We talk extensively about the closet essentials you'll wear day in and day out, but what about the essentials that see a little more down time? All-terrain gear might not be the first thing on our list while on a shopping binge, but hiking boots are actually a useful thing to have on hand.
While we'll probably never see a chic pair of Chanel hiking boots in our lifetime (though the couture house did recently embrace athleisure, so who knows), functional and good-looking options do exist. So before you're relegated to googling "cool hiking boots," we've rounded up 10 pairs that are a good starting point. Sure, their price points may veer more toward being a slight investment than a total steal, but since they're made to last basically forever, we're considering this a worthwhile splurge.
We know, we know: White isn't exactly the first choice for outdoor activities. Fortunately, Native's Fitzroy boots are water-resistant, which means they'll stay as clean as white shoes possibly can.
Native Fitzroy, $110, available at Native.
Now if only we could get the rest of our favorite footwear brands to make cool outdoorsy boots, too.
Adidas Outdoor AX2 Mid GTX Hiking Boot, $134.95, available at Backcountry.
Yes, we did a double-take, too. The shoes are in fact as cute as they are durable.
Woolrich Beebe Boot, $160 $119.99, available at Woolrich.
While we're coveting every hiking boot in Danner's arsenal, this tall pair provides an extra level of ankle support for those truly strenuous hikes.
Danner Rivot TFX 3", $290, available at Danner.
If you're looking for shoes that will last you forever, these boots boast water-proof leather that can stand years of wear.
Vasque Sundowner GTX Hiking Boots, $220, available at REI.
In a space oversaturated with brown and olive options, these black trail-ready boots feel fresh.
Hanwag Banks Boots, $280, available at Best Made Co.
Timberland's Euro hiking boots are made with OrthoLite insoles, so those nine-hour walks will just fly by.
Timberland Leather Euro Hiking Boots, $110, available at Timberland.
Our own fashion market editor, Rachel Besser, just gave these sneaker-boots a test run through Iceland's mountainous fjords. The conclusion? Thumbs way up for support and style.
Nike Air Max 1 Mid Sneakerboot, $150 $89.97, available at Nike.
These may be the priciest boots on our list, but with good reason. Their ergonomic technology ensures your every step (even the ones scaling mountains) feels like you're walking on a cloud.
Finn Comfort Garmisch Leather Hiking Boot, $394.95, available at Nordstrom.
Utilize these in the winter for more than just hiking. Their water-proof exterior will keep your feet warm come sleet, rain, or snow.
Merrell Eventyr Bluff Waterproof, $170, available at Merrell.
Like what you see? How about some more R29 goodness, right here?
Where To Find The Best Outdoor Clothing Brands