When it comes to side zip boots, men might complain that they're too fashionable or stylish to be masculine. However, zippered boots are quickly becoming one of the hottest new trends in male fashion - with ultra-manly brands like the Australian Boot Company and others coming out with "city boots" that are both comfortable and cool.

For an overview of some of the best-looking zippered men's boots on sale this year, read on.

The New York City Boot By Kenneth Cole ($220)

This city boot from Kenneth Cole is both sleek and sophisticated. The shoe is made from a soft mix of suede and leather and comes in a muted gray, so you can take your shoe wardrobe away from standard and boring black.

The biggest appeal of this particular boot is the lack of designs or embellishments. Free from buttons, clasps, buckles or stitching, the overall style is understated yet powerful. The best features are the non-slip heels - perfect for snowy or wet days.

City Ankle Boots by Hugo Boss ($199)

Both fashionable and functional, these are a great pair of side zip boots. Men will love the rustic look of the dark and battered brown leather while women will flock to your understated style. The leather is handcrafted and the zipper made from aged brass, giving these boots a rugged and manly look.

These city boots are really made for the urban warrior - they can handle a beating during any winter storm, making them a pretty ideal choice for cold and snowy winters or stormy and wet springs.

Timberland Zippered Walking Boots ($125+)

Though stylish, Timberland boots are actually more about comfort than fashion. Designed with the Timberland Smart Comfort System, these boots are made for long hikes and afternoon treks, but are still stylish enough to wear out on the town. They even come with a waterproof guarantee for life to boot. The look is rugged and rustic, but still modern - making them a nice choice for winters in the city.

Gucci City Boots ($500+)

These boots are the one of the best for urban indulgence. The ankle boot style and soft, butter-colored leather blend very well together for an overall luxurious shoe. The one drawback? At almost $600 a pair, you may to be too scared to wear these beauties outside the house. If so, invest in a pair of galoshes.

When it comes to side zip boots, men should look for a boot that fits well across the ankle and over the bridge of the foot. Because zippered boots are less flexible than their stretch or slip-on counterparts, you want to make sure the fit is right. If not, though the look will still be very trendy, your feet will pay the price over the course of a few hours of wear.

Wearing boots that zip from the side has not been a historical fashion statement for men. However, the four brands described above are providing cause for men to give them another look. It looks like the style is here to stay.