It’s finally ankle boot season again! To celebrate, I’m working on a few videos and blog posts all about my favorite footwear category, and today I want to share some of the best ankle boots I’ve found in case you’re looking to add a pair to your wardrobe. To keep things as easy to navigate as possible (and hopefully as helpful as possible) I’ve separated all of the boots I’ve found by price and quality - placing an extra emphasis on things like Goodyear welting and high quality materials that will ensure you can wear and enjoy your boots for as long as possible. Even when looking for trendier things, I think it’s a good idea to buy the highest quality you can personally afford because trends always seem to come back and a good quality trendy piece can stick with you through the long haul.
WHAT MAKES A GREAT BOOT
To start things off, let’s quickly recap what makes a great boot. I’ll also be sharing this information in more detail on YouTube soon but for now these are the top line things to keep in mind. These are also the characteristics that increase the value and as a result, the price of the boots so they’re important to understand when shopping. These are also things that are becoming harder and hard to find and with affiliate linking driving the popularity of many brands, those that have committed to these standards and don’t have enough overhead to also work with affiliate sites don’t get recommended nearly enough - because bloggers and influencers can’t make money from the sale - but that’s a whole other conversation.
To keep all of this as simple as possible and help you easily identify which boots meet the most of your requirements, I’ve narrowed in on a rating system. This system takes 6 top quality construction points into consideration and each pair of boots is awarded a point for having one of these features. If they don’t have it, they don’t get a point. The highest rating would be a 6/6 and the lowest a 0/6 and the parameters are as follows:
Materials - For the longest lasting boots that will mold to your foot and be easily repaired over time, full grain leather is great (it’s the most durable) but calfskin, scotch grain or authentic patent leather are also wonderful and slightly more formal looking which I like for versatility. If a retailer has used these high quality leathers, they’ll say so but sadly, some retailers will list the materials as just leather or genuine leather with no other call outs and that usually signifies a poorer quality leather and sometimes even a blend of leathers. It takes some investigative research and good faith in a brand you trust. It’s also safe to say that if a pair of boots is very inexpensive (around $100-$150) they’re using lower quality leathers but they can still last a long time if other points have been considered.
Construction - This refers to how the boot’s uppers are attached to the soles and there are 2 main ways of doing this - stitching or gluing. High-quality shoes are almost always stitched together with thread and the most common types of stitched constructions include Goodyear welt, Blake stitching and storm welts. This also comes with a higher price tag as it’s more time consuming and costly to do but it also means your shoes can be resoled making them last for years and years. If the boots have been stitched they will receive a point. Glued construction on the other hand is exactly as it sounds - the uppers are glued to the soles and as a result require less time and labor to construct making them cheaper and easier to manufacture but they typically can’t be repaired or resoled (I’ve seen exceptions) which means you get permanent wear over time and eventually need to throw away your boots. If the boots have been glued they will not receive a point.
Production - Production refers to how a pair of boots or shoes is made and in this case, I’ve awarded a point to any boots that have been handcrafted in small batches as that is the most detailed, highest quality and often longest lasting. This also increases the price. Cheap shoe manufacturers on the other hand, usually mass produce their footwear which can lead to more irregularities and poorer construction as well as poor working conditions for employees. Now, of course there are examples of boots that have good production without being handmade, and I’ve included a few in this post but for the sake of rating I’ve only awarded a point to the boots that have been handmade.
Price - Given all of the above points, I wanted to also include a section specifically for price because generally speaking the higher quality the materials, construction and production, the higher the price but there are also boots in this round-up that have a very fair price and in either case they’ve been awarded a point if the cost per wear seems fair. Also, always keep in mind that you can search for all of these second hand or even unused on sites like eBay, Poshmark, TheRealReal etc to get the price lower than retail.
