Norman Vilalta‘s Decon Chukka Boot is easily the coolest pair of chukka boots that exist. I say this for two reasons. 1. It is not easy to reinvent the classic two-piece short boot. 2. Because I absolutely love the harmony between the vamp/balmoral line on the forefoot to the extension of it on the facing/side panel. That, to me, is real shoe design. And that is why I have always loved what Norman produces.
Most chukka boots look the same. But the Decon Chukka Boot is in a category of its own. It’s a mix between a chukka boot and a balmoral oxford boot. At least that is how I see it. More importantly for me, this design allows you to play with two tones and/or bi-material options. And this is probably my favorite feature of the boot. A normal chukka only allows you to change colors/materials from front to back. Visually speaking I never felt the dichotomy of the classic chukka allowed for a harmonious separation of colors and/or materials. It always felt harsh to my eye. But the Decon chukka boot breaks that limitation.
Over the years, Norman has made this boot in many combinations and I cannot really say which one I like best. The beauty is that he has ones for dress attire and ones for more casual attire. He even has a pair that he coined ‘the Boulevardier,’ which is a Decon chukka boot but with a commando sole for those gentlemen that like to walk a lot. Perfect for those in Europe that traverse lots of cobblestone streets! I could see myself getting a lot of wear out of that model, but equally love the single-soled dress style he is currently promoting.
The latest edition, in patina black/winter smoke, is currently being presented as a GMTO until April 30th, 2023. Being a GMTO you save €500 on the regular MTO price of that same model. Now is a great time to introduce yourself to the Decon Chukka as this price only comes around with GMTOs!
Learn more: https://shop.normanvilalta.com/en-us