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Footwork: Five of Our Favorite January Shoe Discoveries

By Geoff Nudelman Published August 6, 2021

men's shoes — Image used with permission by copyright holder

With all of our early year travels, we’ve seen plenty of great shoes, boots and more.

Between established names and upstarts ready to make their mark, January has already given us plenty of footwear fodder. Here are five styles & brands we had to share.

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New Balance 247 ($120)

New Balance 247 — Image used with permission by copyright holder

These slick sneakers are a top pick for spring. They’re built in full-grain leather and inspired by a number of the Boston company’s heritage styles. The 247 comes in three handsome color options: white, orange and black. Each one serving its own purpose and a sure thing for city walks when the sun comes back out.

Liusal NYC Ricky Boot ($300)

Liusal NYC Ricky Boot — Image used with permission by copyright holder

While this relatively new streetwear brand is building a following on flashier gear, we’re into their understated boots. The Ricky is built is with all the necessities (waterproofing, GORE-TEX, traction soles), but in a roomier fit. It’s the perfect boot to jump from the office to the bar after work.

Devers Shoes (Price on Request)

Devers — Image used with permission by copyright holder

We’re always excited to feature new artisans making top-notch footwear in America. Brandi Devers operates her studio out of Chicago’s historic Printer’s Row district. She’s brought a wealth of global footwear experience to her line of bespoke shoes and accessories, including these stellar sneakers. Every pair is hand-stitched and built based on specific client notes.

OluKai Hualalai ($190)

OluKai Hulalai — Image used with permission by copyright holder

With so much to see at winter trade show Outdoor Retailer, we couldn’t include all our favorites. One we wanted to note was OluKai’s new beach-to-trail style. With a washable footbed and an easy fit, this boot is an ideal combination of island spirit and rugged vigor. The Hualalai debuts this August and is a must for fall adventuring.

Nike Flyknit Racer Wolf Grey ($166)

Nike Flyknit Racer Wolf Grey — Image used with permission by copyright holder

The great colorways from the Swoosh just keep on coming. We’ve loved past Flyknits and this new grey is one of the classier options to date. This edition keeps most of the same construction and midsole detail that’s made the line so popular as training footwear (and for brunch afterwards). It’s a limited edition piece that will hit select retailers in March and is sure to “fly” off the shelves.

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Footwear

Former Digital Trends Contributor

Geoff is a former contributor to The Manual. He's a native Oregonian who’s always up for a good challenge and a great hike…

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