Wingtip Boot Search: The $100 ASOS option

ASOS Brogue Boot – $100.62

Like a great Summer Suit, there’s something about a pair of sturdy and versatile wingtip boots in the fall.  Most have character to burn, and they can be dressed up with many of the rough textures and deeper colors we’ll see once the weather turns cooler.  Our search for the best affordable wingtip boots is on, and feel free to send in suggestions via styleip.  Ships free both ways.  No code required.  Know that shipping can take awhile from ASOS.

Looks a lot like the Hawkings McGill boots don’t they.  Both have a toe medallion, similarly shaped toes, and a cognac color that’s surprisingly versatile.  The biggest difference is the ASOS boot claims to have a leather sole.  That’s also its biggest drawback.  Here’s the “leather” up close:

Not “genuine” but “real” leather.  Really?

I do not possess a doctorate in leatherology, but the soles look like they won’t be making it too deep into the calendar.  There are plenty of us who prefer a leather sole, but the soles on these look less durable than most.  They have a bit of a texture to them that’s almost like a short suede or nubuck.  Much softer than the leather sole of an Allen Edmonds or even a DSW house brand.  They just feel like they’d quickly grind down to dust on pavement.

Back to the positives.  The diamonds on the toe medallion are nice, the leather on the uppers isn’t stiff or plastic-like, and their overall shape isn’t clunky at all.  But the soles and the already disintegrating laces make you wonder.

If you’re looking for this color of boot on a more durable platform for cheap, consider the already mentioned Hawkings McGill.  They’ve been holding up real well so far (for me) after repeated use.

Best Wingtip Boot under $100 – Thanks to the color options, still the Florsheim Gaffney – $96.00 w/ LINK20
Best Dressed Up Wingtip Boot – Italian Made Ciro Lendini Wingtip Boot – $149.00

The ASOS boots are made in India.  A similar pair are available in dark brown with a synthetic sole for $119: