This is a good challenge. She needs something tough, probably reasonably light, and warm. Or at least adaptable to be warm.
Merrell Thermo Pathfinder
Thermo PathfinderMerrell makes a cold-weather boot called the Thermo Pathfinder ($125; www.merrellboot.com), which is a tough, insulated boot that is also waterproof. Yet they聮re fairly light and would work as an everyday shoe for walking around town, wearing in a classroom (will she be teaching?), that sort of thing. It聮s available in women聮s sizes.
An alternative is a quality leather hiking boot such as Montrail聮s Solitude II ($140; www.montrail.com). For warmth, she can wear wool socks such as SmartWool Light Hikers ($16; www.smartwool.com) and perhaps supplement those with vapor barrier liners, which are waterproof sock liners that reduce evaporation from sweat, keeping the feet warmer. There are several brands available, and most are around $25 (note: she should change into dry socks every day when wearing a vapor barrier sock, otherwise she might get 聯trench foot”).
Also, several companies make good-quality, durable, low-top shoes that are less like a hiking boot. But, alas, they聮re mostly for men. Timberland聮s Classic Trekker ($140; www.timberland.com) is one such shoe聴all leather, with a Gore-Tex liner, supportive steel shank, and grippy leather soles.
Hope this helps!
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