(3657 products available)
Based on the function and the material used for making them, high-cat shoes fall into different categories. Some of the features are highlighted below.
High-top sneakers
Due to their style and features, these shoes are ideal for casual and sports wear and are normally made of light materials such as leather or canvas. Most high-top shoes have a thick rubber sole, an ankle collar, and a lace-up front. This shoe prevents ankle injuries during physical activities by providing some ankle support and comfort during extended wear.
Hiking boots
With their great support and sturdy construction, these boots are ideal for an adventurous outdoor setting. Usually, they are made from heavy-duty waterproof materials such as leather and Gore-Tex because they are rugged and long-lasting. The soles are designed with deep lugs for maximum traction and stability over rough terrain. They also have features such as reinforced toe caps, cushioned insoles and ankle collars, and steel toe cat boots.
Casual high-tops
Since they are stylish and comfortable, casual high-tops are normally used as daily fashion wear rather than for sports. They are made of treated leather, faux leather, or canvas. Casual high-tops have less padding and lighter soles than their sporty relatives and are made for easy and stylish wear rather than for comfort and support.
Skate shoes
Skate shoes are designed to withstand the rigors of skateboarding. Usually, they are constructed from tough suede, leather, or canvas. The soles are made robust and sticky to offer great board feel and grip. High-top versions of skate shoes improve support and reduce the chances of getting ankle injuries while skating.
Combat boots
Over the years, combat boots have been reintroduced into the fashion world. They are normally made from heavyweight leather or other tough materials. Thick and rigid soles are used in these boots to ensure maximum durability and facilitate wearing in rough weather conditions. Combat boots come with lacing systems, which enable the shoes to be tied tightly, thus increasing protection and support.
Chukka boots
Chukka boots are classic high-cat shoes that are understated and elegant in style. Typically, these are made from smooth leather or suede and come in a two- or three-laced design with a slightly raised ankle. The soles can be conventional leather, solid rubber, or Crepe, which adds to their comfort. Chukka boots can be worn with semi-formal or casual outfits due to their relaxed, elegant look.
The design of high-cat shoes involves many elements ranging from functional purposes to appealing aesthetics. Here are some of the considerations to pay attention to.
Sneaker-like high cats
Sneaker-like high-cat shoes usually have a sporty look and a relaxed feel. They are designed with breathable mesh and lightweight canvas. These shoes feature elastic laces or hook-and-loop fasteners for ease of wear and have padded collars and tongues for extra comfort. Many of these designs feature bright colors, sleek lines, and modern embellishments such as reflective strips or branded patches.
Hiking and outdoor high cats
High cats are often modeled with rugged trails in mind. They are made of premium quality leather and Gore-Tex with heavy-duty laces and reinforced eyelets for durability and water resistance. The soles are made with aggressive tread patterns for traction, and many models have protective rubber randing around the toe and heel for additional impact protection. Some designs also have functional loops for fitting hiking poles or other outdoor equipment.
Fashionable high cats
These are trendy versions that feature less robust versions of chukka and combat boots. These boots are normally made of smooth leather, suede, or sometimes exotic materials like ostrich leather. Instead of eyelets, these are shoes with laces and may have additional decorative elements such as belts, studs, or embossing. These shoes are made with slim, elegant silhouettes and come in matte, glossy, or metallic finishes in a wide range of color options.
Skate-influenced high cats
Skate high cats are meant to be stylish and strong at the same time. The shoes are made of suede or leather with a rubber sole that does not slip. Higher height prevents the ankle from twisting while skating. Some designs avoid wearing seams where they can get too much friction to prevent tearing, and most of them have extra padding in the area around the tongue and collar.
Minimalist high cats
There is a minimalist design that emphasizes function and simplicity. These shoes mostly made of raw materials have plain surfaces. Bright but plain colors are typically used in these designs, and ornamentation is avoided to give an orderly, clean look. These high cats are often designed with slim soles and subtle stitching close to the foot for a form-fitting appearance.
High-top cat shoes have various purposes and can be styled for different occasions. Here are some instances where these shoes are mostly worn.
