The Ultimate Style Guide to Men’s Boots

When it comes to men’s footwear must-haves, boots are easily top of the list. Not only are these shoes the epitome of comfort and very practical, but they are also versatile and stylish. They can transition from work to the weekend effortlessly, and because they can also be paired with semi-formal and smart casual, Stride Wise top picks on men’s boots become a valuable addition to any wardrobe.

However, it is essential to remember that not every boot suits every occasion. Therefore, familiarising yourself with which style fits will open you up to many possibilities. Ranging from the classic lace-up to a variety of mens leather boots NZ, there is an option for everyone.

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Chelsea

Invented in the 1800s, Chelsea boots (with their signature elastic side panels) have become a timeless staple. Considered to be one of the most versatile boot options on the market, it suits a range of style options, from casual to smart casual, and, with the right colour and material option, can be extended to formal wear.

Pair black leather with a three-piece suit for a sleek wedding outfit. Or match suede to dark, fitted jeans and a white t-shirt for a casual look.

Biker

Thankfully, for most, a motorbike is not necessary to get yourself some biker boots. Typically featuring a low heel and buckle accents, the biker boot is an ideal option if you want a more edgy look.

Pair them with distressed black jeans, a neutral tee, and your favourite leather jacket for the perfect outfit to hit the bar on the weekend.

Ankle Lace-Up

For the perfect smart option that will never fail you, the comfortable and traditional ankle lace-up boot is the top choice. While these are perfectly suited for any sophisticated or formal look you are trying to achieve, they can fit nearly any occasion.

To get the most out of your lace-ups, combine them with slim-fit pants, a collared button-up shirt, and a winter coat for a dapper evening look.

Military/Combat

Adapted from the traditional boots issued in the military, combat boots have made their way through grunge, punk, and the heavy-metal scene to cement themselves as a mainstream pop-culture staple. Its solid build, thick rubber sole, soft instep, and calf-length design holds year-round versatility.

The best accompaniments of this iconic style are a dark colour palette and heavy-duty fabrics. Denim, leather, and knit-wear will all be ideal for mixing and matching. Regardless of what you choose, there will be a combination to fit any personal style.

Cuban Heels

For those more daring out there, looking for something new and different to add to their wardrobe, the Cuban heeled boot is worth looking at. Designed way back in the 9th century for Persian soldiers, this style became mainstream in the 1960s thanks to the “Mod” movement in the UK.

Although the heel is relatively small, if you are unfamiliar with the height, it will take some time to get used to. This footwear has been designed to maintain a sharp silhouette, so always pair them with slim, tapered pants. Avoid anything that is baggy or loose fitting.

Tips to Remember

When styling outfits, your pants and boots must work as a team. If you are going to wear slim-fit or suit pants, a slimmer-toed boot will match best. Additionally, a more rounded-toe boot will be the better choice if you choose a looser fit, such as jeans or chinos. A good rule of thumb is the more rounded the front is, the more casual the boot.

If you feel uncertain about your choice of footwear, let the occasion dictate the style. This will help you from overdressing or underdressing. Furthermore, consider things like rainfall. In wet weather, leather or faux leather is a better material option compared to suede. Suede can dry out or develop water marks from moisture. A thicker rubber sole will help grip and protect the boot.

Boot Fit

To ensure the best fit when purchasing any boot, ensure the shoe has a snug and supportive fit. In addition, if you are planning to pair boots with thicker winter socks, remember to accommodate the extra space.

Confirm you have movement of your foot and ankle without pain and check that the boot is not too small; make sure you can fit a finger behind your heel and that your toes are not pressing up against the front.

Material like leather will naturally soften and stretch over time. These factors will change the fit of the shoe.

Cleaning and Maintenance

Before heading out in your new boots, invest in a decent stain-remover. This will help maintain the material and repel water. For leather options, have a polishing kit to buff it back to life when it starts to look dull. Clean any dirt patches off the outside with warm water mixed with laundry detergent and a damp cloth.

As for suede, buy a proper suede cleaner and appropriate oils that you can apply once the boot has dried to re-soften the material. Apply the cleaner with a small brush and allow it to fully dry before wearing them again.

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