Written by Paddy Maddison in Essentials on the 29th September 2016

Well, all that sun was great while it lasted but it’s almost time to get yourself wrapped up again in time for the winter months. While the colder weather may not be your favourite thing about this time of year, it does allow you many more options when it comes to your wardrobe, and one of the most important elements you’re going to want to start thinking about is your footwear. Given that you’ve just spent the past 4 months running around in flop flops and trainers, a sturdy set of boots is probably the last thing on your mind but it’s time to pay them some thought. So let’s take a look at some key styles this winter to help you transition stylishly into the cold weather.

Technical Boots 

If you’re looking for something which is going to tick all of the boxes then perhaps a pair of technical boots would be best suited to your needs. Something like the Back to Berkeley from The North Face is waterproof, insulated, durable and has the added bonus of being pretty easy on the eye too.

Moc-Toe Boots 

For something a little more classic and versatile, a leather moc-toe boot is a fantastic option and looks great with a nice pair of jeans. If you look after them properly they’ll look after you too and with the right products you’ll have no problem keeping them waterproof. The obvious option is a pair of Red Wings, although some people find them a little too cumbersome. For something slimmer fitting take a look at Yuketen’s native American-inspired designs.

Work Boots 

A sturdy set of work boots is another perfect classic option that will never go out of style. Easy to care for and clean, comfortable, warm and cosy - a pair of work boots are a great choice for the coming winter. In terms of inspiration, you can never go wrong with a pair of 6” Timberlands, or if you’re looking to splash the cash then Visvim’s Virgil boots are seriously tasty.

Hiking Boots 

They may not be to everyone’s tastes but if you can pull them off then a pair of hiker boots are the perfect way to inject some real personality into your winter wardrobe. Fracap’s Scarponcini boot is a great choice for around the £200 mark, which really isn’t too bad considering that they’re handmade in Italy, fully leather lined and feature a Vibram sole. If that’s still not good enough for you then try Moncler’s Mountain Peak boots, they really are something to behold.

Brogue Boots 

For those times when you need to be dressed a little smarter this winter, don’t be let down by your choice of footwear. A pair of brogue boots are the perfect way to dress up while still retaining all of the comfort and practicality of any other kind of winter footwear. Ralph Lauren’s Nickson boots are a good option and have the bonus of having a fairly thick tread which will come in handy on those frosty mornings on the way to the office.

The Duck Boot 

Perhaps you live out in the countryside and a pair of brogue boots simply isn’t going to cut the mustard? An insulated duck boot is probably the absolute ultimate winter boot and offers everything you could want in terms of warmth and comfort. They don’t have to look ghastly either. Nope if you pick the right pair and style them right they can look great. Sorel’s Caribou boots are a perfect example.

We look at the best and different footwear styles for 2016 with this Definitive Guide to Men’s Winter Boots.