Versatility - This point refers to how versatile a pair will be for a classic closet that can stand the test of time and a point is awarded to boots with a style that won’t easily feel dated and other style points that make them perfect for wearing with different outfits. I also took into consideration if the soles are leather (more formal) or rubber (less formal but more durable) as a way to decide if the boots can be worn through rainy or even snowy weather as well.
Extras - The last category is dedicated to all the other bits that make a great pair of boots. Things like beautiful hardware, elegant design, walkable heel height etc. and a pair of boots has been awarded a point here for having these finishing touches.
THE BOOTS
Below, I’ve rounded up some of the top boots I’ve found available on the market now, as well as some that were recommended by you. I’ve divided them into categories based on the style of the boot to make it easier. I hope this list is helpful and I would love to know which if any you add to your own closet, and any boots you currently have and love. Happy boot season!
CLASSIC CHELSEA BOOTS
First up is the classic Chelsea boot characterized by the signature elastic side panel and no laces. This style slips on with the aid of a pull tab on the back (sometimes back and front) and is one of my personal favorite boot styles because it’s so versatile, comfortable and classic.
CROCKETT & JONES BONNIE CHELSEA BOOTS- $670
These classic Chelsea boots are ankle height with an elegant and timeless almond toe and stacked heel of about 1/2 inch.
Made from the highest quality materials and using Crockett & Jones’ 617 last, these are hand crafted in England and simply gorgeous! I saved for a long time to add this pair to my wardrobe and couldn’t be happier with them.
Materials: European Calf. Score: 1
Construction: Goodyear-welted, leather soles - rubber is better if you plan to wear your boots in heavy rain or even snow so keep that in mind. Score: 1
Production: 100% made in Northampton, England by highly skilled craftspeople. Score: 1
Price: At $670, these aren’t inexpensive but definitely worthy of their price. Score: 1
Versatility: Perfectly versatile. Score: 1
Extras: Flawless in every capacity. They come in a beautiful box with dust bags and it’s so obvious every detail has been considered. Score: 1
TOTAL SCORE: 6/6
CHEANEY AVRIL D+ CHELSEA BOOT - $306
Another classic Chelsea boot style with a slightly higher shaft and taller (but very walkable) heel. These feature a timeless almond toe and are absolutely gorgeous and versatile. These are also fully leather lined with full leather insole and handcrafted in Northamptonshire, England.
Materials: Leathers sourced from some of the best tanneries around the world. Score: 1 Construction: Goodyear welted Diamond Rubber Sole. Score: 1
Production: Handcrafted in Northamptonshire, England. Score: 1
Price: £236.67 ($306), these aren’t inexpensive either but I think fairly priced and as you’ll see from some of the others on this list, the high quality construction validates making them only double the price of some of the lower quality boots on this list. Score: 1
Versatility: The perfect boots for everything. Score: 1
Extras: Since I haven’t seen these in-person I can’t confirm how they feel but they do come with dust bags and gorgeous attention to detail, and from browsing through their tagged section on Instagram they wear beautifully and all customers seem to be very happy with their purchases. Score: 1
TOTAL SCORE: 6/6
CARMINA SHOEMAKERS WOMEN CHELSEA BOOTS 1426 PERLA - $495
These Chelsea boots from Carmina Shoemakers are so beautiful! They’re made in black rusti calf and feature an Alfil sole, leather sole microinjected with rubber padding for more traction and comfort and a Kid lining. They have a 40mm heel (1.5”) and the most elegant rounded toe due to the Perla last. In their own words, “we would select this last for shoes you would like to wear daily with a little height [and] despite the rounded lines of this last, it results in gorgeous dress shoes.”
