slush. Pajar Van heritage moc toe derby.
(Centre) You could wear these ankle boots year-round, with wool trousers now and slim khakis come summer. They’re made with Ecco’s oiled nubuck leather, which has a waxy finish and is designed to be soft but also waterproof. Ecco Turn II nubuck waterproof ankle boot.
(Right) Crafted in Italy, these suede penny loafers from Montreal-based retailer Browns are a timeless addition to any workwear wardrobe. Made with a waterproof suede material, they feature a comfortable rubber sole and padded insole. Luca Del Forte Rico loafers.