Ten of the best rugged winter boots

You just know that a trend has jumped the shark when you find it on the shelves in Target. That's why it might be time to put away the coloured desert boots this winter and find yourself a pair of proper hard-core boots; the kind of boots that can take you from the backyard barbecue to the top of Kilimanjaro.

Men's stylist and fashion blogger Louise Edmonds says a pair of rugged lace-up boots has become a must-have staple that will last you many years.

"The major fashion brands have been including a rugged boot in their range for a while now; labels such Balmain, Kenneth Cole, and even Coach," she says. "Always invest in a quality pair, with A-grade leather that will age beautifully like a fine wine."

How to wear them? Edmonds says these boots look fantastic teamed with a pair of distressed jeans that are allowed to relax into the top of the boot.

"Never lace the boot up right to the top if you want to look cool," she adds. "And don't team them with a suit unless it has a military style jacket. This is how Balmain style their boot."

View the gallery to discover 10 of our favourite rugged winter boots.