Winter chill fuels shoe shopping frenzy

Retailers report heavy footfall and a clear shift toward winter shoes as seasonal essential

ISLAMABAD:

As winter tightens its group across the country, shoppers across the federal capital flock to the markets to secure the season's most sought-after footwear before stocks run out. Leather boots, suede shoes, fur-lined loafers, insulated joggers and trekking shoes are selling fast, driven by the sudden drop in temperatures and attractive discounts.

People of all ages are visiting malls, markets and online stores in the capital, while retailers report heavy footfall and rapidly moving stock. Young buyers are leading the demand, parents are shopping for children, and older customers are opting for comfort-focused footwear. Winter shoes are now seen as a necessity rather than a luxury.

Major shopping hubs, including Centaurus Mall, Giga Mall, Safa Gold Mall, Jinnah Super, F-10, G-11 and I-10 Markaz, as well as Aabpara, remain crowded daily. Shoppers compare designs, check materials and assess warmth as stock moves faster than ever.

Muhammad Nasir, a shopkeeper in Aabpara Market, said popular choices this season include leather and suede ankle boots, fur-lined loafers, long snow boots, waterproof trekking shoes, chunky sneakers, moccasins and insulated joggers for children. Women are favouring knee-length leather boots, block-heel suede styles and soft fur pairs, while men prefer rugged leather boots, outdoor footwear and warm joggers. Children, he added, are opting for colourful insulated shoes for chilly school mornings.

Classic colours dominate the market. Black leather and brown suede boots remain the top choices across all age groups due to their versatility. Dark grey and navy are popular among young adults, while women are adding flair with deep burgundy and olive tones. Children, meanwhile, gravitate towards brighter shades such as red and blue. Retailers say neutral colours are selling the fastest, with black and brown leading overall demand.

According to retailers, customers aged 18 to 35 account for most sales. Buyers aged 18 to 25 prefer chunky sneakers, suede boots and trekking shoes, while those between 26 and 35 lean towards leather ankle boots and waterproof footwear. Families are purchasing school shoes for children, and older buyers are prioritising soft leather and cushioned loafers for comfort.

Sellers noted that customer awareness has increased this year, with shoppers closely inspecting leather and suede and asking about warmth and durability.