‘Tis the season to shop the best brands before all the good stuff sells out. And in Boston, a big percentage of our best brands is made up of the shoe companies that choose to call the Hub (and its surrounding areas) home. From New Balance to Puma, and from Converse to a slew of footwear startups, no Bostonian has an excuse for not looking good from the ankle down. So now’s the time to stalk the latest releases that will look extra stylish under the tree; whether you put them on your own wish list or snatch them up for someone else is up to you.
New Balance
New Balance has flashy, fit and practical gifts this season for anyone on your list. Here’s a glimpse of some of their top seasonal offerings.
Women’s Precious Metals 574: With rose gold details and a metallic-sheen finish (pictured), this update to the classic 574 shoe adds a glimmer to the dreary neutrals of the winter season. Also available in different gem tones; $75.
NB Glow Beacon Jacket: When it gets dark at 4:30 p.m., this neon-yellow zip up with reflective trim will make sure you’re visible after the sun sets during those evening runs, while keeping you warm. Available for $175.
Men’s HRL710 Hiking Boot: Perfect for staying active (and dry) throughout the winter, this New Balance take on a hiking boot uses Revlite technology for a light, yet durable model with a leather upper and fleece liner. Available for $105.
Converse
Converse’s latest releases are perfect for both the winter and holiday seasons, for those who don’t want to be trapped in their boots for the next however-many-months. These new arrivals are the perfect spin on edgy and stylish – and can even keep you warm. The brand is also offering free shipping through December 19. Chuck Taylor Shearling Boot: For the friend who won’t be giving up their Chucks just because of a little thing called snow, snag them these shearling boots disguised as classic Chuck Taylors (pictured). The shoe is made with a leather upper and a sherpa lining throughout. Available for $110.
Chuck Taylor All Star Tartan Plaid: Chuck Taylors take on the classic Christmas plaids in both red and green shades in these new releases, available for $65.
Chuck Taylor All Star Sequins: For added holiday shimmer, these sparkly sneaks come decked out in silver and black sequins, perfect for jazzing up the party circuit. Available for $70.
Sperry Top-Sider
While Sperry’s classic Top-Siders don’t exactly fare well in Boston’s harsh winters, the New England company has perfected winter-weather boots, and has some chic options as well for nights out on the town.
Ambrose Bootie: These booties (above) add a different flair to your normal winter neutrals in navy and oxblood; they also come in different color combos. Available for $140.
Boat Chukka by Made in Maine: These sturdy chukka boots can last any New England man through the winter – they’re made in Maine (by apropos Made in Maine), and Mainers know harsh weather. Available for $330.
Avenue Duck Boot: To really protect your puppies when trodding through wet snow this season, go for the Avenue Duck Boot, the classic rubber-toe style. Available in both men’s and women’s styles; $110.
Puma
Puma marries style and athletic wear flawlessly – their colorful street shoes blend pretty seamlessly with their equally fabulous running sneakers. For an added bonus, Puma has extended their Cyber Monday deals, and they’re offering up free shipping through December 25.
R698 Snow Splatter: These men’s snow-themed sneakers (pictured) are guaranteed to amp up your street style game. Available in other colors; $100.
Puma x Solange Wild Wonder: In case you were in need of more proof that Puma was excelling in the style game, the brand has teamed up with the impossibly cool Solange for a second collaboration. The outcome? Three pairs of colorful kicks in bright hues. One pair is event outfitted with zebra print. The sneakers run between $120 and $180.
Faas 500 v2 Women’s Running Shoes: These classic, lightweight running sneaks come in pretty colors that will actually make you want to put them on and go for a jog, even in the colder months. Available for $100.
Boston Boot Co.
This local company, launched in 2013, is making major gains as the city’s first “micro-shoery.” The brand has four different styles, inspired by New England, and if you’re in need of new winter boots, you’ll want them on your list.
Cambridge Boot: Made with waterproof leather and canvas panels, these boots (pictured) were made for walking – through Cambridge, or Boston, in the rain and snow. Available for $197.
Newbury Boot: By adding a spin on the classic wing tip style, these fashionable yet durable boots take their wearers around the city with ease. Available for $217.
The Lewiston-Maine Made: Looking to splurge on a pair of quality, locally made boots? Boston Boot Co.’s Made in Maine special edition is a sleek number that provides weather protection with style. Available for $347.
Images via New Balance, Converse, Sperry, Puma and Boston Boot Co.
