When the snow falls, you want boots you can rely on to keep your feet warm and dry and stop you slipping over. From the classic originals to work boots, Timberland is a favorite with many people, but are Timberland boots good for snow?
These iconic boots have dropped in and out of fashion since they first appeared in 1973. One thing is for sure, they have stood the test of time and are here to stay. Let’s look at some of their features and see how they’ll fare during a cold, snowy winter.
Features of a Winter Boot for Snow
When the weather changes, you will want boots that stand up to the task. Snow and slush seem to be able to seep through many materials leaving feet wet and cold. Then there’s their ability to keep you on your feet, so you don’t end up on your tush.
Some things to look out for include:
- Waterproof: This might seem obvious, but you need boots that won’t let water in, so your feet stay dry and comfortable.
- Traction: You will want rubber soles with good lugs to grip on slippery surfaces.
- Warmth: While rain boots might provide both of the above benefits, they’re generally thin and won’t keep your feet warm. Things like fleecy, wooly linings will help keep Jack Frost from nipping at your toes.
So, how do Timberlands stack up against the above criteria? Many of its boots are made from leather and are waterproof so that ticks the first box.
There are also a lot of styles to choose from, including the classic six-inch originals for men, women, and children. They’re made from a seam-sealed construction to keep water out and have rustproof hardware.
Coming onto the second point, many Timberlands have sturdy rubber outsoles. They have lugs to give you traction and grip to help prevent you from sliding and falling over. Check out the Timberland Chillbergs for men or the Mount Hope Earthkeepers for women.
Our final criterium was warmth, and here Timberlands step up to the mark. Its boots have patented PrimaLoft insulation to keep your feet toasty warm. They also have waterproof, breathable membranes to maintain dryness and wick away moisture.
Some styles, such as the women’s Jayne, have fleecy linings for extra warmth.
Are All Timberland Boots Waterproof?
No, not all boots made by Timberland are waterproof. If they are, then it’ll be highlighted in the company’s product description, so check before you select.
What Timberland does advise is that you treat your waterproof boots with some tender loving care to keep them that way. Follow these recommendations to protect your waterproof Timberlands:
1. Always Air Dry
Firstly, never place your Timberlands in front of an open fire or near a radiator to dry them. Doing this can dry out the leather, making them stiff and spoiling their look. Air dry them away from direct sunlight or heat in a well-ventilated area.
You can stuff them with paper, some old cloth or a shoehorn to help them hold their shape as they dry.
2. Clean Them Well
Preventing excess dust and debris building up on your boots could prolong their lifespan and keep them looking good. Brushing them with a suede brush will help keep dirt at bay. Timberland has a kit that contains a suede brush as well as the other cleaners and protectants you need to look after your boots.
Be sure to get into all the little nooks and crannies, between the soles and uppers and around the laces.
If you have stubborn stains on your boots, you might need to use a specialist cleaner to remove them. You can read more about cleaning these boots in our article 5 Proven Methods to Clean Your Timberland Boots.
3. Protect and Condition Them
With leather Timberland boots, you can use a leather conditioner or wax to help them retain their waterproof qualities without compromising their breathability. You could choose Timberland’s Waximum or another product such as Otter Wax.
For suede and nubuck Timberlands, the balm proofer all-purpose protector should work. It will help protect these delicate materials from stains and restore their water-repellent properties.
Our article Nubuck vs. Suede goes into more detail about these natural boots and how to look after them.
Timberlands vs. Uggs for Snow
When it comes to these two icons facing off against each other, which comes out on top? Timberland has a wider selection of boots designed to be waterproof and rugged.
They produce a number of work and casual options to keep your feet dry and warm but don’t overlook Uggs.
Many styles of Ugg boots are also suitable for winter weather, but the classic sheepskin suede ones that we all recognize aren’t included. They aren’t waterproof, and wearing them in the snow could ruin them. Check out our article on Can You Wear Uggs in the Snow?
It comes down to personal preference for style and purpose. If you’re looking for a sturdy work boot for winter, then Timberlands might be a better option. If it’s a casual boot, then either could top your list.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are Timberlands Insulated?
Most Timberland boots have a lining made from its patented PrimaLoft insulation. It has a microfiber structure, which we’re told retains warmth even if the fibers get wet. This lining is lightweight and thin, so it doesn’t take up much room inside the boots.
However, the amount of this material can vary between styles. Check the product description if you’re unsure. The more there is, the warmer your boots will be.
Do Timberland Boots Last Long?
If you look after your Timberland boots, they should last you a long time. The company warranties them against defects in materials and workmanship for a year from the date of purchase. This gives you some confidence that they’re built to last.
Although they can stand up to some hard wear, they won’t last forever. Remember that cleaning and conditioning them regularly will help their longevity. Don’t forget to dry them away from a direct heat source.
How Often Should I Clean and Protect My Timberland Boots?
While your boots come with some waterproofing, it’s a good idea to protect them straight out of the box. After that, it’ll depend on how often you wear them. If you’re wearing them every day, then you should consider cleaning and protecting them at least once a week.
If you only wear your boots occasionally, don’t forget to clean and waterproof them before putting them away.
Can You Wear Timberlands in the Snow?
Reverting to our initial discussion, “are Timberlands good for snow?”, it seems many of its styles are. They’re waterproof and have some degree of insulation to keep your feet dry and warm. Many have rubber soles with deep lugs, so that you remain steady and upright.
Remember to check the manufacturer’s description of the boots you choose. They’ll tell you whether they’re waterproof or not and therefore suitable for wintry weather.
We hope you found our guide useful and informative. What are your favorite Timberlands, and how do they fare in inclement weather? Leave us a comment to let us know, and don’t forget to share.
