Though the end of summer can be a little depressing (shorter days, fewer holidays, more rain etc etc), there is something you can look forward to – your new season looks.
Instead of waking up each and every morning and wearing the same t-shirt, shorts and sneakers on rotation, you can actually start wearing some layers. We’re talking knitwear. We’re talking outerwear. And, more importantly, we’re talking boots.
As soon as the leaves start to fall and the chance of rain goes up tenfold, suddenly your favourite non-waterproof trainers and summer-appropriate loafers aren’t going to cut it. Instead, you need a solid pair of boots to get you through whatever weather the season has in store – and there’s no fabric better for this time of year than leather.
It covers you no matter what you’re doing. It’s water-resistant. It’s durable. It even moulds to your foot over time, making your leather shoes some of the most comfortable you own (after you’ve gone through the initial pain of breaking it in, that is). Better yet, if you have black and dark brown in your rotation, it will work with nearly anything in your wardrobe so it delivers plenty of outfit mileage too.
Leather boots are one of the most versatile footwear investments you can make. They work with jeans. They work with slacks or smart bottoms. They even work with a full suit. Our top tip: when it comes to trousers, the wider the cut, the more substantial you can go with the boots.
But with the overwhelming range available on the market, it can be tricky to choose the right pair for you. So, we’ve taken the liberty of choosing our favourites in the list below which we’ve categorised under Chelseas, lace-ups, chukkas, hiking boots and brogues.
Shop below
Chelsea Boots
Prada Brushed Leather Chelsea Boots
Prada has some of the best footwear on the market, whether you want a chunky sole or an elegant pair of loafers. The only problem? Choosing between the many styles the Italian house has to offer. Our favourite is this pair of classic Chelsea which you’ll look forward to unpacking every time autumn’s on the way.
Buy now £1100.00, Selfridges
Dr. Martens 2976 Yellow Stitch Boots
When it comes to leather footwear, Dr. Martens should always be on the list. Renowned for its expert craftsmanship, from the welted construction to the air-cushioned soles, you can count on the British footwear expert time and time again. The brand’s DNA is woven throughout these boots, from the branded pull tab to the iconic yellow stitching.
Buy now £140.00, Schuh
Lace-up Boots
Vagabond Johnny 2.0 Boots
For a Scandi minimalism at its finest, look no further than Vagabond. Any pair of shoes by the Swedish designer feels low-key luxe. This style has a pure leather upper, solid rubber 32mm outsoles and inside zippers for easy access. They come up a little big, though, so size down if you’re between sizes.
Buy now £165.00, Vagabond
Paul Smith Dark Brown Leather 'Sparrow' Boots
Paul Smith is an expert at leather goods, from wallets to bags to footwear. These chocolate brown lace-up boots are handcrafted in Italy from stretch leather – making them one of the comfiest options in this list. The zip closure makes it easy to take them on and off while the signature stripe pull tab gives them away as the London-based designer in an instant.
Buy now £495.00, Paul Smith
Chukka Boots
Camper Dean
With a lower profile than most boots, chukkas are great when it’s a little warmer outside but they still offer great wind-chill protection thanks to the ankle-grazing silhouette. Though they’re traditionally suede, you can get them in a more durable leather now too – just like these boots by Spanish footwear expert Camper.
Buy now £185.00, Camper
Russell & Bromley Chorley Chukka Boots
In recent years, Russell & Bromley’s men’s collection has gone from strength to strength. You can choose from timeless loafers or elegant Oxfords, smart sneakers or leather sandals – and, of course, the heritage label has a strong selection of boots too. These chukkas are constructed from brown waxed leather for a finish that’s both stylish and winter-proof.
Buy now £245.00, Russell & Bromley
Hiking Boots
Grenson Brady Waterproof
For leather footwear, Grenson’s your best bet. Though the brand sits at a slightly higher RRP than some in this edit, its shoes are designed to last – and, coming from someone who wears them multiple times a week, they do. These have a waterproof leather upper with a water-resistant lining as well as a storm welt and chunky Vibram sole. With these on your shoe rack, you’ll be ready for whatever the weather throws your way.
Buy now £380.00, Grenson
Marks & Spencer Leather Waterproof Walking Boots
For affordable leather goods, head to M&S. Packed with hiking-friendly technology including a water-repellent finish, shock-resistant soles and fresh-feet credentials, these will work just as well for climbing a mountain as they will for dog walking in the park on a rainy day.
Buy now £85.00, Marks & Spencer
Brogue Boots
Trickers Stow Full-Grain Leather Brogue Boots
Since its foundation in 1904, famaily-run Trickers has kept its running in house – and the same factory is still the base for the company’s handmade manufacturing process. The brogue boots combine intricate broguing with full-grain leather and a rubber sole for a quality pair of shoes which will develop even more character over time.
Buy now £445.00, Trickers
Charles Tyrwhitt Grain Leather Rubber Sole Brogue Boots
A sophisticated take on classic leather shoes, Charles Tyrwhitt’s brogue boots are more appropriate for the city streets than they are for the hiking trails. Crafted from fine leather, they’re supple, breathable and durable, and they’re the perfect finishing touch for smart occasions.
Buy now £199.00, Charles Tyrwhitt
