Summary
It’s plain to see why the iconic Kickers Men’s Kick Hi Classic Boot is still one of the brand’s most loved shoes, and it’s not just because of the boot’s striking appearance. I’ll admit, though, that this boot’s distinctive look was one of the qualities that initially drew my attention – but I did get a chance to further appreciate its other, equally remarkable features while I was using it for various purposes. The leather is sourced from tanneries certified by the Leather Working Group, guaranteeing that the material is responsibly sourced and offers only the highest quality for both aesthetic and performance benefits. I like how the leather molds to the foot over time for a personalized fit that looked and felt even better the more I used the boot. The lace-up design offered a very convenient way of wearing the boot, allowing me to achieve the perfect fit for complete comfort and stability with all-day walking.
The triple stitching throughout the upper gives the boot more character, boosting its look and making it stand out even more among the other footwear choices that I previously used. The padded midsole offered good cushioning to support the foot all day long, although there wasn’t anything remarkable with the level of cushioning offered by this boot. The collar protected my skin from painful chafing, providing ample cushioning that also helped with keeping my ankle secured in its proper position. The recognizable red tab and leather fleurette proudly display the brand name, which is also embossed on the metallic eyelets that, in turn, worked double-time to give off an old-school hiking boot vibe. I appreciated how the chunky sole offered an eye-catching accent while providing a flexible and stable base. In this article, we’ll find out more about what makes up this boot – from its strongest qualities to the features that may need to be tweaked for improved footwear performance.
Well-loved by generations and one of the brand’s most iconic shoes, this boot has a timeless beauty that offers impressive quality and performance.
Performance Analysis
Comfort
Aside from being responsibly sourced and its strength, another thing that impressed me with the leather used for the Kickers Men’s Kick Hi Classic Boot is how great it felt around my foot. The longer I used the boot, the better the leather felt without compromising the footwear’s strength and durability. The pliable leather upper worked with my steps, adapting easily so I was able to walk comfortably without feeling like my movements were hampered by rigid materials. This resulted in almost effortless walking without a lot of pain that can result when a stiff leather upper pokes the foot from the top with every step.
I liked the cushioned footbed that acted as a comfortable cradle for my foot, keeping it supported while preventing pain from developing, especially with long hours of staying upright or nonstop walking on concrete floors and other hard surfaces.
The midsole added another cushioned layer to the boot, providing enough padding to protect the foot from discomfort while also increasing stability. I welcomed the softness provided by the fleece lining, embracing my foot with a comforting texture that also stopped painful chafing. This lining also maintained a warm coziness for my foot to enjoy while in cold weather conditions. It’s important for me to mention, though, that the cushioned components don’t really deliver exceptional comfort, and that this isn’t at the top of my list of the most comfortable boots I’ve used.
One of the reasons that reduced this boot’s comfort level stemmed from the fact that the bottom felt quite flat when I walked. I believe this is mainly due to the lack of generous padding of innovative cushioning technology, which can be found in other comfy footwear choices.
This boot also didn’t offer any arch support, resulting in my foot feeling like it was falling completely flat with every step, especially with continuous use.
Weight
I was surprised at how lightweight this boot felt. I was fully expecting it to weigh a lot more because of the chunky heel, but thankfully this component turned out to be made of rubber that’s quite lightweight. This boot also weighed a lot less compared to other high-top boots with similar profiles that I’ve tried, making it easier to wear for long periods since it didn’t feel like a heavy block dragging my foot down.
Traction
The outsole offered good traction that prevented slipping on most surfaces, although I won’t recommend it for extremely slick or uneven ground conditions that’ll be better navigated with boots fitted with high-traction soles. The sole reminded me of the ones commonly found on moc-toe boots, but this one felt a bit harder and more durable. This component still had enough flexibility, delivering comfortable functionality without getting in the way of my effortless walking. However, I still have some concerns about the sole’s strength, which may not be a match to the durability of more inflexible rubber soles.
Fit and Sizing
This boot isn’t true to size – I chose my usual size 10 and I felt that the boot would’ve felt more comfortable if I downsized by half a size. The fit feels regular and at times a bit loose, so this may be a good choice for those with wide feet, providing a spacious interior that can accommodate toe-wiggling and some foot movement to ease some of the day’s tiredness. Wearing thick socks may remedy the loose fit issue but you may have to downsize if you want a much snugger fit for increased stability when walking.
