Come winter, utility tends to take precedence over style. After all, clothing and accessories need to be able to withstand the elements above all else — but that's not to say you have to abandon your fashion sense once the weather drops below freezing. The influencer set is all for achieving this winter style balance too. One quick sweep on Instagram is all it will take to see a slew of your favorite women swathed in down jackets, stiff denim, and the focus of this particular piece: fashionable hiking boots.
These lace-up boots have deep-rooted origins in utility; they're made for climbing mountains and finding footing in snow and mud. The silhouette is supportive and comfortable, the composition insulates your feet, and details like gores and rubber soles provide sturdiness to withstand most anything mother nature might throw at you. As for the style factor, you may associate these boots with brands like Danner that go back to the early 20th century, however, present-day labels like Ganni and Proenza Schouler are reimagining the hiker boots for everyday wear.
Below you'll find 10 (somewhat) surprisingly stylish outfits that put a pair of hiker boots to work. No matter what terrain you find yourself facing, you'll be sure footed.
Balance out a pair of utilitarian hiker boots with a sweet textural coat and wide-cuff denim. These handmade Nubuck boots below are especially unique thanks to the bead embellishments on the laces that balance out the toughness.
Break up an all-noir ensemble with wintery white lace-up boots. Everything from the full grain leather to the contrast laces makes these a top-notch pick.
Team your gore-bedecked boots with an oversize puffer coat and leggings. Now all you need is a cabin in the woods. To finish this sporty outfit, try a pair of boots that are sleek and subtle—perfect for the wary hiker.
Finish off your sweater and jeans combination with a pop of white. Paris Texas is a favorite label among fashion girls; make these your first pair.
Skip the pumps and next time accessorize a suit with sand-colored boots. If it's particularly cold outside layer a turtleneck underneath. Too add a little texture and an outdoorsy appeal, go with shearling-lined hiker boots.
Say hello to your new weekend travel partners. Ganni's high-top hiking boots add an unexpected twist to a sleek city look.
Contrast a high-impact dress with edgy hiking boots and a chic trench coat. The chunky sole and silver-toned hardware stands out on the boots below.
Proof that a pair of hiker boots should accompany you on your next adventure. Black boots with punchy laces help add a fashionable twist to a monochromatic look.
Fun fact: hiker boots are not just for hiking, they're for dog walking, too. A pair with a warm inner liner will keep you cozy all winter long.
Color coordinate your hiker boots to your fleece vest (then accessorize with a scrunchie and gold hoop earrings, because why not).
