The List: Gear Up for Fall Right Now with the Best New Men’s Gear and Beer

A new favorite pair of rugged leather boots for fall — you’ll have these for a long time, indeed.

Step to it and gear up for fall with my favorite new men’s style picks for the season today, my friends. Fall is well and truly a time to shine if you love rugged leather boots like the Red Wing Heritage Iron Ranger Boots shown above, and it’s also quite the time if you love the best Oktoberfest beer, richly crafted leather jackets and even a stylish long-sleeve tee or two. We’ve got rugged layers and new fall style essentials aplenty all the way around in today’s edition of The List — it’s time to continue ringing in menswear’s best season.

Red Wing Heritage Iron Ranger Boots — $330

Dependable, classic leather boots from Red Wing Heritage.

We mentioned above we’d be showcasing essential fall gear like the best leather boots to wear all the time — seriously, all the time. And for my money’s worth, it gets no better than the iconic, built-to-last Red Wing Heritage Iron Ranger Boots, this time done up in a rich Ebony Harness leather. Wear them with slim grey denim and your favorite chambray shirt to head to a Friday night rock show.

Flint and Tinder Craftsman Shirt — $118

A tough overshirt that’s going to prove mighty useful for fall.

We’ve talked about previously about how this Flint and Tinder overshirt is the perfect summer layer — and yet, that also means it’s incredibly well-suited for fall, what with its rugged construction and classic layering potential. Available in neutral colors for ease of use, this could be fall’s best overshirt.

Schott NYC Men’s Lightweight Cowhide Moto Jacket — $750

A sharp, rugged leather jacket you’ll have for years and years.

Schott NYC leather jackets are legendary, investment-worthy and lifechanging. And in fact, this Schott NYC Lightweight Moto Jacket, as sold by our good pals at Huckberry, takes the cake when it comes to being the best leather moto jacket you’ll ever buy. Layer up for fall with your favorite henley and slim black jeans, while we’re at it.

Walls Outdoor Goods “Kick It” Worn-In Stretch Work Pants — $44.99

Tremendously tough and ridiculously affordable fall work pants.

We’ve talked a ton on the blog about the best work pants to buy for fall, a time when rugged performance and functionality, from the trail to your backyard, is key. And for under $45, that’s what makes the Walls Outdoor Goods Kick It Work Pants so great. Remarkably well-priced, absurdly tough & made to be worn on chilly morning hikes or crisp afternoons in equal measure — and a new personal favorite.

Armor-Lux Breton Stripe Long-Sleeve Tee — $109

Not a bad choice when it comes to exceptional fall layering.

A classic Armor-Lux Breton tee is a certified summer essential, but did you know this heritage brand is also delivering the goods when it comes to the best long-sleeve tee for fall? It’s the rich color and easy-to-layer fabrication that sets this Armor-Lux tee apart.

New Belgium Brewing at The Source Hotel Denver — Price Varies 

Beautiful views and excellent beer lead the way at New Belgium’s experimental Denver outpost.

Less of a specific gear pick and more a highly lauded travel recommendation from yours truly — if ever  you visit the fantastic city of Denver, you’re in for a treat. That goes for the city’s beautiful outdoor atmosphere and a huge swath of breweries — including the modern, seriously cool New Belgium Pilot Brewery at the super-sharp The Source Hotel in Denver. Take in the amazing rooftop views and enjoy fresh, tasty beer all the while (get the Extra Pale Ale). The brunch menu isn’t half-bad, either. A true treat to visit in Denver, as seen on my Instagram.

Topo Designs 22-Inch Duffel — $89.00

A durable, go-anywhere bag for quick fall trips.

When you want to hit the road for a fall adventure but don’t want to overdo it on the packing front, reach for Topo Designs and the perfect small duffel for a quick trip. Easy as that.

TOMS TRVL LTE High Sneakers in Gunmetal Suede — $109.95

Perfectly essential fall sneakers from TOMS.

Some classic sneakers just scream “fall style,” be it their rich color or rugged suede texture, or handsome leather detailing (and we’ll have more options in that regard later in this post). The TOMS TRVL LTE High Sneakers are some truly excellent fall high-tops that bring a bit of everything to the table.

Adam Mar Slub Chinos — $95.98

An unstoppable pair of chinos for the season.

The best fall style is often about striking the right balance between rich colors and textures, and the Adam Mar Slub Chinos are assuredly some of the best men’s chinos when it comes to doing that. Wear them with the aforementioned TOMS high-top sneakers to the office.

