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December 20, 2023

The Best Men’s Winter Boots for 2024

Filed under: Fitness — Tags: boots, footwear, leather boots, Style, waterproof boots, winter gear — admin @ 8:53 pm

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When temperatures drop, it’s time to upgrade your winter boots. When considering a new pair, evaluate your specific needs and the climate where you reside. Are you dealing with heavy snowfall or a drier winter? Do you spend a significant amount of time outdoors, or do you prefer the convenience of slip-on boots for commuting? Perhaps you’re in search of a dressier option for upcoming formal events, or maybe you need a seriously insulated boot to combat the cold.

Perhaps, like me, you require more than one style. Winter boots offer a myriad of options to choose from, so to help streamline your decision-making, we’ve curated a selection of the best men’s winter boots for various needs. However, if we had to pick one favorite, our best overall boot is the winterized L.L.Bean 10″ Maine Hunting Shoes with Gore-Tex and Thinsulate.

Why You Should Trust Me

In addition to writing for Men’s Journal, I have covered menswear, fragrances, watches, grooming, and style for Inside Hook, Robb Report, Esquire, and Men’s Health. I served as the market editor at Esquire for several years, scouring the industry for the best garments and goods that were not only worth the investment but also made for compelling stories and good advice for our readers.

I have always tried to add a timeless element to whatever I write. Although trends are interesting and relevant, my heart has always been drawn to more perennial guidance and themes. My obsessive-compulsive tendencies are both a blessing and a curse and while I often delve into researching items to the point of exhaustion, it’s this approach that often positions me as a go-to person for advice. Whether it’s about coats, colognes, or turntable needles, people recognize that I’ve done the legwork. I enjoy inspiring others around me to seek out their unique interests in things that might make their life better.

What to Look For in a Pair of Winter Boots

Traction: Regardless of conditions, prioritize a sole with excellent traction. While I usually lean toward the timeless appeal of leather soles, the winter season warrants a shift toward the practicality of rubber soles. When it comes to boots designed for snow or hiking, seek larger, more robust treads. For lifestyle boots, look for Vibram or chunkier lug soles, which can blend with a formal aesthetic but still provide traction for slippery slopes. Rubber soles include varieties like PVC, which is renowned for its water-resistant properties, and rubberized polyurethane, which boasts durability, flexibility, and are lightweight. While there are many different, proprietary sole materials and styles, the key is making sure the treads are sturdy, deep, and grippy.
Insulation: All winter boots should provide a significant level of warmth. Some styles incorporate insulation such as Thinsulate or a removable inner layer, while others use proprietary materials. High-quality insulation effectively traps air, is lightweight, and prevents the loss of radiant heat from your feet and soles. Natural textiles such as shearling and wool are also excellent choices for keeping your feet dry and warm, thanks to their natural heat-trapping and breathable properties. Unlined leather in more lifestyle or dress boots may not offer the same level of insulation, however wearing thicker thermal or merino wool blend socks will help keep your feet snug and dry.
Waterproofness: Given that you are likely to experience anything from snow and slush to rain, a good winter boot should provide a degree of water protection. All-rubber boots offer maximum waterproofing, while two-piece boots, such as leather and rubber combinations, can provide waterproofing with more breathability. One-piece leather boots will also be effective; the higher the tongue and overall height of the boot, the drier your feet will likely be. Fully waterproof boots tend to sacrifice a bit of breathability for maximum protection while water-resistant boots allow your feet to breathe more and often provide greater flexibility.
Brand Quality: Even if not exclusively focused on footwear, these brands exhibit a meticulous commitment to both the construction and the incorporation of technologies that contribute to making a quality winter boot. Many of the recommendations below feature tried and true styles that men consistently turn to every winter. These boots have repeatedly proven their reliability in challenging conditions, earning them a well-deserved reputation for consistency.

Best All-Around Winter Boots: L.L.Bean Maine Hunting Shoes, 10″ Gore-Tex/Thinsulate

L.L.Bean Maine Hunting Shoes

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I always keep a pair of these boots ready for inclement weather, as they’ve proven to be my go-to for navigating through the slushy streets of NYC while keeping my feet completely dry. Whether it’s shoveling snow from the driveway, commuting to work, or spending time with friends on a snowy day, these Maine Hunting Shoes effortlessly handle it all. This upgraded version of the classic duck boot (or hunting shoes as L.L.Bean calls them) is specifically designed for cold weather, featuring a waterproof Gore-Tex liner and Thinsulate insulation.

