THE JOURNAL

Whether your idea of an adventure is journeying across the city in inclement weather, or trekking up a mountain, here’s how to style the most practical of footwear.
Hiking boots are something that you may not already count as part of your footwear arsenal. Which is a shame. In fact, despite their very clearly does-what-it-says-on-the-tin name, they’re a rather versatile shoe that you can use to toughen up the style of your casual or weekend outfits just as much as you can can use them to take on tough terrain. To demonstrate this fact, we’ve put together the following outfit, which could feasibly be worn for a quick trip to the shops, but will also perform, should you actually take a leap into the unknown and need them to.
THE BOOTS
We perhaps wouldn’t suggest that you take O’Keeffe’s Alvis hiking boots down your nearest muddy gorge or jagged hilltop – let’s be honest, they’re a bit too nice for that. But the fact is, thanks to their completely waterproof waxed suede fabric, they will hold up against the elements, should you be caught out in the rain. We highly recommend that you pair them with a some proper chunky knit socks, such as this cashmere pair from British brand Sunspel.
THE TROUSERS
The supreme attraction of Japanese brand Snow Peak is that its products deliver on both a technical level (the brand was launched in 1958 by Japanese mountaineer Mr Yukio Yamai) and an aesthetic one. These shell cargo trousers, in a stretchy cotton twill, are a case in point, with multiple pockets to store all the compasses, maps and handwarmers you might need for an expedition, but, crucially a pleasing minimal look and flattering fit. In short, feel free to wear these for casual as well as performance purposes (you might want to signal it’s the former, rather than the latter, by adding a cap from Polo Ralph Lauren).
AND IF YOU’RE GETTING SERIOUS…
Ok, so you are actually committed to this hiking thing? No problem. If you’re going anywhere high up, though, you’ll need to stay warm, especially as winter kicks in more fully. For this purpose, there are few better options than those proferred by Canada Goose, a Toronto-based brand that has been fending off arctic chill since 1957. Its Constable Parka was originally designed for the Northern Police, so should be perfect for any outing ranging from a morning winter walk to a high-speed husky sledge chase. Double up on the warmth with this fleece zip-up top from Swedish brand Our Legacy.