THE JOURNAL
3 MINUTE READ
Five Boots To Keep You On A Firm Footing This Winter
Words by Mr Shane C Kurup
Photography by Mr Leandro Farina
Styling by Ms Otter Jezamin Hatchett
26 November 2021
Even if you’re a devout sneakerhead, when fickle meteorological fronts loom, you really want something with a little more brawn under foot. You wouldn’t want to risk trashing your box-fresh Balenciagas wading through slush now, would you? Luckily, some of this season’s best boots take their cues from the hiking trail and military drill ground, so they’re more than a match for whatever Mother Nature throws at your feet.
01.
The hybrid boots
Loro Piana might have built its reputation on its impossibly soft cashmere, but as these boots prove, its skill in cordwaining deserves equal commendation. A smart hybrid of a Chelsea and desert boot, these are made from butter-soft Italian suede and you’re sure to appreciate those sturdy rubber soles when you’re standing on a frosty platform on the morning commute.
02.
The reworked Chelsea boots
While the old adage “if it ain’t broke, don’t fix it” certainly has merit, there’s still room for reinterpretation without reinventing the wheel. That’s exactly what The Row has done with these Chelsea boots. They’re crafted from premium Italian leather and discreetly step up the proportions of the side panels. The result is a design with just the right amount of modern nous that still stays true to the original.
03.
The hardy heritage boots
With a client list that includes Messrs Gary Cooper, Jason Statham and David Beckham, it’s safe to say the luxury shoemaker George Cleverley is worth its salt. Combining the elegant punched detailing of brogues, these Toby boots are made from roughout suede, a specially developed hide that is waxed for enhanced weather proofing, which makes them a no-brainer for winter.
04.
The new-age hikers
You can always trust Bottega Veneta to put a stylishly outré spin on what would otherwise be pretty ordinary. Take these statement clodhoppers. Through a play on proportions, a skilful mix of performance nylon and leather and colour-pop laces, the brand transforms the archetypical trail boot into a design with distinct contemporary clout. Just don’t go scaling any summits in them.
05.
The winter-ready desert boots
At face value, desert boots might seem better suited to warmer climes (the clue’s in the name). But the team behind our in-house label Mr P. don’t think they need be confined to sunnier shores. For winter, the uppers have been specially treated to repel rainwater – just like water off a duck’s back – so you can have a hint of Desert Rat swagger on rainy days, too.