Zodiac Watches Grandville Watch — $495

Make no mistake, this is the best black leather watch whenever you need to dress up again.

There comes a time in every guy’s life when he’s got to suit up and look sharp — and for when the occasion calls for nothing less than your best, you need the best black leather dress watch for that fall wedding or big day at the office. You need the Zodiac Grandville Watch. Bingo!

Flint and Tinder Organic Slub Henley — $62

One of the best fall henleys you’re apt to find right now.

As perfect a pairing with that Flint and Tinder overshirt we mentioned earlier, this is your new favorite henley — and it’s got all the specs that make it just right for fall layering. Take the organic slub cotton or the pleasing fit; the Flint and Tinder Organic Slub Henley has it all.

LEMS Shoes Boulder Chukka Boots — $120

Dependable, easy-to-wear chukka boots to take for a spin all fall.

Looking for a go-anywhere pair of fall chukka boots to wear with everything from rugged chore pants to slim dark denim and your favorite crewneck sweater? Get the LEMS Shoes Boulder Chukka Boots, and get them quickly, my friends.

Taylor Stitch Jack Shirt — $125

A classic shirt from Taylor Stitch to wear all fall.

So if you read the blog regularly, you know that we LOVE Taylor Stitch (and that might be an understatement). Classic men’s shirts like the Taylor Stitch Jack Shirt are precisely why, and the Dusty Blue Hemp fabric gives this one both casual and business casual appeal for fall.

Lone Tree Brewing Co. Festbier — Price Varies

Really kick things up a notch this fall with Lone Tree Brewing’s Festbier.

Again, let’s dive back into the world of seasonally friendly craft beer, shall we? Based in lovely Colorado (a prime craft beer hotbed!), Lone Tree Brewing delivers with a very pleasant festbier made to mimic the kinds of beers you’d drink this very month in Germany — truly enjoyable on a crisp fall night, and a pleasure to test recently.  Thanks to the brewery for sending!

Ampal Creative “Best in the West” Strapback — $29.98

An easy-to-wear fall hat that’ll only get better the more you wear it.

Who said fall menswear has to be boring? No one, that’s who — that’s why it’s fun to inject a bit of personality into a classic look (say, a rugged long-sleeve tee and tough chore pants) with a vintage-inspired hat. Easy to throw on when you don’t feel like doing your hair, and all the more stylish for it.

Vivobarefoot Gobi II Sneakers — $170

Casual chukka sneakers that’ll wear nicely with your favorite denim.

The best men’s sneakers are often ruggedly casual and somewhat unassuming, easily made to be pulled off with a pair of perfectly faded denim and a classic Oxford shirt on a chilly fall day … and my friends, the Vivobarefoot Gobi II Sneakers are the perfect fall sneakers, precisely.

OK, folks. That’s all for today’s edition of The List. Starting with the Red Wing Heritage Iron Ranger Boots, we certainly covered a ton of ground in the way of essential fall style picks (and craft beer, too!). Did you have any favorites? Perhaps the easygoing Vivobarefoot Gobi II Sneakers are just your speed? Or maybe, just maybe, you find the Schott NYC Lightweight Moto Jacket sitting in your cart? Any way you slice it, you can’t go wrong. All that being said, let’s keep fall rolling — looking forward  to hearing from y’all on Twitter!

See Now, Buy Now: The Rhodes Felix Chukka Boots are the Best Chukka Boots To Buy This Fall

The best men’s chukka boots for your hard-earned cash this season? They very well might be.

So, is it high praise to call a pair of rugged chukka boots the best pair of chukka boots out there? Indeed, it is — but the very good news for you, my friend, is that the Rhodes Felix Chukka Boots really are the best men’s chukka boots for your time and money. Again, that’s high praise, but rest assured, these stylish leather chukka boots (as sold by Huckberry, naturally) are up to the task. Now that we’ve nearly reached the end of September, it would behoove you to really gear up for fall — and that starts with your footwear rotation. The right pair of chukka boots can take you to the office, to the beer bar, out on the road and everywhere in between — and believe me, I’ve worn the Rhodes Felix Chukka Boots all of those places, and then some (you might have seen ’em on my Instagram, to wit). Available in rich calf leather options like Tan Nubuck and handsome iterations like Oak Suede, these classic leather chukka boots are as good as it gets, from the silhouette (sleek yet not too dressy), to the functionality (grippy and durable, thanks to the studded rubber outsole).

