The North Face Back to Berkeley Boot SE

Insulation

The Primaloft Eco insulation has kept my feet nice and toasty. But there is no insulation under the insole, so standing around on cold ground for long periods of time (like when you’re waiting for trains in the Alps in the dead of winter) can get a bit chilly. Because the sole of the boot is relatively thin and flexible, it doesn’t provide that much insulation from the ground. I have worn these boots in temperatures down into the low teens and have been fine, so long as there wasn’t too much standing around.

Performance

The Back-to-Berkeley is designed to be a casual boot, and is perfect for casual activities in winter. Bar hopping for après ski? Check. Walking the dog in the snow? Check. Shoveling the driveway? Check. Going to a football game? Check. Winter hikes on easy trails? Check.

This is a great everyday, semi-active winter boot. I went on a 19-day trip to the Alps in December and wore them everyday with no complaints. I didn’t rent a car, so they took me on many long walks from bus stops to hotels and back again. I had no problems with their performance at all, and it’s an added bonus that they look nice—especially in places like St. Moritz where the streets are lined with Prada, Tom Ford and Burberry.

Durability

Overall, the boots have held up great. The soles show a bit of wear but I would imagine that they will last for at least 3 winters without losing an appreciable amount of tread.

The wool looks just like it did the day I got them, and I haven’t had any pilling at all.

review of The North Face Back-to-Berkeley SE Boot, Blister Gear Review
Sam’s foot, wrapped in the Back-to-Berkeley SE.

Bottom Line

The Back-to-Berkeley SE Boot from The North Face is unique but not super flashy. That’s a great combination in my book, and I get compliments on them all the time.

If you’re looking for a casual boot and want something that looks good and performs as an everyday option in cold temperatures, I would highly recommend the Back-to-Berkeley SE boot. And If felted wool isn’t your thing, The North Face makes this boot in other materials and retro colorways to fit any taste.

 

1 comment on “The North Face Back to Berkeley Boot SE”

  1. These are by no means waterproof. After the third use, in light rain, my toes were wet. Super disappointed. Otherwise, I love them. Great for dry, cool/warm weather.

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