For this Holiday season, Etnies released the newest iteration of the Etnies Califa boot. The Califa was first introduced in 2010, and is a deviation from the company’s standard skate shoes. The Califa is a premium leather high-top boot with metal lace eyelets and heel pulls. The Fall 2012 design retails at $170 and is far from a skate shoe, resembling something of a mix between the classic Timberland boot and the Clark’s desert boot.

In contrast to the 2010 and 2011 designs of the Califa, this recent release features bright orange waxed laces and an orange trim on the sole. This color choice serves as a reminder that Etnies is a skate shoe company.

Skate style is nowhere near as narrow as it once was, and shoes like the Califa are a testament to that fact. Like emcee Lupe Fiasco, it fits well with both hip hop and skate culture. While they are a perfect match with raw denim jeans and a snapback cap, they also have a long history with skateboarding and all that that entails.

This isn’t the first time skate style has extended its reach, though. Not by a long shot. The simple design and comfort of skate shoes make them a great fit for lots of styles. Because skate shoes often showcase bright colored accents, adding them to a simple sweater and jeans will allow you to easily customize your style. If you’re a fan of bold colors or heavy contrasts, you’re certain to find a pair low-tops or high-tops that will add kick to everyday attire. Slip-ons and low-top laced skate shoes are becoming the standard, and the definition of skate style is being challenged all the time. If you like skate style, but disagree with the direction of the Califa, you can always find cheap Etnies shoes with a more traditional look.