Take a hike: The must-have footwear trend for men this autumn

It may not be the most stylish pastime, but this season hiking has somehow become one of menswear’s most unlikeliest trends

Ermenegildo Zegna autumn/winter 2018 (AFP/Getty)

The concept of sportswear on the catwalk is hardly anything new. From ugly dad trainers to short shorts and track jackets, outdoor-centric styles have staked a steady place within the fashion fold.

However, for autumn/winter 2018, designers have taken it one step further.

Hiking might not be the most stylish pastime, but this season it’s somehow become one of menswear’s most unlikely trends thanks to an influx of clumpy hiking boots that expertly nail utilitarian style.

Originally designed to ramble the slopes, tackle trails and mountain tracks, we’re not talking about the type of hardy footwear your geography teacher might wear.

Oh no, because this new breed of shoes, while positively functional, are trendier than you could have ever thought possible.

On the catwalk this season, Ermenegildo Zegna coordinated a snowy runway set with chunky shearling anoraks, mountaineering capes and chunky flatform boots, while MSGM complimented a collection of printed fleeces and cardigans with hiker-sneaker hybrids.

Grenson, Brady Polished-Leather Boots, £255, Mr Porter

Similarly, Giorgio Armani’s baggy combat boots came tucked into the socks of tractor-soled, 10-hole boots.

So it’s settled, whether you’re scaling Scafell Pike or navigating a city, a pair of hiking boots will see you right. But can you settle for any old pair and what do you wear with them?

Rossignol, Chamonix Boots, £396, Farfetch

A far cry from the ultra-technical boots you might actually wear to climb a mountain, these boots are sleek in style, made from leather and the perfect accompaniment to piles of wintry layers.

For maximum style points, wear yours with equally rugged fabrics like flannel shirts, cable knit jumpers, cropped wool trousers or turned-up jeans.

Madson Hiker Waterproof Boot, £170, Sorel

NXTWOOL Britton Hill Boot, £190, Timberland

Gucci, Lace-Up Boots, £805, Farfetch