Winter markets are the heart of the festive season with twinkling lights, delicious smells of mulled wine, and that unmistakable nip in the air. For vendors like Justin from Loch and Stock Smokers, these markets are the perfect place to share his Great Taste award-winning smoked treats, with his mouthwatering smoked salmon and deep filled bagels. But working the winter markets isn’t all candy canes and mulled wine - it can be long hours, biting cold, and the need to stay on your feet all day.
That’s where the Hoogah boots from KickBack Shoes step in, to keep Justin’s toes from feeling like they’re going to fall off - in fact, Justin jokes these fluffy wool-lined leather boots keep his feet “proper toasty” even on the chilliest of winter market days.
Salmon can be a chilly business
Justin might be used to the cold, seeing as his smoked salmon comes fresh from the Scottish Highlands, but that doesn’t mean it’s easy to brave the winter markets. Justin’s days at festive winter markets start long before the first shopper arrives. Before dawn, he’s unloading boxes, setting up his stall and prepping samples. By the time the market opens, he’s in full swing. From chatting with customers, slicing fresh salmon and tempting hungry passer-bys with wafts of whiskey oak smoked salmon or sizzling smoked bacon.
But while customers come and go, Justin stays put. Hours on hard ground, surrounded by winter air, can be brutal. “Winter is coming and standing outside selling my smoked salmon can be a tad cold on the feet”.
Enter the Hoogah Boots
But this year, Justin found The Hoogah boots from KickBack Shoes. Designed with a soft, deep-pile thermal 100% woven wool lining and a sturdy leather exterior, these boots are made for keeping feet toasty during long winter days. For someone like Justin, who’s on his feet from early doors opening the stall to late night, the lightweight design and soft lining has been a lifesaver. “Even at the end of the day, my feet still feel great,” he says. “Plus, KickBack sent some cosy shoes to drop into after a long day”.
Why comfort makes a difference
Nobody works their best when they’re cold or uncomfortable. For Justin, having shoes that work as hard as he does, means he can focus on what he loves - chatting with customers, sharing his story, and making sure everyone leaves with something delicious.
“Winter markets are my favourite time of year,” he says. “It’s festive, it’s fun, and I get to meet so many people. Having the right gear just makes it easier to enjoy it all.”
Stay “proper toasty” this season
If you’re braving the cold this winter - whether at a market shopping for gifts, taking a winter walk, or just chasing after festive cheer - take a leaf out of Justin’s book and find yourself a pair of warm shoes that look good and make the season better, both out and about or when you kick back at home after your day. Check out the Hoogah collection to keep your feet warm and comfy, no matter what the weather throws your way.
And if you’re heading to a winter market, look for Justin at Loch and Stock Smokers. Pick up some of his incredible smoked salmon or try one of his iconic deep filled bagels for an unforgettable bite.