White Mountain Shoes

A Brief History

White Mountain Shoes was founded in 1978 in Lisbon, New Hampshire. At the time, the company operated as a modest domestic footwear factory specializing in women's footwear. Then, in 1980, the company began to grow. As it experienced great surges of popularity throughout the year, the company's determination to create the optimal woman's shoe – one encompassing style, comfort and affordability all at once – came to fruition. The brand eventually grew into a nationally recognized entity.

The company's name and image derive from its factory location in the rural White Mountains of New Hampshire. White Mountain Shoes also has an office in Wellesley, Massachusetts.

Styles of White Mountain Shoes

Though the name suggests a collection of rugged, masculine, and tough shoes, the White Mountain Shoes collection is far from this image. In fact, the company caters solely to women. The line includes exceptionally stylish varieties of boots, clogs and sandals, as well as dressy and casual everyday footwear. The following is a detailed list of styles in the White Mountain Shoes collection:

Boots

Some are dressy, some are sporty and some even possess a bit of an old-fashioned, Dickensian flair. The brand's collection of boots is unique and utterly fashionable, and each pair encompasses traits that go above and beyond the call of style duty.

• Aileen: Exquisitely designed and nearly sculptural in presence, the Aileen boot is a real winner of a shoe. It combines functionality with chic style, resulting in a boot that is simply ideal for the cooler months. A nylon upper and a faux shearling collar provide ample protection against the environment's harshest elements, while wrap lacing detail adds an intricate feminine touch.
• Citi: It recalls images of old London, complete with cobblestone streets (and perhaps Eliza Doolittle singing on the corner, too). This elegant boot is the picture of simplistic charm and beauty. Large eyelets run the length of the leather-coated Citi, and a 3" heel makes it the ideal shoe to pair with a lengthy skirt and fitted blazer. Consider it the classic pair of boots you simply must own.
• Arlington: Teaming the allure of a western shape with the subtle detail of romantically chic corset lace, this boot manages quite a difficult feat. It's a fine balance of magazine-worthy style and truly wearable comfort, and the result is an absolute must-have for boot aficionados. The footbed is padded, providing extra cushion and allowing the wearer hours of comfort!

Clogs

Though some might say their day has long since come and gone, others insist that clogs will never age. One look at White Mountain Shoes' stylish collection of clogs and mules, and even the most stubborn fashion fanatics would be inclined to agree.

• Magdalena: Intricate, decorative stitching provides a marked contrast to this leather slip-on's dark exterior. The lightweight outsole and lightly padded insole guarantee comfort slip resistance and durability all day long.
• Pierce: Dressy but still down-to-earth, the Pierce is a great out-and-about shoe that features all the comfort of a slip-on and all the pizzazz of a glamorous heel. A lining of synthetic fur makes this clog incredibly unique; the material is not often used in footwear and here it serves a valuable purpose in keeping the wearer cozy and comfortable. A cushioned footbed absorbs shock and makes even the faux-wood outsole tolerable to walk on.

Sandals

Spring is on the way, and that can only mean one thing: pedicure time. Showing off those gorgeous tootsies, of course, involves wearing a great pair of sandals. These classic styles maintain a woman's sense of femininity while adding height and remaining flattering regardless of one's outfit.

• Mt. Selma: It's perfect everyday shoe. The Mt. Selma is constructed of supple leather and features a timeless, backless design. A 3" heel adds modest height, while a padded insole allows the wearer to enjoy the air up there without sacrificing comfort.
• Mt. Amata: This unusual wedge slide features intricately braided bands over a wicker-wrapped heel. A non-skid outsole assures the wearer that she's safe, even on a 3 ¾" heel.

Rialto Footwear

Rialto Footwear is the newest division of White Mountain Shoes. Inspired by the architectural beauty and intricate design of the Rialto Bridge in Venice, Italy, the brand aims to project these qualities to their footwear. The line includes a variety of glamorous offerings, such as bejeweled sandals, ruched boots and tailored dress shoes.

Where to Buy

White Mountain Shoes are readily available online. A small selection can be found at Shoes.com, while a more complete collection, including all of the above styles, is available at Zappos.com.

They are also available at select retail stores, including Macy's, Bon-Ton, Parisian, Carson's, Boscov's and DSW.