Valenki are traditional Russian footwear worn in the winter months. The boots are made from sheep’s wool and manufacturing takes a couple of days, with most of it still done by hand.
The raw wool is prepared and a special machine helps to make the non woven wool fabric into rolls. The Valenki makers then make a stocking which is several times larger than the final boot, which is boiled to make the fabric denser. The boot is then shaped over a wooden form and left to dry.
Valenki are not water-resistant but are good for wearing on dry snow when the weather is cold and frosty. Their soles can wear out quickly and are sometimes soled with leather or rubber, but many people simply buy a new pair each year.
This children’s pair from 2000 have a leaf design on the leg.
Northampton Museums 