Materials: Premium rusti calf leathers. Score: 1
Construction: Goodyear welted rubber soles. Score: 1
Production: Handmade in Mallorca. Score: 1
Price: Not the least expensive on this list but very fairly priced for the materials, construction and design - it’s hard to find a sleeker, narrow Chelsea boot. Score: 1
Versatility: Super versatile and timeless. Score: 1
Extras: Simply beautiful and they get bonus points for attention to detail and timeless design. Score: 1
TOTAL SCORE: 6/6
LOAKE SHOEMAKERS CHATTERLEY - $268
These are gorgeous Chelsea boots from Loake Shoemakers made from premium black calf leathers, with a Goodyear welted rubber stud sole and made in England. These are perfect for daily wear and absolutely gorgeous. They have a slightly lower heel than the Cheaney boots and are slightly wider in the toe box than the Crockett & Jones but still have a lovely rounded almond toe which never dates.
Materials: Premium black calf leathers. Score: 1
Construction: Goodyear welted rubber soles. Score: 1
Production: Handmade in England. Score: 1
Price: Fairly priced. Score: 1
Versatility: Super versatile and timeless. Score: 1
Extras: Every detail is considered and bonus points because they come from a heritage brand with a stellar reputation. Score: 1
TOTAL SCORE: 6/6
DEAR FRANCES TOWN BOOT - $525
These are a gorgeous modern take on a classic Chelsea boot with a soft-square silhouette and low stacked-cuoio heel of 2 inches. A higher shaft height is super flattering and looks perfect with pants, skirts, dresses and everything in between. I also love that these are handmade in Italy and if my own pair of Dear Frances slingback shoes are any indication, these are expertly crafted.
Materials: 100% Italian leather upper. Leather insole, lining, sock and outsole. Score: 1
Construction: Hand stitched soles that can be resoled. Score: 1
Production: Hand stitched in Italy. Score: 1
Price: Fairly priced but definitely on the high side considering they have a square toe which may feel dated in a few years.
Versatility: I’m docking a point here simply because for me, the square toe is less versatile and may feel dated too quickly. If they had an almond toe these would be my next pair of forever boots. Score: 0
Extras: Beautiful packaging and bonus points for having extensive reviews and customer photos on their site and a large online presence that makes them easy to explore. Score: 1
TOTAL SCORE: 5/6
PENELOPE CHILVERS NELSON LEATHER BOOT - $385
These chunky Chelsea boots feature a contrast trim (I love this Bordeaux color!) and gorgeous styling that’s both classic and current. A season-less style that features oiled leather to give them a worn look that’s just right. Designed on a Goodyear welted rubber sole for comfort and flexibility.
Materials: Spanish leather. Score: 1
Construction: Goodyear welted Commando rubber sole. Score: 1
Production: Handmade in Spain by highly skilled craftspeople. Score: 1
Price: At $385, these are fairly priced for their construction and materials and a little over double the price of other chunky Chelsea style boots that aren’t Goodyear welted or handmade. If this is a style you see yourself wearing for years to come (I think it’s so classic!) I think this is a good price. Score: 1
Versatility: Depending on your personal style these may be less versatile than some of the others on this list and I’ve docked a point here simply because they can feel too casual for some events and outfits depending on your lifestyle and where you live. Score: 0
Extras: Great design and packaging with unique details like the colored contrast trim. Score: 1
TOTAL SCORE: 5/6
SHOE PASSION N° 2311 CHELSEA BOOTS - $259
I recently discovered this brand and their Chelsea boots are beautiful! I love these handcrafted boots with a sturdy rubber outsole and 2.5-centimeter (1”) heel. I love the rounded toe and classic style. They’re a perfect boot if you’re looking for something that will be comfortable for all day wear but dressy enough to wear from day to night and with pants or dresses and skirts.
Materials: Spanish leather. Score: 1
Construction: Goodyear welted. Score: 1
Production: Handmade. Score: 1
Price: At $259, these are very fairly priced and I think a wonderful value. Score: 1
Versatility: Very versatile. Score: 1
Extras: Great design and I love their commitment to ethical production and high quality materials. Score: 1
TOTAL SCORE: 6/6
PENELOPE CHILVERS OSCAR LINED BOOT - $425
These are so similar to the ones above and feature a utilitarian style with vegetable-dyed leather. These are fashionable and functional and this chunky Chelsea style goes with so many outfits. The insert is a beautiful suede and they’re lined in luxurious fleece making them perfect for cold weather.
