Why are they called Lug Boots?
The term "lug" is derived from the Old English word "hloeg," meaning "to swell" or "to bulge." Toothy rubber or synthetic material indentations are made of rubber and patterned on the outsole to provide a solid footing for the wearer. The depth and spacing of the lugs varies depending on the intended use of the boot. The thick, deeply grooved outsole of the lug sole boot provides excellent traction on wet, slippery, or uneven surfaces. They can be found on a range of boots- work to station boots, winter to riding boots, hiking and rain boots to combat boots and Chelsea boots to knee-high boots.
Types of lug sole boots include:
- Work boots: Informing the overall boot trend of lug-sole boots, these are designed to endure the wear-and-tear in demanding environments, like farms or construction sites. They typically provide excellent traction on wet, slippery, or uneven surfaces.
- Lug-sole Chelsea boots: These offer a versatile dial-up of the classic leather pull-on Chelsea boot silhouette with the addition of chunky lug soles, which give the wearer some lift while remaining durable and lightweight.
- Lug-sole winter boots are available in both Chelsea boot and lace-up varieties. Lug Chelsea boots with a rubber sole combine the durability and slip resistance of a chunky boot with pull-on ease. Lace up lug sole boots offer the additional benefit of lace up support and custom fit.
- Hiking boots: Designed for long-distance hiking in a variety of terrains, hiking boots typically have lug soles and laces, to provide improved grip and ankle support for backpacking trails and mountaineering pursuits.
- Rain boots: Waterproof, rubber rain boots are designed to keep your feet dry in wet weather and trans-seasonal styling. They typically have chunky soles, with either ankle or mid-calf uppers.
- Lug-sole combat boots are a water-resistant leather boot with a round toe, cushioned for comfort, and crafted with an edgy and sophisticated, Chelsea boot style.
Don’t be put off by the outsized appearance when thinking about wearing lug sole boots. The lug sole boot sports a slight heel elevation which creates a gap between the midsole and the ground, maximizing traction and stability. The distinct, deeply grooved outsole design of lug boots adds an element of practicality and function and is super versatile to wear.
Coupled with the reliable traction for all-day wear, Blundstone lug sole boots have elastic panels on both sides of the ankle to enhance their comfort. Inspired by the brand heritage of work boots, the chunky heel provides cushioning and a comfy lift and is also highly functional and versatile. Street style sees hardworking lug sole boots worn easily with everything from jeans-and-blazer pairings to daintier mini skirts.
Rugged and chunky in appearance, lug sole boots have gained a popular following as a bold fashion statement that has utilitarian function. A go-to off-duty style favorite among New York fashion models who sport Prada or Proenza Schouler chunky Chelsea boots, Russel leather knee-high boots, colorful Ganni ankle boots from catwalks to sidewalks, they deliver a bold, standout statement. In the outdoor world, Lug sole boots have become a staple for walkers, hikers, and aprés skiers, appreciated for their function and durability. From a mountaineering legacy, lug sole boots have stamped their footprint into fashion forays, making their way into all of the best shopping guides.
Knowing how to wear the boot with an exaggerated rubber sole means appreciating outsized proportions and practicality. Cold weather outfits get a punchier look and you can be assured that you won’t have to change your outfit for the weather forecast as most lug sole boots are water-resistant and weatherproof.
