Buying Winter Boots for Kids

It’s hard to believe that it’s that time of year already, but if you live in one of the northern states, your mornings and evenings are probably getting pretty chilly… and if they’re not, they will be soon! Over the next few months, your now-sunny days will get blustery, and it will be time to start thinking about dressing for the winter. With the kids growing by leaps and bounds every year, chances are good that you’re buying winter boots every fall in anticipation for the cold, snowy weather ahead. How can you tell if you’re buying boots that will keep your child’s feet warm, dry and comfortable all season long? And when can you get the best deals? Here are some tips on buying winter boots:

• Shop early or late in the season. Since it’s still fall, you might be able to get some good deals before the demand hits full-force. Check out your local department stores and see if there are any good deals. If you can’t find boots on sale right now, try again the week after Thanksgiving, if the snow holds out in your area. The other time to buy boots at low prices is at the end of the winter, in February or early March; while you’ll need to buy this year’s boots soon, you can shop ahead for next year’s boots in a size larger than your child is currently wearing (though a growth spurt might disrupt your best-laid plans, so only buy then if you see a phenomenal deal).
• Think about ease. Particularly if your child is young, you’ll want to go with slip-on or zip-up boots that are easy for her to put on by herself. Even if you don’t mind assisting her every time she wants to put them on or take them off, her teacher doesn’t have time to help 20 children with their boots every day at recess or the end of the day. Also consider the weight of the boots: small children shouldn’t wear boots that make every step feel like a workout. Make it easy on everyone and buy boots that are child-friendly!
• Consider function. If you live in a wet, snowy area, waterproof boots are a must. While sprays can help make non-waterproof boots a bit more water resistant, it’s really better to buy boots that repel water on their own. Kids don’t have the self-control to avoid jumping in snowbanks or puddles, so even if you manage to keep your feet dry in non-waterproof boots, chances are that your child won’t. Check the temperature rating on the boots that you’re considering. If you live in the Pacific Northwest, for example, you don’t need the same rating as you would if you lived in upstate Maine. Also, be sure that the boots offer good traction; check the soles for a non-slip texture to avoid injury.
• Shoot for the middle when it comes to price. The cheapest boots that you see on the rack might be uncomfortable and may not hold up to extended wear; this is no good if you live in an area with cold winters! On the other hand, there’s no reason to spend an arm and a leg on winter boots that will only last one season. The exception is if your child has a younger sibling or cousin of the same sex who will grow into the boots within a couple of years; some brands hold up better than others, so do your research! We love to find a good deal and Zulily offers daily deals on everything you and your kids need as far as shoes and clothes go and there are many winter boots up to 60% off of retail prices. Best of all, we have an exclusive Zulily Coupon Code for you every month! We also have many current deals on boots from one of our favorite brands, Crocs and you can check to see what current crocs coupons are available.

The good news is that it’s early enough in the season to take a look at what’s being offered this year, to consider prices and to try on boots at several stores before making a decision. Take your child’s preferences into consideration, but remember to put ease of use and function ahead of style when it comes to buying winter footwear.