Seeing in the new season with new boots

There’s a Swedish saying: there’s no such thing as bad weather, only bad clothes. Having spent a lot of time in Stockholm over the past ten or so years with my husband’s family – including in -20°c temperatures, knee-deep snow and icy rain - I wholeheartedly agree with the sentiment. There's no getting away from the weather when it's so cold your face feels like it's going to shatter, the only thing you can do is be prepared.

Whether city or country-based, the Scandinavians are well-accustomed to the changes and extremes of their climate and so dress accordingly. In the winter, no child under eight goes outside without a full snowsuit, boots and gloves. Thermals are a must for all and quilted outerwear an absolute must.

And, well-known for their sense of style as much their snow, Swedes also manage to fuse innate practicality with fashion.

Ok, so our winters aren't as extreme as they can be in Sweden but I still think there's much we Brits can learn from the super-practical, super-stylish Scandinavians. And what better time to start than now, in autumn. And what better place to start than from the feet up.

My love for walking, whatever the season or weather, means that a pair of quality boots is an absolute necessity for me - better yet, a pair that ticks the style and comfort boxes simultaneously. Enter the Tullymore II boot from British country and equestrian brand, Rydale.

Made from supple and durable leather with a cleated, rubber sole, these knee-high boots are certainly well-equipped for the unpredictable British weather and rural terrain. But unlike a pair of wellies for example, the Tullymore II doesn’t feel just like another all-weather shoe. They have a soft lining that makes them wonderfully cosy and comfortable.

They're also roomy enough for a thick pair of socks (perfect for frosty morning walks) without feeling like they could shoot off in any direction leaving you shoe-less in cloying mud; they're nicely rounded to the foot and have a drawstring opening for an adaptive fit.

On the outside, the Tullymore II looks country without being twee and the chestnut brown shades with neat stitch detailing keeps them understated enough to wear on jaunts into town too.

I certainly think the Swedes will approve. And it's a thumbs up from me too.

Please note, the boots featured in this post have been gifted by Rydale in exchange for writing an honest and authentic review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.