It is no wonder that sheepskin boots have gotten so popular. They are comfortable, cozy and keep your toes nice ‘n toasty. I’ve been wearing all shapes and sizes of sheepskin boots for a few years, my feet live in them from October to April! I have tried out a few brands, including the premier brand, Dominion.
About Dominion New Zealand
Dominion was launched in 2010 as a prestigious heritage brand. Dominion brand has handcrafted sheepskin apparel, footwear and accessories that deliver the luxury of sheepskin, by carefully melding fashion and function. Launched in Milan, Dominion now distributes internationally to Europe, Korea, Japan, Russia and the USA. The company is a family values business and focuses on it’s environmental impact. Some neat facts: It is run with efficiency and minimal waste, especially as they use only Grade A Sheepskin Twinface. The electricity is run through Meridian, a renewable energy electrical supplier mainly using hydro and wind power.
First Thoughts
I was highly impressed with the shipping of the ‘Kate’ women’s boots. They came to my door quickly, in great condition. Everything from the shoebox to the materials were all made in New Zealand. When I first opened the Dominion box, I noticed just how delicately each boot was wrapped in plastic and tissue paper and then stuffed with cardboard to keep their shape. These boots were in mint condition!
Style
Dominion offers many different styles of boots and slippers for men and women from Annelise, Godiva, Katherine to the Lara. The designs are all different from low boot to tall, zipper to slip-on, with colors black, grey, chestnut and chocolate.
I opted for the ‘Kate’ style. The boots were remarkably different than other sheepskin boots I’ve had in the past. The main difference was in the style. These boots were half equestrian style – with waterproof PVC on the bottom and sheepskin on the top, instead of full sheepskin. I felt this style was more pleasing to the eye, less bulky, and less casual.
The sole and foot portion is practical for days you need some waterproofing! With a rigged bottom sole, they are safe for playing in – not slipping in – puddles. There is a short (about 1") heel on the boots which give some additional height and more of a chic look.
The sheepskin itself is on the inside of the boot for added comfort and warmth. There is a 1/4" insole layer and of course the 10" top portion. The lining is of the most superior quality, incredibly soft and doesn’t shed. It is form fitted to mold to a female foot. 
Size
The boots come in European sizes, there are no half sizes – so I decided to round up. I ordered the 39. I am typically a 7 1/2 – 8 US. The boots are easy to get on, but getting off can be hard. They fit great on my foot once they are on, but pulling them up and over my heel is a challenge. I will be wearing thin socks, if I wear any with these boots. With wool or other winter socks, I might have to cut my foot out of them! Therefore, I suggest ordering up a size (or two!).
Final Thoughts
One thing I want to note. I sprayed the top boot shaft layer with a suede protectant for sheepskin type boots. It is recommended to keep them from staining or getting wet.
I have been wearing these warm insulated boots in two fashion ways. Either with skinny jeans tucked or underneath pants – just displaying the rain boot-looking toe. I absolutely love the way the ‘Kate’ style looks, so distinguished and unique. They are comfortable to walk around in, and have survived some shopping mall-madness walking. Not only do my feet stay dry and warm – there is no risk of wet socks! Overall, these boots are the ultimate in comfort and durability. I am already eyeing a few others boots from Dominion!
Price & Purchase
The ‘Kate’ style boots are handmade in New Zealand and are priced for $349. With that price you get amazing quality, a fabulous design and the finest materials of leather, PVC and sheepskin. The boots can be purchased online at dominionnewzealand.com.
Dominion NZ has heaps of discounted footwear right now. And with the holidays around the corner, it’s a great time to stock up for yourself or for loved ones this holiday!
Coupon Code
Awesome sauce! Just for my readers, now through the end of 2012, you can receive 10 % off using the discount code "WITHOURBEST" . Enter at checkout on Dominionnewzealand.com. The discount will apply to Kate or Katherine boots only.
