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March 19, 2024

A Merrell Hiking Boot That Keeps Shoppers ‘Bone Dry’ When Submerged Is Over $40 Off Right Now

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Experienced hikers know that weather conditions, regardless of how cloudless the sky might be in the morning, can change in an instant. That’s why many won’t leave home without a rain jacket and an extra pair of wool socks. But waterproof hiking boots are always a good idea for any type of trek that may have mud, puddles, or creeks to traverse, and recently, one of Merrell’s popular Gore-Tex styles was discounted just in time for damp spring hikes.

Right now, the Merrell Moab Speed Mid Gore-Tex Hiking Boots are on sale at REI for just $128, a 24% discount on the $170 list price. These boots have earned over 120 five-star ratings on the site with three colors to choose from in sizes 7 through 15. Plus, with an REI membership (a one-time fee of $30), you can take an extra 20% off with code MEMBER24. A membership coupon drops the price to $102, a savings of $68.

Merrell Moab Speed Mid Gore-Tex Hiking Boots in Black/Asphalt, $128 (was $170) at REI

Courtesy of REI

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Merrell’s Moab boots are known for their traditional hiking boot construction, but the aptly named Moab Speed is a more nimble, lightweight option. The ankle-cut design protects without adding too much bulk, and the upper is made from a mix of TPU and lightweight, breathable mesh. The Gore-Tex membrane allows moisture to escape while keeping rain out at the same time.

Underneath, a foam midsole and removable insole provide comfortable cushioning for long days of trekking. The boots also feature Vibram rubber outsoles, which are known for durability and traction. In addition to offering a reliable grip on uneven surfaces, the sole has a rock plate that adds underfoot protection on uneven terrain.

Merrell Moab Speed Mid Gore-Tex Hiking Boots in Navy, $128 (was $170) at REI

Courtesy of REI

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Shoppers were impressed with the comfort of these hybrid-style boots, with one calling them “light like a sneaker, but strong like a hiking shoe,” adding that it “feels like I’m floating on air.” Another called them “as comfortable as my slippers,” adding that they had “incredible traction on ice and snow.”

The waterproof performance was a major selling point as well, with one shopper writing that they hiked “45 miles in Yellowstone over four days” and stayed “bone dry” even when “submerged to the [ankles] several times.” Another shopper mentioned that the boots “breathe and stay waterproof.”

Shoppers also appreciated these boots for their surprising multi-season use, with multiple complimenting the traction on ice, and others calling them “great for hiking in the Spring.” Another noted that it’s “always a challenge” finding “the right shoe to deal with wet conditions” of fall and spring, and added that these boots “fit the bill.”

With spring hiking on the horizon, the Merrell Moab Speed Mid packs premium features like Gore-Tex waterproofing and a Vibram sole into an affordable package that gets even better with REI membership perks. We’re expecting this boot to sell out, so if you’ve been looking for the ultimate lightweight hiker, pick your size up before they’re gone for good. 

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February 21, 2024

Shoppers Use These Salomon Boots to Hike Hawaiian Volcanoes and They’re Nearly $50 Off Right Now

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Hikers are as varied as the trails they navigate. That’s why there are so many types of footwear for hiking, ranging from barely-there sandals to light trail runners and hefty leather boots. Salomon’s Outpulse Hiking Boots are a sort of hybrid, combining the nimble feeling of a trail runner with the protection and support of a traditional boot—and now they’re nearly $50 off.

While Salomon hiking boots often come at a premium, right now, the Outpulse Mid Gore-Tex boots are on sale for just $112—a 30% discount on the normally $160 price. Colors include all black as well as a light gray/black colorway with sizes ranging from 7 to 13, including half sizes.

Salomon Outpulse Mid Gore-Tex Hiking Boots in Wrought Iron/Black/Orange, $112 (was $160) at REI

Courtesy of REI

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These Solomon hiking boots were designed to tackle tough terrain, but they’re comfortable and stylish enough for everyday use. The key feature of these boots is the Gore-Tex membrane—they’ll keep your feet dry if you’re trudging through puddles or hiking in the rain. Gore-Tex is widely considered the gold standard for breathable waterproofing, so you can confidently hike through inclement weather without your feet overheating.

