The Shellista IV is made from full-grain leather and ballistic nylon, two strong materials that provide superb protection and maintain long-term durability. The shaft comprises a patchwork-like upper, with sections of full-grain leather and nylon, providing lateral support around the sides of the foot and rear support around the upper ankle. The outsole is The North Face's lightweight Surface Control rubber compound. At roughly 2 inches thick, this provides a solid barrier between your feet and the snow below.The Shellista IV offers great protection from snowdrifts up to 11 inches high. The faux fur insulation at the collar keeps snow out, so it doesn't sink into the boot's shaft. The seams, however, are only water-resistant, not entirely waterproof. While this boot does well in snow and rain, it was not made to withstand soaking wet conditions.