Walking into the shoe aisle can be overwhelming. You came in with a general idea of what you wanted, but when you’re faced with walls upon walls of different types of boots and shoes, everything you had planned goes out the window. How can you possibly know what you need when there are so many types and varieties, each with seemingly different purposes? We’re here to explain different types of boots and what their purposes are.
What To Look For In A Boot
While there are hundreds of different types of boots on the market, it’s important to know what you need when shopping for boots. Are you looking for something stylish or durable? A little bit of both? What will you primarily be using the boots for? Answering these questions will help you narrow down the types of boots you should be looking for. Some of the key factors to look for in different types of boots are outlined below.
Function
As stated above, the first step in finding your dream pair of boots is knowing what you will be using them for. If you’re looking for work boots, you’ll definitely need something different than someone who is buying boots for style purposes only. The Logger or Packer type of boots are one of the oldest work boots on the market and are a classic choice for people looking for something durable. Chelsea boots, on the other hand, are closet staples that add a pop to any outfit but aren’t necessarily made for tromping through the elements.
Comfort
No matter what you need boots for, comfort is a staple that cannot be sacrificed. Nothing ruins a day like painful, blistery feet, and boots can be notorious for rubbing the wrong way; especially if they are new and have yet to be broken in. Make sure that the boot is the right shape for your foot and is not too narrow or too wide.
Durability
Boots are meant to be sturdy and last a long time. If you’re putting a lot of time and effort into researching types of boots to find the best ones for you, you want to make sure the pair you get will last a long time. Materials play a big part in how long the boots will last, and, when it comes to this, you get what you pay for. Investing in a more expensive pair of boots that you know will last a long time may, in the long run, end up being less expensive than settling for a cheap pair of boots you’ll have to replace before long.
What Are The Best Types Of Boots For Work?
Work boots are primarily unisex, so whether you’re a man or a woman, if you’re looking for a pair of work boots, this section is for you. Below are different types of work boots, broken down by function.
Hiker Boots
It’s not hard to guess what these boots are made for. As the name implies, these boots are for hiking. Made with the explorer in mind, hiker boots feature a rugged look that lets the world know you mean business. They have a very thick and heavy-duty sole, meaning that, as you hike, your feet are protected from the elements and you won’t feel discomfort as you trek over rocks. They feature D-ring eyelets to add additional strength and security to the laces, and run wide, allowing for thick hiking socks to add more comfort.
Durability
While they are perfect for hiking, these boots may not feature a waterproof exterior, meaning that your feet will get wet if exposed to rivers; and you’ll have to be careful if exposed to muddy terrain. Overall, if you’re looking to hike, this is the boot for you; but if you’re planning on working in the mud or wet, there are better options.
Duck Boots
Originally made for duck hunting, duck boots provide a sturdy yet fashionable boot perfect for wet weather or areas. With a rubber sole, they are sure to keep your feet dry and protected. They come a little ways past the ankle, providing more protection than your average boot.
Durability
These boots are meant to hold up against water, so if you’re going to need to be working in water or muddy terrain, these boots are perfect. However, the upper areas of the boot are not made from the same waterproof rubber, meaning that if you’re working in rain or deeper water or mud, you still have some risk of getting wet.
Packer/Logger Boot
You can tell these boots were made for work at first glance. Perfect for a variety of work situations, they were first made for lumberjacks or other workers that would be walking around over rocky terrain. High reaching and sturdy, they feature laces with D-rings, a strong heel, and leather workings.
Durability
Made from strong materials and made with waterproof options, most logger boots are constructed with the worker in mind. With a high shaft to protect from rolled ankles, logger boots are great for all kinds of elements; especially rough terrain.
Roper Boot
Commonly known as the cowboy boot, this is a type of boot that everyone knows about. Classically used by ranch workers or horseback riders, ropers do not lace but feature leather tabs to help the wearer pull them on. Made of leather, they feature a sturdy heel and extend above the ankle, usually to the lower shin. They can withstand all types of terrain and work.
Durability
The magical thing about roper boots is that they seem to become more comfortable the more you wear them. Though they are not quite waterproof, your feet will generally stay dry trekking through mud and sometimes even shallow water. With the ability to handle rough terrains, they are fantastic for heavy duty work and, of course, horseback riding.
What Types Of Boots Are Best For Fashion?
While some fashion boots are primarily focused more towards either men or women, most can be worn by either, depending on your intended style! Below is an outline of classic fashionable boots.