Best Winter Boots Value: Columbia Bugaboot III

Columbia Bugaboot III Boots

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The renowned Columba Bugaboot is consistently mentioned as one of the best winter boots due to its seamless integration of waterproofing, protection, and warmth. While there may be options that surpass the Bugaboot in terms of technical intricacies, it easily meets all criteria for most people looking for an option designed specifically for cold weather, all at a great value. Featuring waterproof leather, omni-tech waterproof seam-sealed construction, 200g insulation, a TechLite lightweight midsole for comfort, and an Omni-Grip traction rubber sole, the Bugaboot boasts a myriad of trademarked and researched technical specifications with a proven track record.

Best Winter Hiking Boots: Huckberry x Diemme Roccia Vet

Huckberry x Diemme Roccia Vet Hiking Boot

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Crafted in collaboration with Diemme, (the storied hiking footwear brand) these rugged, waterproof hikers from Huckberry combine great aesthetics with exceptional functionality. Made in Italy, the waterproof suede uppers are seamlessly joined to a robust rubber mudguard, providing reliable protection against whatever challenges the trail may present. With their full-lined leather upper, highly treaded yet lightweight sole, and ankle support design, these boots offer exceptional comfort—a necessary requirement for all-day hikers.

Best Extreme Cold Winter Boots: North Face Chilkat V 400

North Face Chilkat V 400 Boots

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When the temperature really drops, the North Face Chilkat rises to the occasion, consistently earning high ratings as one of the warmest winter boots available. Featuring proprietary 400g Heatseeker insulation, a waterproof full-grain and leather suede upper, and a proprietary Surface Control sole, this boot is well-equipped to handle the harshest winter conditions. This updated version is now slightly lighter, while still maintaining its durability. Although many highly technical winter boots may sacrifice aesthetics, the Chilkat with its tri-tone brown, black, and hunter green, offers a stylish option for those seeking serious winter protection.

Best Snow Boots: Sorel Caribou

Much like the Bean boot, the Sorel Caribou has solidified its position as an icon in the world of winter footwear. When temperatures drop and snow accumulates, these robust boots are my go-to for trudging through deep banks. Renowned for their exceptional comfort, the Caribou boots also feature seam-sealed waterproof construction and a lug sole design, ensuring superior traction in snow. Moreover, these boots are warm as heck, thanks to a removable and washable felt inner and sherpa lining at the cuff. And, despite their tank-like durability, style is not compromised.

Best Waterproof Winter Boots: Hunter Original Insulated Short Rain Boots

Hunter Original Insulated Short Rain Boots

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The is synonymous with rain, and for good reason: They excel at keeping your feet dry! This insulated version of their popular short boot is specifically designed for colder weather, ensuring your feet stay warm even in temperatures as low as 23 degrees. Crafted from all-natural rubber, each boot undergoes vulcanization for superior waterproofing while the treaded sole provides excellent traction, keeping your feet firmly planted wherever sleet may fall.

Best Dress Winter Boots: Thursday Boot Co. Captain Storm King

Thursday Boot Co. Captain Storm King Boots

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Thursday Boot Co. is known for their very accessible, no-nonsense, quality boots with timeless aesthetics. The robust and enduring Storm King furthers this reputation with its Goodyear welt construction, fully lined leather interiors, steel shanks, Kevlar laces, and reinforced eyelets, resulting in a remarkably durable pair of boots suitable for both work and weekends. The juxtaposition of the refined upper and the seriously rugged sole makes this an excellent choice for occasions demanding both formal style and resilience in winter weather.

Best Moc Style Winter Boots: Red Wing Storm Welted Classic Moc

Red Wing Storm Welted Classic Moc Boots

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The is easily recognizable by its stitched, rounded toe and white crepe, rubber wedge sole design. This traction tread sole incorporates a split-toe reverse storm welt for enhanced water resistance. While not explicitly designed for deep snow, the oil and waxed nubuck construction ensures durability and resilience under various conditions, and these boots will gradually mold to your feet over time. This Moc Toe stands as a true lifestyle hard-wearing hybrid adorning outfits on city streets and winter landscapes alike.

