Merrell Yarra Boot : Stylish Practicality

A pile of boots and shoes at my door is a sure sign of winter. In summer, I'm not particular about slipping off my shoes, but when snow and salt cling to my soles, I always remove them at the door rather than track slop through the house.

Merrell's slip-on Yarra boots vastly improve this wintertime routine. Instead of hunching over soggy laces, I quickly slide my feet out of the cozy, comfy lining. It's a convenience I adore, because living in the Colorado Rockies, taking my boots on and off is something I do several times a day.

I came to love their slip-on expediency even more at the airport, where the Yarra boots helped speed up my journey through security. Other winter boots-wearing travelers held up the line and tugged in frustration at stubborn laces and buckles. But my suede stompers were as easy to take off (and put on again) as a pair of loafers.

The stylish details are just as endearing. My Yarra boots are a far cry from the chunky, leaden winter boots my mom made me wear as a kid. They're svelte and sassy, with spun wool trim and two cute buttons that add a little texture to the streamlined shape. To show off their good looks, I wear my boots with skirts or tuck my pant cuffs inside. Then I ready myself for the bevy of compliments I always receive while wearing these fun boots.

Because the Yarra boots are not clunky and cumbersome, I was surprised to discover just how cozy they keep my feet. The snug fit plays a role by preventing warm air from escaping out the top. Mostly, their warmth is due to non-bulky PrimaLoft® 200 Grams insulation, paired with a lining made of Polartec® 200 Thermo. The duo kept my piggies fireplace-warm while I waited at the bus stop in 10-degree F temperatures.

The foot-hugging fit and an EVA air cushion makes these boots feel comfortable, like sneakers. So they're great for walking longer distances, and the traction is solid. The soles are made of a sticky rubber (called Snow De Vie, Merrell's proprietary material) which has nubs that bite into packed snow--which makes the Yarras as grippy as they are good-looking.

Available in women's whole and half sizes 5-11.

Bottom Line: The Yarra blends cold-weather insulation with go-anywhere good looks.--K.B. (Dec. 09)

BUY ONLINE : $149.95, free shipping and exchanges at Onlineshoes.com , free shipping deals at Altrec

Manufacturer's Site: www.merrell.com

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