Insulated galoshes: what are they and how to choose?
Since ancient times, galoshes were simply necessary when autumn came with its lingering rains, mud and slush. In addition, in the old days, rubber galoshes were pulled over felt boots during the winter thaws. Today, fashion designers present insulated galoshes to the consumer's judgment. We will tell you what they are, as well as how to make the right choice.
History of origin
What is rubber footwear, the Europeans learned thanks to Christopher Columbus, it was he who brought galoshes to Europe. At first, they were made of rubber and were fragile, they had a short service life. Then in the 19th they began to vulcanize rubber, and the manufacture of shoes was put on an industrial base.
Several decades ago, galoshes were not very common in our country. Nowadays, due to the changed design, colors, forms, they have again gained their former popularity. In foreign countries, the demand for such products is growing.
The US military serving in Alaska uses warm felt overshoes.
The combination of rubber with insulation in these models has become widespread. Now there is no need to wear rubber products on winter or autumn shoes to walk on the street in bad weather. It will be enough just to put on insulated galoshes.
Material
For the manufacture of galoshes, both in Russia and abroad, PVC and EVA are used. PVC is the most common material for their production. In black colors, with a glossy sheen on top, with a red lining inside, these products have been familiar to many since childhood. Galoshes have a regular shape and a grooved sole. The main disadvantage is that they are heavy.
EVA is the new material. It consists of 2 interconnected polymers (ethylene and vinyl acetate). In the manufacture of footwear, a small amount of vinyl acetate is used, less than 50%. It is a lightweight material that is resilient and has shock-absorbing properties, which makes it suitable for the manufacture of footwear. Models are made of EVA with an extension made of water-repellent fabric. This type of material resists low temperatures well, and it is normal to positive ones.
Because of this, EVA is also used when sewing special overalls.
There is also a material used for the production of insulated products - DU light. This material is a foamed rubber, which is similar in structure and properties to EVA. This material keeps your feet warm due to its composition. DU light weakly wears out during wear, is elastic and has an increased resistance to frost.
Widespread polyurethane products. Polyurethane acts as a substitute for rubber and rubber. Its positive characteristic is that it is resistant to chemicals, is very economical and has a long service life.
At the same time, the times when galoshes were produced only in black colors are long gone. Nowadays, the situation has changed radically.
Varieties
Models of modern insulated products are much lighter than those that were previously made using PVC. They do not freeze in severe frost, do not slip. There are types that go separately, and the insulation is inserted inside. There are more expensive rubber products that are produced with fur as insulation. The most demanded products are those that have a standard shape, a high top, a cuff that protects against water penetration inside. Products with lacing look very unusual.
Female models
Beauty and style make these shoe items indispensable in bad weather. The appearance and shape is striking in its variety. The most beautiful are yellow models. You can choose any color or shape that can satisfy the wishes of the most picky customer. One of the most popular manufacturers of ladies' models is Luckyland.
Male models
The most common for men are models made by OYO made of PVC, with insulation made of non-woven material.
The presence of a small heel does not allow sliding on wet asphalt, this model can be used for summer cottage work.
Baby models
Insulated models are also available for children. They are quite reliable and protect the child's feet from getting wet and cold.
Advantages and disadvantages
The main advantage of these products is that the feet are protected from getting wet during wear and do not overcool. There is also a negative side, it is associated with the fact that galoshes should not be worn for a long period, as this negatively affects the condition of the legs.
User responses to these products are mostly positive. People liked their convenience and economy.
Remember that when choosing rubber shoes, you must follow one rule: it should not be too loose to dangle on your foot.
The sole bursts instantly. Quality is so bad.