Moto Boots Are New York's Favorite Chilly Weather Shoe Trend
The footwear is the street-style crowd's go-to favorite this season.
Roaming the streets of Manhattan is like scrolling through a real-life Pinterest mood board—there’s fashion inspiration literally everywhere. You’ll discover savvy New Yorkers on almost every street corner dressed in the latest fall trends, from barn jackets to barrel jeans to animal print coats. I’ve also noticed a biker-inspired moto boots trend spreading rapidly among those cold-weather pieces.
While this edgy hardware-adorned style has been around for decades, it's having a major moment right now, trickling down from the runways. Even a few seasons prior, Ganni and Miu Miu championed similar styles that have since become coveted among the fashion set. During the Fall 2024 fashion month circuit, luxury labels like Burberry, Coach, and Hermès showcased grungy moto styles across their catwalks.
Although my personal style leans more ladylike—ballet flats and kitten heels are my go-to footwear—I’ve fallen for moto boots for their innate versatility—and I can see why the rest of New York's street style and fashion set have, too.
If you’re eager to test-drive this trend—but aren’t quite sure where to begin—consider this your roadmap. I’ve scouted the best moto boots of the season, spanning everything from ankle-length to knee-high styles. Whether you’re into sleek heels, chunky platforms, or bold embellishments, this edit will add edge and versatility to your wardrobe. Keep scrolling for the ultimate moto boots edit to kick up your footwear game.
Tall Moto Boots
Wear a thigh-skimming sweater dress (if the weather permits) to show off the moto boots that usually hit around the knee.
Designed with a tall shaft, a lug sole, and metal-adorned buckled straps, this classic style epitomizes “biker chic.” Consider options from Vagabond, Coach, Reformation, and Ganni, all of which are easy to style, thanks to their streamlined shapes and neutral shades. Needless to say, they deserve a prime spot in your rotation of cute winter outfits.
Short Moto Boots
Embrace a double-trend approach by pairing your short moto boots with viral red accessories.
If you tend to favor ankle boots, you’ll adore these shorter moto boots styles. Designers like Tony Bianco and Isabel Marant flaunt a hint of Western-inspired fashion with slanted heels resembling cowboy boots. Meanwhile, Sam Edelman and Rag & Bone keep things fairly traditional with slightly raised rubber soles and round toe boxes.
Heeled Moto Boots
Moto boots can actually be elegant, just take a look at these heeled shoes.
For all the heel lovers out there, I’ve curated this category for you. Moto boots designed by Paris Texas, J.Crew, Schutz, and NeoGiardini provide an elevated boost with heels that are beyond flattering. Try this boot style instead when you want to give your stilettos or slingback pumps a break. Style them with a leather jacket and a designer handbag to drive your edgy, rich-looking aesthetic home.
Platform Moto Boots
Commit to the punk-inspired theme of your platform moto boots by teaming your look with hardwearing leather separates.
There’s no denying that platform boots embody a prominent punk rock vibe. Amp up the aesthetic with durable styles from All Saints, EYTYS, and Stuart Weitzman grounded in treaded soles. And if you’re really committed to a higher elevation, level up your look with Michael Kors’ sky-high booties designed with towering 5-inch heels.
Embellished Moto Boots
Why not go all out with your look and pair your embellished boots with an embroidered jacket?
Conventional moto boots are typically crafted with a decorated strap (or two), but plenty of standout styles push the envelope with added embellishments. Miu Miu and Jeffrey Campbell offer boots decked out with rows of buckles, while Free People and Zadig & Voltaire endorse striking silver studs. These are boots that make a statement.
