I Walked Over 30,000 Steps Around Norway in These All-weather Chelsea Boots — and Didn’t Get a Single Blister

I’m a carry-on-only kind of traveler — which is never more challenging than when I’m packing for a winter trip. After all, bulky sweaters and jackets take up significant real estate in my suitcase, no matter how aggressively I try to contain them in packing cubes. As a result, I need to be incredibly selective about what I pack, and that includes footwear. 

Earlier this year, I took a trip to Norway for a week, to visit the snowy mountains of Voss and explore the scenic city streets of Oslo. I didn’t have space to pack extra shoes in my small suitcase (other than my running sneakers), so the ones I was wearing to the airport would be the pair that had to last me the full week. The footwear I chose is Merrell’s Bristol Chelsea Boots.

Merrell Bristol Chelsea Boots

I’ve been a big fan of Merrell ever since I wore the brand’s classic Moab hiking boots while hiking my first “14er” (a mountain that’s 14,000 feet above sea level) in Colorado back in 2017. I’ve tested plenty of Merrell shoes and gear over the last seven years, and I’ve continued to be impressed by the brand’s quality, durability, and comfort. That’s why, when I could only take one pair of shoes with me to Norway, I trusted their Bristol boots — which have the build of a hiking shoe and the style of a classic Chelsea boot — would do the trick.

Luckily, my instincts were right. I broke these boots in while walking through the airport (yep, they were fresh out of the box), and was immediately impressed by how comfortable they felt. I also appreciate that they looked chic paired with leggings and an oversized sweater.

In the ski town of Voss (where former Olympian Kari Traa taught me how to ski—that’s a story for another day), I felt comfortable wearing these boots in snowy conditions. The outsole provided plenty of grip on the wet, slippery ground. I also loved the substantial sole, with thick lugs that gave me plenty of support in various terrains. Plus, I didn’t have to worry about the leather upper getting ruined in damp weather conditions, since the material is waterproof. 

After spending a few days in Voss, I took the six-hour train to Oslo, Norway’s capital city. There, I walked over 30,000 steps in these boots, exploring the Opera House, Munch Museum, Deichman Library, National Museum, and various charming neighborhoods like Grünerløkka. Available in black or white, I could easily dress my white pair up or down for a nice dinner out or a day of sightseeing and shopping. And, even though I’d never worn these boots before the trip, I walked away without a single blister. That said, I do highly recommend pairing these shoes with some thicker crew or hiking socks, as the high-top upper of the boots may rub on your calves otherwise. 

Merrell Bristol Chelsea Boots

One more thing I love about these shoes: They’re made with eco-friendly materials, like recycled rubber and recycled mesh lining. They also feature an insole that’s treated for natural odor control, which is a major bonus.

Don’t just take my word for it; plenty of Merrell customers are raving about these boots. “They are comfortable, warm, waterproof, and have great traction! I wore them every day on my 10-day ski trip. Wearing these is like walking on clouds. They don’t dig into your ankles like some Chelsea boots do,” wrote one shopper. 

Another buyer called them, a “great, stylish boot that worked well for me in the city and also hiking over rocks and through mud.” It’s worth noting that some buyers say these boots are a bit narrow—I personally have narrow feet, so this worked well for me, but those with wider feet may want to size up.I was a bit wary of packing bright white leather boots for an active trip, but I was happy to find my boots still looked fantastic at the end of my Norway travels. I will absolutely be bringing these functional Chelsea boots on upcoming winter excursions in 2025 and beyond. 

More Comfortable Hiking Boots to Shop:

Sorel Explorer STRT™ Chelsea Boot

Blundstone Women’s 1448 Chelsea Boot 

Danner Bull Run Chelsea Boots

Xero Ridgeway Chelsea Boots 

Merrell Harper Lace-up

Love a great deal? Sign up for our T+L Recommends newsletter and we’ll send you our favorite travel products each week.