Harbinger Staff Member Talks about the Differences of off Brand and Brand Name Boots

The Winter Boot:

Uggs: $120-200
Let’s face it–Uggs are the most popular boot here at East. Whether it be the classic Ugg or the bootie Ugg, these Australian-made shoes have been popular all across the country since 2002, when the trend first moved West. The main quarrel consumers have with the boots is the price, along with the fact that the interior’s “fur” gets worn down and crusty and eventually begins to smell. The only way to clean the boots is to take them to a dry cleaner, which only furthers their cost. A graceful step is necessary with these clunkers, so walk tall and try not to be weighed down by these toe-trippers. Also, considering these originated in sunny Australia, they aren’t exactly made for snow or rain.

VS.

Aerosoles Squashing trip boot- $99 at Macys Winner

This alternative to the Ugg is half the original price and is conveniently made for cold weather, meaning the shoe can be worn in slush without having to worry about ruining them. They are waterproof, lined with wool to keep your feet warm and come in four different colors: brown, black, pink and grey. The silky lace and fur detailing has been ripped right off the runway and adds a fashion-forward twist to the otherwise typical snow boot. The one-inch heel gives an extra lift while the half-inch rubber sole has traction to keep you from slipping on icy sidewalks.

http://www1.macys.com/catalog/product/index.ognc?ID=510840&PseudoCat=se-xx-xx-xx.esn_results

The Combat Boot

Doc Martens: $115-200
These 1980 punk-rock boots have been making a comeback for the past few years. Though once a unique and rebellious thing to have, Doc Martens have become prevalent on catwalks everywhere and thus have become a staple in any fashionista’s closet. Now with a variety of colors and patterns ranging from Hello Kitty to classic black, these kick-butt boots can match any outfit. Previously handmade in England in the 1960’s, their rise in popularity has prompted the company to ship production to China, thus causing an obvious decrease in quality. While they no longer stand up to the wear and tear of yesteryear, Doc Martens still manage to make a statement with any outfit.

www.dmusastore.com

VS.

Combat boots from a thrift store: Winner
Where to buy: Boomerrang, Salvation Army, etc
While there isn’t a specific brand you can look for, a thrift store is your best friend when looking for combat boots. Thrift stores aren’t for everyone; they’re for those who like to search and don’t mind ‘recycling’ clothes, but the rewards are worth the time spent. Classic black is found most commonly, but if you keep digging you may find colorful or patterned boots perfect for you. They are a little heavy, but more importantly they’re cheap, cheap, cheap, with most ranging between $10-20. Most thrift store combat boots are military-grade, meaning that they can withstand any type of weather without looking scratched. Along with not emptying your wallet, you can feel confident that what you are wearing is as unique as it is fashionable.

The Rainboot/Wellies

Sperry- $70 Winner
Made for the seafarer in all of us, these Sperry rain boots were created specifically to hold up in bad weather, which is fast-coming this winter season. The boots are top of the line as well as cute, and the fleece lining keeps your feet warm while the waterproof outside keeps them dry. More commonly worn when it isn’t raining, rain boots (also known as Wellies) have shifted from dorky to fashion-forward. Twenty different patterns are available from solid colors to animal print, and with special traction made for snow and rain, these cute boots are perfect for weather of any kind.

www.sperrytopsider.com

VS.

Merona- $15-55 at Target
While these aren’t expensive and come in a large variety of color and style, Target has failed to deliver on the one quality needed in a rain boot: water-resistance. These shoes may hold up for the first week or two but can’t handle heavy snow or rain, and water can seep through the outside, making for an uncomfortable walk. For $15 they can’t necessarily be expected to be high-quality, but some quality would be nice.