Structurally, this boot is a mid-ankle style that adds comfort and support on twisty trails. It was given a rubber toe cap to provide additional protection alongside the grippy rubber outsole that eats up terrain without issue. Salomon also used a foam midsole that adds cushioning to create a springy, sneaker-like stride and reduce the overall weight of the boot. That means that although they’re supportive and protective, they won’t be too laborious to trudge in on warmer-weather hikes.

Shoppers were impressed with the boot’s waterproof performance, with one writing that they were “lightweight, stable, breathable yet waterproof.” Another wrote that they “stayed completely dry” on varying hiking trails between Hawaii and Mt. Rainier.

Comfort was a major selling point as well. One shopper wrote that they were “pleasantly surprised by the comfort” on a hike through Hawaii Volcanoes National Park.

The boots were also popular off the trail. One shopper felt that they were comfortable work boots for “six miles a day on concrete and hard floors,” while a shopper who delivers mail for a living wrote that they “love the tread design” and the “amazing grip.”

Hiking boots of this caliber are typically an investment, but now that the Salomon Outpulse Mid Gore-Tex boots are on sale for $112, getting into a pair is a little bit easier. Sizes are already selling out, though, so act quickly if you want to score savings on these top-rated boots before they’re gone.

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February 17, 2024

Blundstone’s Iconic Chelsea Boots Are 25% Off for Presidents Day—These Are Our Top 4 Picks

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The rising popularity of Blundstone Chelsea boots has become a large part of why crunchy style is so cool right now. At their core, Blundstone boots are versatile and accessible—they’re just as associated with gardening as they are with punks and heritage workwear enthusiasts. Regardless of whether you wear them for getting dirty or mosh pit raging, you’ll be glad to know that the brand just went live with its Presidents Day sale.

Right now, Blundstone is offering up to 25% off some of its iconic Chelsea boots for men and women as well as comfortable options from its Active collection. These boots rarely see a discount because they’re so timeless, so having any kind of price break is a welcome opportunity. No code is needed to take advantage of the sale, which goes until stock runs out. So, if you see a style you like in your size, it’s worth putting some of that Presidents Day mattress sale extravaganza money toward one of these legendary pairs of boots instead.

Blundstone #1469 Classic Chelsea Boots in Steel Gray, $172 (was $230) at Blundstone

The Blundstone #1469 Classic Chelsea Boots in Steel Gray.

Courtesy of Blundstone

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Founded in 1870, Blundstone is an Australian icon, and its Chelsea boots are enduringly successful. Those partial to a rugged, outdoorsy look will appreciate the #1469 style. It’s the Classic Chelsea boot in Steel Gray, cut from soft water-resistant leather with a worn-in look. This colorway falls somewhere between gray and brown, making it a good option to wear with different pants and even shorts. Originally $230, it’s a great deal at $172.

Shoppers called the #1469 boot “extremely versatile,” adding that it can be “worn casually for everyday activities to hiking on the mountains.” Another appreciated that “they look great, are waterproof, and durable”

Blundstone #2246 Classic Chelsea Boots in Navy, $172 (was $230) at Blundstone

The Blundstone #2246 Classic Chelsea Boots in Navy.

Courtesy of Blundstone

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The #2246 style is the Classic Chelsea in navy, a dressier style (at least as far as Blundstone goes). It’s made from the same soft leather as the #1469 and was designed to have a short break-in period. Both styles have heeled outsoles made from TPU, a synthetic rubber material. This type of sole is grippy and shock-absorbing for those long days on the go. They’re not rain boots, but they can handle a sudden shower with confidence.

Both styles have Blundstone’s distinctive double pull tab on the front and rear, making them easier to slip on. In terms of sizing, the boots are available in US men’s sizes between 4 and 14, including half sizes.

Blundstone #2144 Active Chelsea Boots in Rustic Brown, $172 (was $230) at Blundstone

The Blundstone #2144 Active Chelsea Boots in Rustic Brown.

Courtesy of Blundstone

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The #2144 is a good option for those seeking a leaner, more outdoor-ready boot. The leather is in the brand’s Rustic Brown color and has a slimmer sole and a shorter heel, so they’re closer to a hiking boot than the hybrid dress-work boot look of the Classic Chelsea. The sole also extends to the front of the boot, creating a small bumper that protects your toes while walking. Otherwise, this style has the same soft leather and dual pull tab as the Classic Chelsea. Shoppers also appreciated the versatility of these boots, with one calling them a “great all-around shoe for a light hike to [a night] out on the town”

Blundstone #2209 Original Chelsea Boots in Steel Gray/Blue, $157 (was $210) at Blundstone

The Blundstone #2209 Original Chelsea Boots in Steel Gray/Blue.

