Growing up in the Midwest, SOREL boots have been a staple in my winter wardrobe for as long as I can remember. And while the styles have changed over the years, transitioning from more rugged, functional boots to boots as at home on the runway as they are on the street, the one thing that hasn’t changed is Sorel’s core attributes. They’re incredibly warm, they’re incredibly comfortable, and they do an impeccable job protecting you from the winter elements.
This year for Christmas, I wanted to get my wife a new pair of boots, which is what led me back to the Sorel brand. I had a relatively good idea of what I was looking for going into my boot hunt, and when I found Sorel’s Conquest Carly boots ($220), I knew my search was over. They’re really a fantastic boot, with a structured, iconic design perfectly suited for wear in the city. They’re also quite slimming compared to many of the other boots I looked at. It’s a design that was taken from one of Sorel’s heritage boots, but re-imagined to be equally bold and beautiful with a hint of femininity.
Don’t be fooled by their good looks though, Sorel’s Conquest Carly boots are rugged enough to take you almost anywhere, and they’re lightweight to the point that they should handle long treks with ease. From a protection standpoint, there’s a full grain leather and nylon upper (with bungee and lace enclosure) to protect your calf, while the leather stacked heel and waterproof rubber shell help keep your feet dry and toasty.
After ordering my wife’s Conquest Carly’s and absolutely loving the style when I saw them in person, I did the only logical thing that someone in my position could do: I looked into a pair of men’s Sorel boots for myself. Lo and behold, the Sorel’s Chugalug ($190) immediately caught my attention, so I picked up a pair.
What I love about the Chugalug is its vintage look. Inspired by a Sorel boot from the 70’s, the new Chugalugs note such a unique style – totally different than other boots I already own. They’re a little bit rustic, but modern enough for city life. I totally dig them.
Construction wise, the Chugalug protects your feet with a full-grain leather upper and moc stitched shell attached to a natural crepe rubber sole. In use, Sorel’s Chugalug is incredibly comfortable to wear, a little bit roomy (perfect for warm wool socks), and as I’ve come to learn, draw praise from everyone I meet. Overall, I adore my Sorel Chugalugs, and I have no doubt my wife will adore her Conquest Carly boots as well.
If you’re looking for functional yet stylish boots this season, Sorel has done a fantastic job with their latest designs, perfectly combining each. They’ve maintained the rugged qualities and craftsmanship they’ve become known for while making their boots equally as fashionable. The Sorel Conquest Carly and the Chugalug Chukka are a perfect pair of boots in my book, and well worth checking out this holiday season.
You can see more of the Sorel Chugalug and Conquest Carly boots in our gallery below, or head over to the official Sorel website for more details and ordering information.
