Much like a fresh tattoo or a tradie rocking up to a worksite in a shop-new hi-vis, nothing seems to stand out quite more in the fashion world than a brand new pair of boots. We’ve heard about it for decades in the stories of those who have spent years stomping the yard in a single pair of Doc Martens. But with the male boot quickly emerging as a trendy alternative to sneakers in the realm of streetwear, it’s becoming apparent that the hard-wearing edge that such styles offer is quickly becoming one of their biggest charms.
It’s also well worth remembering that, given the way street style heavyweights seem all too keen to mix boots into fits that you’d normally reserve for sneakers, there’s never been a more diverse time to pick up a pair. Chelsea boots do the trick when dressing up a pair of jeans and a baggy t-shirt, as do models as punk as something like a Dr Martens 1460. Pick a style that ages well, and the more you see them wear in, the more you’ll be inclined to work them into your rotation going forward. Who knows? They could end up the starting point in a personal style re-invention for yourself.

@strassenfund
From James Bond’s lace-ups, to a grungy pair of docs, to a well-worn-in pair of R.M. Williams, the key to pulling off pretty much any boot style is really to commit and embrace the process. Boots are made for walkin’, made for wearing in, and made to bear the scars of adventure. That’s what makes them such a well-loved pick-up right now.