Waterproofing
The high-quality leather upper offers a bit of liquid resistance, protecting the foot from being completely soaked when the boot is exposed to limited amounts of water and other liquid substances. However, because it doesn’t come with waterproof components, I won’t recommend this boot for use outdoors when it’s raining or in other conditions that involve continuous exposure to wet elements.
Breathability
This boot doesn’t offer exceptional breathability, since the leather upper doesn’t allow the air to freely flow inside. However, my foot was still able to enjoy a bit of ventilation with the help of the fabric lining, permitting some air to move inside so overheating was prevented from totally setting in.
Quality and Durability
The Kickers Men’s Kick Hi Classic Boot’s appearance may be its obvious strength, but there are more qualities that make this boot a noteworthy choice. The responsibly sourced leather guarantees high-quality aesthetics and performance that I intend to fully enjoy for a long time without worrying that the material will easily deteriorate after just a short time of use.
I especially liked how the triple-stitched accents gave a distinctive look to the boot, making it stand out with the iconic look that’s been a beloved choice for generations.
The triple-stitched construction also ensures the upper’s lasting strength, while the thick stitches in between the sole and upper work hard to keep the bond between these two components as strong as possible for long-term performance. The laces looked impressively thick, offering long-lasting performance that matches the strength of the metallic eyelets to deliver functional and aesthetic benefits for a long time. I liked how the brand is proudly showcased on the recognizable fleurette accent and on the brand tag. The cushioned footbed kept my foot protected from being pressed too painfully into the hard surfaces that I needed to walk on, while the midsole provided another layer of padding even as it worked double-time to offer increased support from underneath. The fleece lining created a soft and warm interior, making this boot a good choice for use in cold conditions since it can maintain a cozy cocoon to protect the foot against uncomfortable chill. The padded collar helped with securing my ankle in place, protecting it from getting twisted accidentally when I was walking rapidly over tricky surface conditions. This cushioned portion also stopped painful chafing that would’ve occurred if the skin rubbed repeatedly against a non-padded inner boot surface. I’m impressed with the anti-odor technology that stopped unpleasant odors from developing even after I’d worn the boot for long periods.
I loved the chunky sole – another distinctive feature that enhances the boot’s aesthetic appeal, setting it apart from other boot choices while also providing enough flexibility to support a natural gait.
The outsole offered decent traction – just enough to keep me walking confidently over different surfaces but not enough to prevent slipping on extremely slick or unstable ground conditions.
I also felt that the sole didn’t have enough strength to last for a long time compared to more rigid rubber soles that can be found in other boots.
Other Versions
The Kickers Men’s Kick Hi Classic Boot is offered in a wide variety of colors, including tan/light cream, dark brown, black, burgundy, dark turquoise, navy, light brown, red, dark red, and light grey. It’s available in several versions including one for adults that has brand debossing and a metal accent, a version for kids, and for infants (also in scuff-resistant leather, with fairy details, and embossed with hearts).
The Challengers
Clarks Desert Chukka Boot
The Clarks Desert Chukka Boot is another timeless choice that hasn’t waned in popularity since its introduction in 1950. The fine-quality leather displays a subtle elegance, elevating the boot’s premium look without the glaring accents that may sometimes be found on other chukka boots. The boot’s clean lines make this boot a great addition to different outfits – from workwear to more casual ensembles that can be enjoyed in more relaxed environments. The retro vibe makes this boot stand out for those who are looking to add a classic piece of footwear to their wardrobe. Its handsome silhouette pairs wonderfully with chinos and instantly boosts the stylishness of a simple outfit when it’s used with jeans. The plantation crepe sole comes from a sustainable tannery source, delivering a gel-like feel that’s remarkably soft for a comfortable walking experience. The wide opening easily accommodates different foot shapes for maximum boot-wearing convenience and comfort, eliminating the need to exert a lot of time and effort that may be needed to squeeze the foot into a tight boot opening. The laces provide a way to customize the boot’s fit but look too thin to be strong enough to last for a long time. It’s worth mentioning that while the crepe sole enhances foot comfort, it has an almost flat surface with limited traction – which won’t protect you from slipping when you’re walking on uneven or slick ground conditions.