SHOP: The Rhodes Felix Chukka Boots

Sleek, stylish, versatile chukka boots you won’t be able to get enough of — I guarantee it.

And as with all manner of stylish gear from Huckberry, the hits keep coming — in spades, at that. The Rhodes Felix Chukka Boots deliver the goods through resoleable Blake stitching on the sole, which means you’ll have them for years. What’s more, the option to customize them with dressier flat waxed cotton laces means that these are even the kind of chukka boots you can wear with a suit this fall (and beyond, naturally). But lest you think these are only the kind of boots to wear through fall and then stow come winter time, think again. The handy, functional Texon insole delivers insulation when you need it — keep these classic chukka boots on hand to wear with everything from slim dark denim and a thermal henley to a rugged flannel shirt and classic tan chinos when snow starts to hit. Yes indeed, you’ve really never seen a pair of chukka boots like the Rhodes Felix Chukka Boots — that’s a fact.

SHOP: The Rhodes Felix Chukka Boots

The Friday Read: Danner’s New Boots, the Best Oktoberfest Beers and Taylor Stitch Outerwear

The perfect fall weekend boots from Danner? Very nearly!

My friends, we’ve reached the end of another work week (at least, I hope that’s the case for you). If you’re anything like me, you’ve got your shopping cart full of fall style essentials as we patiently await the finest hour in menswear. And speaking of stepping into a new season, the rugged, versatile Danner Vertigo 917 Boots as showcased above could just be the perfect new addition to your closet. Danner makes all of its footwear in the U.S.A. with prime attention to detail, making the above pair some of the best leather boots (period!) that you can snag for fall. Now that we’ve covered off on the best boots for the weekend, what say we dive into something like … Brooklyn’s best new coffee shop? I’ve had the pleasure recently of checking out Sweetwaters Coffee & Tea in Brooklyn’s idyllic Park Slope neighborhood (as you might have seen on my Instagram), and I’m certainly a new fan! If ever you get to the borough, I can’t recommend you visit this spot enough. It’s a welcome addition to the Brooklyn coffee scene, seeing as the company was founded in my home state of Michigan, and it’ll be a crucial weekend stop for me tomorrow, too. As for the rest of my weekend, I’ll be taking in some college football action by my Michigan State Spartans, and enjoying a cold fall beer at Threes Brewing. How about you? Feel free to check in with me in the comments below!

  • Fall is well and truly here — at least, it’ll officially be here next week on the calendar (and hopefully soon thereafter in terms of the weather). With that in mind, I put the best flannel shirts to the test for GearMoose, and believe you me, there are some stellar options when it comes to fall’s perfect shirt. Layer it up with your favorite henley and tough camp pants, then get out there & get to work.
  • Speaking of essential fall gear, I sure do hope you moved quickly to pre-fund the excellent Taylor Stitch Mechanic Jacket. Crafted from the brand’s famed Boss Duck fabric, it’s a hard-wearing jacket that should arrive just in time for fall — read my full scoop on the best new fall jacket over at GearMoose, naturally.
  • Let’s turn once again toward this here blog, and our ongoing #OOTD series. There’s still time for you to get plenty of wear out of your favorite denim jacket — you just need to layer it up accordingly, and that’s why I recently covered how to wear a denim jacket for fall. There’s no time to waste, my friends.
  • And because it wouldn’t be a fall weekend without a little craft beer action, I rounded up the best Oktoberfest beers to enjoy as we move into this prime, prime season for hops-inclined refreshment. Again, I point you toward GearMoose for that briefing — cheers to Friday!

So, for old’s time sake, let’s close out today’s Friday Read with one last helpful #menswear reminder before the weekend — I’ll point you back to The Style Guide, and my take on the best hooded sweatshirt for fall. It’s just that good … believe me. OK, that’s all I’ve got today, folks. Enjoy the weekend!

See Now, Buy Now: Hit the Trail this Season with the LEMS Shoes Trailhead Shoes

Step outside this early fall with the best hiking shoes for men from LEMS Shoes.

Let’s turn away from talking about the best chukka boots and the best denim to look instead off-trail toward the best hiking shoes for men from LEMS Shoes as seen above. Specifically, the rugged and highly functional LEMS Shoes Trailhead Shoes are the perfect shoes for your next outdoor adventure, blending the durability of hiking boots with a style that’s a bit more befitting of your favorite sneakers. If that sounds too good to be true, well, it’s not. Given that we haven’t hit snowy weather yet, the LEMS Shoes Trailhead Shoes are the perfect go-between for that early fall camping trip or hiking excursion (or as a pair of casual shoes to wear to a football tailgate). And they certainly wouldn’t look out of place when worn with tough camp pants and a thermal henley to grab a pint at your favorite brewery on your off-duty hours. Fancy wearing them with something like the classic Taylor Stitch Trail Shorts and a crisp white tee? The LEMS Shoes Trailhead Shoes can do that, too. But the specs on these? All set for outdoor exploration.