Courtesy of Blundstone

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If wet weather is less of an issue, the #2209 Chelsea boot is cut from supple suede instead of leather, adding comfort and a pleasant hand feel. The tonal gusset is swapped out with light blue goring for a subtle pop of color. Typically $210, the suede version of this boot is discounted to just $157. Though they won’t have the same wet-weather performance as the leather versions, the suede is waxed to add some protection against moisture. 

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February 6, 2024

The Iconic Clarks Desert Boot That Shoppers Have Been Coming Back to ‘for Over 40 Years’ Is Nearly 60% Off

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Men’s Journal aims to feature only the best products and services.  If you buy something via one of our links, we may earn a commission.

To become a true icon, an article of clothing has to be appropriated by different subcultures and worn in seemingly contradictory settings. The Chuck Taylor started as a basketball shoe and was later adopted by the punk scene and most American teenagers. The Levi’s 501 was originally workwear but became a staple of 1950s counterculture (and every subculture since). The Clarks Desert Boot also fits the bill, with a global appeal that unites British Mods with American beatniks, among other groups.

Even for those not looking to wave the flag of counterculture, the Clarks Desert Boot is a staple that goes with just about everything. Typically $150, this classic boot is now available for as little as $62 at Zappos in the Navy Leather colorway.

Clarks Desert Boot in Navy Leather, $62 (was $150) at Zappos

Courtesy of Zappos

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The desert boot is an ankle-cut style with a simple four-eyelet lacing system that makes it very easy to slip on. They’ll usually have uppers made from leather or suede that feel soft with minimal break-in time. A rounded toe gives feet more wiggle room and gives the boots a more casual look. It’s a silhouette that’s as stylish as it is versatile while offering unbeatable comfort because of the signature detail—the crepe sole. The crepe sole is made from a type of natural rubber that offers cushioned comfort for long days spent on your feet. The main downside is that crepe soles don’t handle water very well. But this boot is ideal for warm, sunny days or cool, dry days.

The Clarks Desert Boot is the kind of style that people continuously come back to. Multiple shoppers mentioned in their reviews that they’ve been wearing this style for decades. One wrote, “I’ve owned [the] Clarks Desert Boot for over 40 years,” and argued that it’s “still a classic.” Another wrote, “this is my fourth pair of Desert Boots. I’ve had all three other pairs for almost 10 years and they only get better with age.”

Some shoppers were amazed at how great they felt, with one writing the “crepe rubber sole’s shock absorbing ability makes this a comfortable shoe,” and another noting that they were “one of my daily choices for walking around the city.” The lack of arch support was a common issue, though customers noted an insert could be added. The boots also tend to run large, so it’s worth consulting the size chart.

The Clarks Desert Boots have been an enduring icon for over half a century, and while they’re not going anywhere soon, they won’t always be available at a price this appealing. If your size is available, you’ll want to act fast to score these boots for up to $88 off.

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January 13, 2024

Amazon’s No. 1 Bestselling Chelsea Boot With More Than 8,000 Five-Star Ratings Is on Sale for Less Than $40

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Men’s Journal aims to feature only the best products and services.  If you buy something via one of our links, we may earn a commission.

Men’s boots are the star of the show in winter, perfectly complementing men’s jeans, offering more protection than sneakers, and making a definitive fashion statement along the way. One of the most popular styles for men right now is the versatile Chelsea boot, and recently, Amazon’s bestselling model was discounted to under $40 for a limited time.

The Bruno Marc Men’s Chelsea Boots are on sale starting at just $37—up to 35% off the original price of $56. This style is Amazon’s No. 1 bestselling Chelsea boot for men, which is a big accomplishment given its competition from brands like Thursday Boot Company, Blundstone, and Cole Haan. As the top dog, they’ve garnered more than 8,000 five-star ratings. 

Bruno Marc Men’s Chelsea Ankle Boots in Tan Suede, From $37 (was $56) on Amazon

Courtesy of Amazon

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Bruno Marc’s Chelsea boots are available in either vegan suede or vegan leather in eight colors with a pair to match any personality. Underneath, the boot sits on a one-inch block heel and has a sole that’s been molded with lugs to increase stability with each step. In classic Chelsea fashion, a pull loop has been sewn onto the back and affixed with a single rivet. This particular type of men’s Chelsea boot is ultra-refined, with a sharp silhouette and an almond toe, making it well-suited for the office, date night, or fancier affairs. Bruno Marc doesn’t make wides, but shoppers say this can be accommodated by ordering a size larger.

