That’s Not My Age

Photos: Neil Mackenzie Matthews

Even though I’ve never actually owned a pair of biker boots (it was Dr. Martens all the way in my youth) – when you’ve grown up listening to The Clash, footwear with a punk-ish edge is always going to appeal. And, when I mention this popular style to my friends, the reaction is purely positive. ‘ Oh yes, I love them with leggings and a big slouchy jumper,’ says one. Another still has the same pair of Armortred she wore back in the day. And, my friend Annie is a lifelong biker girl, and wears them all year round, ‘ Not quite all through summer ,’ she informs me, ‘ but they do still have outings, I don’t put them away. They can take you anywhere, I’ve been to Glyndebourne in mine. I went for a Stevie Nicks/ rock chick look, wore a floaty dress, gave the boots a good buff up and they let me in.’

Recently, when I met the designer Tracey Boyd she had paired her NRBY floral dress with buckled boots. And I do like this juxtaposition of pretty and tough. The bovver boots adding a grungy spin to the softer silhouette. And, of course, biker boots and rolled up boyfriend jeans are the original, winning combination.

Proper biker boots are designed to withstand long distances, rough treatment and a variety of weather conditions. And, if this is what you’re looking for, Forma’s Eva design is recommended by Motorcycle News. Other iterations focus on style rather than kickstarting an engine, but still honour the original biker aesthetic. Think: chunky soles, buckles and a wider leg shape ( for tucking your leather trousers in).

Swishing my skirt to give you a proper view of the boots

As someone who likes to ‘buy now and wear forever,’ I’m tempted by the classic black chunky-soled style; with a buckle detail – but not too much nonsense. If you want grown-up rather than plastic-punk, skip styles with lots of zips, studs, buckles and pockets. ‘It’s Chrissie Hynde’s fault,’ explains my friend Annie, ‘ I first fell in love with them when I saw her wearing biker boots – it must’ve been about 40 years ago – and I bought some in the sale at Russell & Bromley. I’ve just collected my latest pair (approx six years old) from Timpson’s after their umpteenth re-heeling.’

Coincidentally, the boots I’m kicking around in are from Russell & Bromley; I’ve seen similar styles at Sam Edelman and Dune. Meanwhile at Frye, the versatile Veronica Flex Harness Boot and  Veronica Short get my vote. If one buckle is enough, this pair from M&S or the shorter style from Russell & Bromley might do the trick. And I didn’t even know that Ravel still existed ( the store is online only) – but this version of the biker is pared-down and pretty cool.

‘I’m terribly fond of mine,’ continues Annie, ‘ I can rely on them. You know where you are with biker boots. They’re sturdy, much like my legs! – perhaps that’s why I like them. And they’re just so comfy, you can easily fit a pair of big socks on when it’s cold. They’re empowering without being overpowering. Though I’ve never wanted to ride a motorbike…’

Anyone can wear biker boots. Age, rebelliousness and motorcycle-proficiency have nothing to do with it.

STYLE NOTES

My red cardigan is from &Daughter, available HERE. The statement wool skirt is current season at Hobbs, available HERE. And the boots are from Russell & Bromley, available HERE. (The skirt and boots were loaned for the shoot).

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