5 Shoes for 2019: My Family’s Picks to Keep in the Closet Year-Round
As a travel writing family, you never know when you’re going to jet across the planet in the middle of your summer to a place experiencing winter. So for events like these, TJ, Everett and I keep a collection of staple shoes and boots that can work for various seasons in our closet year-round. Here are five pairs we are loving for 2019, so whether our travel takes us to the tropics or the arctic, we are prepared:
1. Muck Men’s Arctic Ice Tall Boots
TJ picked the Muck Men’s Arctic Ice Tall Boots as his extreme weather staple for our front closet this year. He liked how they feature the most advanced Vibram outsole technology ever created and are designed specifically to provide grip and top notch performance traveling across wet ice. The traction on these boots is pretty awesome with multi-direction lug design for sure footing regardless of terrain. They also provide great traction on dry ice, thanks to the Vibram Icetrek full base layer.
TJ also loved how comfortable the boots are. They are completely waterproof, feature a fleece lining for warmth and have great heat-retention abilities thanks to the tough exterior material.
2. Muck Kids Chore Boot
Everett’s go-to all weather boot is the Kids Chore Boot. Whether you’re little one is helping out around the farm or just likes to splash around in the mud like my son Everett does, the Kids Chore Boot from Muck is a must-have staple. This boot is a (no pun intended, okay maybe) reboot of the adult version but sized for boys and girls. It still offers the same toughness and durability that is completely waterproof, lightweight and comfy.
3. Muck Women’s Liberty Waterproof Ankle Leather Boot
As for me, I’m digging the Muck Women’s Liberty Waterproof Ankle Leather Boot this year. It is a fashionable but functional ankle boot that also happens to be really comfortable. Made with waterproofed, full-grain leather it is stylish, but it is also durable. The later is thanks to a rugged outsole with low heel that does its job without looking clunky. The boot comes in either brown or black.
4. Garmont Men’s Trail Pro III GTX
A good running shoe also works out perfectly for hoofing it around a new city on an assignment, so TJ and I always keep a few favorite pairs in the closet for last second travel. This season TJ is digging the Men’s Trail Pro III GTX from Garmont. It has a roomy forefoot and lots of breathability as well as a heel that fits just right and a lacing system that lets him make some adjustments to his personal fit. The shoes are also pretty sturdy and have great traction, which TJ likes for travel to the backcountry, which is where most of his trips end up.
5. Garmont Women’s 9.81 Grid Running Shoe
For myself I have the Garmont Women’s 9.81 Grid Running Shoe as my closet staple. I’m big on comfort and performance, so I love that these shoes are built to be tough enough to work on the trail but also snazzy enough to work just walking around town or grabbing a bite to eat between workouts. They work great for multiple activities in the great outdoors from trail running to hiking thanks to their lightweight support and a GoreTex membrane that keeps my feet dry even when the forecast is calling for rain.
