Love the boots, but insulation in toe is very thin
PostedNovember 23, 2013
I got these boots two years ago. They were on back order so it took several months to get them. I didn't mind waiting, however, because I appreciate that they are made in the US. I absolutely love these boots. I have small narrow feet so I like that these boots are so narrow. They are comfortable and waterproof without being clunky or heavy. I love the classic style and I actually look forward to winter when I can finally pull them out of the closet. I do have one issue with the boots, though. The shearling lining is so warm and comfy and it keeps my ankles very warm. Unfortunately, the ankles are the warmest part of the boot. The description says that they are "fully lined with genuine skeepskin shearling," but I don't believe this includes the toe part of the boot. I just spent about 2 hours outside in 20 degree weather with less than an inch of snow on the ground. Despite wearing thick wool socks, my toes were SO cold. I have noticed my toes getting cold other times, but I usually just wear the boots for commuting and in this case I do not have an issue with the cold. The thin insulation in the toe is not a deal-breaker for me, however, if you are looking for a boot to wear while working outside in freezing temperatures I think you could find something warmer. I would not want to wear these for an extended time in below 0 degrees. Despite getting cold toes in the boots though I would still recommend them if you are just looking for snow boots to run errands or simply get you to the office before you change into other shoes. One good thing about the thin toe is that my feet don't get too hot once I am inside at an appointment or store. They are also great for wearing in snow when the temperature is not too cold. I also love to pull them on in the spring when it's raining. They feel so cozy and my feet don't get too hot.
I am an organic farmer and needed a boot that was going to be super warm for the winter months and also keep my feet dry without being too bulky. I read so many reviews on these boots before buying them and ended up being a little nervous that they wouldn't be warm enough as a couple of the reviews said they weren't even insulated in the toe, etc. However, after getting them and trying them out for a few weeks at the farm and also around town, I am 100% behind these boots. they are so cozy and keep me dry even when I'm washing veggies for hrs on end. I wonder if the people who said they weren't warm or insulated accidentally ended up with the uninsulated version as I noticed that is an option? I only say this bc I have unusually cold feet and it takes a lot to keep my toes warm, but these boots do the job. Thank you, LL Bean for my new favorite (and probably last) pair of winter boots.
This boot is well made and quite attractive on. However it didn't fit. I was told they ran large. Normally I wear a 9 1/2 shoe size. I purchased a 1/2 size down - a size 9 (as recommended). They were too small. I normally have to purchase a size 10 in a boot. That ran true for this boot also.
Wanted durable, warm, every day and any day boots for central NY that could keep my feet warm and dry in yucky weather. Bingo. Yes, they're a bit pricey, but they look and feel as if they'll last for years. They are WORTH the price. Was fortunate enough to see several in person that were a few weeks to a couple years old. All looked great and the owners still loved them. The shearling is awesome and warm; wouldn't go without. Exterior cleans off easily. Great tread except on ice, but that's a given. I usually wear a medium (though I have a narrow arch) and an exact size 8. Ordered the 8Med. VERY roomy toe box with normal socks and wide through the arch yet NOT uncomfortably so. The fit will be perfect with thicker socks. Still cannot figure out how to fold them down (what do you do with the shearling-lined tongue?), but have NO RUBS from them even after wearing them several full-length days in a row. Thanks L.L. Bean for making my perfect every day, any weather boot! I love them!!
