Saltsox became a reality in 2012 after a blistery cold and particularly extreme winter in the city of Chicago, IL. Several years earlier Cindy and her husband were concerned for the well being of their dogs Zeke and Zoe. The de-icing salt used to clear the city streets and sidewalks was proving to be a major pain in the paw. While there were many great products out there, (and we tried a ton) not a one of them was what we needed for the hustle and bustle of everyday city life. We needed a boot that was: ~ water-proof and kept the paws dry and clean ~ insulated ~ comfortable ~ easy to put on and take off ~ stayed in place Zeke and Zoe became the original test pilots and over a few winters, with several fabric and design changes we were able to perfect our design by testing on dogs of all ages, size, and activity levels on the tough streets of the city. They were put to the test when the polar vortex hit in the winter of 2014 where temperatures plunged to -15 F and quickly turned into one of the worst winters on record. Born of ice and snow and designed from the heart, we began production the following spring. We have your pup's well-being covered year-round now. Saltsox are the perfect boots for dealing with old man winter and all that he can throw your way, while Lavasox offer unique protection from hot pavement and sidewalks, filth and debris. Saltsox are proudly handmade locally in Chicago, IL.