There are many things that a shoe needs to be before it can truly be called a really good shoe. It has to be wearable, supportive, and comfortable. It needs to be good looking and in step with all of the latest trends. Most importantly of all, it needs to be indicative of superior craftsmanship, design, and value.
That said, brand name is everything when it comes to shoes. Brands that are synonymous with concepts like durability, style, and value are as respected as they are for a reason. They've earned that reputation by consistently putting out excellent footwear options every season.
The following are just a few of the footwear brands we're currently loving most. They're killing it when it comes to the footwear game and definitely belong on your radar.
Sorel
When it comes to winter boots, Sorel is absolutely leading the pack when it comes to superior quality and warmth you can really count on. The Sorel boot line first became a thing in 1962 when it was first introduced, quickly becoming the world's top selling winter boot brand not long after. It remains the go-to brand when it comes to reliable winter footwear for millions of people.
Sorel boots are also well-known for striking an excellent balance between form and function. Not only are they waterproof, weatherproof, and completely appropriate for any kind of inclement weather, but they're fashionable as well. Their women's Slimpack II Lace is a great example with its weather-sealed design and attractive but toasty faux fur snow collar. This season has also seen the introduction of lots of new duck boots (like the men's Cheyanne), one of the hottest trends in footwear for fall.
Sperry
If you're already familiar with the Sperry name, then the chances are excellent that you're a boating enthusiast. Sperry is second to none when it comes to the difficult task of providing traction on the potentially slippery decks of boats of all kinds. However, Sperry boat shoes aren't just for sailors anymore. Their unique signature look and wide variety of styles make Sperry shoes and boots popular for fashion reasons as well.
This fall sees Sperry throwing its hat in the ring when it comes to trendy but practical duck boots. Stay dry and look fantastic with options like the women's Saltwater Rope and the men's Avenue duck boot. You'll see lots of looks that positively ooze with style hitting the streets as well. The fashionably sleek women's Dasher Lillie is an excellent example.
Ugg
Before Ugg boots became a runaway sensation here in the United States, they were an established tradition in New Zealand and Australia. We first became aware of their awesomeness when an Australian surfer named Brian Smith introduced us to them in the 1970s when he brought a supply from his homeland to sell here in the states.
The boots became an instant hit with the surfing communities in California, and the rest is history. Now it's practically impossible to picture fall or winter without Ugg boots, and with good reason. They're every bit as great looking as they are warm and cozy!
This fall season will see plenty of Ugg styles that feature that classic look we've all come to love. Just feast your eyes on their newest product, the Chickaree, part moccasin, part bootie, and part slipper, a women's classic in chestnut. However, you'll see your share of duck boots, rain boots, and moccasins emerging as well.
J Sport
J Sport prides itself on offering practical but fashionable options that strike a perfect balance between functional athletic footwear and everyday footwear you can really live your life in. Shoes come attached to features like memory foam, antibacterial foot beds, and all-terrain traction. There are also options available to suit every possible lifestyle, including animal-free shoes for vegans and water ready styles guaranteed to protect feet from the elements.
This fall will see plenty of comfortable, stylish new athletic shoes from J Sport hitting the streets. (The women's Compass is sure to be a big hit.) You'll also see J Sport introducing us to its own version of the duck boot, as well as a few pleasant surprises like the quirky and casual women's Maple.
That said, if you're looking for fall footwear that's every bit as good-looking, stylish, and wearable as it is functional, look no further than these four incredible brands. Which of their many styles will be gracing your feet this season?
