The summer is well and truly over as the weather takes a turn for the worse and the rain setting in. It’s time to prepare yourself; it’s boot season again. Gone are the flimsy light-weight boat shoes, trainers and espadrilles but instead it’s time don a more reliable style of footwear. That’s the thing with boots, you don’t need to worry about them once you’ve tied your laces; they require very little maintenance and work both in casual and formal environments, so they can be paired with pretty much anything you have hanging in your wardrobe. But what type of boot do I buy, we hear you ask? To help you make the right decision we’ve compiled a list of five specific styles that should keep you warm and dry whatever the weather.

Leather Chukka boots are an everyday essential. Suede desert boots were great in the summer months but they simply weren’t a sustainable option. Chukkas, on the other hand, are about the same height, shape and size as the desert boot but are more suited for wearing in the evening. They can be dressed up or down but look great matched with dark denim, grey chinos or tweed trousers. A great all-rounder.

Tan or burgundy brogue boots are the perfect dress footwear. The brogue detailing adds a level of formality to the relaxed silhouette and burgundy and tan shades are the go-to colour choice for gents wanting to stand out from the crowd. For every day pair the boots with jeans and other rugged workwear items such as cord shirts or leather jackets. However, for a smarter twist they look especially great with traditional suit fabrics; think wool, flannel, and tweed. To add some detail to your outfit, fold the hem of your trousers, jeans or chinos a couple of times to dress down the look slightly while also allowing the boot to be shown off in all its glory.

The Chelsea boot was last seen making their comeback last Autumn/Winter, if you don’t already own a pair of Chelsea boots you’re not doing yourself, or your feet, any justice. Instead of opting for the rather obvious Bob Dylan/early Beatles black leather, why not opt for a Chelsea in a shade of brown, be it chocolate, walnut or tan? Embrace the boot’s rock ‘n roll heritage and team them with slim black jeans, a plain white tee and leather biker jacket. Make sure you look out for burnished toe styles, they add character to your boots whilst also showing that you’re a man who pays attention to the details.

Yet what about when you have to deal with torrential rain, sleet or snow? The answer is in duck boots. Traditionally they have brown rubber bottoms and olive leather uppers but many modern alternatives feature a variety of colours and styles. They are probably the most comfortable boots you’ll wear and have a more interesting shape and history compared to the standard Wellington. Pair with heavy duty twill chinos, denim shirts, tweed blazers or a quilted jacket for the ultimate town-meets-country look.

And finally we have hiking boots, the boots you’re not afraid of getting down and dirty with. Red Wing or Wolverine make great pairs, however, it all comes down to your own personal taste and the role that they will play in your wardrobe. Team with worn in denim, Oxford cloth shirts and rugby tops. Tip: Style with a pair of thick boot socks poking out the top in a contrasting colour or pattern, they’ll inject some colour and life into your otherwise practical winter looks.

So there you have it, five styles that will see you not only through this winter but many more to come. Don’t forget to treat your footwear as an investment, after all our feet do deserve the best.

 

Grant Wilkinson