Commute-to-work boots you won't want to change out of at the office

Too often, winter footwear options tend to fall into two camps: comfortable performance boots that are too bulky to wear indoors, and finer leather (or leather-look) boots that are stylish but don't always keep your toes warm for long. As a result, whether they bike, drive or take transit to work, many women often end up commuting in one pair, and then immediately swapping them out for heels or a sleeker pair of boots at their desks.

This winter, why not streamline your morning routine (not to mention the pile of shoes under your desk!) with a pair of fashionable boots that you'll be happy to rock at the office, but that are also designed to withstand cold temps and regular exposure to snow, ice and sidewalk salt? Let's try for the best of both worlds!

This ankle boot is sleek and polished looking, but also features the durability and waterproofing qualities of a GORE-TEX membrane. And, the lightweight crepe flatform sole elevates you ever so slightly from sidewalk slush.

Womens Crepetray Hybrid GTX, $230, ecco.com

The outdoorsy hiking boot hit the runways big time this fall, so this pair from Hunter is definitely on-trend. It's also water-resistant, and has a shearling cuff and insulating fleece lining.  

Women's Original Leather Insulated Commando Boots, $230, hunterboots.com

Sleek and with minimal hardware, this lambswool-lined boot from Canadian label Want Les Essentiels would look good with both jeans and suit trousers.

Want Les Essentiels Stevie Zippered Ankle Boot, $595, wantapothecary.com

Much like the perfecto jacket, black leather biker boots are a sartorial classic. The high lug sole makes walking in snow a bit easier, while the faux-fur lining adds warmth on extra cold days.

Leather Biker Ankle Boots, $149, zara.com

This tall leather and suede Sorel boot, which is insulated and waterproof, would look great worn with leggings or your go-to dress-and-tights combo.

Women's Emelie Tall Premium Boot, $310 (on sale for $179), sorelfootwear.ca

Waterproof and lined in faux fur, this anti-slip leather boot by Cougar can be styled with the top up or rolled down. Plus, they're good for temps as low as -24C degrees.

Cougar Destiny Waterproof Leather Roll Top Boot, $220 (on sale for $176), thebay.com

Shearling lined and made with water-resistant leather, this low cut boot would be easy to slip on and off. There's a durable rubber lug outsole, too.

Natalie Short Engineer Lug Shearling, $750.83 (on sale for $392.56), thefryecompany.com

Made in Canada, this suede, heeled boot features a sleek front zipper, comfy rubber sole and faux fur lining to keep your toes cozy. And, it's waterproof!

Dublin Boot, $425, lacanadienneshoes.com

Truc Nguyen is a Toronto-based writer, editor and stylist. Follow her at @trucnguyen.