In the Midwest, we don’t mess around with our boots. On my farm, like most in my area, there’s tons of mud. I need to invest in something for my feet that will keep me dry and snug reliably. I don’t want to deal with cracks in my boots that let water in, and cold feet make me grumpy. If you’re like me, you need your boots to wade through freezing mud and snow. And if you are lucky enough like me to spend hours per day outside caring for your animals and your farm, you’ll probably live in the Itasca River Boots like I do. I think these boots are great for anyone working in wet or cold conditions, including deep mud. They are also great to wear out to the barn to keep your riding boots clean no matter what conditions you have there.
Why I love the Itasca River Boots
- My favorite thing about the Itasca River Boots is how durable and waterproof they are. I have worn mine for hours every day from October to May for 2 years now. I walk through deep snow and deep mud and they have never leaked. The rubber extends well above the ankles to keep you dry in the deep mud, and even the upper part is highly water resistant.
- With the fleece-lined interior and thick bottom insulation, they are very warm. I got mine a size or 2 too big, and wear a couple layers of fuzzy socks on the coldest days. The thick, grippy soles also provide added warmth and helpful traction.
- The price is also an attractive feature of the Itasca River Boots. I paid $60 for mine from Tractor Supply (price will vary from time to time and location to location), and for how long they’ve already lasted, showing no signs of wearing out, I find that a very good value.
- They’re actually kind of cute. I like the way they look with jeans, leggings, breeches, and everything I wear to the barn, even dresses. I think it’s something about the pattern and the way the rubber extends partway up the leg, ending in that graceful curve. It’s hard to explain why, they just have a little bit of barn-y, git-er-done fashion appeal.
Some Considerations
- Some features you won’t find in this boot are heel or arch support. Sometimes I like to wear compression socks with mine to support my feet and legs.
- Another thing to consider is that they don’t double as riding boots. They would never fit in a stirrup and are not flexible at all.
- While some more expensive lifestyle boots claim to be breathable enough for all seasons, these do not. Your feet are likely to get very hot in the summer in these.
Conclusion
The modest investment in the Itasca Women’s Plaid River Boot is well worth it for seasons and seasons of comfort and protection from the wet. You will be able to comfortably spend more time outside with your horse, and save your money to spend on your horse too!
Looking for some warm, waterproof winter gloves too?
Jump over to my review of the SSG 10 Below Winter Riding Gloves to see what I love about the warmest winter gloves I’ve found for riding and barn chores!