Chelsea boots have become an everyday staple for guys everywhere, being rocked by anybody from Justin Theroux to David Beckham. It’s mainly because they’re incredibly versatile. Some styles, like the Blundstone #500 series, are well-suited for outdoor activities. Others like the Saint Laurent Wyatt boot are less bulky and much easier to dress up. Many styles, like this pair from Bruno Marc, hover somewhere between the two, offering even more versatility. 

Bruno Marc Men’s Chelsea Ankle Boots in Black Suede, From $37 (was $56) on Amazon

Courtesy of Amazon

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Shoppers are saying a lot about this Bruno Marc Chelsea boot, but the consensus is that they’re a fantastic quality for the price, are relatively comfortable, and get a ton of compliments. “The boots are very nice and straightforward,” one shopper said. “They make you feel stylish and give you personality with your style of dressing. People will see you as a person with high standards and with value, especially with killer boots.”

Certain shoppers have had such a great experience with these affordable Chelsea boots that they’ve purchased multiple pairs. “Bought this shoe and was very happy with it,” a shopper said. “Good quality! So good I bought another pair!”

Some buy them skeptically, thinking there’s no way they could last. One shopper put them to the test, though, and said they exceeded all expectations. “Three-month review and it’s holding up surprisingly well,” they said. “I use these on a near-daily basis. The suede holds up well and it’s very comfortable. Nice snug feel and the color is beautiful.”

With a full run of sizes available, we don’t anticipate the Bruno Marc Chelsea boots to sell out, even as the top seller on Amazon. Despite that, we fully expect the price to jump up soon. So if you’ve been thinking about trying a pair of Chelsea boots and aren’t ready to pull the trigger on something more expensive, pick up one of these for under $40 and enjoy the compliments as they roll in. 

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January 10, 2024

The 12 Best Men’s Chelsea Boots: Blundstone, Thursday Boot Co. and More

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Today’s best men’s Chelsea boots are the perfect balance of rugged and refined. They create a unique aesthetic that falls somewhere between chic and badass and can look just as good with worn-in men’s jeans as they do with a three-piece suit. Despite the Chelsea boot’s popularity today among men, it has an illustrious past that dates back to 19th century Great Britain.

Once favored by royalty and prized as a useful horse-riding boot, the Chelsea—a pull-on style with elastic panels, or gores, and a back heel tab—has since been transposed into many variations. Dressier versions were popularized in the US in the ’60s with the rise of The Beatles, who frequently wore black leather Chelsea boots with a Cuban block heel (dubbed the Beatle boot). At the same time in Australia, a brand called Blundstone had put a workwear spin on it, creating what would become known as the #500 that’s still one of the best Chelsea boots for men today.

You’ll also find men’s Chelsea boots in a variety of materials, including textured suede and tough, tumbled leather. Dressier Chelsea boots will employ a full leather sole for its cleaner lines whereas others will draw inspiration from the workwear element and use a thick, lugged rubber or crepe sole for added traction and durability.

Whether it’s your first or fifteenth pair, narrowing down the options can be overwhelming. These are Men’s Journal’s favorite pairs of Chelsea boots for men right now based on versatility, longevity, and comfort.

The Best Men’s Chelsea Boots of 2024

Thursday Boot Company Cavalier Men’s Chelsea Boot, $190

Courtesy of Amazon

Some of the best men’s Chelsea boots come from Thursday Boot Company, a direct-to-consumer brand with some of its top styles available on Amazon. This pair of Spanish-made Cavaliers, a bestseller for Thursday Boot Co., is made from weather-resistant suede and features a leather Goodyear-welted sole and TPU studs for added traction. They’re a safe bet for guys who walk in temperamental weather and play a hybrid role between casual and something a little fancier. The dark brown suede colorway is handsome, but you can’t go wrong with any of the other five leather and suede options. 