An even better part about the LEMS Shoes Trailhead Shoes? The array of versatile colorways on tap.

SHOP: The LEMS Shoes Trailhead Shoes 


The LEMS Shoes Trailhead Shoes are just about as good as it gets when it comes to a hybrid pair of footwear — the tough rubber tread keeps you moving swiftly on your feet on rocky terrain, while a microfiber and air mesh upper provides breathability and a bit of retro style through four unique colorways. You can’t put a price on shoes that call to mind old-school hikers while also featuring modern innovation, right? The LEMS Shoes Trailhead Shoes are also engineered to provide a more natural gait and greater comfort when on the move — there’s really not much that these rugged hiking shoes can’t do. Pick your favorite color, lace ’em up, then hit the trail (or head out to grab a burger and a beer — it’s up to you).

SHOP: The LEMS Shoes Trailhead Shoes 

See Now, Buy Now: The Taylor Stitch Heavy Bag Long-Sleeve Tee is One of Fall’s Best

The best long-sleeve tee for fall? Try it out for yourself.

There comes a time when stylish guys like yourself (or your partner, or your husband, or your boyfriend) need to step up and take on fall in style — and the right way to do that starts with one of the best long-sleeve shirts of this new season. It comes to you courtesy of Taylor Stitch, not surprisingly. This brand has you covered from season to season without missing a beat — that goes for summer staples like the Taylor Stitch Trail Shorts as well as this fresh new tee. Assuredly, the Taylor Stitch Heavy Bag Long-Sleeve Tee is one of fall’s best T-shirts, made with durable style and sustainable construction in mind. Where to begin with what exactly sets this shirt apart? Well, there’s plenty. First, you’re getting the kind of quality that only Taylor Stitch can bring to the table — the 8oz. cotton-poly blend is done up in handsome raglan sleeve construction and a flattering fit. That’s certainly not all.

SHOP: The Taylor Stitch Heavy Bag Long-Sleeve TeeThe Best Basics. Summer Ready.The Taylor Stitch Heavy Bag Long-Sleeve Tee is also made using a ridiculously sustainable process — to wit, it uses no water and a miniscule amount of CO2 in its production.That leads to a tee that’s going to be comfortable and cozy to wear thanks to the pre-shrunk fit. In fact, this stylish long-sleeve tee should pair up with everything from dark indigo denim and brown leather boots to a rugged chore coat and slim tan chinos, all the while providing essential fall style. It should also wear quite well with other Taylor Stitch favorites — feel free to layer it under the famed Taylor Stitch Yosemite Shirt if you feel so inclined. The bottom line is that the Taylor Stitch Heavy Bag Long-Sleeve Tee is the go-anywhere fall tee you simply can’t live without — guaranteed.

SHOP: The Taylor Stitch Heavy Bag Long-Sleeve Tee

The List: Here’s All the Best New Men’s Gear to Buy This Week

Time to step into a new season — read more about the Lancy Aire x Taylor Stitch Collection below.

Rest assured, folks: In today’s edition of The List, we’ve got the lowdown on the new men’s style essentials you need to buy to close out this month — and look toward September and beyond. The theme this month has been that, well, summer’s winding down, Labor Day is approaching and early fall (the best time for menswear) is on the way. Without further ado, here’s the gear you’re going to need for it — including an iconic vintage watch, naturally.

CYMA WWW Dirty Dozen Watch — $2,450 

Without a doubt, a drool-worthy watch to wear every single day.

Now, don’t be alarmed by that price tag — we’re assuredly starting today’s edition of The List off with a bang, but the CYMA WWW Dirty Dozen Watch is one of the best vintage watches on the market. It was one of 12 models made for the British military, and it’s part of the new Lancy Aire x Taylor Stitch Collection. It’s a watch to covet and lust after … and it’s also the rare vintage watch you should actually be able to, y’know, wear. It should work nicely with a classic chambray shirt and slim tan chinos this season.

Flint and Tinder Garment-Dyed Oxford — $118

The breezy Oxford shirt that’s been perfectly broken-in for you.

