Sorel Tootega Boot

The Sorel Tootega Boot

The Sorel Tootega is one of Sorel's newest winter boots for women. The boot is very stylish and is light-years removed from the bulky, standard winter boot look found in other Sorel styles, such as the Caribou.

That said, smiliar to other Sorel Boots, the Tootega is very warm, with a temperature rating of -25 degrees fahrenheit.

Rather nicely, Sorel has moved away from the "rubber" found on many other Sorel boots. Normally, Sorel boots have a rubber lower and a leather upper. On this boot, Sorel did away with the rubber and replaced it with a waterproof "leather bootie" that is also breathable. What is nice about this, beyond being far more attractive, is that the leather booties reduces the weight of the boot by a considerable margin while also helping to prevent water buildup on the lower foot (since the lower boot is now breathable).

Another nice touch on this boot is that the footbed is removable and is anatomically shaped for a woman's foot. Plus, the footbed is fleece lined, enhancing comfort, warmth and water wicking abilities.

The Sorel Tootega boots are ideal for day to day use, whether that be commuting, shoveling snow or just around town boots. Like all other Sorels, the Tootega has superb traction. As such, it makes for an ideal winter boot for women who are seeking a warm, durable boot that also looks nice. However, if you need a boot for deep mud or snow, consider the Sorel Caribou Boot instead (as they are easier to clean) and have a taller shaft (are taller).

Styles Available

There is one style of the Sorel Tootega Boot available. The boot comes in four colors : Honey, Black, Cordovan and Redwood. Sizes range from 5-11, and the boots are available in half-sizes. There are two reliable places to purchase this boot...Zappos and Shoes.Com. While I always prefer Zappos (Why buy Boots at Zappos?), I've never had any problems purchasing boots through Shoes.com either. Additionally, Shoes.com often has more colors and sizes in stock than Zappos does. Why...I don't know. Just my own experience. So, the moral of the story is...if Zappos doesn't have the size or color you want, try Shoes.Com before giving up. Prices are usually identical and both have free shipping.

Prices : Generally, the Tootega boot retails for around $150, landing it in the "middle tier" of Sorel Boot prices. Usually Zappos has them for around $135 or less.

Advantages of the Sorel Tootega Boot

Sorel Tootega boots are excellent, fashionable snow boots for day to day use - and which don't look like a typical Sorel. That said, these boots are NOT designed for heavy use in the mud, as the lower bootie will be somewhat difficult to clean and the shorter shaft size will allow snow in from the top (although the soft snow gator will keep most of the snow out...but it won't keep it all out.). That disclaimer aside, the Sorel Tootega boot is an excellent winter boot for women who don't need a heavy duty boot like the Caribou.

First, the lower portion of the boot is a "leather bootie" that is 100% waterproof AND is also breathable.

Second, the boot provides excellent insulation against cold weather. The boot has a temperature rating of -25 degrees - although you'll need to use a Winter Sock to achieve this level of protection from the cold.

Third, the boot has a very nice looking and functional snow guard. The Sherpa pile collar on the top of the boot helps keep the snow out and the wamth in, and looks very nice too. Just remember, the snow guard...while quite functional...will still allow snow to seep in if you use the boot for long periods of time in deep snow.

Fourth, as this boot isn't monstrously tall, the boot is lighter than most other snow boots on the market and, for many people, is more comfortable.