+1 for the PI's. Although I do struggle somewhat to get the things on and off, they keep me warm and dry.
+1 for the PI's. Although I do struggle somewhat to get the things on and off, they keep me warm and dry.
Winter Shoes---
I have the Sidi Diablos, but I need to put toe covers plus shoe cover/booties over top of them. Last year, used the PI Amfib covers and this year, replaced them because the zipper on one of them broke. I got the Sugoi Firewall booties that TE sells but haven't tried them yet (seem to fit over the shoe easier than the PI bootie though). Santa brought me the heated Sidi insoles last year, which help, and I also use chemical toe warmers & good quality wool socks. The combination of all that does a decent job but on their own, the Diablos aren't enough. I have to admit, it's a lot of stuff, it's a pain to get it all on, and for the price, those shoes should perform better without having to "accessorize." I tend to resort to these ones on the coldest days due to the PITA factor---charging the insoles, getting the covers over the boots, etc. Keeping my feet warm is a challenge.
I also have Lake MXZ302s (women's winter shoes). After SheFly recommended them a few years ago, I found a pair on sale at Performance (men's style). I really beat up these shoes---wore them in cold rain, mountain biking, etc. I also use them w/good wool socks and chemical heat warmers. They are good down to about 32 or so, then I have to result to the Diablos w/all the extras. Loved them so much that this year, I got a pair of the ladies version, upgraded for 2008. These shoes are stompers--Herman Munster style. Nothing dainty about them, but they are warm.
The PI am/fib ones are decent, but not good for really wet or really cold conditions. Then, you'd be better off using neoprene booties and insulating the zippers with duct tape or something. Even then, a certain amount of wet could get down inside the booties from the top.
I have these:
http://www.pearlizumi.com/product.ph...uct_id=1172061
They are very warm. I don't really wear them much above 30 or maybe 35 degrees.