I’ve never found winter boots because of my skinny calves – I tested the high-street’s & was stunned at the cheap winner

IF you’re like me and struggle to find winter boots which are stylish but comfy you’ve come to the right place.

I’ve spent countless hours up and down the high-street over the years trying on pair after pair of black ones.

Not only is trawling the high street time-consuming, but it’s exhausting too.

Especially in the middle of winter, sweltering in a thick coat and chunky scarf and feeling the disappointment of trying on yet another pair which just don’t look right. 

And not only do they not look right, but they rarely ever fit right either on my somewhat skinny calves.

As the cold weather hits, I look around and see hundreds of people rocking all sorts of gorgeous ones including thigh highs, a cute Chelsea boot or a chunky stomper.

Meanwhile, I’m in my trusty trainers, staring in envy with freezing cold ankles.

And let’s be real, standing at the sidelines watching a football match, or frolicking around the Christmassy Winter Wonderland just isn’t that suitable when your ankles are on show. 

But after years of searching for the perfect winter shoe, I took matters up a notch and went on a hunt to nab the best pair I could find – for the best price.

So if you’re on a budget and searching for boots that’ll ensure you look fabulous this season, read on…

THE BIGGEST LOSER: £62 Cowboy Boots from Next

Cowboy boots – they’re everywhere at the moment.

So when I saw these stitched detail ankle boots from Next, I thought I’d jump on the trend.

But unfortunately, these Western shoes left my legs, and ankles, totally exposed.

I get they’re not meant to be leg-hugging, but these leather shoes are definitely not for me.

The block heels meant they felt pretty comfy and I’m sure I’d be able to dance all night in them.

But they definitely don’t suit me, so there’s no way you’ll catch me in these this winter. 

Rating: 2/10 

THE SECOND LOSER: £45 Chisel Toe Boots from Next

Whilst I thought the black crocodile print on these ankle boots was super stylish, when I tried them on, I quickly realised they weren’t for me.

Not only did the print not look good on me, but they were incredibly baggy around my ankles too.

To make matters worse, the tiny kitten heel was not a bit of me and made me feel 100 years old. 

And just when I thought things couldn’t get any worse, they made my size 5 feet look absolutely huge. 

Whilst some might see the chisel toe style of this shoe as chic, for me, it’s a big no no.

Rating: 3/10

IN THIRD PLACE: £50 Double Buckle Biker Boots 

There’s no doubt that this £50 chunky pair of boots from River Island left me with very mixed reviews.

They slipped on pretty easily and weren’t as baggy around my legs as some other contenders.

I liked the buckle detailing and they felt durable, like they’d battle rain, snow and ice, and be a great fit in my winter wardrobe.

However, it was only when I turned to the side when I realised that these weren’t the winning boots for me.

Thanks to the chunky sole, my size 5 feet looked more like a size 10. 

Yes, they’re labelled as chunky, but these are far too big and clumpy for me. 

Although I want a pair of boots that’ll last the whole winter, and for many years to come, I don’t fancy dragging these stompers around this season. 

Rating: 5/10 

A STRONG CONTENDER: £42.99 Chunky Chelsea Boots from New Look

Unlike the cowboy boots from Next which left my skinny legs on show, these chunky Chelsea boots from New Look had me impressed.

Initially, I didn’t think they’d be for more, but when I put them on, I was pleased with the fit.

At £42.99, they’re not dirt cheap, but they’re not going to break the bank either.

They come in black and a chocolate brown, and I have to say, I think they’d be great for keeping your feet warm in the cold weather. 

Not only are they flattering and comfortable, thanks to the cushioned padding, soft lining and flexible sole, but they can also be dressed up or style down too.

They’re sure to look great with jeans for running errands, or they can be dressed up with a skirt or dress and tights for a more punk rock evening look too.

Rating: 7/10 

THE WINNER: £24 Thigh Highs from Primark

I never thought I’d be a thigh-high boot kind of girl, but it appears I was very, very wrong.

After trying on multiple pairs of disaster boots, I finally found the winning pair – and much to my surprise (and pleasure), they were from Primark.

Not only did the trendy boots look super sleek and stylish, but at £24, I was gobsmacked.

When I initially picked them up I wasn’t totally sold on them.

I raised my eyebrows at the slightly straight toe design, but as soon as I got them on, I was beaming. 

The black boots have a padded insole and the quality feels amazing. 

Paired with a little black dress, some sheer tights and statement jewellery, I think these boots are sure to be a real winner this winter. 

Rating: 10/10