Editor’s note: Expect these posts weekly detailing one standout item coveted by yours truly. Sometimes, these fit within budgetary restrictions and other times, they’re expensive splurges worth saving for. For more Wish List items from Beau, head here, and to see other Style Picks, head here.

Tough, sturdy and classic — everything you need in a great pair of leather boots

Christmas might be over, but to this #menswear writer, it’s the most wonderful time of the year — time to upgrade your winter boot game in serious style. Truly, you need rugged, durable boots to combat the weather we’ve got going on out there (at least in this neck of the woods). Enter the supremely classic, tough and durable G.H. Bass Buxton Boots, all made-in-America construction and great looks. Now, G.H. Bass is perhaps better known for its classic leather loafers , but believe me when I say the brand’s boots are worth a shot as well. I’ve had the chance to check out the Buxton Boots over these past few weeks in the chilly, snowy cold of NYC, and they’ve more than stood up to the test. The great part about a moc toe boot — especially the Buxton Boot — is the classic, preppy and yet slick styling potential. In a handsome shade of Chestnut leather with contrast stitching, they’re a surprisingly versatile boot. These are the type of boots to wear with everything from slim sand chinos and your favorite shawl cardigan this winter on the weekends to Donegal wool trousers, a classic chambray shirt and a wool blazer to the office — give it a try sometime (after you buy ’em, that is).  And the construction and performance? These guys get an A-plus in that regard, too.

A relatively slim profile and sturdy stitching add to the durability & style of these boots.

They’re made in Maine and feature a surprisingly slim profile for a moc toe boot, with a  rather unique five-eye upper and tough rawhide laces. It’s a classic, rugged combination that’s held up well in the snow and slush — the tread is durable and relatively grippy, too. The Buxton Boots are heritage-inspired without verging too far into costume territory — they’re the perfect boot to pair with something crisp and essential like the Taylor Stitch Yosemite Shirt as you dress for Sunday brunch (who doesn’t love brunch and a great pair of boots, ehh?).  And while the black leather option is just as worthy of a purchase, there’s something to be said about buying a pair of tough, USA-made boots in a classic shade of deep brown. They’re just the sort of boots to offset slim corduroys this winter, and you could feasibly wear them with light wash denim and a slim pocket tee for spring style transitions (trust me on that one, they’ll hold up just fine).  And yes, $400-plus is a lot to drop in one fell swoop, even for a pair of sturdy, stylish men’s boots. But again, we love our investment-worthy pieces on this blog — and buying this pair is absolutely the right investment to make.

Will you be buying the G.H. Bass Buxton Boots? Let me know in the comments!