Getting cold feet about your fall footwear choices? A pair of vintage hiking boots is all you need

Do you know what George Mallory wore during his 1924 Everest expedition? You know, while attempting to scale the previously unclimbed highest mountain on Earth? A place where howling subzero winds kill soft tissue in seconds and icy crevasses swallow grown men whole? A tweed jacket. He wore a tweed jacket.

To say mountain clothing and footwear has advanced somewhat in the last century is a bit of an understatement. Today's hikers and mountaineers are spoiled for choice when it comes to high-performance, lightweight gear. But there's still a place in the average guy's wardrobe for the pieces that paved the way for modern alpine equipment. Case in point: vintage hiking boots.

These leathery retro stompers can't compete with today's lightweight, synthetic boots when it comes to performance. But in terms of looks, they're hard to beat. If you don't already own a pair, you should. And here's everything you need to know before buying.

What are vintage hiking boots?

When we say 'vintage hiking boots', we're referring to the retro mountaineering footwear popularised in the 1970s and 1980s. We're talking when leather was king, and the cutting-edge outdoor gear looked more like today’s heritage pieces.

Made primarily from leather, these retro hiking boots often feature metal D-ring eyelets, brightly coloured laces, a lugged sole and a sturdy, round-toe design. A signature element is the gusseted, fold-over tongue, which keeps debris out and adds an extra layer of weather protection. These boots weren’t just built to last; they were built to endure the absolute harshest of conditions. Today, they’ve clambered down from the mountainside and into everyday wardrobes, worn more for their signature looks than for tackling rugged trails.

Function or fashion?

Though vintage hiking boots were once the pinnacle of outdoor footwear technology, modern alternatives now outshine them in terms of pure functionality. These days, synthetic materials, waterproof membranes, and lighter constructions dominate the hiking boot market. But vintage boots still have a place — it's just not necessarily in the mountains anymore. Instead, they’re better suited to casual outfits, where their sturdy build and timeless style can be appreciated without the demands of extreme terrain.

If you’re in the market for boots that will take you up an 8,000-metre peak, it’s probably best to look elsewhere. But for something that pairs nicely with jeans and will carry you through cold, wet winters, vintage hiking boots are still hard to beat.

How to style vintage hiking boots

Styling vintage hiking boots is easier than you might think. The boots’ rugged aesthetic makes them perfect for casual outfits with an outdoorsy or workwear-inspired edge. The key is to balance the chunky, utilitarian style of the boots with more streamlined pieces in your wardrobe.

Start by pairing your vintage boots with classic jeans — preferably in a straight or relaxed fit. The heavy-duty nature of the boots works well with denim’s durability and textured look. Throw on a crewneck jumper and a flannel shirt, and you’ve got a rugged look that's hard to beat.

Alternatively, team them with fatigue pants and a cropped jacket for a slightly smarter, weekend-ready outfit. Keep colours neutral and earthy to complement the boots’ rugged aesthetic — think greens, browns, and autumnal shades. Avoid overly formal or fitted pieces; the bulky nature of these boots demands balance with relaxed, casual clothing.

What to look for when buying vintage hiking boots

When investing in a pair of vintage hiking boots, it’s essential to pay attention to key factors like materials, sizing, brand heritage, and build quality. Here's what to know before pulling the trigger.

Materials

Most vintage hiking boots are made from full-grain leather, which offers durability, water resistance, and comfort over time as it moulds to the wearer’s foot. Look for thick, high-quality leather that will stand up to the elements. Pay attention to the soles, too — Vibram soles are the gold standard for durability and grip, making them a common choice for serious boots.

Sizing

Vintage hiking boots tend to fit a little differently from modern shoes, so be mindful when choosing your size. Many come with a more generous fit, designed to accommodate thick hiking socks. It’s wise to try boots on with the socks you’ll be wearing, or size down slightly if you’re in between sizes. Comfort is key, and leather boots will stretch slightly over time, so ensure there’s enough room for your feet to breathe.

Brand heritage

Choosing a brand with a rich heritage often ensures you’re getting a product built to last. Many vintage hiking boot brands have been producing boots for decades – in some cases, centuries – with a deep understanding of craftsmanship and outdoor performance. Brands like Danner and Paraboot have histories rooted in producing outdoor-ready footwear, lending credibility to their current offerings.

Build quality

A well-made vintage hiking boot can last for years, even decades. Look for details like stitch-down, Goodyear-welted construction, which improves durability and allows the boot to be resoled. Also, inspect the boot’s metal hardware, such as D-rings and eyelets, to ensure they are sturdy and built to last. A good boot should show attention to detail, with high-quality stitching, well-finished edges, and minimal imperfections.

The best vintage hiking boot brands

Danner

Danner is an iconic American brand known for producing high-quality hiking boots since the 1930s. The Mountain Light model is perhaps its most famous, offering a blend of rugged durability and timeless style. Made from full-grain leather with a Vibram sole, it’s a great option for those seeking a heritage boot that can handle city streets and weekend hikes alike. Danner focuses on craftsmanship and longevity, making its boots a long-term investment for your wardrobe.

Fracap

Based in Italy, Fracap produces some of the finest handmade hiking boots around. The brand specialises in artisanal craftsmanship, using premium leather and traditional construction techniques. Fracap’s boots often feature Vibram soles and the signature D-ring eyelets, offering a vintage look with modern comfort. Perfect for anyone looking for a stylish, well-made boot that blends heritage craftsmanship with contemporary design.

Velasca

Velasca, a Milanese brand, offers a modern take on vintage-inspired hiking boots. Known for its Italian craftsmanship, the brand’s boots combine full-grain leather with soft, comfortable construction. Velasca’s hiking boots are ideal for everyday wear, offering a more refined take on the rugged outdoor look. They’re built for city life but maintain the durability and style of classic mountain boots.

Diemme

Diemme, another Italian brand, has a reputation for producing high-quality outdoor footwear with a fashion-forward twist. The brand’s hiking boots often blend traditional materials with bold, contemporary designs. Diemme uses premium leather and durable soles, ensuring both style and performance. These boots work well as a fashion statement, offering something different from the classic heritage look.

Myrqvist

Myrqvist is a Swedish brand known for its high-quality footwear with minimalist design. Its hiking boots combine Scandinavian simplicity with functional materials, creating a sleek, refined take on the vintage boot style. Made from full-grain leather with durable soles, Myrqvist’s boots are versatile enough to wear with both casual and smart outfits, providing a contemporary alternative to more traditional designs.

Moncler

Moncler, a luxury outerwear brand, brings high-end style to vintage hiking boots. The brand is known for its premium materials and upscale designs, often blending traditional boot shapes with modern touches. Moncler’s hiking boots are crafted from luxurious leathers and feature cutting-edge detailing, making them perfect for those who want a statement piece. These boots balance style and substance, offering a more elevated take on the traditional hiking boot.

Paraboot

Paraboot is a French brand renowned for its sturdy, handcrafted footwear. The brand’s hiking boots, made from premium leather and featuring rugged rubber soles, combine durability with classic design. Paraboot’s attention to detail and use of quality materials make its boots perfect for anyone seeking a reliable, stylish option. Whether you’re exploring the outdoors or navigating the city, Paraboot offers a timeless, versatile choice.

Grenson

Grenson is a British shoemaker with a reputation for fine craftsmanship. The brand’s hiking boots mix traditional construction with modern style, offering boots that are as functional as they are fashionable. Grenson’s boots feature thick leather uppers and sturdy soles, making them a great choice for winter. With a focus on quality and longevity, Grenson’s hiking boots are built to last while maintaining a timeless look.

Morjas

Morjas is a relatively new brand with a focus on quality and affordability. Its hiking boots feature premium leather uppers and durable soles, offering excellent value for money. The brand combines Scandinavian minimalism with traditional craftsmanship, creating a sleek, modern take on the vintage hiking boot. Morjas’ boots are perfect for anyone looking for a stylish yet functional addition to their winter wardrobe.

Next up: Five more boot ideas for tackling winter in style.