We’ve talked in the past on this site about this American-made Oxford shirt, but it’s worth bringing it to the forefront again. It’s one of the best men’s shirts in any season, and especially primed to layer over your favorite slub tee on an early fall weekend.

Relwen Squall Breaker — $127.98

An unbeatable lightweight jacket for the transition to September.

One of the crucial parts of shopping for fall style essentials has to be finding the right transitional gear, like one of the best lightweight jackets to carry you through inclement weather. Ladies and gentlemen, that jacket is the Relwen Squall Breaker. Carry on.

MVMT Watches Range Field Watch — $95

A rugged, tough watch that’s perfect for fall.

Pleasingly crisp and yet rugged at the same time in terms of design, the Range Field Watch from MVMT Watches belongs on your wrist for fall adventures aplenty. Pair it up with your favorite henley and the Relwen Squall Breaker to grab a weekend coffee.

Bespoke Post Concentrate Box — $45

A handy, affordable box from one of the best men’s subscription services around.

Here’s the deal, as we all know with Bespoke Post — sign up for the brand’s monthly subscription service, then get access to some of the best cold brew around, made right from the comfort of your home, with the Bespoke Post Concentrate Box. That’s all there is to it.

Danner Vertigo 917 Boots — $220

Tough, durable boots to buy from a USA-made brand.

Surely, you recognize these rugged hiking boots and other Danner boots from the blog — we’re including these tough leather boots here once more to start getting you in that fall mindset. It’ll pay dividends, trust me.

Mott and Bow Rivington Denim — $96

Slim blue denim in selvedge — the kind of jeanas you’ll wear all the time.

The best men’s blue jeans are easier to find than you might think — simply shop Mott and Bow. They’ve been a longtime favorite of the blog for the ease of purchase and the serious style points. The Mott and Bow Rivington Denim are some of the best raw selvedge jeans out there, and for a heck of a price, in my opinion.

Tanner Goods Classic Belt — $79.98

This is a belt that’s only going to get better with age, guaranteed.

In the midst of all this planning, don’t forget about your everyday carry — namely, accessories like this stylish leather belt from Tanner Goods. The perfect complement to the Taylor Stitch Camp Pants, I might add (more on those shortly).

Billy Reid Packable Quail Jacket — $354.98

The rugged fall jacket to wear on fall weekends — trust me.

Yes indeed, there’s no question that Billy Reid just gets it when it comes to rugged fall gear – – even if it’s not quite cold enough for the Billy Reid Quail Jacket yet, it will be soon enough. And that’s when you break out one of the best fall jackets in your wardrobe, folks.

Saturdays NYC Wet Wax — $24

A sleek, new product to upgrade your haircut in a hurry.

Perhaps in the months ahead, yo’ull find yourself reaching for a stylish hat rather than doing your hair — but for now, it’s tough to go wrong with some grooming essentials. Enter this super-sharp Saturdays NYC Wet Wax, a way to add some throwback refinement to your ‘do.

Taylor Stitch Camp Pants — $128

Another instant classic from Taylor Stitch, here just in time for fall.

Yes indeed, the return of the Taylor Stitch Camp Pants is here — these are some exceptionally rugged fall pants, the sort you can wear on a camping trip or for an early morning of yard work … or simply to grab a pint at your favorite brewery.

Rancourt & Co. Court Classic 2.0 — $280

These are the best leather sneakers lying around for fall, in your author’s opinion.

An updated version of your favorite leather sneakers from Rancourt & Co., these are easily some of the best sneakers for fall, what with their rugged construction and rich leather. Again, a great complement to the aforementioned Taylor Stitch Camp Pants.

Billy Reid Mini Waffle Henley — $73.98

Another instant classic from Billy Reid.

More standout gear from Billy Reid — we’d be remiss when it comes to fall style essentials to not include a rugged long-sleeve henley, right? Another piece of gear to buy now, then wear later.

Upstate Eco Heather Flannel Sheet Set — $94.98 

New flannel sheets in time for fall? You got it.

Even your bedding should start to transition into fall — take these stylish flannel sheets from Upstate, and if you’ve got a king bed, stow them away to change out your bedding for fall when the temperature starts to drop. Bingo!

 

So, we started off today’s version of The List talking about the incredible — and yes, incredibly expensive — CYMA WWW Dirty Dozen Watch. Was it your favorite today? Or are you perhaps more inclined to go for something more classic, like some of the best sneakers for fall or perhaps a pair of the best men’s blue jeans? Let me know on Twitter!

