Can You Wear Combat Boots in Summer?

You may be wondering who in their right mind would willingly wear clunky combat boots in steamy summer weather. Here are some reasons why you might want to give it a try:

1. Style

Combat boots offer something different from typical summer footwear. When paired with feminine or revealing looks like dresses or cutoffs, they create an unexpected edge and attitude.

The grunge look is perfect for summer music festivals or backyard BBQs. Florals and combat boots make an oddly perfect combination.

2. Comfort

For summer activities that involve lots of walking, combat boots offer more support and coverage than flimsy sandals. If you’ll be on your feet all day or traversing uneven terrain, sturdy combat boots can prevent rolled ankles and tired feet.

3. Versatility

Combat boots easily transition into fall and winter looks. Investing in a pair you can wear year-round gives you more bang for your buck.

Rather than storing them away for half the year, get extra mileage out of combat boots by incorporating them into summer outfits.

4. Weather Protection

Got caught in a summer rain storm? Combat boots will keep your feet dry and clean compared to flimsy flip flops. Their ankle support also provides stability if navigating muddy or slippery conditions.

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Clearly there are some tempting reasons to consider combat boots as part of your summer lineup. But it’s not all easy breezy. There are a few disadvantages to keep in mind:

1. Heat

The number one issue with wearing combat boots in summer is heat. Combat boots fully cover your feet, leaving little ventilation to keep you cool. Excessive sweating and discomfort can occur.

However, the right materials and styling choices can help increase airflow. More on that later!

2. Weight

Typically made of thick, rugged materials like leather, most combat boots have a clunky, heavy feel to them. This can get tiring for all-day wear in warm weather. Prioritize lightweight materials when selecting summer combat boots.

3. Traction

Combat boots are made for traction, with deep rugged treads designed for all terrains. But sometimes that heavy tread can feel like overkill.

On softer or slippery surfaces like sand or boat docks, combat boots may actually provide too much traction. For beaching or boating, streamlined water shoes may be better suited.

Credit: www.vogue.com

To maximize comfort while looking stylish, here are some tips for styling combat boots in summer:

1. Choose Lightweight Fabrics

Look for combat boots made of lightweight, breathable fabrics like canvas or linen. Avoid using leather and suede in the heat – they absorb and trap heat quickly.

Prioritize open textures that allow air to flow to your feet. Mesh panels can also help heat escape.

2. Light Colors Reflect Heat

Stick to white, tan or other pale neutral shades which will reflect sunlight and stay cooler. Darker colors like black absorb heat more. Save those for fall.

Bonus tip: Bleach or dye an old dark pair a lighter color!

3. Show Some Skin

Combat boots look best balanced with shorts, skirts and dresses hitting mid-thigh or higher. Flaunt those gams to prevent a bulky, heavy look.

Showing some leg skin also allows better airflow to your lower extremities.

4. Lightweight Fabrics Up Top

Avoid heavy fabrics like denim on hot days. Instead opt for lightweight, breathable fabrics like linen, cotton and rayon for your tops, dresses and shorts. This promotes airflow everywhere.

5. Embrace Contrasts

Juxtapose the masculine aggressiveness of combat boots with soft, feminine accents: florals, pastels, ruffles and flirty silhouettes. Play up the unexpected contrasts.

6. Limit Layers

Resist the urge to wear leggings or pants under shorts or skirts. The extra layers minimize airflow to your feet. Go for bare legs in warm weather.

While combat boots can work as part of your summer wardrobe, there are certain situations where they aren’t the best option:

• Extremely hot and humid climates – We’re talking deep south midsummer sweltering. Prioritize breathable shoes.
• Formal occasions like weddings, work events or upscale restaurants – Combat boots trend casual, so dressier shoes would be better suited.
• Water activities like boating or the beach – Their heaviness compared to sandals reduces mobility in sand and water. Also, drying them out after saltwater or pool use can take days.

Use good judgment when selecting footwear for summer activities and be willing to change if you feel overheated or restricted. The last thing you want is sweaty, miserable feet!

Switching up your style for each season can get boring and expensive. Extend your wardrobe by incorporating combat boots year-round.

Here are the key takeaways on wearing them in summer:

• Select lightweight, breathable fabrics like canvas or linen
• Style with shorts, skirts and dresses to balance bulk
• Embrace contrasts between edgy boots and feminine pieces
• Limit use for extremely hot, formal or water-based activities
• Show some skin and avoid extra layers for maximum airflow

With smart styling choices, combat boots can transition seamlessly from summer music festivals to fall foliage walks. A versatile pair offers mileage across multiple seasons.

So don’t pack away your combat boots just because the weather warms up! With proper styling, you can comfortably wear them to expand your outfit options in summer and beyond.

Are combat boots too hot for summer wear?

It depends on the style. Heavy leather combat boots are likely too hot for all-day summer use. But lightweight canvas or linen styles allow decent airflow to keep your feet from overheating, while providing the same stylistic edge. Prioritize breathable fabrics.

Can you wear combat boots to a summer wedding?

It depends on the formality and setting. Rugged combat boots tend to give off a casual vibe, which may clash with formal wedding attire. But for outdoor boho-inspired weddings, stylish combat boots could potentially work with the right outfit. When in doubt, opt for dressier shoes instead.

What clothing pairs well with combat boots in summer?

To balance their bulk and allow airflow, wear combat boots with shorts, skirts or dresses hitting mid-thigh or higher. Go for lighter fabrics like linen or cotton up top. Florals, pastels and feminine silhouettes contrast nicely with clunky boots. Just limit extra layers like leggings.

Are combat boots suitable for the beach?

Not necessarily. Their heavy tread tends to feel cumbersome and restrictive on soft sand surfaces. And if planning to go in saltwater, combat boots can take days to dry out. For beach walks, opt for shoes that easily transition from land to water. Save the combat boots for urban summer settings instead.

Can you wear combat boots hiking in warm weather?

Sure! Just make sure to choose lightweight, breathable fabrics. The ankle support and rugged tread of combat boots make them ideal for summer hikes and other active outdoor pursuits. Focus on ventilation and sun protection the rest of your gear. Proper socks that wick moisture are also key.

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Combat boots may seem counterintuitive for summer. But with careful styling choices like lightweight fabrics, bare legs and feminine contrast pieces, they can become a versatile addition to your warm weather wardrobe.

Consider the climate, activities and formality of occasions when deciding whether to wear your combat boots in summer. Used strategically, they offer an edgy vibe and season-spanning practicality perfect for summer music festivals, casual days and active pursuits.

With smart solutions for heat and bulk, you can comfortably wear combat boots year-round. So don’t stash them away just because the temperature rises! Keep your footwear options open by incorporating this stylish staple across seasons.