It’s that time of year again when the wind is in full force, the rain is coming at us sideways and visions of snow-ridden roads are just around the corner. In fact, you’re probably thinking something similar to us, “why do we always leave it so late to buy some new Winter gear?” Country-depending, you may wear heavy boots year-round, and we applaud your dedication to the cause (and your feet), but for the rest of us the worst of the cold weather is yet to come.
Red Wing Heritage Roughneck 8146
Based on the original Red Wing work boot, the Roughneck is as badass as they come. These are built for heavy work, so it goes without saying that they can take a good pounding in the weather department. The name “Roughneck” is taken from the fearless and hardworking laborers of the oil rigs of old. We can’t guarantee these will make you tough as old boots, but they’ll sure make you look like it.
$270
Wolverine 1000 Mile
A legend in the lace-up game, the 1000 Mile boot by Wolverine is the cornerstone of the brand’s collection. Based on their rich heritage of the railroad, the boot was designed to withstand miles-of-miles of endless walking in heavy duty conditions. The chance of you wearing them down the old railway is slim-to-none, but with their smarter appearance they make a great alternative to the more outdoor styles. Built to last, in Rockford, Michigan.
$360
New England Outerwear Company Fieldsman Boot
The New England Outerwear Company produce some of the finest looking footwear you’re likely to come across. The Fieldsman Boot is no exception. Their take on the classic Northeastern hunting boot is as rugged as it is stylish. In fact, we can see them accompanying outdoorsmen as much as pounding the NY streets during fashion week. Every part of these beauties has been handcrafted in the USA, using authentic moccasin construction, and will only get better with age.
$340
Fracap M120 Scarponcino Boot
A little bit of Italian finery from the masters of the modern hiking boot, Fracap. Up until recently, Fracap’s line of stylish mountain climbers were being produced solely for the Japanese market, but in recent seasons we’ve seen their signature Scarponcino boot being sold in some of the biggest menswear stores across the world. Handmade in Monteroni, Italy, featuring a Goodyear-welted Vibram sole and sturdy-as-hell traditional hiking laces.
$270
Grenson Otis Boot
When we think of winter footwear, a Commando sole instantly comes to mind. Not known for their rugged footwear, this pair of ankle boots by Grenson fist the bill really perfectly. Similar to the Wolverine 1000 boot, in the sense of a slight crossover style, the Otis boot comes with a padded ankle collar for comfort, contrasting leather heel tabs, but most importantly, that hardwearing Commando sole. Produced the good old-fashioned way, on old school machines, in the heart of footwear’s finest, Northampton, England.
$300
Chippewa Bridgeman Boot
As one of the oldest outdoor footwear brands in the world, what Chippewa don’t know about boots just isn’t worth knowing. These guys do seriously heavyweight footwear, ready to be worn throughout the harshest conditions you’re likely to find this side of the Atlantic. The Bridgeman boot is Chippewa’s Utility style, which we’d describe as a cross between a classic motorcycle boot and a hiking one. Keeping production in the USA is one of their top priorities, and the result is a fine looking boot, ready for everyday conditions.
$290
Eastland Berwick
If you’re heading somewhere on the minus side of things, those leather-lined boots might not cut it. Eastland is well known for producing a fully-lined Shearling ankle boots, and their Berwick style is somewhat of a staple up in Maine. It seems Vibram soles really are the thing to do, but for good reason; it helps to keep the overall weight of the boot to a minimum, as well as being relatively easy to resole, and practical. A no-brainer when we hit early January.
$450
Thorogood Dodgeville
Dodgeville. Now there’s a name. Thorogoods create traditional construction worker-ready footwear, but aside from the serious style, they do a rather slick looking heritage range. Both 1892 and Heritage collections play off their 100 years+ of experience, and the Dodgeville is their stand-out style. These feature a double stitched cap toe, a Goodyear-welted sole, and are tougher than a $2 steak.
$375
Danner Goods Light
Simply put, Danner means the absolute business. Not content with kitting out Daniel Craig in the latest James Bond film, and producing the finest outdoor footwear you’ll find, Danner go far beyond being a one-trick-pony. With the resurgence in all-terrain gear in the last decade, Danner has grown in popularity for their practicality, use of innovative construction techniques and focus on comfort. We’re big fans of their Danner Light silhouette, which looks as good today as it did in the 1940s.
$360
End x Tricker’s Stow Boot
We’re allowed at least one wildcard right? The Stow Boots are a clash of styles—both classic and modern. With END serving up a large plate of streetwear, and Tricker’s replying back with an even larger dollop of classic British shoe-making, this collaboration is a hard one to ignore. Subtle in their finish, the Stow Boot has been designed to be taken from town to country. The distinct Dainite rubber sole is a great alternative to its chunkier older brother, the Commando sole, but definitely gets the one-up for its outlandish color.
$590