 

 

 

 

 

 

Style Pick of the Week: New Movements Model NM Sneakers

Meet some of the best new sneakers you can get your … feet … on this season.

It’s official — the above New Movements sneakers are part of a quickly growing crop of new menswear essentials you can get your hands (or feet) on this season, and that’s a fact. The New Movements Model NM Sneakers are some of the best men’s sneakers to buy right now, and it’s all thanks to the unique design & silhouette, sure to shake up your footwear rotation just in time for the end of summer and the start of (early) fall. If you shop the digital pages at Huckberry, it’s no secret that the lauded menswear retailer puts an emphasis on gear that’s both style-forward and sustainable — these New Movements sneakers fit the bill quite nicely in that regard. But something that’s a little less well-known? Portugal is a hotbed for great footwear at the moment, and that’s where the New Movements Model NM Sneakers are made. What makes these so special? Let’s start with the fact that the outsole is made from recycled tires — sustainable through and through. We also mentioned the silhouette — these sneakers are bold enough to make a statement, thanks to the thicker, rippled outsole. Yet, these aren’t fashion-adjacent “ugly sneakers” in the slightest — the New Movements Model NM Sneakers are sleek & versatile, for starters.

SHOP: The New Movements Model NM Sneakers

One of four highly versatile colors in which you can buy these stylish men’s sneakers.

And again, that sleek design and versatile approach is exactly what you should be looking for when searching for the best sneakers for men — particularly as we close out summer and move into early fall. On that note, these stylish sneakers can do it all, from that last summer BBQ (paired with chino shorts and your favorite T-shirt), all the way through to a visit to your favorite brewery (denim jacket & black jeans on lock). The Italian leather upper also gives them an air of business casual readiness; try any colorway of these New Movements sneakers with tan chinos, a white Oxford shirt and a navy blazer. What could be more important than all of those qualities? Why, the sustainability quotient we mentioned earlier. On that note, New Movements excels — the purchase of a pair of New Movements sneakers means that the brand will pledge to remove a kilogram of microplastics from the world’s oceans. Plus, as mentioned above, the use of recycled and all-natural materials can’t be beat. Yes indeed, these New Movements sneakers are going to carry you from summer into fall — with ease and style, at that.

SHOP: The New Movements Model NM Sneakers

See Now, Buy Now: These New Rancourt & Co. Carson Sneakers are An Everyday Essential

A new take on the classic leather sneaker silhouette.

Still on the hunt for critical end-of-summer gear via our See Now, Buy Now series here on the blog? Good thing, then — we’ve got exactly what you need in store today. Crucially, we’ll tell you all about a must-have pair of the best men’s sneakers, and one crafted with exceptional care and attention to detail right in the United States — the Rancourt & Co. Carson Low just so happen to be that pair, in fact. These stylish leather sneakers are so much more than a typically minimal pair of sneakers — they’re packed with substance and character, and they’re the perfect sneakers to wear as summer heads toward Labor Day. Does that sound like a lot of hyperbole? Perhaps, but again … the Rancourt & Co. Carson Low Sneakers are truly one-of-a-kind. We’ve talked in the past about Rancourt & Co. on the site, particularly about the brand’s rugged, made-in-Maine leather boots, and you can rest assured that this particular pair of kicks live up to the Rancourt name more than ably.

SHOP: The Rancourt & Co. Carson Low

These handsome leather sneakers are precisely the kind of pair you’d expect to be sold as a Huckberry exclusive, given their rugged styling potential and use of materials like rich bison leather from Maine’s own Tasman Tannery. The Rancourt & Co. Carson Low also feature construction that’s more akin to your favorite pair of boots, thanks to the Vibram Strighton outsole, solid brass eyelets and a soft leather lining. That rich craftsmanship also lends them an air of versatility — you can wear them with dark blue denim, a classic Oxford shirt and a navy cotton blazer to the office this month, then keep ’em handy to pair up with a rugged crewneck sweater and tan chinos come early fall. Indeed, these are some of the best men’s sneakers you can find — but you’d best act quickly, seeing as they’re sellilng pretty fast.

Do you plan to pick up a pair of the Rancourt & Co. Carson Low? How would you style them for late summer and early fall? Let me know on Twitter

The List: Fight the Dog Days of Summer with these Essential Menswear Picks

The very embodiment of the type of versatility you need heading through August into September.

