Footwear Insight

Brands aim to Deliver on What Consumers Want from their Boots. By Suzanne Blecher Tell them what you want. Consumers are raising their voices about what is fit for their feet. Whether for work or outdoor activities, the boots in our closet circa 2019 just aren't cutting it any longer. Styles have changed, as has technology. Durability in workwear no longer equates to bulk. "In the past, there was an expectation that workwear could just look okay as long as it functioned well. ey were oen heavy leather and very bulbous looking. However, now this doesn't have to be the case," according to Twisted X CEO, Prasad Reddy, whose brand has craed an offering weighing 20% less than the traditional work boot. Toe types too, are evolving. Reddy notes a change over the last few years from wide-squared toe and snipped toe to newer, sleeker round toe and u-toe styles. Some brands are seeing an uptick in women purchasing work boots. "Particularly, as more women are in the market for safety work boots, the needs for attractive yet durable and long-lasting boots is becoming increasingly important" notes Brent Jennings, VP of marketing for Warson Brands. (Frye Supply, a new line of occupational footwear from Frye Boots, is among the brands designed and distributed by Warson.) Emily Soloby, founder of Juno Jones, a stylish work boot line for women, adds, "gone are the days of women having to be one 'of the boys' to fit in. Beauty and strength can go hand in hand." What trends, technologies or features do consumers want currently when it comes to buying boots? On the following pages, brands offer insight on what's trending in work and outdoor boot offerings, and showcase new styles to watch for in the year ahead. BOOT BOOK NEW YEAR NEW BOOTS January/February 2023 ~ Footwear Insight • 29

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