Moc-Toe Boot
A classic Moccasin-style boot, Moc-Toe’s have a soft exterior and reach up and around the ankle. They have a modest amount of laces and a thick, wedge sole. They feature exposed seams, and, while they are fashionable, are not typically a dress boot.
Durability
The soft exterior of the Moc-Toe does not make it the sturdiest boot on the market. However the wedge sole can be replaced if worn down, meaning that it has the potential to last quite a while with proper care. Durability for this boot in particular should not be much of a concern, however, since its primary goal is fashion, not outdoor work.
Service Boot
Featuring a soft military style, service boots are perfect to dress up or down any outfit, especially for men. While some brands change the style, the classic service boot features a slight heel, a hard sole, laces, and a designed that reaches up and around the ankle. Some feature leather detailing on the toe, while others remain plain and simple, meaning they are versatile and come in a number of styles.
Durability
With a hard leather sole and leather exterior, the service boot holds its own, especially in terms of fashion boots. Though it wouldn’t function the same as work boots, for fashion purposes it is incredibly sturdy and sure to last a long time.
Engineer Boot
The Engineer Boot is commonly worn by motorcyclists, however its lace-less and elegant style makes it fairly versatile. Rugged yet fashionable, these boots reach past the ankle to the lower shin, are easy to pull on, and feature timeless buckles near the front of the ankle. They have a low heel and clean leather construction.
Durability
The Engineer boot is popular within the motorcycle community becuse of its ability to withstand wear and tear, rough terrain, and bad weather. Though also used for fashion, these are not the type of boot you will have to “pamper” to keep in good condition. This boot is usually built to last.
Chukka
Another Moccasin-style boot, the Chukka features an incredibly simple build. With a minimal amount of laces, these boots have a clean exterior with exposed seams and not much else. They are made from a soft material, and while the sole varies depending on the maker and brand, they most commonly have either a low heel or a wedge.
Durability
Like the Moc-Toe, these boots are not made for outdoor work; but they are ideal as fashion boots. Their soft exterior does not make them resistant to the elements but may provide the wearer with more comfort than a boot with a hard exterior.
Jodhpur
The Jodhpur was originally worn by polo players, and these boots are somethingsof a cross between Chelsea Boots and Roper Boots. While they have some of the durability and features of the roper boot, they have the height and style of the chelsea boot. They are perfect for formal attire and feature a buckle over the front of the ankle, a clean leather toe, and a slight heel.
Durability
Though these boots have the potential to withstand some of the elements, their main function in this day and age is style. They are perfect for someone who doesn’t want to sacrifice function for style.
Chelsea Boot
Mentioned above, the chelsea boot is a classic of British stye. Made of leather, they are defined by the sections of elastic over the ankle. They pull on smoothly and feature a slight heel. Aside from the elastic, they have no details and are a clean, classic boot.
Durability
While they can withstand rain, Chelsea Boots are not meant for hard, outdoor work. They are perfect as fashionable boots that can be worn rain or shine.
Balmoral
Balmoral boots are an incredibly high-fashion boot not meant for everyday wear. With minimal lacing and a two-tone leather exterior, they add an incredible pop and flair to any formal outfit. With a slim, elegant cut, they were made for formal occasions.
Durability
Though they are made of leather, these are not the type of boots to be worn in the rain or elements because of their high-fashion purpose. Though they probably could withstand the rain, you most likely wouldn’t want to test it and risk losing your investment.
Conclusion
Trying to find the perfect type of boot can be overwhelming. With so many options to choose from, it can be hard to decide which ones are right for you. It’s important to understand what you need your boots for. Are you trying to dress up an outfit or a fancy occasion, or do you need boots that can withstand harsh elements? This initial understanding will greatly narrow down the market for you. Once you know what you need out of your boot, it’s important to understand what specifically each boot style has been made for. Trying to use a hiking boot to trek through deep puddles of water and mud won’t necessarily work out for you. While the hiker is a durable boot, it was made for hiking rough terrains, not going through water. While the balmoral boot is made of sturdy leather, its intended use is fashion, not work. Understanding the purpose of each boot will help you find the one that will work well with your needs and help you get the most out of your purchase. By breaking down several types of boots by their purpose and durability, we hope to make the job of investing in a new pair of boots easier for you It can be daunting task, but it doesn’t have to be! By simply knowing what you need and what each type of boot can offer you, you’re well on your way to finding the perfect pair that will make your day of work so much easier, or give your outfit the pop that it needs and has been missing.
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