Picks of the Week: Winter Footwear

Any rakish man should have an abundance of dependable boots in his footwear arsenal. They are universally cool, versatile and transcend fashion fads season after season. Whether you’re on your way to the Alps for some freshly fallen snow or simply trudging through a city’s puddles, no shoe is better suited for the varying terrains. Our team picks out their favourites from The Rake Atelier and offer their tips on how best to style them. Tom Chamberlin, Editor You can cocoon yourself in as many Teddy coats and cashmere sweaters as you like, but if you scrimp on your footwear at this time of year, you are going to get cold. Plan your winter wear from the bottom up. The glossy cordovan leather on these Carmina boots will break the dullness and grey of the day. Burgundy goes well with plenty of colours but keep it earthy with pleated Huntsman trousers and this 100Hands denim shirt. Charlie Thomas, Deputy Editor Winter footwear doesn’t have to mean ‘boots’. For something a little sleeker, a fine pair of Derbies will do the job, providing they are welted onto an appropriate sole. It’s a good job Ludwig Reiter knows what it’s doing then, as this otherwise unremarkable shoe is bolted on a heavy rubber commando-like sole that’ll make traversing wet weather as easy task. Pair with equally robust wool trousers and a melton wool peacoat and you’re good to go. Anna Prendergast, Online Editorial Associate

Boots made in suede and designed for the desert might sound contradictory to the concept of winter footwear, but Carmina’s irresistible brown suede chukkas are notably more elegant and streamlined than the average, and are fittingly crafted on the house’s ‘Rain’ last. The squared off toe and curved waist sits well under  tapered turn-ups or jeans. Pair with a military-inspired woollen overshirt and an interesting neckerchief for a ‘just-raided-a-vintage-store’ aesthetic.

Benedict Browne, Online Editorial Associate Taking on an urban metropolis in a cool, calm and collected manner can be a challenge in winter. But, if you happen to sport a pair of our exclusive Commando boots in mahogany grain alpine leather from Gaziano & Girling, your mission won’t be quite so arduous. Wear them with a gently tapered pair of Blackhorse Lane jeans, with a single turn-up to expose the selvedge, and a navy safari shirt from Marol and you’ll come out victorious, no matter what the result is. Megan Plenderleith, Copywriter Inspired by the musical legend himself, Mr Johnny Cash, these black suede boots from Barbanera exude ‘cool’ with every step, and feature a concealed side zip and a tall curved vamp. The unrivalled craftsmanship and slight heel on these boots render them perfectly acceptable for casual, everyday attire and would pair seamlessly with an Aero Leather motorcycle jacket for an extra dose of rock 'n' roll. Natasha Drax, Online Editorial Assistant Nothing beats a good pair of sturdy leather boots to combat the torrential downpours facing Europe in winter. While sneakers will leave your feet sodden, these black Oxford lace up boots by Belsire will keep your feet warm and dry and their versatility will serve almost any choice of outfit. For a casual, off-duty look pair with our exclusive Drake’s corduroy trousers in vibrant blue and a simple knitted roll neck from Anderson & Sheppard.