Too much $$$: Underwear, tall winter boots

[lph]

I know, I know such practical women you all are...

Isn't that why you're asking us?

Do you work outside or have to go out to meetings and look presentable?
I don't, so I can get away with looking like the Michelin man until I get indoors. Below -15 deg C I just find it a huge PITA dressing any way but practical, so I wear hiking boots, lined overpants and a down jacket, and if I want to wear a skirt or dress at work I'll change into it once I get there.

[malkin]

Sierra Trading Post.

[smurfalicious]

My ranch hand buddy that had to work outdoors year round, naturally, swore by White's. They were also the choice of all the kids that did wildfire back home. I think for what you get, they're pretty reasonably priced, but don't expect them to be pretty.

I inherited some nice Columbia snow boots from a friend and I LOVE them. When my stupid snowshoes broke on their first outing I had to hike out on the road in them and I was pretty happy with um.

[NbyNW]

Shootingstar, I hear you about the sticker shock on these more fashionable winter boots you're looking for. I have a process that helps me rationalize the more 'spendy' purchases:

- can I make the item myself?
- what purpose does it really serve for me to own this item? how long will it last? do I feel like I will get good value for the life of the item?
- where/how was it made? do I feel reasonably assured that the people who made the item, from design through production, earn a reasonable wage? same questions about the retailer -- are they compensating their employees well, do profits stay in the community or do they go to a corporate HQ far away?
- are there other ethical considerations involved in the manufacture of this product would incent/disincent me to buy it?

At the end of the day, I may waffle on plunking down the money, but I have rarely regretted it once I decide to bite the bullet. If I buy a quality item that lasts for a long time, that actually may be cheaper in the long run, as opposed to buying "disposable" items that need to be replaced more often.