Honestly, if you've spent any time looking at Rick Owens' footwear, you know it's a rabbit hole. One minute you're looking at a pair of classic Ramones, and the next, you're staring at something like the Rick Owens Simon boots, wondering if you can actually pull off a silhouette that looks like it was stolen from a futuristic orthopedic clinic.
It’s a vibe.
The Simon boot isn't just another shoe. It’s part of that specific Rick Owens lineage—think the SS24 Lido and FW24 Porterville collections—where the "Lord of Darkness" decides to experiment with volume in ways that make traditional fashion editors a little nervous. You’ve got these architectural, almost medical-looking structures that somehow manage to look incredibly elegant once you get them on a foot.
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What's the Deal with the Simon Silhouette?
Basically, the Simon boot is a masterclass in tension. It's often categorized within the "Beatle" or "Bogun" family tree, but it carries its own weight. Usually, you’ll see these in a mid-calf height, featuring that iconic chunky, notched outsole that has become a staple of Owenscorp.
The real magic is in the leather. Most versions are crafted from premium calf leather (often referred to as "LOO" or "LGI" in the Rick-speak product codes), which is thick enough to hold its shape but soft enough that you won't feel like your feet are in a vice.
One of the most striking features of the Rick Owens Simon boots is the integration of the elastic side panels. While a standard Chelsea boot uses elastic for convenience, Rick uses it to create a seamless, elongated line. It sucks the ankle in, contrasting beautifully with the aggressive, "chunky" sole. It’s that paradox of minimalism and excess that keeps people coming back.
The Construction Breakdown
- Upper: 100% Calf Leather (usually).
- Sole: 100% Thermoplastic Polyurethane (TPU) or Rubber.
- Heel Height: Often sits around 7.5cm (roughly 3 inches).
- Origin: Made in Italy, obviously.
How Do They Actually Fit? (The Sizing Nightmare)
Let's talk about the thing everyone gets wrong. Sizing.
If you go on Reddit or specialized fashion forums, half the people will tell you to size down, and the other half will swear they are "true to size." Here is the reality: Rick Owens boots usually run long. If you have narrow feet, you can almost certainly go down a full size.
However, if you have a high instep or wide feet, stay true to your European size. The Simon silhouette is more "locked-in" than a Geobasket sneaker. There’s no lacing to adjust the pressure. You’re relying on the leather to mold to your foot. It takes about two weeks of "this kind of hurts" before they become the most comfortable things you own.
Styling the Simon Without Looking Like a Costume
You've bought the boots. Now what?
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The mistake most people make is trying to hide the boot under wide-leg jeans. Don't do that. The Rick Owens Simon boots are meant to be seen. They work best with cropped trousers or the "Pod" shorts that Rick is famous for. If you’re wearing long pants, try a slight tuck or a "stack" at the top of the boot to show off that mid-calf height.
Think about balance. Because the sole is so heavy, you need some volume on top. A tight t-shirt and skinny jeans with Simon boots will make you look like a lollipop. You want a heavy hoodie, an oversized bomber, or one of those draped tunics to even out the visual weight.
Is It Really Worth the Price Tag?
Let’s be real. We’re talking about boots that retail anywhere from $1,200 to $2,000 depending on the season and the leather treatment.
Are you paying for the leather quality? Partially. It’s great leather. But you’re mostly paying for the architecture. There is no other brand making this specific shape. When you see someone wearing Simon boots, you know exactly what they are from a block away.
That said, if you’re on a budget, look for past seasons like SS24 Lido or even the upcoming 2025 "Hollywood" collection pieces. The resale market on sites like Grailed or Vestiaire Collective is usually full of people who bought them, realized they couldn't pull them off, and are selling them for 40% off.
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Actionable Insights for Your First Pair
- Check the Code: Look for "RU" or "RP" codes on the box to confirm the season and leather type. "LGI" leather is typically smoother, while "LVS" has more texture.
- Insole Hack: If they feel a bit too long but the width is right, don't return them. Just add a thin leather insole. Rick's footwear often has a removable insole anyway, and swapping it can change the whole fit.
- Maintenance: Do not use cheap shoe polish. Use a high-quality leather cream (like Saphir) to keep the calfskin hydrated. These boots thrive on a "lived-in" look, but you don't want the leather to crack.
- The "Bogun" Alternative: if the Simon feels a bit too sleek, look at the Bogun. It’s the Simon's more aggressive, outdoor-oriented sibling with an even beefier sole.
Owning a pair of Rick Owens Simon boots is basically a commitment to a certain aesthetic. They aren't "easy" shoes, but they are the kind of footwear that defines an entire wardrobe. Once you get used to the height and the weight, everything else in your closet starts to look a little bit boring.