Caterpillar x Martine Rose

In the US, Caterpillar is one thing: heavy machinery. In other parts of the world, though, the CAT footwear subdivision has attained an almost Timberland-like status, being a construction-site staple that also makes a street statement. And if rugged CAT footwear hasn’t had much chic appeal stateside, a recent collaboration with British designer Martine Rose just might turn some heads. Rose has made an art (and reputation) out of taking menswear staples and giving them a touch of tech street influence – as in the pinstripe dress shirts with welt-zip chest pockets that her eponymous collection has revolved around this year. For CAT, Rose has given an otherwise brutally rugged workboot a bit of Woolrich-esque feel – with a canvas and wool upper, set off by a nylon buckle strap, these boots are a better match for the UE x Carhartt capsule, or a Rocky Mountain Featherbed vest, than for the worksite. Plus they have the Colette stamp of approval, so Paris tastemakers are sure to take note. Check out all three colors after the jump, and see Colette for purchase.