Best Slip-On Winter Boots: Blundstone #1944 Chelsea Boot

Blundstone #1944 Chelsea Boots

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Blundstones have experienced a significant resurgence in recent years, and for good reason. They boast a sleek and minimal slip-on Chelsea style that exemplifies no-fuss form and function. The #1944 model builds upon their classic men’s slip-on design by incorporating enhanced features such as water-resistant leather, a robust TBU-treaded sole, a removable footbed with shock absorption technology, and leather lining. Lightweight, comfortable, and effortlessly easy to slip on and off, these Blundstones are a stylish and practical everyday choice.

Best Alpine Winter Boots: Danner Mountain Light

Danner Mountain Light Boots

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Crafted in Portland, Oregon, Danner epitomizes quality and heritage in their classic alpine boot. Gore-Tex liners provide maximum waterproofing and breathability, and their trademark Vibram Kletterlift sole is specifically designed to absorb shock and provide traction on both wet and dry surfaces. Quality control is also paramount as the full-grain leather upper goes through six different tests before Danner approves it. And the boot silhouette, lacing structure, and eyelets all just make it darn stylish.

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February 11, 2022

Elevate Your Footwear Game with Le Majordome’s Bespoke Shoes

Filed under: Fitness — Tags: footwear, menswear, shoes, Style — admin @ 12:30 am

The concept of customizing casual footwear might seem commonplace nowadays—even sneaker juggernauts like Nike and Adidas allow near-full personalization of their most iconic styles. But what if you want to create a pair of dress shoes or boots from the ground up? A talented cobbler could tackle light cosmetic modifications, like alterations to the outsoles, to those close-to-perfect shoes you already own. But if you’re picky about the toe shape or insole, or want a specific combination of materials, you might find yourself out of luck (or shelling out thousands of dollars). Until now: Meet Le Majordome, a Swiss luxury shoemaker that has been producing high-quality custom footwear in Europe since 2012.

Founded by former architect Gian-Luca Cavigelli as a temporary shop in Zurich, Le Majordome soon exploded into a thriving business with three boutiques in Switzerland and an online store. In November 2021, Le Majordome opened a flagship location in New York City along with a U.S. website, so men on the other side of the Atlantic now have access to the brand’s selection of hand-lasted custom and ready-to-wear footwear.

But what is it that makes Le Majordome’s approach to custom shoes so novel? Soon after the brand flung open the doors to its newest boutique, I zipped up to Midtown Manhattan to find out for myself.

The Le Majordome store in New York City Courtesy Image

Not Your Average Shoe Store

Even before stepping inside Le Majordome, it was clear that this shopping experience would be very different from the sea of high-end menswear labels found along Madison Avenue. Located kitty-corner from the towering spires of St. Patrick’s Cathedral, the nondescript storefront looked more like an artisan’s atelier or photo studio than a footwear boutique. Inside, the compact space was illuminated by floodlights and studio lamps and its whitewashed walls were left bare, save for a handful of shelves and a row of wooden shoe lasts hanging behind the back counter.

The minimal styling was effective—right away my eyes darted to the diverse array of shoes displayed atop stacks of shoeboxes: plain-toe Derbies, cap-toe Oxfords, Chelseas, penny loafers. Even the trim on each shoe, from the type of leather to the hardware and the colors of the stitching, was distinct. Despite the variety, there was a clear common thread: Each shoe was elegant and expertly crafted, combining classic silhouettes with modern, playful accents.

These shoes were just the ready-to-wear options, and although you can buy them as-is, they’re also meant to inspire customers to mix and match features for their own made-to-order pair. When I walked in, I was immediately paralyzed by indecision on where to begin. Luckily, Le Majordome co-owner and president (and childhood friend of Cavigelli) Daniel Bucheli was there to help.

Le Majordome co-owner and president Daniel Bucheli Courtesy Image

Custom Shoes, Simplified

Like Le Majordome’s founder, Bucheli also made a career pivot when he joined the brand in 2016. After earning a doctorate degree in theoretical physics, Bucheli decided he preferred a job centered on tangible products, as well as one that offered more human interaction. Guiding his fellow men through the process of crafting their own shoes turned out to be the way to go. At Le Majordome, there’s no catalog to sift through. Rather, every experience begins with an open dialogue: Which design is the customer drawn to? Are there any specific requirements, in fit or function, that need to be considered?

According to Bucheli, the majority of custom shoemakers tend to focus solely on reinterpretations of heritage styles. And while most fashion labels produce footwear that may be more design-forward, they often end up being mediocre in quality.

“What makes us different as a brand is that we find ourselves at the intersection of both,” he told Men’s Journal. “Our goal is to create future classics—shoes that are well-made and inspired by traditional craftsmanship, yet have an updated, modern look to them. Each year we come out with around six new styles, and are always trying to fine-tune our aesthetic identity.”

