Whether you are a construction worker, an avid hiker, a fashion mogul or an office worker, every person needs to invest in at least one or two pairs of boots. What separates boots from other types of footwear is that they are an investment that will always provide value for money, especially if you choose a high-quality product. Apart from that, boots never run out of style. You can wear them from January to December, winter or summer, spring or autumn, and you will never feel out of place. Also, boots offer more protection to your feet, compared to other types of footwear like sneakers or sandals. And owing to their versatility, you can combine them with almost any outfit in your outfit. However, if you are purchasing boots for the first time you might get overwhelmed by the wide range of options on the market, making it hard for you to choose the type that suits you best. Fortunately, we have done the heavy lifting for you. Here is a selection of the best boots that you should own for all-year use.
Chelsea Boots
Over the last couple of years, Chelsea boots have emerged as the go-to shoes for style-minded ladies and gents, thanks to their exceptional versatility. Apart from being a stylish upgrade to sneakers, these boots also provide a classier option than standard dress shoes. And their appeal doesn’t stop there, these boots are easy to slip them on and off, and they are comfortable enough to stroll in them the entire day. Available in a wide range of materials, finishes and colors, there is always a pair of Chelsea boots for every scenario. For a serious look, you can wear a blue tailored suit with a pair of dark brown boots. And if you want to keep your look dressed down, then you can wear your Chelsea boots with jeans, and a t-shirt, and then thrown in a casual jacket. The boots should be either matte or suede so that you can keep things more relaxed.
When pairing Chelsea boots with jeans, go for black suede options. Wearing them with jeans will give you a casual, cool and trendy look. Unlike men, women are not restricted to dark colors, when it comes to Chelsea boots. For instance, partygoers can choose shiny leather or metallic boots. And for winter, women can wear black or cream boots. In short, there are nor hard and fast rules when it comes to wearing Chelsea boots, as long as the colors don’t clash. But always remember that you’ve paid money for these boots. Therefore, your jeans or trousers should always sit just over their top.
Rain Boots
Rain boots are knee-length or ankle-length boots, made of rain-resistant materials. As much as rain boots were originally designed for wet weather conditions, they have since evolved into different designs, which means you can wear them as a fashion statement. Regardless of how you will be using these boots, make sure you find a comfortable pair that fits your individual style. You can buy these boots from boutiques, shoe stores, department stores or other outlets that stock shoes. Men’s rain boots are mainly available in dark colors while those for women come in numerous patterns and colors. Make sure you choose a design that compliments your outfit so that you can feel comfortable and confident when you step out in them.
When buying rain boots, make sure you choose at least one size bigger than your normal shoe size. Choosing these boots in your normal shoe size will make your legs look thicker, especially around the calves. On the other hand, if you choose a bigger size, they will leave some space around your calves, thus making your legs appear slimmer and attractive. Ensure you wear double socks every time you slip on a pair of rain boots. Rain boots tend to slide as you walk. Therefore, wearing a double pair of socks will prevent blisters that might occur due to that back and forth sliding. Wearing double socks with your rain boots will also provide additional warmth. You can pair these boots with your jeans, or dresses. If you wear them with jeans, make sure you tuck them so that you can show off your stylish boots.
Chukka Boots
Your footwear collection is not complete without a pair of chukka boots. These shoes offer a unique style that others find hard to match. As much as they are mostly used as casual shoes, you can still use them as your dress shoes, thanks to their unmatched versatility. Therefore, if you don’t own at least a pair of chukka boots, it’s time to get yourself one. So, how do you wear chukka boots? As noted above, these boots are extremely versatile, meaning you can wear them with your casual outfits or dress shoes. You just need to find a pair that compliments what you are wearing. For casual occasions, you can wear these boots with jeans, t-shirts or shirts and jackets. For smart-casual events, you can combine them with black jeans, a blazer, chinos, a crew neck t-shirt or a casual shirt. And for business casual, you can wear your chukka boots with chinos, regular trousers and a white cotton shirt. A blazer or a cashmere sweater will then complete the look.
