The Next Step
Comfort innovations are trending up in work, outdoor and lifestyle Boots.
The Next Step
Comfort innovations are trending up in work, outdoor and lifestyle Boots.
Fresh looks and comfort underfoot are must-have traits in 2024’s latest crop of boots for both the work sector and the “outdoor life.”
“The boot category is experiencing a comfort revolution,” declares Armie Pasa, shoe designer, Propét Footwear. “Now, it’s not just about looking good – it’s about feeling awesome from the first step.”
In some cases, this means existing boot styles are being revisited and reimagined to redefine the meaning of “comfort.” The result, Pasa, says is “a blend of classic aesthetics and innovative technology transforming familiar silhouettes into havens of coziness.”
Boot shoppers are also continuing to demand innovation and freshness. “Beyond style, individuals are seeking durable options that provide protection, security, and comfort more than ever,” notes Gillian Meek, CEO, Kamik. “Consumer behavior is reflecting adaptability, in part due to global challenges and economic uncertainties. Embracing the unpredictable nature of the world and weather, people are navigating towards footwear that not only meets their functional needs but also aligns with their desire to feel safe.’’
Put simply, boots that combine style, comfort and performance are in demand, according to Rich Rask, president, Rieker Shoe Corporation, who identifies “lifestyle, comfort-driven hybrid” styles as a trend to watch.
Brandy LaPlante, sales manager, ECCO, pinpoints a few specific style trends emerging: “We are seeing a return to tailored dress boots and penny loafers in Women’s. We will also see a mix of metallics and brick red bringing color to ECCO’s AW’24 assortment.”
A keener focus on women’s needs in work-focused styles is also apparent. “The women’s PPE movement, which has been bubbling under the surface for years, has finally erupted with a vengeance,” states Emily Soloby, founder and CEO of women’s work brand Juno Jones, which focuses on making women’s safety footwear that is anthropometrically appropriate, safe, and stylish. Soloby says, “One of the barriers to correctly fitting gear for women has been price, so we’ve worked to create this line that meets the needs of workers, employers, and retailers in today’s economy.”
High quality, made in USA product remains a focus for Thorogood. “The work industry has seen a decline in Made in the USA footwear,” points out Ty Harris, national sales director, Thorogood. “With that in mind, we decided to set out to develop the best boot in the industry from the ground up. We sourced the best products from around the world, partnered with a world renowned Pedorthist, to build the most comfortable boot we could build, and put it all together in Wisconsin using American Union labor. The result of that work is the new Thorogood Genesis series. It combines USA leathers, the most toe room in the industry, Pedorthist developed footbed and last, direct attached construction and a Nitrile rubber outsole for unmatched performance.”
Reebok Work Zig Kinetica Edge II Work
This trail-inspired hiker can take a beating and keep going thanks to its Floatride Energy and Zig Energy systems delivering light, responsive cushioning. The grey and black versions of this outdoor-inspired, waterproof work boot also include an internal met guard. Textured lugs provide traction and a DuraKick protective outer toe guard protects against all kinds of terrain and obstacles. Available in February. MSRP $176.
Ariat Stump Jumper 6” BOA H20
The new Stump Jumper delivers durable support, protection, and cushioning for those spending long days on their feet in extreme outdoor work environments. It has an aggressive, debris-releasing outsole built to tackle mud and rocks and it features a micro-adjustable BOA Fit System for fast, precision fit, and Ariat’s ATS Technology for support and anti-fatigue cushioning. Available now. MSRP $259.95.
Moxie Trades Angel Distressed
A women’s work boot, this Fall ’24 offering combines a stylish look with full performance features, including an ASTM F2413-18 Composite toe and a slip-resistant rubber outsole with EVA midsole. Made with full grain leather, it uses cement construction, and has a fast rebound insole. MSRP $120.
Hoss Recon 8” Side Zip
This full grain leather, Fall ’24 work boot from Hoss has an ASTM F2413-18 Composite toe and a slip-resistant rubber outsole with EVA midsole. It also features a waterproof membrane, side zip for easy-on, and YKK heavy duty zipper. Available in sizes 7-12, 13, 14 D(M) 2E(W). MSRP $150.
Thorogood Genesis Series
The brand’s innovative new Genesis series, slated to hit the shelves in Fall ’24, introduces a combination last, providing wearers with a snug heel fit and generous toe room for comfort and stability. The boots also have a custom orthotic insert designed to prevent pain and fatigue, as well as a polyurethane midsole fused with a nitrile rubber outsole for traction and durability. Styles range from a 6” waterproof soft toe boot to an 8” waterproof insulated/nano safety toe boot. MSRP $250-$280.
