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Knee-high boots are the perfect transitional footwear choice as the weather cools down in the fall and through the cold winter months.
Their versatile style allows them to be dressed up or down effortlessly.
While knee-high boots can technically be worn year-round with the right outfit, certain temperatures are better suited for breaking them out.
Figuring out the ideal temperature range for different boot materials, heel heights, and outfit pairings can seem daunting.
This comprehensive guide will provide tips on how to determine when it’s the right time to start wearing your knee-high boots based on the forecast.
We’ll also cover how to style knee-high boots from 50 to 10 degrees Fahrenheit so you can stay both comfortable and fashionable.
When to Start Transitioning to Knee-High Boots
Once daily high temperatures consistently reach the 50- to 60-degree Fahrenheit range, it’s a good time to begin incorporating knee-high boots into your wardrobe.
Early fall’s milder weather is perfect for pairing knee-high boots with dresses, skirts, and tunic-length tops.
Go for flat or low-heeled boot styles in suede, leather, or textured fabrics.
For crisp morning temperatures in the 50s, wear your knee-high boots with jeans or leggings.
They provide ample coverage and warmth without causing overheating later in the day.
As daily temperatures dip into the 40s, knee-high boots with a low or block heel are a smart choice.
They provide better insulation than flats, while still being walkable.
Ideal Knee-High Boot Weather (30 to 50 Degrees)
The 30 to 50-degree Fahrenheit temperature range is prime knee-high boot weather.
You’ll stay cozy and comfortable in them all day long.
Flat or low-heeled suede or leather knee-high boots pair perfectly with leggings, jeans, and sweaters.
They complement the fall and early winter wardrobes seamlessly.
If you choose to wear higher-heeled knee-high boots in this temperature zone, bring a pair of flats or booties as a backup in case heels become uncomfortable.
Knee-high boots with grippy rubber soles are great for transitioning weather with rain and intermittent snow.
They provide stability on potentially slippery surfaces.
Bundling Up With Knee-High Boots (20 to 30 Degrees)
Colder temperatures call for warm, weather-ready materials like leather, suede, and wool knee-high boots.
Prioritize function over style.
Look for knee-high boots with shearling lining, wool lining, or branded insulation technology like Primaloft or Thinsulate.
Waterproof leather and suede are also smart choices.
Pull-on knee-high boots are perfect for this temperature range.
Their stretch panel or side zippers make them easy to take on and off over multiple layers.
For traction, look for lug soles, commando soles, or Vibram outsoles.
They’ll provide stability in snow and on icy sidewalks.
Styling Knee-High Boots in Frigid Temperatures (10 to 20 Degrees)
In temperatures ranging from 10 to 20 degrees Fahrenheit, it’s all about warmth and insulation when choosing knee-high boots.
Look for knee-high boots that are rated for temperatures as low as -20 or -40 degrees.
High-quality brands like Sorel, Columbia, and Kamik specialize in extreme cold-weather boots.
Shearling, wool, and faux fur linings help trap heat and keep feet toasty.
Waterproof leather and suede protect from the snow.
Pair with thick wool socks, snow pants, or fleece-lined leggings.
Top it with parkas, heavy winter coats, mittens, and hats to complete the look.
Considerations for Wearing Knee-High Boots in Cold Weather
Always check the weather forecast before heading out to gauge if your chosen boots are appropriate for the temperature.
Err on the side of warmer boots.
Consider bringing an extra pair of shoes or boots in a warmer material if you’ll be going between cold outdoor and heated indoor environments frequently.
Wear the appropriate sock thickness for your boot material and weather conditions.
Thin socks in warm boots or thick socks in cold-weather boots.
Take precautions against slipping on ice and snow.
Walk slowly, wear boot grips if needed, and don’t wear heels.
Waterproof sprays can be used to treat suede and leather boots to protect against salt stains.
Apply before first wearing.
Allow boots to dry fully between wears rather than wearing them on consecutive days.
Rotate pairs.
Different Types of Knee-High Boots to Shop For
Standard Boots: These knee-high boots have a classic style that pairs well with most outfits, from dresses to jeans.
Choose between flats, kitten heels, wedges, or block heels depending on preference.
Materials like suede, leather, microsuede, or textile fabrics.
Riding Boots: Inspired by equestrian fashion, riding boots have a slim, sleek fit through the ankle and calf.
They come in both flat and heeled varieties.
Typically made from leather or vegan leather with minimal hardware and detailing.
Wide Calf Boots: These boots have an extended calf circumference to comfortably fit calves over 15″.
Made from stretch fabrics or with adjustable laces or buckles.
Some brands offer plus-size or wide-width options.
Slouchy Boots: Slouchy boots have a folded or ruched look rather than a smooth, tight fit.
The slouched style provides a relaxed, casual vibe.
Both flat and heeled options are available.
Materials like suede or leather.
Over-the-Knee Boots: Extra-tall boots that extend fully over the knee for dramatic style.
Pair them with shorter skirts and dresses to show off their full height.
Offered in a range of heel heights and colors.
Rain Boots: Rain boots have waterproof rubber shells to protect feet from rain and snow.
They come in both plain and patterned varieties.
Insulated winter options have faux fur linings.
Brands like Hunter and Joules specialize in weather-ready boots.
Snow Boots: Designed specifically for heavy winter weather, snow boots have lug soles, insulation, and temperature ratings.
Look for waterproof leather, suede, or nylon paired with rubber bottoms.
Popular styles by Sorel, Columbia, and more.
Platform Boots: These boots have thick platform soles for a ’70s-inspired look.
Platforms range from 1 to over 4″ in height.
Pair with skinny jeans, miniskirts, and dresses.
Both heeled and flat platform options are available.
Cowboy Boots: Cowboy-style boots in knee-high length have decorative stitching, embroidery, and distressed details.
Made from leather or suede.
Pair with jeans, leggings, or dresses for a Western-inspired look.
Lace-up Boots: Lace-up knee-high boots have back lacing rather than side zips or pull-on styles.
The laces allow for adjusting for the perfect fit. Often has vintage, gothic, or biker aesthetics.
Materials like leather, suede, synthetics, or velvet.
Conclusion
Knee-high boots easily make the transition from fall through winter with just a few easy styling adjustments.
Use the temperature as a guideline for deciding which boots to wear each day based on the conditions.
With a variety of materials, linings, and soles to shop from, you’re sure to find the perfect knee-high boots to complement your cold-weather wardrobe.