Valenki ranked among the top three winter shoe choices for Russians, a point highlighted in an interview with RIAMO featuring Andrey Kapusta, the Marketing Director of the Kotofey brand. Kapusta explained that traditional felt boots are no longer seen as simply functional footwear; they stand alongside knee-high boots and lace-up designs in terms of popularity and style.
“Felt boots have evolved into not just practical warmth but also a fashion statement. Our latest survey shows that 40% of respondents this season have discovered stylish felt boot options for themselves and their children, covering tastes from classic to decorative embroidery and even beadwork”, Kapusta noted.
Kapusta emphasized that felt boots combine comfort, warmth, and practicality. They are praised for their ability to absorb moisture and wick it away without becoming soaked, a feature that makes them reliable for cold, damp days.
Earlier, the state labeling system press service responsible for Honest Sign data reported a notable rise in sales of felt boots, with growth reaching three hundred seventy-three percent over recent months. Prices remained steady, while production volumes increased by about twenty percent during the same period.
In 2023, leading regions for felt boot production included Yaroslavl and Nizhny Novgorod, with the Republic of Tatarstan also ranking among the top producers. This geographic distribution reflects a strong regional demand and manufacturing capacity that supports a wide range of styles and price points.
Looking ahead, consumers considering autumn and winter wardrobes are encouraged to think about balance—combining warmth with versatility. Felt boots offer an opportunity to pair cozy footwear with everyday outerwear, enabling practical layering choices that adapt to changing weather while maintaining a polished look.