Before I moved to California, I never really understood why people loved sheepskin boots so much. Now I get it. When it’s chilly outside or the floor in your house cold, there’s no better way to keep those toes toasty.
If you’re looking to add a pair of sheepskin boots to your closet this winter, one of the best options out there is the Platinum Stinger boot by EMU Australia. Made from high-quality water resistant sheepskin, they keep your feet both dry and warm. All-around, this boot is designed to last a very long time. Seams are double-stitched, which gives them added strength and durability and the (anatomically correct) sheepskin-lined insoles can be removed and replaced if needed. A lightweight, well-constructed outsole means they are also very comfortable to walk in.
Unlike many other similar boots (many of which are made in unregulated factories in China) the Stinger Platinum collection is hand-crafted in Australia, in a workshop located in Geelong, Victoria. This is the heart of one of the world’s foremost wool-growing regions, and many consider this to be the birthplace of the sheepskin boot.
The Stinger Platinum comes in three styles – Hi, Lo and Mini — for both men and women. I chose the Lo (in gray) because it seemed to be the most versatile. For such a well-made pair of boots, they are actually reasonably priced ($129-189), especially considering they’ll last you a good long while. I’ve had mine for almost a year now, and even though I have worn them nearly every day (mostly around the house, actually), they feel almost like new. That’s what we call good stuff.