It is often believed that felt boots are a long-outdated part of the wardrobe, which has been completely replaced by modern boots and shoes. However, this is misleading! Felted shoes can not only be a very unusual part of the wardrobe, but also remain an important condition for health. The thing is that some body problems are caused by too cold or uncomfortable shoes. That's why Warm feet are the key to health. Felt boots can provide the most comfortable temperature and safety for your feet. Moreover, they do this much better than, for example, leather boots. Why? Let's talk about it.
Felt boots and boots - popular winter footwear
When choosing shoes for the winter, we look for a pair that will be warm and durable at the same time.
Felt boots
First, you need to understand what felt boots are and how they differ from the shoes familiar to modern people. The name “felt boots” comes from the word “felt”. This word describes the technological process of manufacturing a product.
Reference. The first evidence of felt shoes dates back to 2000 BC, made in the area of modern Turkey.
Material
Initially, felt boots were made exclusively by hand, from sheep or goat wool. Although there is evidence of the existence of products made from camel wool, the first two types are most widespread.
Later, individual production was replaced by industrial manufacturing of these shoes. It was during this period that wool products became most widespread both among peasants and among the wealthy segments of the population.
How to make felt boots
The production of these products is quite simple, but labor-intensive.
- The wool is combed and wound onto special blanks.
- Then each layer is subjected to thermal hydrotreatment, after which a new layer is wound on it, which is also processed.
- They are shaped using special blocks, and then the excess wool is ground off.
- Modern models are equipped with rubber soles for greater durability.
Advantages
- An undoubted advantage is heat resistance And moisture protection. This quality is caused by the unique molecular structure of natural wool.
- Wherein the material “breathes” well and absorbs moisture from the inside.
- Thanks to the multi-layer nature and small areas of air between the hairs, felt boots do not release heat, and air is an excellent heat insulator.
Important! Natural wool has an excellent effect on the thermoregulation of the legs and also has orthopedic properties.
Flaws
- Wet soles in wet weather. Because of this, you will not be able to wear shoes without rubber soles.
- Discomfort when using a new pair. This feeling arises due to the non-standard shape of the shoes.However, over time, felt boots “sit” on the leg quite quickly.
- High-quality modern felt boots have a fairly high price, as they are made from natural material.
Leather boots
Gradually, boots made of leather replaced felt boots. They are easier to manufacture and have good wear resistance. With the growth of technology, boots began to displace their competitor.
Leather boots are made from pieces of leather that are cut according to a given shape. And then they are sewn together with the sole.
Advantages
- Nice leather boots are characterized by wear resistance.
- Genuine Leather perfectly protects feet from moisture.
- There are models of leather shoes with natural wool inside. Such shoes not only perfectly protect from moisture, but also retain heat.
Flaws
- The skin practically does not allow moisture to pass through, both externally and internally. This can cause various problems, ranging from an unpleasant odor to the development of bacteria.
Important! Long-term wearing of leather shoes is not recommended.
What is the secret of the warmth of felt boots?
Many generations of people have had the opportunity to see that felt boots provide warmth to their feet better than boots. This is due to natural wool, which itself is an excellent temperature-regulating material.
Felted products simultaneously protect from moisture and allow your feet to breathe thanks to the unique structure of wool fibers. They are covered with a natural layer of natural fat.
Important! In some industries, wool is sprayed with a special hydrophobic material. This improves the protection of shoes from moisture.
The unique properties of wool allow you to stay in such shoes for a long time in the cold and not freeze. Therefore, felt boots were able to overcome thousands of years and have reached our time practically unchanged.