Our Pick – Most Popular Styles of Men’s Boots

Boots are not just the domain of the cowboy anymore. Modern city fashions for men now comprise a look from head to toe. From trilby hats to layered tops to stylish jeans to boots in all different styles, today’s man is well-dressed for each and every occasion. Many mainline boot companies produce several different styles of boots for the varying needs of men. Safety boots, military boots, Chelsea boots, casual boots, formal boots, desert boots, and Wellingtons are all types of boots that the modern man purchases. So, what are the best ones in fashion this year?

Chelsea boots are another fashion icon of the 1960’s mod scene to come back into style. Originally from the Victorian Era, these tight-fitting, ankle men's boots with elastic siding were meant for horseback riding. The elastic makes these boots easier to pull on and off. Chelsea boots range from casual to formal and come in many colours of leather. Casual versions typically have a rounded toe and distressed look, while formal Chelsea boots have a pointy toe and polished finish. One interesting fact about them is that a shoe company that was an original manufacturer of Chelsea boots in the Victorian Era is still making them today internationally.

Military boots are men's boots that are normally dark in colour and lace up. These boots come up higher than the ankle, sometimes to halfway between the ankle and knee. Military boots are modelled after the styles of boots in combat uniforms of the military forces. They can be used in a couple of ways in today’s fashions. One is as a tough guy image. Obviously, because they are modelled on combat boots, they lend themselves to a rough and tough persona. However, they can also be worn as part of an eclectic look with urban skinny jeans and layered polos with graphic designs.

The suede leather upper and crepe soles of desert boots are patterned after men's boots worn by World War II British officers. Today’s modern versions have different colours of suede available and detailed top stitching for a stylish embellishment. They are short boots that lace up and have a casual or dressy casual feel. They look fantastic paired with a nice pair jeans with a modern wash, graphic tee and blazer. Safety boots are also very popular for work settings, made of leather and suede with steel toe protection. The right pair of boots is a staple of the urban man’s wardrobe.

Rory Hamilton is a footwear expert who is currently researching what's fashionable in mens boots.