Valenki

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Russian valenki

Valenki (Russian: валенки — plural, валенок (valenok) — singular) are traditional Russian winter footwear, essentially 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 sometimes worn with galoshes to protect the felt. Galoshes also protect the valenki soles from wear and tear. As such, valenki were the footwear of choice for many Russians. Since the second half of the 20th century, valenki have lost most of their appeal in cities, due to their association with rustic style of dress.

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.

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 in winter.[1] 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.