Boots on the Ground

It was time to get serious. I could no longer countenance the flooding of my sneakers whilst slogging through the rain with the dogs, much less face water pouring in the tops or the blisters caused by ill-fitting wellies. And heaven forfend having to cancel a farm trip or mushroom foraging expedition for the want of adequate footwear!

A quick tally of those better-informed on the subject than I resulted in a landslide vote for the Muck Boot, a well-treaded, waterproof boot fit for city walks or country rambles. The breathable, flexible stock hugs the calf and doesn't gap at the top, and the shoe is insulated and padded to keep feet warm even in freezing temperatures. Plus they only come in goes-with-everything black.

The place I got them, called Hank's Boots & Workwear, was also a new discovery, with work boots and Carhartts and nary a candy-colored city lady boot in sight. And the price was less than the fancy name-brand boots at the department stores, a win all around. I've already mucked out a clogged street drain…now to go get in some serious mud. Bring it on, winter!

Details: Muck Boots at Hank's Boots & Workwear, 8878 NE Sandy Blvd. at the intersection of Prescott and Sandy. 503-253-7098.