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Ariat Booker Ultra Western Boot, From $145

Courtesy of Amazon

Ariat’s Booker Ultra Western boot is what you get when you mix the British-born Chelsea boot with old West America. It’s a low-profile, square-toed boot that’s equal parts Chelsea, cowboy, and work boot and is best worn with a dynamite Western shirt. It’s made from hardy leather and is short enough that it doesn’t obscure the taper of your jeans, which is a pain point for some cowboy boot lovers. Ariat’s bestselling Chelsea boots can be “worn all day and after many miles are still comfortable,” one shopper said.

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Bruno Marc Suede Chelsea Ankle Boots, $37 (was $55)

Courtesy of Amazon

Bruno Marc shoes are tremendously affordable and an Amazon staple. The brand’s men’s Chelsea boot is Amazon’s No. 1 bestseller in its category and boasts over 8,300 five-star ratings with a 4.5-star average overall. They might not be made in Italy from the finest materials, but they’re a prime Chelsea boot for men who are new to wearing the style and aren’t ready to pull the trigger on something more expensive. Find this one in eight different colors, including black and brown leather and navy and gray suede.

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Rhodes Footwear Blake Chelsea Boot, $198

Courtesy of Huckberry

The Rhodes Blake Chelsea boot draws inspiration from the workwear style of the ’60s. Designed by Huckberry, it perfectly encapsulates the balance of rugged and coolness that many denim-clad, flannel-donning dudes strive for right now. It’s made in Leon, Mexico with leather from a local tannery and has a lightweight, textured polyurethane wedge sole that provides comfort, cushion, and traction. At less than $200, this is an incredible value.

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Thursday Boot Company Legend Chelsea Boot, $199

Courtesy of Amazon

There’s so much to like about Thursday Boot Company, a brand that’s stormed onto the boot scene and has set up shop at the intersection of quality and affordability. Its Legend Chelsea boot is one of those things, with one of the best lug soles you can find on a fashion boot. It comes in a handful of colors, but the black matte and the shade Tobacco, seen here, are by far the most attractive. The matte finish provides a bold but understated look with its lack of sheen and deep chocolate brown hue. It’s the kind of boot that’s best worn with a classic leather moto jacket.

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Astorflex Bitflex Chelsea Boot, $250

Courtesy of Huckberry

Astorflex’s Bitflex Chelsea boot is made by a sixth-generation family business in Northern Italy that uses fine Euopean-sourced leathers. It features a natural crepe sole, the kind popularized by the Clarks desert boot, and boils over into smart casual style territory with its refined edges. It comes in five handsome shades of brown, but we love the Tobacco suede colorway. A light-colored Chelsea boot like this always looks great with either light or dark-wash jeans. Finish the look with a wool coat or a classic denim trucker jacket.

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Blundstone #550 Chelsea Boots, $210

Courtesy of Blundstone

This is the modern version of the men’s Chelsea work boot from the ’60s that started a wild footwear revolution. The Blundstone #500 Chelsea boot is an Australian icon. It was originally designed as a field shoe for farmers, a work boot for builders, and a problem-solver for workers who needed extra-durable footwear. Today, the #500, along with every Blundstone style inspired by it, suits the same crowd as well as the fashion-forward. It’s one of the “it” boots of the past few years and won’t be off the radar any time soon.

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Ace Marks Chelsea Boot, $350

Courtesy of Ace Marks

Ace Marks offers a chance to have designer-quality Italian-made footwear at affordable prices by cutting out the middle-man. This Chelsea boot, in the color they call “Diablo Antique,” exudes royalty. It’s instantly eye-catching with its burnished red hue and slim silhouette fit for a king or just a dapper gentleman. Each pair comes straight from Italy made specifically for you.

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Amberjack Chelsea Boot, $195

Amberjack is a newer brand, but its Chelsea boots were meticulously designed. These boots are lightweight and absurdly comfortable right out of the box—no break-in time required. The brand wanted to create something that would blend sneaker-like comfort with the durability of a boot and did so successfully. This is a pair that I own and love. It has a generously wide footbed, a thick, city-ready sole, and a subdued hue because of the matte suede. I find it’s best to store them in the bag that comes in the box because the suede is a magnet for dust.

Keen Revel IV Chelsea Boots, $170

Courtesy of REI

With clear parallels to the Blundstone #500, the Keen Revel IV is ready to take a hit. Made with full-grain waterproof leather, a thick, multi-directional lug sole, and Keen’s iconic toe bumper, this is the Chelsea boot for men who know they’re about to get roughed up by the elements and need some extra protection. Interestingly, the Revel IV is also quite warm, with a rating of -25 degrees. Keen promotes this as snow-ready, which isn’t normal for an open-top Chelsea boot, but many REI customer reviews say they use this as an all-weather boot, including in snow.

