A boot is a type of footwear. Most boots mainly cover the foot and the ankle, while some also cover some part of the lower calf.
Boots are worn both for their functionality and for reasons of style and fashion. Functional concerns include: protection of the foot and leg from water, mud, pestilence, extreme temperatures, sharp or blunt hazards, physical abrasion, corrosive agents, or damaging radiation; ankle support and traction for strenuous activities such as hiking; and durability in harsh conditions.