Footwear Insight

Chooka Versa Dot / $80 Rain How it looks: A pretty polka-dot print accents a sophisticated silhouette designed for women who have athletic or wide calves. Handmade, the high-rubber-content boot has a steel shank for support. How it works: Waterproof Versa- Fit technology features adjustable straps for an enhanced fit, and a moisture-absorbent polyester/ cotton lining and a removable memory foam insole provide com- fort. What's Trending Stacy Cail, Marketing Director at Washington Shoe Co. "We focus on basics like black, navy and gray and intermix seasonal colors. Mid-height and Chelsea boots are still a big focus as well as comfort. Our Versa-Fit collec- tion focuses on trend and comfort. Seasonal colors include moss green, mulberry, teal, plum and navy. This customer gets a modern boot with added features such as memory foam insoles and a flexible fit that's unique to each person. The dual adjustable back straps give the wearer a snug fit." Pendleton Glacier Park Tall Boot / $150 Rain/Lifestyle How it looks: Part of the Pendleton National Park Collection, the Glacier Park Tall incorporates the Glacier Park stripes and branding of the Glacier Park striped wool blankets Pendleton has been producing for a century. A cheeky back zip adds to the hip style. It also is available in ankle and Chelsea versions. (Pictured on Table of Contents, page 4.) How it works: Made of a high- content rubber compound, the boot also features Dual Bonded construction, a Wool Plus orthotic- like cushioned sockliner and a multi-directional slip-resistant sole. What's Trending Ed Dalton, President "Rain boots or wellies are extremely functional but are at the same time fashion accessory pieces. With that, women consider a fashionably twist to function, and we are seeing this through the popularity of our white Glacier Park boots. There is a trend toward purpose-ful buying as well. Customers have openly remarked that giving back is something they consider whenever possible. Two percent of the proceeds from the sale of our National Parks Collection products will be donated to the National Park Foundation, the offi- cial charity of America's national parks, in support of two special landmark-restoration projects. Pendleton has committed up to $500,000 for the restoration of the historic lobby of the Many Glacier Hotel in Glacier National Park and the preservation and accessibility of the Historic Grand Canyon Train Depot in Grand Canyon National Park." Roma Epgaga Matte Black / $92 Rain/Outdoor/Fashion How it looks: Made of natural rubber, the short boot has a sleek yet bold silhouette defined by a lace-up front designed to coordi- nate with any outfit. How it works: It keeps the elements out, in style, and the feet in comfort with a quick-dry cotton lining and multi-layered cushioned sole. What's Trending Samuel Bistrian, CEO/Owner "Laced boots and colors are trend- ing for 2018. Our laced matte black rain boots fit perfectly in the trend- ing category and will suffice any street style inspiration while keep- ing your feet dry and warm." O 52 • Footwear Insight ~ January/February 2018 footwearinsight.com RAIN/FASHION When it pours, rain boots step out to make a fashion statement as the water rolls right off them. Pretty prints and contrasting colorways make them visible on the dreariest of days and bring them out of the closet even when the sky is dry. Colors are trending for 2018. Left, Chooka Versa Dot, $80; and right: Roma Epgaga Matte Black, $92. to the contours of the foot) and agile (deep flex grooves in the midsole move naturally with the foot). What's Trending John Duvic, Vice President of Product Development at Warson Brands "We've seen a trend toward lightweight tactical footwear. Military and law enforcement professionals have to carry a lot of heavy equipment for their job, so we wanted to create one piece of equipment that wouldn't weigh them down." O BOOT B OO K

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