The best biker boots, and how to style them this season
For autumn/winter 2024, options abound in the boot camp. For those currently revelling in the second coming of Jilly Cooper, riding boots are firmly back on the cards (just ask Gucci’s Sabato De Sarno, who sent dozens of oxblood-red pairs down his AW24 runway). The elegant knee-high remains a chic proposition, best served with an angular pointed toe and stubby, abbreviated kitten heel. But for something that’ll satisfy your inner rebel, it has to be the biker boot.
The biker renaissance began back in 2022, at the hands of Miuccia Prada (who also single-handedly brought back the biker’s predecessor, the combat boot, in the years prior). Miu Miu’s take on the tough silhouette featured matte silver hardware and a rounded-toe silhouette, masterfully combining runway 'it' status with satisfying practicality.
This year’s biker hasn’t deviated much from that blueprint: look for a chunky rounded shape with either an ankle-skimming or mid-calf upper edge, depending on what you plan to wear yours with (a longer length is ideal with skirts and dresses, while an ankle style works well with boyfriend and barrel-leg jeans).
In fact, styling is the key to keeping your looks firmly away from teenage territory, and the biker comes with more versatility than you may initially think. Of course, a pair of slim-fit jeans comes with an instant Kate Moss-inflected attitude, but don’t be afraid to branch out: a bruised-leather boot actually breathes fresh energy into flowing midi skirts, instantly switching elegant looks into something more youthful and appropriate for busy days. Try them with smarter separates, too: a silk slip dress and blazer make for the easiest evening outfit ever, while switching your standard stiletto for a biker boot will add a nonchalant edge that feels so right for frosty nights. I personally love the dichotomy of a tough biker boot with a crisp-collared shirt, teamed with a flowing midi skirt and faded leather jacket for a perfect smart-casual balance.
And if you are missing a little of that teenage energy? Slip a hooded sweatshirt beneath your jacket (it will max out the practical points in this finger-numbing weather, too). Here, see the best-in-class biker boots this winter.
Burberry
Sitting somewhere in-between a biker and a riding boot, Burberry’s smooth leather pair is perfect for anyone who wants a look that leans a little smarter. They’re shaped to skim the bottom of your knees, meaning they’ll work seamlessly with thigh- and midi-length hemlines.
Miu Miu
The one that started it all is back: Miu Miu’s new-season biker is cropped to the ankle and toughened with buckles and utilitarian hardware.
Paris / Texas
Paris Texas might be best known for its pulse-raising stiletto heels, but the brand also excels at grungier daytime staples. These Roxy biker boots come in softly worn brown leather, and will look especially good with a wardrobe of cream and coffee-toned separates (such as that camel coat you’ve just invested in).
£469.00 at net-a-porter.com.uk
Jimmy Choo
Jimmy Choo’s take on the biker is softer and more streamlined, offering a gentler route into the trend. Team them with flowing layers that hit at mid-calf, or tuck in a pair of Nineties-style straight-leg jeans.
The Kooples
Rebellious classics with a hint of Parisian polish are The Kooples’ stock-in-trade. A fine example, these biker boots will only look better with age.
Arket
Arket’s offering comes with minimalist hardware for a pared-back look, and is set on a chunky rubber sole to ensure a sturdy grounding.
Me + Em
Me+Em puts impressive attention to detail into all its footwear designs. These biker boots are gently squared at the toe for a contemporary feel, and set on a slender sole that makes them feel right for evening as well as casual winter days (simply switch your shearling coat for an oversized blazer after 6pm).
Sandro
For something more true to tough tradition, Sandro’s smooth leather pair fits the bill. Metal plating highlights the square toe, while polished silver hardware sits above the sharply angled heel.
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