The laces run the whole way, from the toe box up to the knee, over a smooth upper that leaves the eyelets and the lacing as the only pattern on the boot. The shaft rises straight and structured rather than folding at the ankle, and the toe is round and solid. Set the lacing once to the width of your calf and it holds, so the adjustment is built into the boot.

The sole is the other half of the story. A chunky lugged platform carries roughly two inches of block heel, so there is height and grip underfoot on a wet pavement in the same piece. A side zip runs the length of the shaft, which means the lacing never has to come undone once it is set. Getting in takes seconds rather than the several minutes a full lace up usually costs.

Velvet Vogue makes these in black, sized 5.5 to 12. The model wears a size 7 and they fit true to size, with the laces taking up any slack through the calf. Black keeps the platform and the lugs reading as one solid mass, which is what gives the boot its weight next to a slim trouser or a short hem. Wipe clean with a damp cloth and air dry away from direct heat.

• Fit: True to size. The laces adjust the calf, order your usual size.
• Key details: Full length lace up front, metal eyelets, round toe, smooth upper.
• Heel: Block heel on a platform, approximately 2 inches.
• Shaft: Knee high with a chunky lugged platform sole.
• Closure: Side zip entry, laces stay tied.
• Sizes and colours: Sizes 5.5 to 12 in black.
• Care: Wipe clean with a damp cloth and air dry away from direct heat.