I have to admit that I think of galoshes as something worn only by old men. In some circles, galoshes are referred to as “overshoes” or “rubbers,” which is much more fun to say. But as it its with many tried and true ways and means (think safety razors, classic rules of tailoring and other rehashes of things that have been around forever), the old men are on to something.
With the particularly rough cold and snow of a harsh winter, the sidewalks turn into runways of dirty slush and salt, which can wreak havoc on good shoes, even those with rubber soles. Some water damage can be kept at bay when shoes are treated with a good cream and polish, but the corrosive effect of salt can be nasty.
Unless one treats his shoes like some cheap and disposable footwear that can be discarded at the first sign of damage or sole wear, good shoes are an investment that warrant protection. Galoshes are the perfect design. They’re practical, functional and discreet.
The best galoshes for the money that I’ve come across are from SWIMS in Norway. They look great and they do the job.
And speaking of old men, the SWIMS story started in 2006 when a Norwegian student was walking the rainy streets of New York City in his grandpa’s galoshes. So respect your elders. They know a thing or two.
3 Comments
I like Totes better because they have one that is ankle high like a boot. The flatter galoshes do not protect from high snow. As for de-salting, I recommend Murphy’s Oil Soap, a good Cleveland product. There is also saddle soap. De-salting liquid has a water base and the stuff just spreads the salt stain. I am going to be doing some de-salting tonight with a fine pair of Allen Edmonds.
Those look perfect. I’m going to grab a pair. BTW, what kind of jacket/coat do you wear when it rains?
Vintage raincoat from Mad Men: https://georgehahn.com/jim-cutlers-navy-blue-trench-coat/