The Obtainer - 10/28/24, Monday

Valet.
The Obtainer

Monday,
October 28th Edition

Cory Ohlendorf

I've never stopped loving my chukkas, but I will be wearing them more proudly this fall. And if you need a new pair, we've pulled together the very best for your money.

- Cory Ohlendorf, Editor in Chief ⋯ @coryohlendorf

 
Your Fall Foundations

Ready for the Desert Boot Renaissance?

When it comes to classic footwear, the chukka boot (also known as a desert boot) is definitely in the pantheon of timeless styles that every man should own. Only, for the past few years, the simple suede boot—with it's soft support and natural crepe rubber sole—felt a bit tired.

No offense, that's just fashion for you. The unchanging style just felt a little ubiquitous. Stylish guys got distracted by other options—hikers and other lug soled styles. They pulled on loafers and a wide variety of wild sneakers. But with a revival of classic menswear styles and a return to simpler footwear, it's clear that we're at the start of a desert boot renaissance. Which means now is the time to invest in a quality pair.

If you haven't worn a pair in a little bit, you'll soon come to find it's something of a secret weapon shoe—it has the ability to add a nice contrast to whatever it is you're wearing. Pair them with your beat-up jeans or wide-leg chinos and let them give your dress pants a shot of relaxed cool. It's at once classic and current. Whether you need a reliable starter pair or are prepared to lay down twice as much for a rugged option that can be repaired and resoled over and over again, these are the chukkas that won't let you down.

Our Picks

The undisputed classic pair, unlined with a cushioned insole and natural crepe rubber sole. Available in half a dozen colorways.

Suede desert boot,
$150 by Clark's

 

Famed shoemaker Padmore & Barnes partnered with Buck Mason for some rugged chukkas based on old hunting boots.

Roughout chukka,
$248 by Padmore & Barnes
for Buck Mason

 

Cut from soft deerskin leather, this pair features Blake-stitched construction on a stacked crepe sole, and now it’s marked way down.

Pebbled leather chukka,
$295 / $80 by Taft

 

As stylish as they are durable, these boots are crafted from waterproof suede and set on durable Vibram Commando soles for optimal grip.

Lucien lug-sole desert boot,
$470 by Mr P.

5 Stylish Items to Buy This Week

This is sturdier than your average knit polo ($135). It looks like something Jacob Elordi might wear—a little slouchy, relaxed yet cozy. And it looks like something that might cost at least twice the reasonable retail price. It's crafted from responsibly-sourced wool and organic cotton—the blended yarns are twisted to create a modern two-tone finish. It's textural and easy to layer over a tee and under a jacket.

See all 5 products »

Smart Buys

The sales and discounts our team is currently watching.

 

The made-in-the-USA New Balances rarely go on sale, but these U998NV sneakers have just been marked down at END., so take advantage while you can.

$239 / $143
by New Balance

 

A modernist side table made from solid wood with an intersecting X-base to give your space fresh, structural appeal. Use it as a side table or a nightstand.

$119.99 / $59.99
by UO

 

This wool blend jacket has a cropped fit and is finished with a two-way zipper and oversized patch pockets. There's a Carmy from 'The Bear' vibe and now it's 30% off.

$268 / $187.60
(w/code HARVEST)
by Madewell

 

Want more?
See all 33 sales »

Worth a Read

The best stories from around the web.

 

Unfortunately, we've already passed that ideal window, but don't fret ...”

 

The Best Time to Buy Flights for the Holidays This Year

 

//

 
Thrillist
 

Crew ignorance is the biggest danger at sea—a $3 million Andy Warhol Brillo Box piece mistaken for cleaning supplies and left in the sun.”

 

Why Yacht Owners Are Commissioning Copies of Original Art to Display at Sea

 

//

 
Robb Report
 

If your mantra is 'You can’t put a price on quality,' then these are the uncompromised headphones for you.”

 

I Tried Bang & Olufsen’s $1,500 Headphones. Here’s How They Stack Up.

 

//

 
Esquire