Kenneth Cole Reaction Top Class Boot

Kenneth Cole Reaction Top Class Boot – $96.90 – $107.90

A good pair of boots that can be worn both casually or in semi-dress situations should be in every guys wardrobe.  They’re more comfortable than a pair of oxfords or loafers, they’re more durable, and if you find a pair like these from Kenneth Cole, they can be eye-catching yet simple, all at the same time.

Good looking, sleek, nothing over the top.  No bulky distracting elastic gore sides, just the one zipper.  The toe isn’t real pointy (so, not super-dressy) but it’s not work-boot-blunt either.

Could you find a pair of dress boots that are cheaper?  Yes.  This pair by Giorgio Brutini (below right) are substantially cheaper at just $64.95.  But take a look at a few quotes from customer reviews:

“…the odor of the shipping material used… is still there a month later.”
“…the strong chemical type odor… Three months after buying them I can still smell it while I’m wearing them.
“…these boots smell like gasoline
“…The odor is strong enough that my wife complained about having them in the bedroom so I keep them in another room next to the heating register, hoping the additional ventilation will diminish the odor.”

I think the Kenneth Cole’s are worth the extra $30 -$40.