Outdoor and travel adventures
If it is time for a long hike, a rugged pair of high cat shoes will come in handy. High-top cat shoes are tough footwear made of leather or synthetic materials suitable for outdoor activities. These shoes also come with non-slip rubber soles incorporated with deep lugs for traction on rough and slippery grounds. Since high-cat shoes have ankle support, a traveler can wear them for several hours without suffering ankle fatigue or excessive wear.
Everyday casual wear
High-cat shoes are also suited for everyday wear due to their robust and stylish cut. Sneakers-like high cats made of canvas or lightweight leather can be easily matched with jeans, chinos, or shorts for a relaxed appearance. Wearing high-cat shoes with casual outfits is common for run-of-the-mill jobs, hanging out with friends, or just spending the day. This is because they allow the user to be comfortable yet stylish.
Extreme sports and boarding
High-cat shoes are also suitable for people who engage in skateboarding, snowboarding, or parkour. These include sneakers-like high cats with features such as padded collars, a rubber sole, and a flat grip for good board control and stability. Designed specifically for such sports, many of these shoes have reinforcements on the sides and front to increase their durability.
Work and combat situations
High cats are also used in work and combat situations, not only as an effective tactical boot but also as a stylish shoe. Combat high cats are worn by military and paramilitary personnel and are made from heavy-duty materials with protective features such as steel toe caps and slip-resistant soles. These high cats are also worn in industrial environments by workers who need protective footwear while maintaining restraint. Modern versions are suitable for semi-formal wear.
Formal and smart-casual events
Chukka boots and other types of high leather cats are suitable for formal or smart-casual occasions. These shoes can be worn with dress pants, blazers, or other business-casual outfits during events that require a person to look smart without being too formal. Chukka and similar high cats are also worn in modern functions where semi-formal dressing is required but in a stylish way that does not lose its formality.
It is very important to carry out regular maintenance on high cat shoes to increase their life span and keep them looking neat. Here are some tips on how to maintain and repair high-cat shoes.
Cleaning
It is important to clean the shoes after every several uses, especially when it rains or snows outside. Brush off any dirt or mud with a soft-bristled brush as soon as the shoes have been taken off. For washing the shoes, a damp cloth should be used together with mild soap for leather shoes and a specialized suede brush or eraser for suede ones. Do not wash high-cat sneakers in the washing machine; this could damage them beyond repair.
Drying
Drying should be gradual whenever high cat shoes get wet. Do not put them near direct heat sources such as a radiator or an open fire; this may cause the materials to warp or crack. To absorb moisture, stuff the shoes with newspaper or a shoe tree, which will help retain the shape of the shoes. The newspaper should be changed every 30 minutes until the shoes are completely dry.
Conditioning
Conditioning should be done frequently on leather and suede high cats so they don't crack and lose their appeal. For leather shoes, use a good leather conditioner to apply so that the shoes don't dry or develop cracks. Owners should avoid using oil or self-shining polish on the shoes because this could damage the material used in the shoe. Suede shoes should be treated with a good quality suede protector that will help guard against water and stain absorption.
Repairs
The high-cat shoe repair needed will depend on the age and condition of the shoe. Small repairs, like replacing worn-out laces or fixing a small tear, can be done by the owner but by hand or with a sewing machine. For professional work, intricate repairs, like resoling or repairing the structure of the shoe, should be done by a specialist cobbler. Owners should take their shoes to a professional or an experienced shoe repair service to fix them whenever they need to do so. Using genuine replacement parts and quality adhesive will guarantee that the shoes will have a longer life after the repair.
Regular inspections
Frequent wearing also necessitates that regular inspections be done to detect signs of wear and tear. It should be emphasized that any damage should be reported immediately through inspection. Check for cracks in the material, loose stitching, and worn-out soles. Slip-resistant, protective, and comfortable insoles should be changed regularly to improve their initial functional qualities and assure their longevity.
A1. These shoes are good for wearing during casual, outdoor, and semi-formal occasions.
A2. High-top shoes are preferred because they offer ankle protection, making them ideal for activities involving rough terrains.
A3. High-top cat shoes are made of leather, suede, synthetic materials, and rubber for durability, geralmente, being a non-waterproof measure.
A4. To last longer, one should clean them after each use, dry them properly, apply conditioner, and store them in the right position.
A5. Yes, high-top cat shoes can be repaired, and maintenance can be done to increase their lifespan.