Men's winter boots you can wear to work and at work too

Winter in Canada brings a variety of undesirable elements to your walk... rain, ice, snow and slush... We've all experienced the uncomfortable feeling of stepping into a puddle and immediately feeling the ice-cold water soaking through our socks. No one likes their feet wet unless they're on a beach! Needless to say, your winter boot has got to keep you warm and dry and ready for that patch of black ice. Wouldn't it be great to love how they looked too? Rest assured the boots here are both functional and stylish.

Not your average Chucks

Consider these special Converse Chuck Taylor MC 18s your "Chucks" dipped in winter-proof goodness.  Thanks to the GORE-TEX lining and DWR coating these sneakers are waterproof yet breathable. The white on white colorway breaks all the winter "colour rules" (in a good way) and the sole has deep treads to help with cold weather traction.

Converse Chuck Taylor MC18, $180, Havenshop.com

Timbs for the wins

Timberland's classic boots are not only iconic, famous in both music and fashion culture, but are intended to be actual workwear so you know the durability and quality is top notch. These also boast a seam-sealed leather upper to keep you dry, and a rubber lug outsole to keep you on your feet when the sidewalks become ice rinks.

Timberland Classic Work Boots, $190, Urbanoutfitters.com

Tried and true

There's a reason that Sorel winter boots were all I needed as a kid when I would spend hours tobogganing or participating in many a snowball war. (Whether kids even know what a toboggan is anymore is a depressing conversation I shall leave for a different article.)  These are guaranteed to keep your feet cozy thanks to the seam-sealed waterproof construction. They get extra points for the removable liner and sherpa pile cuff.

Sorel 1964 Pac Nylon Boot, $134.99, Getoutsideshoes.com

It ain't easy being green

The classic isn't your only option these days. The colour green is trending high this winter and these green Sorel Cheyanne Boots pick up on it. A special collaboration with JCrew is responsible for the unique (and exclusive) colourway but the all-important "Sorel" cold weather construction is maintained. These will keep your feet warm in -25C degree temperatures. Did I mention that Sorel (which is a Canadian company!) was the first to combine durable leather uppers with waterproof rubber soles?

Sorel for J Crew Cheyanne Boots, $198, Jcrew.com

It's Ralph though

These military-inspired suede boots from Polo are a great choice for those wanting a slimmer boot profile. The hand-stitched toe details is a nice touch, but it's the rubber tread that you'll be thankful for once things get icey.

Polo Ralph Lauren Suede Ankle Boots, $117.50, Thebay.com

Winter florals

Who doesn't like an iconic pair of "Docs"? These 1460s are a beautiful reiteration of the original Dr. Martens boot. The fact that the floral cover art from New Order's 1983 Power Corruption Lies album adorns the upper, only makes me like them more. Yes I know, Docs may not be the first thing you think of in terms of winter wear, but these boots are pretty indestructible, are comfy as heck thanks to the air cushioned sole, so, slap on a pair of thick wool socks and you are good to go.

Doctor Martens 1460 Power Boots, $209.99, Drmartens.com

Handmade heritage

If you are unfamiliar with Red Wing's (astounding) construction, you're in for a treat. The company (which has been around since 1905) is renowned for their beautiful and sturdy handmade work boots. This boot is crafted via an extensive (230+ step) process, and the result is a timeless boot that promises to endure. Don't be surprised if your son or daughter ends up rocking your hand-me-down pair, because to say this boot will last a lifetime is an understatement.

Redwing 6" Classic Moc Boot,  $290, Clubmonaco.ca

Hiking sneaker

What do you get when you mix a Nike Air Force 1 sneaker and a winter hiking boot? The answer is this hybrid winter-friendly Nike Lunar Force duckboot. Nike got it right adding winterized details to the iconic sneaker. The upper is made from a synthetic water-repellent material to keep the toes dry and the rugged outsole keeps you upright on ice. Can you really go wrong with a winter boot that feels like your summer sneaker?

Nike Lunar Force 1'18  Duckboot, $230, Nike.com

Joe Amio is a creator, curator and menswear aficionado. Find him on instagram @joeisthenewblack