Sorel Scotia Tall Boot Review
Active Gear Review is supported by its audience. If you purchase through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission.
Winter is here, there is no doubt about that as much of the country has been enduring a cold snap this past week. Unlike many, I was actually looking forward to the changing conditions because it gave me ample time to tromp around in the Sorel Scotia Tall Boot and test them in extreme temperatures for a more complete review.
Construction/Design of the Scotia Tall Boot
Sorel’s Scotia Tall Boot is not a traditional snow boot, rather a waterproof suede full-grain leather boot that can be used for more than just snow. The boots are unlined and feature a 14″ rise, when measured from the top of the mid-sole to the top of the boot. This length ends up hitting approximately 4 inches below my knee cap or at the widest part of my calf. The length of the boot is perfect for providing ample weather protection in rain, snow, or melting slush when wearing pants tucked in or tights. The Scotia Boot features a zipper that runs the full length of the boot, which makes getting the Scotia Tall Boot easy to get on and off.
The Scotia Tall Boot, like other Sorel boots, offers complete weather protection. Despite the long zipper, no water or snow has found its’ way inside the boot thanks to a flap that backs the zipper the entire way. The boots also feature a tightly stitched and sealed transition between the leather and the molded rubber midsole and outsole. The outsole features an semi-aggressive “wave” lug pattern and gives some great traction on ice or hard snow pack.
Snow does not accumulate within the lug, which allows traction no matter the conditions.
Despite being unlined, I found these boots were able to keep my feet plenty toasty with a pair of wool socks on walks with my dogs in temperatures as low as 0F. If I were planning on staying outside for more than 30 minutes at a time, I would probably opt for my Joan of the Arctic Boots, also by Sorel. The Scotia Tall Boot are available in black and have been my go-to boot for commuting from home to work as they look classy with my work attire, while offering plenty of protection.
Fit and Sizing
Over the years, I have learned to order a half size smaller for Sorel products. Doing so again with the Scotia Tall Boot, resulted in a perfect fit. Enough room to layer a thick pair of wool socks if needed, but not too sloppy if worn with a pair of tights or leggings. The Sorel Scotia Tall Boot is available in half and full sizes from 5 to 11, and also size 12 (skipping size 11.5).
Just to the right of the zipper, along the inside of the boot, there is a stretchy panel. This panel allows for some movement within the calf area and keeps the boot from getting too tight. I have pretty muscular calves and found that the size of these boots was perfect in this area. If you have higher calf muscles or they are on the smaller side, these boots may feel too roomy for some.
The Scotia Tall Boot features a molded EVA midsole, which provides a nice cushioned platform. While the removable molded EVA footbed offers some modest arch and heel support. I have a normal arch and foot width, and found the fit to be perfect. The Scotia Tall Boot weighs in at only 16.1 ounces per pair, which is a fraction of the weight of many snow and winter boots. The Scotia Tall Boots feel light on your feet, like wearing a pair of running shoes, but give you awesome coverage.
The Sorel Scotia Tall Boot retails for $250, which is a good $100 more than Sorel’s other snow/winter boots. The added price is due to the incorporation of quality full grained leather, which I predict will last for many years to come. If you are not prepared for this price tag, but like the design of the Scotia Tall Boot, check out the Scotia Boot, a mid-rise boot or some of Sorel’s other offerings available at www.sorel.com or www.amazon.com/sorel.
