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If you don't have a pair yet, now's the time to change that. Waterproof Work Boots
Disabuse yourself of the notion that desert boots can't be winter shoe, never to be taken out of the back of the wardrobe when the cold comes around. I mean, sure—they're not ski boots, and they might not be waterproof, but for a cloudy (albeit cold), dry day? You need your desert boots to come back out, baby.
The most recognizable and iconic of desert boots will be made of soft suede with a bouncy, crepe rubber sole. That means they'll feel just as comfortable as all but your cushiest sneakers. But unlike a sneaker—or a sandal—the desert boot represents the apex of footwear versatility. It can be casual, certainly; pair with jeans and you'll see what I mean. But in comparison to the generally lax vibe of most casual footwear, desert boots dress up with ease.
There are plenty of styles to choose from. Classic suede and crepe, sure, but also options in nubuck and leather, with beefy wedge soles or a sneaker-y, hybrid vibe (plus so much more). Don't believe me? Just keep scrolling.
For a vintage-inspired pair of desert boots, Thursday Boots has you covered with a handsomely rugged pair. These look loved and worn-in already, so you get that cool, weathered effect.
A timeless option that goes with everything. Todd Snyder's Nomad Boot has the quintessential desert boot style, with a suede exterior, contrast stitching, and a low-top profile that manages to look sleek and elegant at once.
Need a desert boot in a jiffy? Amazon has you covered. These are a classic look, and with durable faux leather, it's hard to believe they're under 40 bucks.
J.Crew's desert boots strike just the right balance of casual and classy. Pair with jeans and a sweater, or even pleated pants and a blazer; they'll look good either way.
There's no going wrong with a classic. If you can only have one desert boot in your rotation, make it one from Clarks, the brand that brought the desert boot to the world way back in the day.
For a dark brown suede, Ted Baker has a chocolate shade so rich, we're one minute away from calling up Timothée Chalamet's Wonka. Seriously—these are effortlessly chic and timelessly stylish.
Or, on the other hand, keep it clean, simple, and minimalist. Comfortable and classic, these Italian leather desert boots—made in a sixth-generation workshop—bring a dose of heritage to a timeless design.
If anyone knows how to make something timelessly cool look modern and handsome, it's probably the folks over at PRL. These suede boots are complete with a rubber sole and classic silhouette.
Nautica has a burnished-looking chukka boot that's simple, but effective. With a brown belt and some dark wash jeans, you're good to go.
For under $50, you can get the cool desert boot look straight from Amazon. These have a suede upper, perfect for keeping your feet warm even during the coldest of winter days.
A smart, everyday pair with soft leather lining and an already broken-in feel. Whether you're headed into the office or just going to the bar, there's no going wrong with this shoe choice.
Sometimes, what you need is a sleek, simple, all-black boot. So here's to a lightweight, affordable pair to kick off the season.
Brunello Cucinelli's elegant vocabulary gets a healthy dose of the desert boot with this simple, luxed style. With a subtly elevated look, these will be your go-to, year-round.
With a sneaker-inspired cup sole, this desert boot will take you anywhere the season leads. Enjoy all-day comfort and style.
Handmade in Portugal, these suede chukka boots have it all—comfort, style, and a thick rubber sole that lends to a certain longevity. Whether it's winter or summer, you'll reach for these time and time again.
Trishna Rikhy is the Associate Style Commerce Editor at Esquire. Previously, her writing has appeared in Vogue Runway, PAPER Magazine, V Magazine, V MAN, and more. She is based in NYC, but can probably be found wherever the strongest cup of coffee is.
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Men's Shoe Custom Trishna Rikhy is the Associate Style Commerce Editor at Esquire. Previously, her writing has appeared in Vogue Runway, PAPER Magazine, V Magazine, V MAN, and more. She is based in NYC, but can probably be found wherever the strongest cup of coffee is.