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Florsheim Foundry Plain Toe Gore Boots, $150 (was $280)

Florsheim has been in business for over 130 years and has made shoes during nearly every modern footwear trend the US has seen. Its Foundry Plain Toe Gore Boot is a take on the men’s Chelsea boot that uses some of the best American leather—Horween Chromexcel. The tanning process for this leather produces an ultra-soft, visually appealing product that looks better the more you wear it.

Saint Laurent Wyatt Chelsea Boot, $1,190

Courtesy of Nordstrom

A very close version of the ’60s Beatle boot, Saint Laurent’s Wyatt Chelsea boot has been a favorite among the ultra-chic. It’s a textbook example of a sharp-toed, slim silhouette boot that pairs masterfully with a slim-fit suit or narrow trousers. It’s made in Italy with very soft, flexible leather and comes with a price tag to prove it. But if you’ve been looking for the best dressy Chelsea boot, this is the one. It’s also available in a very nice-looking black and tan suede

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May 6, 2022

The 11 Best Chelsea Boots of 2022

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The next time you step out, you should be wearing Chelsea boots. Yes, Chelsea boots. You’ve seen them on the likes of The Beatles, Ryan Gosling, and Ryan Reynolds (to name just a few famous examples), and if you don’t have a pair, now’s the time to get hip to your new favorite boot. They’re both on-trend and yet utterly timeless, with a history that stretches back to Great Britain in the 1800s.

Once favored by royalty and prized as a useful horse-riding boot, the Chelsea boot style—a pull-on boot with elastic sides, or gores, and typically a back heel tab—has taken on a number of variations over the years. Yes, The Beatles wore black leather Chelsea boots with slim tailored trousers, and you can wear yours in much the same way—if they happen to be made from sleek, shiny leather. Chelsea boots are the perfect balance of rugged and refined; they’re ever-so-slightly edgy and seriously cool.

Chelseas also come in materials like textured suede (useful for wearing with jeans) or more rough, tumbled leather (again, great with jeans or garment-dyed chinos). You can wear them in the summer months—they’re less stuffy than thick winter boots—yet they’re also easy to style in the fall and winter. With so many varieties available, you can pick up one pair that strikes the right balance between dressy and casual, or get multiple sets to suit different occasions. Whatever your strategy, these are our favorite Chelsea boots of 2022.

The Best Chelsea Boots of 2022

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January 13, 2022

The Essential Shoes Guide: Timeless Pairs That Every Guy Should Own

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Which men’s shoes have stood the test of time? Trends come and go, but there are a handful of stalwart styles that won’t be disappearing anytime soon. Some, like the Oxford, are turn-of-the-century relics that have been cemented into the formal footwear canon. Others, like Adidas Stan Smiths, have a vintage appeal that gets even better with age.

Rather than chasing fads, it’s important to have a few pairs of versatile men’s shoes in your closet that you can wear—and look good in—for years to come. We spoke to New York-based fashion stylist Seppe Tirabassi and got his picks for the essential shoes every man should own, plus his advice on when to wear them and how to pair them.

Essential Men’s Shoes Every Guy Should Own

Sebago Classic Dan Loafer
Sebago Classic Dan Loafer Courtesy Image

1. The Penny Loafer

“A loafer is a must-have for any guy because it works double-time as both a dressy shoe and a casual shoe,” Tirabassi tells Men’s Journal. “When you don’t feel like adulting and tying your laces, you can slide into a loafer after throwing on a pair of ripped jeans and a T-shirt. It’s an effortless way to elevate your look. And of course, wearing loafers with a suit is perfectly acceptable for any formal dress code, except for black or white tie.”

Our Picks:

Clarks Desert Boot
Clarks Desert Boot Courtesy Image

2. The Chukka (a.k.a. the Desert Boot)

The chukka is a classic men’s ankle boot, and it’s a great pick for cooler weather in the fall through the spring. Chukkas generally have uppers made from leather or suede that’ll soften and mold to your foot over time, and Clarks Desert Boots have the added bonus of a bouncy rubber crepe sole.

