Your Queen's Winter Boot Guide
- katie6059
- Nov 12
- 4 min read
In Kingston, the weather isn’t just “cold” – it’s wet, icy, and windy in a way that exposes every bad footwear decision you’ve ever made. After your first time slipping on University Ave in worn-out sneakers, you realize: a real pair of winter boots isn’t optional.
The right boots have to handle slush on Union, ice outside Stauffer, and walks to campus without ruining your outfit. Here’s a breakdown of five winter boot options that work for different budgets and styles, so you can pick the pair that fits your Queen’s life.
Price: ~$230 CAD
Build: Leather Chelsea boot, slip-on with pull tabs, durable sole; Thermal version adds insulated lining and waterproofing
Why It Works: Blundstones are basically a campus uniform in Canadian universities for a reason. They’re easy to slip on and off, work with almost anything, and hold up well to day-to-day snow and slush. The Thermal line is clutch for Kingston winters – warmer, more water-resistant, and still low-profile.
Style Fit: Perfect if your vibe is casual, slightly outdoorsy, or “I don’t want to think too hard about shoes.” Works with leggings, straight-leg jeans, trousers, and even nicer coats like a Super Puff or wool overcoat.
Considerations:
Not the absolute warmest for standing outside forever – better for walking than standing
You’ll want decent wool socks on the coldest days
Price: ~$160 CAD
Build: Suede upper with shearling lining and foam insole; some models have treated, water-repellent uppers and chunkier, grippy soles.
Why It Works: UGGs are unbeatable for comfort. They’re like wearing slippers around campus, which is exactly the energy you want during 8:30 a.m. lectures or late-night library runs. The newer, platform or weather-treated versions are better for real winter conditions and slushy sidewalks.
Style Fit: Great if you live in leggings, sweatsets, and oversized coats. They give that relaxed, cozy look that still feels intentional when styled with a long puffer and cute tote.
Considerations:
Standard suede will stain if you don’t spray them – waterproofing is a must
Not ideal for deep snow or ice – more “around campus” than “hiking through a storm”
Price: ~$200–$300 CAD
Build: Waterproof leather and rubber, seam-sealed construction, heavy insulation, removable felt or faux-fur liners, serious traction.
Why It Works: If you’re someone who is always cold or walking a lot from off-campus housing, Sorels are your best friend. They’re built for legit winter. They are perfect for icy sidewalks, snowbanks at crosswalks, and standing outside waiting for the bus when the wind is brutal.
Style Fit: These are more functional than fashion, but still look cute with leggings, thick socks, and a big parka. Perfect for exam season, snowstorms, or weekends away at a cottage or ski trip.
Considerations:
Bulky – you’re not going to wear these to a bar
Overkill for mild days, so you may want a second, lighter boot option
Price: ~$215 CAD
Build: Leather lace-up boot with chunky sole; some styles offer waterproof leather or faux-fur lining for extra warmth.
Why It Works: Docs give you the grip and coverage of a real boot with a more fashion-forward look. If your style leans a bit edgier (leather jackets, long wool coats, oversized knits) a pair of black lace-up Docs works for class, dinners on Princess, and nights out.
Style Fit: Great with straight-leg jeans, miniskirts with tights, or wide-leg trousers. They’re the boot you can wear from 10 a.m. lectures straight into an evening event without changing.
Considerations:
Break-in period can be rough – don’t wear them brand-new on a long walk
Not as warm as heavy snow boots on their own; pair with thick socks
Price: ~$60 CAD
Build: Synthetic uppers, faux-fur lining, rubber soles, often treated to be water-resistant with decent traction.
Why It Works: If you’re trying to stay under budget but don’t want frozen toes, there are lots of more affordable winter boots that still do the job. Brands like Zara offer lined, water-resistant boots that look on-trend and can handle everyday campus weather.
Style Fit: Perfect if you want something a bit trendier – think chunky platform soles, fun colours, or faux-fur trims. Easy to style with puffer coats, scarves, and wide-leg pants.
Considerations:
Won’t last as many seasons as higher-end leather boots
Insulation and waterproofing vary a lot – check labels and reviews before buying
How to Choose the Right Pair for You
When you’re deciding which boots to buy, think about:
Your commute:
Long walk from off-campus? → Go warmer and more waterproof (Sorel, Thermal Blundstones).
Mostly short walks between res and buildings? → UGGs, regular Blundstones, or budget options can work.
Your style:
Cozy / casual → UGGs or Blundstones
Edgy / city → Dr. Martens
Practical / outdoorsy → Sorel
Your budget:
Investment: Blundstones, Docs, Sorel
Mid: weather-treated UGGs
Student-friendly: Zara
Find one pair that fits your real life, not just your Pinterest board, and you’ll be set for everything from 8:30s to coffee runs to surprise snowstorms.
Comments