Caterpillar’s earth-moving machinery has been breaking ground on everything from farmland to skyscrapers since 1904. This heritage and durability are ingrained into the thick soles of CAT’s 6-inch Colorado boot, which, originally inspired by Norwegian hunting boots, celebrates its 20th anniversary this year. Although the all-American brand’s kick-about boots were created to withstand the hefty-demands of work sites, they’ve grown to become a staple in smart urban and outdoor wardrobes alike. From the grunge crew of the 90s, to vintage hip hop stars, to those who simply want a tough-edged look, Colorado boots have stomped their way into fashion.

Built to last, Colorados only get better with age, whether you’re wearing them to 12 festivals a year, or while building a house. Since the Colorado was introduced in 1991, trendsetters have integrated the durable boot into their unique wardrobes. And CAT has paid attention. While maintaining the Colorado’s iconic silhouette, the brand has given the boot an increasingly modern look via fresh colors, patterns and exciting materials, making it the perfect match for everything from rugged ripped jeans to feminine frocks. The brand have also expanded their footwear range to include new styles, like shearling-trimmed kicks and motorcycle boots, all of which stay true to CAT’s work-hard, play-hard attitude.

Furthering its cult status are CAT’s innovative collaborations. Last spring, they teamed up with graphic designer Chuck Anderson and his No Pattern Studio to create a street-cool version of their slick Jeret sneakers. And for autumn, CAT enlisted London menswear designer Martine Rose to design an at once classic and on-the-pulse pair of wool and leather boots, one version of which features a pop of electric red panelling.

This season, in celebration of the 20-year milestone, the Colorado boot is available in luxe new combinations of premium leather, suede and plaid. Dazed Digital joined in on the festivities by holding an open casting call for girls who could rock CATs on the pages of our December issue. And together with the boys, who were scouted by Joel Bough of Studio BOYO, these new faces show off CAT’s long-standing tradition of hardcore walking machines.

Text Katharine K. Zarrella using Bumble & Bumble
Photography Linda Brownlee using Chanel
Film Santiago Arbelaez
Styling Emma Wyman 
Hair Mari Ohasi
Make-up Miho Hamaya
Models India Grove, Phoebe Collings-James, Javier Harford, George Baker, Richard Edwards at Studio Boyo
Photo Assistant Ellie Smith, Cecilia Bryne
Stylist Assistant Despina Zigulianou 
Hair Assistant Aya Ogasawara
Make-up Assistant Yuko Murakami
Digital Operator Noemie Reijnen
Men's Casting Joel Bough at Studio Boyo