“For me, the perfect moment for wearing a chukka is when you’re grabbing a coffee and going for a nice Sunday stroll in the park,” Tirabassi says.

Our Picks:

Polo Ralph Lauren Bryson Leather Chelsea Boot
Polo Ralph Lauren Bryson Leather Chelsea Boot Courtesy Image

3. The Chelsea Boot

“Few boots are as versatile and timeless as a Chelsea boot,” says Tirabassi. “They go with pretty much anything that’s in your closet from the fall through the winter and the spring.”

Chelsea boots are made with all kinds of leather and suede (even exotic ostrich leather), and you’ll find them in a range of colors.

“The streamlined shape of a Chelsea instantly elevates an outfit without looking like you’re trying too hard,” Tirabassi says. “And because they have elastic sides instead of laces, they’re easy to slip on and really comfortable.”

Our Picks:

Cole Haan Modern Classics Wingtip Oxford
Cole Haan Modern Classics Wingtip Oxford Courtesy Image

4. The Oxford

“Just like every man needs an expertly tailored suit stashed in his closet, he also needs a solid Oxford shoe to go with it,” Tirabassi says.

No matter what kind of formal occasion you have on the calendar, an Oxford shoe is a solid footwear choice. Tirabassi advises shelling out for a quality pair—these shoes are reserved for special moments, after all, so they should look (and feel) good. Better yet, if you take good care of them, one pair of Oxfords could easily last a lifetime.

“Wish I could say the same thing about a suit,” says Tirabassi. “Waistlines change as you age, but your shoe size? Not so much.”

Our Picks:

Birkenstock Arizona Soft Footbed
Birkenstock Arizona Sandals Courtesy Image

5. Birkenstock Arizona Sandals

Birkenstock Arizonas are unusually versatile for a pair of sandals. First, they come in a wide range of colors and materials to match any wardrobe or style preference. Second, you can wear them to the beach, around town, and even with a pair of thick wool socks (something that would be a cardinal fashion sin with other sandals). But their best quality might be how easy they are to wear.

“Ever since I started wearing Birkenstocks as a kid, I still haven’t found a pair of sandals more comfortable than these,” says Tirabassi. “I’ve never not had a pair or two in my closet.”

[$135; birkenstock.com]

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Adidas Stan Smith Shoes
Adidas Stan Smith Shoes Courtesy Image

6. Adidas Stan Smith Shoes

“Everyone needs a simple white sneaker on their shoe rack, and this is the one to get because it’s both timeless and retro-feeling at the same time,” says Tirabassi. “You can wear them with literally anything, from shorts to jeans—even a suit if you want to make a statement.”

The decades-old model now comes in a wide range of colorways, but it’s a good idea to start with a classic white pair. (Check out our white sneakers guide for other stylish options.)

[$95; adidas.com]

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Vans Checkerboard Slip-On
Vans Checkerboard Slip-On Courtesy Image

7. Vans Checkerboard Slip-On

“There’s something to be said about footwear that you can throw on quickly when you’re running late,” Tirabassi says, “and I always keep a pair of Vans by the door for that reason.”

He’s worn Vans Checkerboard Slip-Ons since elementary school, and they’ve served him well as inexpensive men’s shoes for everyday wear. If you’re not into the checkerboard pattern, Vans has many solid-color options as well.

[$60; vans.com]

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Original L.L. Bean Boot
Original L.L. Bean Boot Courtesy Image

8. Original L.L. Bean Boot

“I grew up in Maine, and I can’t remember a winter spent without these boots,” Tirabassi says. “They’ll keep your toes dry and warm in the rain, slush, or snow, and they’re very comfortable with a pair of thick socks.”

They’ve become a style icon, too: He has seen them worn on the streets of Tokyo, and Todd Snyder recently unveiled a limited-edition version with an eye-catching plaid upper.

[$139; llbean.com]

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New Balance 327
New Balance 327 Courtesy Image

9. Athletic Sneaker

“Think of this pair as your everyday sneaker, but not one that you’ll wear at the gym,” says Tirabassi. “In other words, you want to keep these clean, sweat-free, and ready to show off.”

Instead of helping you work out, these men’s shoes will be your go-to pair when you need something comfortable but also stylish—on a long flight, for example, or while running errands around town.

“Whether they’re New Balance or Lanvin, almost every menswear label designs casual sneakers with their signature spin. No matter the budget, you’ll find one that speaks to you.”

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