Le Majordome also stands out because of the way the brand has streamlined the production process. The company partners with a renowned, century-old shoe factory in southeast Spain for all their orders. Working with just one factory saves the customer months in turnaround time and thousands of dollars compared to other shoemakers that offer made-to-measure fittings, such as Aubercy in Paris and George Cleverley in London.

“Our concept is simplified to reduce time and expenses in a way to make it appealing to a broader audience,” Bucheli said.

Creating Custom Shoes

I arrived at Le Majordome with a mission: Fill the empty space in my wardrobe reserved for a killer pair of boots. I spent a solid 30 minutes examining the dozen or more ready-to-wear options on display, with Bucheli providing the guardrails I needed to mentally sketch my own pair. Le Majordome’s hands-on approach encourages feeling the different materials and seeing the potential add-ons in person.

Shoes on display at Le Majordome Courtesy Image

But first I needed to nail down my preferred style. Did I want a Derby boot, jodhpur, or an urban hiking boot? I realized I was longing for the latter, but could it come with a square toe?

“Of course,” Bucheli said. “And with this style, I recommend a solid wooden sole instead of the chunky rubber one. What about the uppers: leather or suede? And in what color?”

My eyes were drawn to a dark brown leather chukka across the room.

“I love that material, but can we add in the brass eyelets on that pair?” I ask while pointing to an alpine-inspired galosh boot.

“Yes we can.”

And just like that, my personalized boots were coming to life.

Next, Bucheli had to ensure that the fit would also be unique. I slipped off my socks and stood on a box equipped with a scanner that mapped the topography of my feet. From there, the measurements would be cross-referenced with a large library of prefabricated lasts in various lengths and widths to determine the perfect fit. My personal profile would be archived in Le Majordome’s database, available for whenever I’d like to build another pair in the future.

As for shoe possibilities, Le Majordome’s library includes around 60 models, three toe shapes, and 15 sole constructions, plus nearly 100 different materials to choose from: suede, distressed leathers, marled wool, and more. Bucheli estimates about 10 weeks from design to delivery, which he says is about half the time quoted by other custom shoe shops.

Despite these innovations, Bucheli doesn’t think bespoke footwear will overtake ready-to-wear options anytime soon.

“Both from a customer and production perspective, ready-to-wear just feels easier,” he explained. “Le Majordome sees custom footwear as a great alternative for those who want something more unique, or who already have envisioned the shoe they want.”

Shoes on display in the Le Majordome store — Customers can choose from nearly 100 different materials for their bespoke shoes. Courtesy Image

Bespoke shoes are great for people who want to depart from the usual lineup of classics, or give them a unique spin—adding bold colors or interesting textures, for example.

“Since custom shoes are a way of expressing yourself visually, we want to make sure we can give each customer the best vocabulary possible.”

Want to get your own pair? Head over to the Le Majordome website to browse ready-to-wear styles or make an in-store appointment.

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January 13, 2022

The Essential Shoes Guide: Timeless Pairs That Every Guy Should Own

Filed under: Fitness — Tags: boots, footwear, mens boots, menswear, shoes, sneakers, Style — admin @ 12:26 am

Which men’s shoes have stood the test of time? Trends come and go, but there are a handful of stalwart styles that won’t be disappearing anytime soon. Some, like the Oxford, are turn-of-the-century relics that have been cemented into the formal footwear canon. Others, like Adidas Stan Smiths, have a vintage appeal that gets even better with age.

Rather than chasing fads, it’s important to have a few pairs of versatile men’s shoes in your closet that you can wear—and look good in—for years to come. We spoke to New York-based fashion stylist Seppe Tirabassi and got his picks for the essential shoes every man should own, plus his advice on when to wear them and how to pair them.

Essential Men’s Shoes Every Guy Should Own

Sebago Classic Dan Loafer Courtesy Image

1. The Penny Loafer

“A loafer is a must-have for any guy because it works double-time as both a dressy shoe and a casual shoe,” Tirabassi tells Men’s Journal. “When you don’t feel like adulting and tying your laces, you can slide into a loafer after throwing on a pair of ripped jeans and a T-shirt. It’s an effortless way to elevate your look. And of course, wearing loafers with a suit is perfectly acceptable for any formal dress code, except for black or white tie.”

