Herring Shoes Journal

The last day of November signals the end of leaf-crunching autumn and the start of the colder wintery weather. It has been a challenging 2020 so winter may seem even longer and tougher this year, but a decent boot may just help lift the mood a little. Please know that we are not underestimating the stresses and strains of this year, but hey, we must find joy where we can as we come out of the second lockdown…and boots make us smile. 

Here is our guide to the best boots for winter 2020/21.

Brogue
Our choice is the Stow style from Trickers in acorn calf leather. These really are a thing of beauty. I don’t really need to say anymore, just look at them! They are true classics and would work equally well in the country as they would in the town. They ooze brogue edginess.

Trickers are renowned for their boot-making skills and these are made with thick, quality calf leathers. They are storm-welted for extra water resistance and they are also available with a super-springy Dainite sole, in a variety of colours. If you have smaller feet or the woman in your life fancies these, they come in size 6 and go up to size 13.

Chukka/desert
This Ryder III style was worn by Daniel Craig’s James Bond in The Quantum of Solace and has risen to popularity since. No doubt a flurry of interest will follow when the new Bond film, No Time To Die, is eventually released. Another classic, from Church’s this time, they are perfect for smart casual wear, especially if you are still working from home.

Bovver
These no-nonsense Churchstow Norwegian rubber-soled boots would fit the bovver category for their extreme ruggedness. Less than a fashion statement though (but they also fit that bill nicely), they have been finely crafted to last.

As a tall boot, it has a punkish flare, but the lightweight commando pattern sole and contrast Norwegian stitching into the upper, along with a Goodyear stitch into the sole, make it ideal for getting out and about at the weekend. 

Hiking
Like the above, these are sturdy little numbers that are meant for walking. Our Badminton rubber-soled boots are described as the ‘the ultimate gentleman’s boot’, made from leather that is designed to take a bashing. They have been crafted for us by Cheaney, so the quality is really top notch.

Chelsea
When you are not reaching for your rugged footwear, the Chelsea is the perfect choice for almost everything else in winter. Smart enough for work but casual enough to wear with jeans or chinos on a Friday night or for Sunday lunch. The Chelsea boot can really do no wrong and they are easy to get on and off too! Our Wilson Chelsea boot is our longest standing style and for good reason. It is made on the 11028 modern-shaped last that has become classic in its own right with its nod to the Swinging Sixties. 

Derby
This is a welcome new addition to our collection. Made for us by Steptronic, our Liverpool style looks like a brogue boot but has a Derby-style lace configuration with a side zip fastening. The key word is ‘comfort’. They are light, hard-wearing, flexible and have a sheepskin lining. The soles are not welted, but you will still get years of good use out of them as the calf leather is hardy.

Your choice
As I am sure you know, we have plenty of other boot styles on our website should you wish to have a browse to put a few favourites on your Christmas wish list! The above are just a few suggestions as boots really are an individual choice that can speak volumes about who you are and the mood you are in!