Did mid-August sneak up on you? Well, you’re not the only one — where did the summer go?? I’ll leave the answers to that question to people much smarter than me, because we’ve got plenty of new men’s gear picks to cover in today’s edition of The List. As we look toward the end of summer and the start of early fall, I think you’ll find that bridging the gap between seasons is easier than one might expect — especially if you pick up the Wellen Stretch Chore Coat as seen above (and below). More picks await, my friends — enjoy!

Wellen Stretch Chore Coat — $128

Made with hemp, this chore coat is both rugged and also ready to replace your favorite blazer.

Although this Wellen chore coat has proven a hot seller through summer, it’s worth considering adding it to your late summer/early fall outerwear rotation — it’s a classic chore coat that serves as a cool stand-in for your typical blazer.

Pro-Keds Royal Hi — $65

The classic high-tops to take you from August into early fall.

Summer might be close to winding down on the calendar, technically, and yet there’s no wrong time to buy classic high-top sneakers, especially a pair like the Pro-Keds Royal Hi, which you can wear with a classic Oxford shirt and dark denim come early fall.

Taylor Stitch Natural Camp Pants in Organic Selvage — $148

Surprisingly versatile camp pants from Taylor Stitch in classic fabric.

Make no mistake, we’re not done with Taylor Stitch yet in today’s edition of The List, but these rugged camp pants (a fast seller) are the perfect starting point. Wear them off the trail or to your favorite brewery, especially with classic suede chukka boots.

Lum-Tec M84 Automatic Watch — $1,095

A rugged-yet-refined watch that gets the job done on the daily.

If you’re the type of guy to look for an investment-level watch to wear every day, the kind that can seamlessly move from one season to the next, the absurdly well-crafted Lum-Tec M84 Automatic is one of the best men’s watches on the market (as previously seen on the blog, naturally).

Taylor Stitch Jack Shirt in Ash Gingham — $125

A versatile, terrifically well-made Taylor Stitch shirt.

It might just be a fact that there’s no bad time to wear the nearly legendary Taylor Stitch Jack Shirt, an excellent-fitting men’s shirt that you should wear with everything from olive chinos to navy shorts as summer winds down (eventually). The gingham pattern is a winner, too.

Housefish Pocket Desk — $764.98

A beautiful desk to upgrade your home office with ease.

Make no mistake, we’re not all about menswear here. There’s something about the impending start of fall that I find fits well with settling down at a classic wooden desk on a crisp day with a hot cup of coffee and a warm cardigan … that’s the dream, and the Housefish Pocket Desk could help you achieve your own. Right??

Rhodes Dean Boots — $220 

The perfect leather boots to step from August into September.

Now, you’ve surely seen iterations of the Rhodes Dean Boots in editions of The List more concerned with winter style essentials, but I think you’ll find these sleek leather boots are going to be nice to have on hand heading through August, too. Try them with slim light wash jeans and a rugged short-sleeve henley, to start.

Flint and Tinder Defender Denim — $138

The rough-and-tumble denim you can wear every single day.

You know the dark denim we mentioned earlier? This is the pair your author had in mind, a set of classic men’s dark blue denim made from rich Japanese selvedge and featuring aramid fibers woven in for a remarkably durable fit and feel.

Free Fly Cruiser Henley — $60

The classic henley you’ll find yourself using as a critical, transitional base layer.

For breezy summer nights and surprisingly cool days, you can’t go wrong with a rugged henley, especially one that’s surprisingly affordable from Free Fly. Perfect to wear with … you guessed it, classic men’s dark blue denim.

Stetson The Chapman Hat — $155

Yet another handsome, classic Stetson hat to add to your arsenal.

 Stetson hats are legendary for their tough construction and rugged quality, and the Stetson Chapman Hat is no different. Keep it handy this fall, trust me.

Peak Design Travel Duffel — $130

A travel bag that packs a heck of a lot into one design for an affordable price.

The upcoming start of a new season means you should evaluate your travel plans — and your durable travel gear — accordingly. With that in mind, the Peak Design Travel Duffel is highly functional and ready for anything.

LEMS Shoes Leather Boulder Boots — $150

The right pair of packable, tough leather boots from LEMS and Huckberry.

To close out this post, let’s focus on a rugged pair of leather boots that’ll transition with surprising ease from August on into fall — the LEMS Shoes Leather Boulder Boots are a new take on the style, made to be packed up and then worn for days on end for rugged exploration.