Our Picks:

2. The Chukka (a.k.a. the Desert Boot)

The chukka is a classic men’s ankle boot, and it’s a great pick for cooler weather in the fall through the spring. Chukkas generally have uppers made from leather or suede that’ll soften and mold to your foot over time, and Clarks Desert Boots have the added bonus of a bouncy rubber crepe sole.

“For me, the perfect moment for wearing a chukka is when you’re grabbing a coffee and going for a nice Sunday stroll in the park,” Tirabassi says.

Our Picks:

Polo Ralph Lauren Bryson Leather Chelsea Boot Courtesy Image

3. The Chelsea Boot

“Few boots are as versatile and timeless as a Chelsea boot,” says Tirabassi. “They go with pretty much anything that’s in your closet from the fall through the winter and the spring.”

Chelsea boots are made with all kinds of leather and suede (even exotic ostrich leather), and you’ll find them in a range of colors.

“The streamlined shape of a Chelsea instantly elevates an outfit without looking like you’re trying too hard,” Tirabassi says. “And because they have elastic sides instead of laces, they’re easy to slip on and really comfortable.”

Our Picks:

Cole Haan Modern Classics Wingtip Oxford Courtesy Image

4. The Oxford

“Just like every man needs an expertly tailored suit stashed in his closet, he also needs a solid Oxford shoe to go with it,” Tirabassi says.

No matter what kind of formal occasion you have on the calendar, an Oxford shoe is a solid footwear choice. Tirabassi advises shelling out for a quality pair—these shoes are reserved for special moments, after all, so they should look (and feel) good. Better yet, if you take good care of them, one pair of Oxfords could easily last a lifetime.

“Wish I could say the same thing about a suit,” says Tirabassi. “Waistlines change as you age, but your shoe size? Not so much.”

Our Picks:

Birkenstock Arizona Soft Footbed — Birkenstock Arizona Sandals Courtesy Image

5. Birkenstock Arizona Sandals

Birkenstock Arizonas are unusually versatile for a pair of sandals. First, they come in a wide range of colors and materials to match any wardrobe or style preference. Second, you can wear them to the beach, around town, and even with a pair of thick wool socks (something that would be a cardinal fashion sin with other sandals). But their best quality might be how easy they are to wear.

“Ever since I started wearing Birkenstocks as a kid, I still haven’t found a pair of sandals more comfortable than these,” says Tirabassi. “I’ve never not had a pair or two in my closet.”

December 20, 2023

Why You Should Trust Me

What to Look For in a Pair of Winter Boots

Best All-Around Winter Boots: L.L.Bean Maine Hunting Shoes, 10″ Gore-Tex/Thinsulate

Best Winter Boots Value: Columbia Bugaboot III

Best Winter Hiking Boots: Huckberry x Diemme Roccia Vet

Best Extreme Cold Winter Boots: North Face Chilkat V 400

Best Snow Boots: Sorel Caribou

Best Waterproof Winter Boots: Hunter Original Insulated Short Rain Boots

Best Dress Winter Boots: Thursday Boot Co. Captain Storm King

Best Moc Style Winter Boots: Red Wing Storm Welted Classic Moc

Best Slip-On Winter Boots: Blundstone #1944 Chelsea Boot

Best Alpine Winter Boots: Danner Mountain Light

February 11, 2022

Not Your Average Shoe Store

Custom Shoes, Simplified

Creating Custom Shoes

January 13, 2022

Essential Men’s Shoes Every Guy Should Own

1. The Penny Loafer

2. The Chukka (a.k.a. the Desert Boot)

3. The Chelsea Boot

4. The Oxford

5. Birkenstock Arizona Sandals

6. Adidas Stan Smith Shoes

7. Vans Checkerboard Slip-On

8. Original L.L. Bean Boot

9. Athletic Sneaker

January 11, 2022

The Best Slippers for Men in 2022

1. Ugg Scuff Slipper

2. Mulo Suede-Trimmed Corduroy Slippers

3. Adidas Adilette Comfort Slides

4. Dearfoams Alpine Bern Clog Slipper

5. Malibu Sandals Colony Moc

6. L.L. Bean Leather Double-Sole Slippers, Shearling-Lined

7. Grenson Sly

8. Hari Mari Hacienda LX

9. Del Toro Black Leather House Slipper

10. Quoddy Dorm Boot

11. Olukai Mahana

12. Glerups Boot

13. Under Armour Project Rock Slides

October 13, 2021

September 13, 2021

July 7, 2021