Rocky Boots MonoCrepe Wedge Comp Toe
The Rocky MonoCrepe Wedge brings a new meaning to lightweight. Built on a proprietary lightweight oil & slip resisting MonoCrepe outsole and Rocky’s Air-Port Lite sponge PU footbed with memory foam, it is a rugged work boot built to keep feet energized, protected, and in-style. MSRP $165.
SkecherS Relment - Erett CT
This waterproof hiker-inspired lace-up work boot features a leather and woven fabric upper with a cushioned Skechers Air-Cooled Memory Foam insole, a composite safety toe and a slip-resistant outsole. It also boasts a flexible, shock-absorbing midsole. MSRP $115.
Georgia Boot Core 37 Wedge
Designed for all-day comfort, performance and durability, this 6” plain toe, waterproof, lace-up work boot has an oil, chemical, and slip-resistant dual-density polyurethane wedge outsole for stability. The insole is built with a polyurethane layer for cushioning and a memory foam top layer for customized cushioning of the entire foot. The heel cup ensures a secure fit. Airflow channels provide circulation.MSRP $150.
%20copy.jpg)
Juno Jones Hadaway Safety Boot in Cocoa Power
Tough, protective, comfortable and stylish, the Steel Toe Hadaway is a lace-up safety boot for Spring ’24 that is inspired by equestrian half chaps — it provides the flexibility and stability of a six-inch lace-up. It is ASTM F2413-18 Certified for impact, compression, and electrical hazard and features an almond shaped but roomy steel toe, water resistant construction, and a slip, oil, and fuel resistant outsole, with rugged tread for varied terrain. MSRP $129.
Remonte Soraya 71
The Soraya 71, Style # D1S71-45, is a Fall ’24 outdoor lifestyle boot, available in three colors. It has a soft leather upper, and a soft velvet water-resistant “tex” membrane lining. The lace up bootie also features an outside zipper for easy access, a shock-absorbing, removable insole and a lightweight, flexible and long-wearing outsole. MSRP $160.
Aetrex Margot
For those seeking a slightly more dressed-up vibe, Margot from Aetrex fits the bill. It is a lug-sole lace-up suede boot with a medial side zip and a 1 ¼ inch wedge heel. Margot is available in rich colors — black, taupe, dark green and dark red, with the dark red style featuring a leather counter. MSRP $179.95.
ECCO Women’s Offroad Waterproof Mid Boot
A new outdoor performance style launching for Fall ’24, the Offroad features a PFAS-free waterproof membrane that keeps feet dry and cozy. A durable rubber outsole ensures grip and traction on and off the trails. And ECCO’s RECEPTOR Technology pro-vides distinct flexibility and stability zones for dynamic support and walking comfort from ground impact to toe-off. MSRP $230.
Propét Footwear The Cortland
The durable, cozy and practical Cortland is a standout of Propét’s Fall 2024 collection. The all-weather hiking boot boasts technical features for outdoor performance including heat-trapping 3M Thinsulate insulation, a fully waterproof design and a high traction outsole. Available in sizes 6-10, 11, and 12 and in four different widths (medium, wide, X wide, XX wide). Available in September ’24. MSRP $139.95.
Irish Setter Setter Fifty Collection
New for Spring ’24, Setter Fifty casual styles are inspired by the original 1950s Irish Setter boots, with the white wedge soles the brand is known for but with a lighter weight, sustainable ExtraLight sole platform made from 51% recycled material. Leather is sourced from Leather Working Group Gold-Rated Tanneries. Available in wedge and Chelsea wedge styles.
Geox Spherica Actif X2
Rich leathers, clean styling and comfort underfoot combine in this crossover style. The Spherica Actif X2 in coffee/black is built with a cushioning system designed to offer an extra bounce effect. The silhouette strikes a balance between style and protection and also delivers comfort and breathability.MSRP $220.
Kamik Tundra
This Fall ’24 style epitomizes the brand’s DNA – it’s a stylish, Canadian-made, recyclable, and vegan-friendly winter boot engineered for the everyday outdoors. Designed with durability, and protection against the elements in mind, it has a 100% waterproof design and a -40°C temperature rating. MSRP $79.99 ($49.99, kids).
Muck Chore Western Mid
The brand’s iconic Chore boot has been redesigned with a Western flair, with a new square toe and pull-on side straps, while the lower outsole lug is engineered for stirrups. Neoprene adjusts to the contours of the foot, making the boots flexible and waterproof. MSRP $140.
%20(1).jpg)
.svg)