Valenki

From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia

Valenki (Russian: валенки - plural, валенок (valenok) - singular) are traditional Russian winter footwear, essentially a felt boots. Its' very name, valenki literally means, "made by felting". Valenki are made of wool felt. They are not water-resistant, therefore they are worn with galoshes to protect the felt. Galoshes also protect the valenki soles from wear and tear. As such, valenki are the footwear of choice for many Russians. Since the second half of the 20th century, valenki have become more popular as female footwear, rather than male one. Besides, valenki are popular as female home footwear in winter. However, even at home valenki are always worn with galoshes.

In the 20th century, an improvement in technology allowed manufacturers to vulcanize rubber overshoe-style protection right onto valenki to provide better water and piercing protection while retaining the advantages of the felt. These boots are popular mostly as a male valenki, while unrubbered are worn by women.

Valenki are often decorated with embroidery, pompons and beads. In many Russian towns, like Myshkin, valenki are an important craft worthy of display in a museum.

Valenki are a part of the Russian army uniform. Although opponents point out that valenki are not perfect footwear for fast movements, it should be noted that both winter boots and valenki are worn in the Russian army and that valenki are generally preferred for lower temperatures.