The weather is getting colder and wetter everyday – it’s high time to protect your ankles from the biting wind and soaking slush by strapping on a rugged pair of boots. Boots don’t have to be clumsy and ugly; you can make the right pair of boots work whether you’re dressing for a causal, business or formal event.

1. Leather is Better: Spend a little extra cash and invest in a leather boot. Quality matters, and “pleather” won’t stand up to the elements the same way that good ol’ genuine cow hide will.

Dress Boots

Ankle dress boots work well with business or formal attire

2. All About the Details: Boots don’t have to be solely functional and boring. As with dress shoes, there are boots that feature stylish embellishments such as cap toes, wingtips and brogue detailing. You can also switch out the laces for an interesting color contrast that creates more visual appeal.

These two tone leather and suede wingtip boots by Robert Wayne are rugged yet stylish

3. Made for Walkin’: Whether high or low, leather or suede, make sure your boots are comfortable and don’t rub against your ankles causing pain and bothersome sores. Ditch the no show socks and thin dress socks in favor of a heavy wool or cotton sock to protect your skin and provide an additional layer of warmth.

Crevo, Allen Edmonds, Clarks, and CAT (for more extreme gents) have a great selection of stylish and resilient footwear to reboot your fall and winter wardrobe. Whether you’re dashing across a muddy yard, jumping in a puddle on your way to a downtown cocktail party or sitting in your chilly office, a stylish boot is the answer to successfully combating the upcoming cold weather months.

For more men’s style inspiration, follow me on Instagram @the.hybrid.gent.

What is your go-to boot style? Tell us in the comments below!