While the Live Outside and Play van may be hibernating in Charlottesville, Virginia, for the winter, that doesn’t mean the adventures have ceased for the LOAP team. We are currently nestled in a snow pile about an hour outside of Denver, Colorado. Our living arrangements include running water, a refrigerator, and an incredible pair of Arcata Stripped Women’s Boots made by Bogs. If you’d like to hear how the men’s version fares, jump on over to Ben’s review of the Bozeman Mid Insulated Review for some insider knowledge.
When the snow finally started falling this winter, it was time to put these boots to the test. They’ve come with me on many a trip to the ski resort, accompanied my pup and me on snow romps, and braved the windy cold while shoveling trucks out of ditches. Afterwards, they walked themselves into my favorite Mexican joint for some margaritas.
These boots are hardy and versatile. They are rated for comfort down the -40 degrees Fahrenheit to keep you super warm, but you also don’t have to worry about overheating while walking around the grocery store looking for hot chocolate ingredients. They are a relief to put on after a long day of snowboarding; one of my favorite features is their ease of use. These boots have a handy cut out on either side to make pulling them on and off simple and fast. That is super important when I have my hands full but want to run outside in a foot of snow to grab something from the car. These are also the boots I look to when I’m taking my dog out for a quick jaunt around the block. There is no hassle of untying or getting your sock to fit just right once your foot is in, they are ready for adventure in a second. My other favorite part is the look. They are extremely warm, waterproof and durable, but don’t have the massive bulky feel most boots with all those features have. I can shovel snow in them, then meet my friends out for some winter warmers and not have to change footwear. They come lined with Bogs Max-Wick to evaporate sweat and keep your socks dry even in warmer conditions.
MSRP: $160.00
Pros: Slipping these boots on and off is extremely satisfying. I am ready for adventure whenever it may call, even if it’s extremely cold and wet. The design makes them extremely versatile, and I don’t have to worry about changing footwear when going from frigid snow to meeting friends. These boots are very warm. One pair of thick socks and these boots are enough to last me through the whole day with warm toes. The thick soles have give and bounce to them so I can wear them all day. Lastly, for every purchase, BOGS will donate 2 percent to outdoor education. Their goal is to provide scholarships and grants to allow all kids to grow and learn in nature.
Cons: The easy on and off design is wonderful, but it also requires the boot to have an open top. This means that when hiking in snow higher than the boot, you’re going to get some slush in through the space between the boot and your leg. Gaters don’t fit perfectly on them either, so these boots are best for lighter snow. I also wouldn’t recommend them for long, involved hikes. Becuase of the slip-on design, you can have some heel raise while you’re walking. This is totally fine on shorter hikes, but once the miles get up there you want a boot that fits more tightly around your foot.
Where I took it: To and from ski resorts on the I-70 corridor (especially for powder days!), shorts hikes around Summit County, shoveling plenty of driveways and walkways (and a truck from a ditch) in Silverthorne, Colorado.