Engineer Boots
Just like their name suggests, engineer boots were worn by people who worked in harsh conditions like steel mills, and boiler mills, among others. Their tall shafts and rugged leather protected these workers from hot molten metal and rocks of coal. Recently, these boots have made a comeback, and they are now available in various styles and designs. They can be worn with rugged jeans, leather jackets, t-shirts, and other casual ensembles. Engineer boots are an investment in your comfort and health. When buying these boots, you need to consider how or where you will be using them. Are you buying them for work, commuting, or walking around. If you intend to wear them as your safety boots, then you should choose a design that features outsole rips, toe guards, thick soles, and electrical insulation. If you intend to be wearing them during the wet weather, you should choose a pair that has some warmth insulation.
Hiking Boots
If you are the type of person that loves to spend their weekends or holidays trekking in the wilderness, then you will need a solid pair of hiking boots. Hiking boots should keep your feet comfortable and adequately support. They should also provide ample traction, whether you are trekking on gravel trails, muddy terrains or rough rocks. Hiking shoes are available in different models, designs, and types. In short, your options are almost endless – from low-cut hiking shows, lightweight trail running shoes, rugged backpacking boots to day-hiking boots. Therefore, make sure you choose a type that aligns with your hiking adventure. For example, if you are a day hiker, then you don’t need to purchase burly, heavy hiking boots. Instead, a pair of lightweight hiking boots will be enough to do the job. On the other hand, if you are planning to spend several days in the wilderness, then you should get yourself a pair of durable, and rugged backpacking boots.
As much as hiking boots are designed for tackling rugged terrains and conditions, it doesn’t mean that they are reserved for hikers only. Despite their name, you can still wear them around the city. With the right attituded and in the right color, you can wear hiking boots to the office, to a birthday party or for a lazy stroll around town. But whichever way you choose to wear them, it’s important to pay attention to the outfits you combine with them, to avoid looking as if you are planning to attempt the Himalayas when you are just fetching groceries from the store. For casual or office wear, make sure you opt for lightweight hiking boots.
Jodhpur Boots
Jodhpur boots are clean-looking ankle boots, which were originally designed as riding boots. Apart from being fashionable, these boots are also comfortable and functional. With these boots, you will never have to sacrifice comfort for style. Some of the features of these boots from other ankle-length riding boots are low heels, rounded toes, ankle-length, a buckle that wraps around the ankles, and a strap fastener. Jodhpur boots are highly versatile, which means you can wear them with various outfits. For instance, you can wear them with jeans and chinos and then throw in your favorite shirt. However, it’s not advisable to wear jodhpur boots with baggy trousers, since they will not complement the sleek silhouette of these boots. Also, don’t wear them with your trousers tucked in, since they were not designed for such styles. It’s important to note that these boots lack laces or zippers. While the lack of zippers and laces make them easy to slip on and off, it can also lead to blisters and hotspots. Therefore, make sure you get the right size. Jodhpur boots are ideal for all types of horse riding.
Wearing these boots gives you a sense of authority and identifies you as a man of distinction. Also, they prevent your shins from being visible under your trouser cuffs. Black and saddle tan are the classic colors of these boots. However, they are also available in various other materials and colors like crocodile and suede, thus adding to their exceptional versatility. Also, you will look good in them, whether you are strolling about town or riding your horse at the farm. When buying jodhpur boots, make sure you take your time. Ensure you purchase a pair that aligns with your style of riding. Also, safety should be an important consideration. It’s highly advisable to opt for a pair with a reinforced steel toe cap, especially if you will be spending most of your time around horses. As for maintenance, make sure you clean them regularly and then apply polish once they are dry.
Closing Remarks
Boots offer durability, ruggedness, and comfort. They will also protect your feet against various elements that you might come across, thus giving you the confidence to tackle your tasks. And unlike synthetic and fabric materials, boots are easy to maintain, especially if they are made of leather. If you are looking for a type of footwear that will serve you all year round, then you should get yourself some of the above boots – if not all.
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