Men's Combat Boots Fall 2010

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In my New York Fashion Week Fall 2010: Men’s Trend Report, I talk about “carryover” trends. As the name suggests, these trends simply refer to those the industry has seen in a previous season – say, Fall 2009 – that has reappeared this season.

Without getting into why designers do this (no, it’s not because they hit a creative wall and fell back on last year’s sketches; something tells me sales, retail and forecasting has much to do with it), it’s important to point out the benefit to the consumer: saving your money.

Why spend money when you’ve already made the investment? And when it comes to men’s combat boots, we’re talking low-risk investment. The term “perennial” here doesn’t even do it justice. From the first boots worn by the foot soldiers of the Roman legions to modern-day subcultures, it’s safe to say this style is enduring. Now that’s some serious ROI.

With that in mind, here’s a roundup of men’s combat boots for Fall 2010 that you can buy now – and carryover for years to come.
xxxxxx

Sachin Bhola's Pick :)

Brand: Topman

Name: Black High Leg Boots
Price: $150

There's only one Topman store in North America (it's in Soho, New York). What's up with that? I bought these during Fashion Week. These are great if you have skinny legs because they don't leave any opening around the calf when laced up. 

Brand: Browning Arms Co.

Where: eBay

Condition: Vintage, 1960s

Price: $99

Fashion aside, men's combat boots were designed for soldiers during, well, combat. Because they're designed to withstand rugged environments, many "regular" guys make this their footwear of choice during the fall and winter because of the water-resistant, cold-weather-resistant properties.

And these guys don't turn to the Topmans of of the world; they often shop at army surplus stores or eBay. You can find vintage models that have stood the test of time, often for much, much cheaper prices.

During Montreal Fashion Week Fall 2010, I worked on the production of the Barila show. The stylist, Christina Louiso, borrowed men's combat boots from an army surplus store to create the looks. Though typically worn on men, this was an excellent choice for this women's collection. Well done, Christina!    

For the boot history nerds: Each soldier of the New Model Army was issued three pairs. The soldiers were required to rotate them after every march for even wear. We could learn from them.

Before lace-ups, combat boots were often designed with buckles. It's not my thing, but wearing a buckled version would make for an interesting twist on the models we see today.

Brand: H by Hudson
Name: Angus Brogue Boot
Price: $203

Speaking of a twist, who said men's combat boots for Fall 2010 had to be black? This color speaks for itself. The broguing also adds visual interest. Look at them: You can tell these are going to age nicely :)

Brand: Whyred

Name: Luc
Price: $270

I'm loving the canvas upper on these ones. Like everything in menswear, evolution comes through the details. Click on the brand link for more photos. This pair from Whyred is reminiscent of Hedi Slimane for Dior Homme. Nothing wrong with the withered-15-yeard-old-anticonformist-Euro look.
  

Here are some more men's combat boots for Fall 2010 that I like. Left to right: Common Projects, Expedition Boots ($558); Frye Boots, Rogan Tall Lace Up ($258); Aldo, Wile ($140).