 

To be sure, it was mighty tough to narrow down this version of The List, what with rugged, versatile picks like a Wellen chore coat  and the LEMS Shoes Leather Boulder Boots on offer. If I had to pick just one, I might recommend snapping up the Peak Design Travel Duffel … or the Lum-Tec M84 Automatic. OK, so I guess those are actually my top two. What about you? Let me know how you’re closing out summer over on Twitter.

 

 

 

#OOTD: My Guide to Wearing a Chambray Shirt This Month — Or All Year

As you’ll see below, there might never be a bad time to wear a chambray shirt like the one we’re about to discuss today. We’ve mentioned it time and time again on the blog, but the best men’s chambray shirt (and there’s a difference between good and great), is a true four-season essential, as wearable now as it will be come September, October, November … you get the picture. But sometimes, getting through the seasonal doldrums that we find ourselves in right now isn’t as daunting as it might seem at first. In fact, it’s sometimes about taking tried-and-true men’s style essentials and having some fun with them. In the case of the classic chambray shirt on display today in our #OOTD series, that means it’s being worn with equally classic style picks that fit in regardless of season (yes, even in the sweltering August heat). Witness, for instance, the stylish slim chinos and the classic chukka boots in this ensemble, not to mention the positively rugged, investment-level watch — all worn with ease and casual cool for a look that’s as ready for happy hour as it is for a Casual Friday. Throw in accessories like a slim leather wallet, and you could even wear this look out on a date. See, the doldrums of summer aren’t a time to throw away style principles — stick to yours, wear this classic chambray shirt, and get ready for what lies ahead.

Mixing and matching classic picks with an essential chambray shirt.

  • The Chambray Shirt: Proof Strong Shirt, $128 — The best men’s chambray shirt? The chambray shirt to rule them all? I’ll leave that to you to decide, but there’s a good chance that … yes, yes it is.
  • The Classic Chinos: Wellen Easy Chinos, $88 — Keep things casual yet surprisingly polished with these stylish slim chinos, made sustainably in a classic color.
  • The Chukka Boots: Astorflex Greenflex Chukka Boots, $165 — There’s absolutely never a bad time to wear classic chukka boots, even in the middle of August — trust me on that. Astorflex gets ’em right.
  • The Watch: Lum-Tec M84 Automatic Watch, $1,095 — I’m admittedly not a huge watch snob, but there’s no question the Lum-Tec M84 Automatic (while pricey!) might just be one of the best men’s watches we’ve featured on this site. That’s it!
  • The Belt: Macondo Belts Inca Belt, $105 — Granted, you might not think of a stylish leather belt as a place to stand out in terms of pattern and design — change that with this number from Macondo Belts.
  • The Everyday Carry Essential: Tanner Goods Journeyman Wallet, $65 — Be it on the go to the office or to an evening dinner, a slim leather wallet carries only what you need.
  • The Daily Cologne: Ranger Station Birch Bark Cologne, $69 — This cologne from Ranger Station is pleasing, crisp & not too heavy for daily wear.
  • The Grooming Essential: Jack Henry Face Toner, $24 — I can’t recommend this lightweight, refreshing, functional toner from Jack Henry enough after using it every day for weeks. It’s a men’s grooming essential you need ASAP.

At the risk of sounding like a broken record, sometimes, the best men’s chambray shirt is all you need to build a great outfit (or at least, the foundation of a great outfit). And it gets even better and even more seasonally friendly when you throw on easygoing Wellen chinos (it’s right in the name, after all!), plus classic chukka boots — granted, these are picks that work any time of the year, but they’ll do more than fine in August as we look toward (gasp) Labor Day. The right accessories elevate the chambray shirt from good to great, as well. Take the Lum-Tec M84 Automatic, a beast of a watch that’ll stand out stylishly as you roll up the sleeves on this shirt.

Couple that with the equally eyecatching stylish leather belt on display here, and this #OOTD is ready to be worn the office, shirt tucked in (or untucked — do as you please, of course). For keeping thing streamlined and smooth, grab your slim leather wallet from Tanner Goods — it’ll fit nicely in the front pocket of your chinos, and it’ll age the more you use it. All those little details stand out quite easily, too, including what should be a fantastic Ranger Station cologne (making this ensemble ready for date night). And in the way of a men’s grooming essential you shouldn’t go without, I’m a big fan of Jack Henry’s Face Toner (a  great outfit is nothing without a little T.L.C for your face, ehh?). Are you sold on the utility and versatility of the chambray shirt? You should be. Have questions? Drop me a line on Twitter. Cheers!