I keep reading that we're in for a very stormy autumn and winter. So, as I shop for new-season pieces, I'm taking a slightly more practical approach than usual – by that, I mean, I'm actually taking a practical approach for once; usually, I'm drawn to the frivolous. But now I'm talking less suede more water-resistant fabrics. Essentially, my new A/W26 buys need to not only look good, but also keep me dry, snug and safe when it's time to batten down the hatches.
If you're looking for an extra grippy shoe that will protect you from downpours and stop you slipping over on wet, muddy, even icy days, my go-to is FitFlop. If I had a pound for every time someone told me they swore by the brand's boots when working on outdoor shoots for GH or standing all day, well, I'd be able to buy more FitFlops.
My top pick for dealing with a range of weathers (possibly all in one day) is the NEO-D-HYKER Leather Chelsea Boot (easy for you to say). Here's why they're made for walking (and hiking and stomping through puddles), plus four more comfy boots to shop from FitFlop this autumn.
FitFlop NEO-D-HYKER Leather Chelsea Boots
According to FitFlop, it has ‘reimagined the Chelsea boot for adventure’, hence the chunky, very grippy sole and the water-resistant leather upper, plus built-in comfort tech to cushion your feet on long walks and hikes. In other words, these are the boots to turn to when you're going off-road, or simply don't want to slip over on a muddy commute.
They also have elastic side panels so you can pull them on and off easily and they're engineered to support your natural gait, helping to align your body and reduce fatigue.
They do have chunky soles – hence the extra grip – so if you're looking for something a bit more everyday, we'd go for the leather ankle boots instead.
FitFlop iQ-COMFF Leather Zip Ankle Boots
They're leather, so they'll be durable, and they're also lightweight with rebound cushioning in the sole and contain pressure-diffusing tech to help soothe tired feet.
If it's a comfy, snow-ready boot you're after, these ones are known among people who spend a lot of time working outdoors in winter (makeup artists and hair stylists on shoots for example) for being non-slip and cosy. They're water-resistant, lightweight, have zips on the back so you can pull them off easily, and absorb impact as you walk. They also come in a chic khaki.
FitFlop iQ-COMFF Water Resistant Boots
I love a shearling lining in winter – y0u can fool yourself into thinking you're still in your slippers. These moccasin-style shearling-lined suede boots are made for colder weather and have all the classic FitFlop comfort tech built in. Wear them with your favourite barrel-leg jeans.
And finally, if it's a proper stompy biker boot you want, these leather Wylders are a style FitFlop brings out year after year – for a reason. They're comfy, bouncy and look great with leggings or jeans. And did we mention they're 20% off until midnight on Sunday 4 October?
