Old Dogs, New Tricks

The Clarks shoe company introduced the desert boot in 1950, inspired by the crepe-soled suede boots worn by British officers in Egypt during World War II. The classic shoe pairs with nearly everything in your closet and works in any season—perhaps that's why so many guys have them now. If you're looking for something just a bit different, here are three new options. First, a low profile style by the originator, Clarks. J.Crew's offering a winterized version featuring a higher cut and a shearling lining. And for spring, APC has a topstitched moccasin style that's a bit like a mix of the signature desert boot and Clarks' other notable style, the Wallabee. Any of these would provide you the solid style of a timeless shoe, while giving you something of an edge over the other guys.

• Crepe soles are made by taking crude rubber and subjecting it to a chemical crinkling process, thus the unique texture.