Job Discussion Forums

Shalun · Joined: 20 Oct 2014 Posts: 2

Hi all, I'll be starting work in Moscow in January. I live in a warm part of the US.

Any recommendations on footwear? Boots? Snow boots? Galoshes?

teacher X · Posted: Thu Nov 20, 2014 9:29 am Post subject:

I recommend fire. I usually keep my feet in a constant flame for the duration of winter.

But if you're some big momma's boy who doesn't like setting himself on fire, I would suggest buying some boots with fur lined insides. A few pairs of thick socks wouldn't go amiss.

You can buy a cheap pair in some of the cheaper stores for between 1500 and 3000 rubles. They'll last you probably no more than a year, but they do the job.

Personally, I break through shoes within 6 months, no matter how expensive they are. I don't really find that price correlates with quality, so I just buy the cheap stuff. I bought a pair of winter boots for 2000 this time last year and they lasted me until March, so it was fine.

spiral78 · Joined: 05 Apr 2004 Posts: 11534 Location: On a Short Leash

I was in Moscow Feb-June one year, and I live in cold/very cold climes.

Snow boots, warm and high and 100% waterproof. You carry your work shoes in briefcase or backpack and change when you arrive.
Warm, technical outer and mid layers. Go for a down (or one of those nifty new synthetic down) coats, but be sure it won't die if it gets rained on (ask the salespeople). Technical sweaters and a (non-puffy but warm) vest are a good idea.

I think it's all cheaper in the US, including boots.

Moscow winters can be really extreme; the year I was there, snowpack was 2 meters til April. Filthy, very cold, then it starts to melt and it's even worse. It can be a damp cold that penetrates most 'warm' layers - that's why I think it's better to invest in some really good stuff - you'll be more comfortable and also good quality stuff is less bulky; and it should hopefully last more than one season, unless you try out teacherX's fire trick:-)

Sashadroogie · Posted: Sat Nov 22, 2014 10:47 am Post subject:

Don't waste money on really expensive boots. The combo of extreme conditions and the municipality spraying chemicals to clear the snow from the main roads and pavements results in boots having the limited lifespan mentioned above. Expect boots to need replacing after one year and spend accordingly.

teacher X · Posted: Tue Nov 25, 2014 12:51 pm Post subject:

Speaking of which, I just picked up a pair of winter boots for 1600. They'll last the winter, nothing more. But that's good enough for me.

This is all I'll spend on winter clothes with the possible exception of some thick socks.
I'm a layers guy, so I have enough thermal layers to fight back any low temperature.
Of course, spiral78 is right in what he says about good (usually expensive) gear being less bulky, but I don't mind putting up with the layers.

Sashadroogie · Posted: Wed Nov 26, 2014 4:35 am Post subject:

Makes certain operations a little less easy to carry out, though, in a hurry : )

spiral78 · Joined: 05 Apr 2004 Posts: 11534 Location: On a Short Leash

Yes, being sleekly warm and weatherproof can be a necessity in some situations;-)

jpvanderwerf2001 · Joined: 02 Oct 2003 Posts: 1117 Location: New York

You can't go wrong with Sorel boots with the rubber bottoms. Well worth the money.

teacher X · Posted: Thu Nov 27, 2014 6:59 am Post subject:

Sashadroogie · Posted: Sun Nov 30, 2014 9:00 pm Post subject:

And the shoddy capitalist strategy of substandard products which you have to replace time and time again.

Buy Russian!

Shalun · Joined: 20 Oct 2014 Posts: 2

Thanks for all the advise. Sorry for the late reply, I've been very busy with my seasonal job, as well as other projects.

Followup question: If I'm going the cheap route, should I buy in the US or in Russia? If buying in Russia, I guess that means at least a day or two of shivering in normal shoes...?

(I am also aware of the current economic situation. I'd like to state for the record that I want to go to Russia because I'm interested in Russian History, Language and Culture.)

Sashadroogie · Posted: Sat Dec 06, 2014 12:12 pm Post subject:

Nothing's cheap in Russia. Buy what you can in the US and take it with you.

teacher X · Posted: Sat Dec 06, 2014 12:37 pm Post subject:

He probably shouldn't even bother, this looks to be the lamest winter ever.

http://www.accuweather.com/en/ru/moscow/294021/december-weather/294021

It's not even going to drop below -15. What a weak winter. I've had colder looks from women!

Sashadroogie · Posted: Sat Dec 06, 2014 7:42 pm Post subject:

These forecasts change all the time...

Expect the worst!

nemnoga · Joined: 12 Dec 2008 Posts: 21 Location: Russia

Valenki!