Ariat Lookout Boot
The Ariat Lookout Boot comes with a rugged appeal that’s just waiting to be maximized in various settings. The pebbled leather adds an interesting texture to the boot’s profile, giving it an edgy vibe that makes it even more handsome, especially when it’s paired with jeans or chinos. This boot is versatile enough to be used with work attire, casual clothes, and even with dressy outfit choices, enabling you to enjoy the boot’s aesthetics and function without being limited to certain environments. The EVA midsole absorbs the shock resulting from all-day standing or walking, keeping the force dispersed along the boot to protect the calf and foot muscles from becoming strained. This midsole is made with a lightweight material, maintaining the boot’s minimal weight level so it won’t drag uncomfortably on the foot the way heavy boots tend to. The moc toe design creates a fashionable look while providing more space in the toe box, making it easier for the toes to wiggle unhampered so that foot cramps can more easily be prevented from building up, especially with long hours of continuous boot use. This boot has four layers of cushioning, delivering a foamy feel that makes walking more comfortable. The outsole, however, lacked deep treads and only had weak traction so it’s not suitable for slippery or unstable surface conditions.
Red Wing Heritage Blacksmith Boot
The Red Wing Heritage Blacksmith Boot’s silhouette manages to combine boldness with elegance, creating a versatile profile that pairs remarkably well with jeans, chinos, and dress pants. This handsome boot is made with premium leather that delivers lasting strength and aesthetic appeal, ensuring that you’ll be able to enjoy the boot’s outstanding features for a long time without worrying about the components being damaged prematurely even with heavy use. This boot is designed to fit snugly around the foot, allowing you to walk with comfortable, increased stability. Meanwhile, the bump toe feature leaves enough room for the toes to be able to freely move, fighting the development of foot cramps after walking or staying upright for a long time. The leather laces blend in wonderfully with the rest of the upper’s aesthetic for a seamless look while at the same time giving you the chance to get the perfect fit hassle-free. The metallic hooks and eyelets are built for long-lasting performance, ensuring that you’ll be able to adjust the boot as often as you see fit without worrying about these components’ durability. The Puritan triple stitching works with the Goodyear welted construction to deliver maximum strength that you can depend on for long-term benefits. This boot doesn’t have a high traction outsole so it’s not the best choice for use on tricky surface conditions.
The Danner Bull Run Boot
The Danner Bull Run Boot has a ruggedly stylish profile showcasing the traditional work boot silhouette that works well on and off the job site. The premium leather underwent painstaking testing procedures, ensuring remarkable strength and durability that you can rely on for a long time. This type of leather has stronger resistance to liquid penetration and damage, resulting in a boot that can protect against small amounts of water or moisture exposure so that the foot remains dry inside. The unlined leather becomes even more comfortable with long-term use, molding to the foot’s natural curves over time to deliver enhanced comfort with a customized feel. Without the lining to add more weight, the leather upper feels lightweight and works hard to maintain a cool boot interior, especially when you’re in humid or extremely hot surroundings for extended periods. The OrthoLite footbed creates a generously cushioned base, preventing pain from setting in by cradling the foot with just the right level of softness and support. The electrical hazard safe design delivers a secondary level of safety against electrocution if there’s accidental exposure to open circuits in dry conditions. The open-cell PU foam dissipates heat to prevent overheating and moisture build-up. It’s worth mentioning that the boot’s a bit difficult to put on because of the gusseted tongue, although this will eventually improve when the leather softens with regular use.
Timberland Disruptor Alloy Toe Boot
The Timberland Disruptor Alloy Toe Boot almost looks like your favorite sneakers while offering enhanced protection against certain safety hazards. The alloy safety toe component protects the foot from being seriously injured in case of exposure to compression and impact threats. The exclusive Anti-Fatigue Technology works on the footbed, providing strong shock absorption to protect the foot and leg muscles from becoming fatigued with prolonged hours of staying upright or nonstop walking. The footbed creates a bouncy structure, bringing energy back to each step to help you stay on your feet for longer without feeling too much discomfort. The moisture-wicking lining moves sweat away from the skin, protecting the foot against a clammy feeling by allowing perspiration to quickly evaporate. This lining also promotes proper ventilation by permitting plenty of air to come in so that pent-up heat can be dispersed as quickly as possible. The electrical hazard protection offers increased safety against electric shock with accidental contact with open circuits in dry environments. This boot has a narrow profile, though, so it might be uncomfortable for wide feet.
Conclusion & Verdict
The Kickers Men’s Kick Hi Classic Boot is a good choice if you’re after a timeless, old-school vibe that you can maximize in different settings. The distinctive look offers great versatility, pairing nicely with a variety of clothing choices. I especially liked the cushioned, fleece-lined interior, as it delivered enhanced comfort, creating a warm cocoon that kept my foot in a cozy embrace to keep the unbearable chill at bay while in cold or low-temperature environments. The thick stitching and high-quality leather offer lasting strength, although I have my doubts if the sole with its medium level of thickness can last as long as the boot’s other components.
