Why every man should invest in a proper pair of boots
From Chelseas to Chukkas, these are the best boots you can buy, for every budget
Words: Kim Silverman
Boots of any sort add a certain toughness to any outfit – they say “I’m ready for whatever lies ahead, and I’ll combat it in style.” With that in mind, gentlemen, look to invest in a quality pair that’ll last as long as you need them to.
From the Chelsea boot (immortalised by The Beatles), to lace-ups (favoured by Daniel Craig’s 007 in Skyfall), here’s a solid list of the best boots to buy, for your off-duty (or on-duty) style…
R.M. WILLIAMS: If you’ve yet to read the memo, you should know that they’re a big deal. Founded in 1932 in Australia (as a result of needing a boot sturdy enough to withstand the rigours of the Australian Outback), it’s now one of the most sought-after shoemakers Down Under.
What’s more, they’ve recently opened their first store Stateside too, due to popular demand. Gentlemen, prized pairs such as the Classic Henley’s are made to order, with estimated delivery times of 6-8 weeks. Undoubtedly worth the price and wait, if you ask us.
SAINT LAURENT: The esteemed Parisian luxury fashion house, known for reviving the youthful subculture of American rock n’ roll, was built from the ashes of Yves Saint Laurent’s archives.
And, by staying true to the brand’s heritage, they’ve spawned the most refined Italian suede Chelseas – a contemporary nod to sixties mod style. An effortlessly tasteful alternative to black, opt for tan to refresh any smart-casual look.
Fairfax and Favor: The British brand has burst onto the scene and created some of the most classic and timeless boots on the market. They’ve created a boot here that can be worn with every outfit, no matter what the occasion is. Pair with dark jeans and a crisp white shirt for a timeless look that’ll go turn heads wherever you go.
BERLUTI: “You cannot be elegant if you are not comfortable and well shod” is this brand’s motto. And the Italian-come-French luxury leather goods house (thanks to LVMH’s acquisition in 1993) dominate the realm of smart-casual luxury wear as a result.
These midnight-blue polished leather boots boast superb craftsmanship, including; padded cuffs, waxed capra trims, leather linings and Goodyear-welted rubber soles – so you can confidently march through whatever the elements throw at you, unscathed.
PRADA: What makes Miuccia Prada soar in the realms of luxury menswear is her ability to refresh classic designs into modern icons for the forward-thinking, modern gentleman.
These pebble-grained leather boots are set perfectly against heritage brogue detailing – faultlessly welted onto heavy-duty rubber soles for unmatched resilience and enduring comfort. We certainly approve, gentlemen.
LORO PIANA: The ‘Urban Walk’ chukka boot, which is perfect for traversing through the city, is a reminder of the Italian way of appropriating sporting attire for more general use.
With nubuck-style leather hand-stitched with waxed threading in Italy, you’ll be reminded of the exquisite craftsmanship that’s gone into making these supple and comfortable boots. The water-repellant finishing and gripped rubber soles will guarantee a lifetime of wear, too.
GRENSON: Founder William Green was the first producer in the world to use the Goodyear welting construction method, which is now a hallmark of all well-made British shoes.
And, since 1866, they’ve set the global benchmark of excellence – taking up to 8 weeks and over 200 pieces for a single hand-crafted pair to be made for your pleasure. Their ‘Marcus’ chukka come welted, allowing resoling when the time comes – and we think the charcoal colour goes handsomely with many smart-casual looks.
Topman: Taking inspiration from one of the most classic pairs of shoes to be invented in the modern day, this faux-suede pair of Chukka boots are some of the most stylish – and affordable – on the market. Perfect for transitioning from winter to spring, these boots are a surefire way to keep you stylish all season long.
J. FITZPATRICK: Founded by Justin FitzPatrick in 2013 – after studying Entrepreneurship at the University of Washington, he passionately vowed to end the culture where a lack of pride in men’s footwear ran rife – J Fitzpatrick shoes are a contemporary spin on classic designs.
And so, the Genesse Jodhpurs live up to its name – with supple oil-tanned leather, a hand-lasted waist all set and hand crafted in Goodyear-welted rubber soles certainly making these a solid choice for smart and casual wear. What’s more, the brand offers made-to-order in almost any style – useful, for inclement weather or sizing woes.
AMI: Launching his own label in 2011, after gaining experience at Dior, Givenchy and Marc Jacobs, Alexandre Mattiussi set himself a mission to make Parisian youth style the coolest in the world.
His suede Jodhpurs are a gentle nod to tradition, with a modern twist – thanks to the resilient lightweight rubber crepe soles which provide superb grip and traction. Perfectly suited for the urbanite and travelling wanderer alike, they pair well with blue or black denim jeans.
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