It’s gradually getting colder, which means more boots will be worn, also at work. But how do you recognize quality when you want to buy a pair for the office? Investing in good boots: here’s how to recognize quality. And it’s not always about the price, but mainly about making smart choices. In this article, I’ll give you all the tips and tricks.

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Investing in boots: how to choose quality that lasts

When you spot a pair of boots in the store that catch your eye, check the following points before buying:

Material: The material largely determines the shoe’s quality. Synthetic fabrics wear out quickly and usually don’t last long. If you want boots that look professional and hold up for years, choose sturdy leather. Leather also molds to your foot, reducing the risk of blisters or sore spots.

Sole: Some boots look chic on the outside but come with a thin sole. However stylish they may appear, don’t buy them. Thin soles wear out fast, and you’ll soon need a replacement. Take the sole in the photo above: if you wear it regularly, you’ll likely notice within six months that it needs replacing.

Finishing: The finishing reveals how long the boots will last. If the materials don’t line up properly or you see glue residue, leave them behind.

Zipper: A plastic zipper often signals poor quality. Instead, pick a boot with a metal zipper, ideally from a brand like YKK, which lasts much longer.

Investing in boots: stitching and glue

The stitching of a boot might seem like a small detail, but it also reveals a lot about quality.

• Good stitching: If the stitching is uneven or crooked, it means the boot was put together hastily. Good stitching is straight, even, and without loose threads.

• Stitch density: The number of stitches per centimeter determines how solidly the shoe is put together. The closer the stitches, the less chance of the material coming loose.

• Double stitching: On parts of the shoe that wear quickly, like the toe, you may see double stitching. This is another sign of quality.

• Stitching and glue: Good boots are often both stitched and glued. This combination ensures the shoe lasts longer.

Investing in boots: how to maintain them for years

You can invest a lot of money in good boots, but in the end, maintenance determines how long you’ll actually enjoy them. Especially if you wear your boots to work, it’s important they keep looking neat. Do you tend to forget this? Then make it a habit by scheduling it in your agenda.

For example, every year (often in the summer or at the start of winter)I go through my shoes. I check which pairs are still fine, which need to go, and whether any heels, zippers, or soles need replacing. After that, I treat all my leather shoes with special leather grease and spray the others with a protective coating.

Curious how to best maintain your shoes? Check out my articles on maintaining biker boots, functional work shoes and how you can use cotton bags for your work shoes. 

Best,
Aileen