Written By Maggie Zhou for Radical Yes
What makes a good shoe? Like all personal questions, the answer is contentious. Investing in a shoe isn’t just about investing in some footwear, it’s about trusting a pair of toe-tappers will carry you, comfortably and chicly, on your day-to-night adventures.
As we enter the cooler Australian months, we find ourselves swapping out our strappy sandals for sturdy boots. Matched with staples like an oversized black coat or a beige trench coat, a pair of boots has the power to complete an outfit. Radical Yes’ Essential Boot Mix brings together key boot styles for stomping about town.
Some fall under Radical Yes’ iconic ‘sharp’ category, which describes flat shoes for women that flourish in work and event settings. Others are part of Radical Yes’ ‘active’ category, where shoes made for movement live. Want the best of both worlds? Look for their ‘hybrid’ styles.
Finding dependable, sturdy and stylish boots for women can be tough. So let’s see whether the Babka, Shadow, Orion Skies or Tomorrow boot is best for you.
Meet Babka
Named after the chocolate swirl dessert, this calf-height boot is as sweet as it is cool. With a patent microfibre upper finish and green inverse stitching detail, the Babka is a hybrid boot suited to a fashion girl on the move. Don’t be fooled by its sleekness; it’s got a rubber sole and an athletic mesh lining to carry you with ease through day to night. Western mania is predicted to take over this winter season, and this subtle square toe boot is a take on the trend. Horse girl aesthetic has all grown up.
Meet Shadow
Sharp as hell, the Shadow boot is one of Radical Yes’ best-sellers. For good reason too, this boot blends sophistication and futurism. The Shadow’s not only adored for its modern and uniform style, but for its ultra-comfortable and accommodating fit. Pair with coloured tights for a pop of colour, or lean into its all-black allure with a monochrome outfit. With a removable inner sole and a removable 5mm memory foam fitting stabiliser, the Shadow is a fan favourite for people with high arches or orthopaedics.
Meet Orion Skies
Boots should be made to be knocked about. That’s exactly what the Orion Skies boot is about. Coming in a black and milk colour way, the active boot is well-equipped to handle the bumps and jolts of daily life. With elasticated side gussets, pull tabs, neoprene fabric around the ankles and a rubber outsole, these boots are robust as they are spiffy. The shoe style is wide feet friendly and a match made in heaven for people with strong ankles and calves, making it a go-to style for everyday wear.
Meet Tomorrow
The Tomorrow boot takes your classic Chelsea boot and elevates it beyond recognition. It’s sharp, it’s sculptural and it’s versatile. Only 150 pairs have been made, meaning 150 lucky owners will be strutting from the office to after work drinks in style. Lean into corporate cool style by pairing the boot with a men’s shirt and tailored black pants, or contrast the sleek shoe with a long, flowy dress topped off with a chunky sweater. Constructed from fine leather and finished off with a square toe, the Tomorrow oozes smarts and taste.
