Style I Love: What Lies Beneath

I used to be the kind of guy who would judge shoes entirely by the design of primary body or upper. In recent months, though, my footwear fascination has been driven less by what's above the surface and more by what lies at its very sole. Brands have started paying more attention to bottom-beaters lately and I couldn't be happier. Whether it be through booming neon tones like McNairy, some grind-out swagger like Pointer, or even recycling some war-walkers with luxe pieces like Church's, having emphatic soles can breathe life into any ho-hum, run-of-the-mill pair.

This mid-rise boot from Pointer's got some bite, great for getting some traction.

War-worn Vibram desert combat boot soles. Who says money can't buy you toughness?