Product Review: Merrell Women's Oslo

Jenny from Evanston on the Women's Merrell Oslo Waterproof boot:

I recently indulged in buying the Merrell Oslo, and I can't say I regret a single penny. Coming from a person who thought she could squeeze just one more season out of her old, tore- up boots, I now see the light and feel the warmth of the boots' Polartec insulation. It is a freezing, slippery walk to and from the train, one that calls for warmth and traction, and the Oslo boots have proved themselves thus far. They have been able to handle the sub-zero temps and the extremely slushy curbsides I always find myself falling into. It is a joy to find a reliable, fully supportive and cute winter boot with an integrated air-cushion midsole, which means I can feel the support even when I'm on my feet all day! Merrell boasted about its Winter Artrek lug sole that would help keep me upright, and I was immediately impressed when I felt the tread's stickiness. After many walks I can now say with confidence they certainly do aid in maneuvering around the ice rink that becomes our sidewalks. I have yet to pull out my YakTrax this year simply because my boots have been that great!

(I'm realizing now that I have perhaps jinxed myself - I better go dig those out of the closet.)

Whatever winter boot or shoe you choose this year, make sure you treat it with a waterproof solution, such as Granger's, ReviveX, Nikwaxor Sno-Seal, because the city salts love to feed on your kicks and will do some major damage without treatment. I learned the hard way a few times.

Cheers to many magical winter walks.

Thanks Jenny! Readers, any comments on the Oslo? We'd love to hear them. Or, send your thoughts on any Uncle Dan's product. Share the love - and more importantly, the knowledge!

Baby, It's Cold Outside

Hey all - we're back. Sorry about the down time - hope you had a great holiday season and a happy new year. We sure did.

Of course, here in Chicago, the start of the new year means more than finally working off all that pizza weight: It signals the start of winter. Not the friendly, fluffy-flakes and twinkling-lights winter, mind you, but the in-your-face winter that dares you to step outside.

It officially started today: There are predictions of a high - high - of zero for The Second City. This is the sort of cold that makes you tear up involuntarily, then makes you worried that those tears will freeze your eyes shut.

So, if you've been putting off picking up those new winter boots, gloves, scarves, coats or whatever, bundle up in whatever you've got and head to Uncle Dan's. We'll set you up with some great new stuff that will keep you warm. Not quite as great as a cup of cocoa and a fire, but you can't take those with you, nor get them at prices like we have.

In fact, now through Jan. 31, we're marking down items every day, so keep stopping by to see what deals have popped up. Also, be sure to sign up for the e-club for even more deals.



As a bonus, here's a cool photo gallery of winter - no pun intended - from the Chicago Tribune.