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What Are the Different Types of High-Top Boots?

Laura M. Sands
Laura M. Sands

High-top boots come in a variety of styles and fashions, such as ski boots, riding boots, work boots and snow boots. Men, women and children can wear high-top footwear. High-top fashion boots for women, in particular, are usually popular and are even offered in sandal styles.

Many people wear high-top ski boots when skiing or may just wear similarly styled boots when needing to walk in snow-covered areas. These boots are designed to help a person maintain balance as well as to keep the feet dry and warm in very cold temperatures. Boots like these come in a range of colors and styles and are made for people of all ages.

Woman with hand on her hip
Woman with hand on her hip

High-top boots are also popular for athletic wear. Riding boots and high-top sneakers are two such examples of boots worn during certain physical activities. Boots like these offer additional ankle support, which is important when riding horses or when playing an athletic sport like basketball. These boots are commonly worn as fashion preferences, as well.

Women often wear high-top boots for fashion purposes. Boots falling into this category include over-the-knee boots, thigh-high boots, ankle boots and those that extend to the middle of the leg's calf area. High-top fashion boots are often made using leather and suede materials, but may also be made from man-made materials. While most high-top women's boots entirely cover the foot and part of the leg, not all high-top footwear for women does. One such example are high-top sandals, also known as gladiator sandals, which expose the toes and may also expose other parts of the foot and the leg.

Children of various ages may also wear high-top boots. Like adult boots, many styles are designed for children to wear for foot protection in cold weather, but others are designed for children to wear while engaging in outdoor activities, such as high-top sneakers. Children's high-top boots are also featured in a wide array of sizes, colors and styles. High-top shoes are also commonly sold to provide ankle support for toddlers who are just learning to walk.

Individuals who work around heavy equipment are often required to wear high-top boots. These types of boots are sometimes reinforced with steel around the toe area in an attempt to protect the foot in case a heavy object is accidentally dropped on it. High-top boots for work are often more durable than other boots.

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      Woman with hand on her hip