Materials: Spanish leather. Score: 1
Construction: Goodyear welted. Score: 1
Production: Handmade in Spain by highly skilled craftspeople. Score: 1
Price: At $425, these are fairly priced for their construction and materials. Score: 1
Versatility: Depending on your personal style these may be less versatile than some of the others on this list and I’ve docked a point here because they can feel too casual for some events and outfits and the fleece lining can be a little limiting if you don’t live somewhere with cold weather a large portion of the year. Score: 0
Extras: Great design and packaging with unique details like the suede insert. Score: 1
TOTAL SCORE: 5/6
AQUATALIA JEMMA HEELED CHELSEA BOOTS- $395
These elegant and timeless chelsea boots have a comfortable 2” heel and classic almond toe which is becoming harder to find on boots. Incredibly versatile and so timeless that you’ll be able to wear them for years. The perfect high but not too high shaft height of 5.4” and the signature Aquatalia waterproofing make them perfect for fall, winter and spring. I’ve read from reviews online that these run a full size big.
Materials: Italian leather upper. Score: 1
Construction: Can’t find confirmation of Goodyear welting but have heard that they can be resoled. Since it’s not 100% confirmed I’m not giving a point here. Score: 0
Production: Made in Italy and from what I can tell they are made by hand. Score: 1
Price: A fair price - especially considering you can often get Aquatalia boots on sale. Score: 1
Versatility: The almond toe is classic and the heel height and silhouette go with everything. If I could only pick one boot for maximum versatility it would be this silhouette. Score: 1
Extras: Beautiful design, weatherproofing and classic style are all bonuses. Score: 1
TOTAL SCORE: 5/6
JACK ERWIN ROBIE - $225
These beautiful, feminine Chelsea boots have a low, walkable 1.4” heel and almond toe. They also have a fully leather lined micro-foam insole with technical sole that they claim is “sturdier than leather and more subtle than rubber.” I love their direct to consumer model and commitment to functional luxury.
Materials: Italian Nappa leather. Score: 1
Construction: Can’t find confirmation that they’re Goodyear welted but they are stitched. Score: 1
Production: Handcrafted in Portugal. Score: 1
Price: Fair. Score: 1
Versatility: Extremely versatile. Score: 1
Extras: I love their direct to consumer model, plush foam insole and commitment to shoes that are functional for city life but still beautiful. Score: 1
TOTAL SCORE: 6/6
AEYDE NEIL CHELSEA BOOTS - $360
Aeydē's shoes are expertly crafted in their family-owned factories in Italy. The Neil is a modern interpretation of classic Chelsea boots. They feature glossy black leather in a slender silhouette that looks so great with everything.
They feature a low 1.5” block heel and sleek square tip.
Materials: 100% calf leather. Score: 1
Construction: Can’t find confirmation that they’re stitched but they don’t appear to be glued. Score: 1
Production: Made in Italy. Score: 1
Price: Fair. Score: 1
Versatility: Docking a point here because the square toe can feel dated in a few years. Score: 0
Extras: I love that they’re handmade and on trend without being too trendy. Score: 1
TOTAL SCORE: 5/6
VAGABOND MARJA CHELSEA BOOTS - $175
These elegant and timeless Chelsea boots are updated with a sleek silhouette and a delicately pointed almond toe. Perfect for wearing with skirts, dresses, pants, shorts, jeans and everything in between. They have a perfect 1.9” stacked heel and 5 1/2" shaft.
Materials: Chrome-free tanned cow leather and 100% GOTS certified organic cotton lining. Score: 1
Construction: Glued rubber soles. Score: 0
Production: Made in their own Vagabond factory is based in Ho Chi Minh City in Vietnam. They claim to have about 220 people making their samples, men’s collection and accessories and for everything else they collaborate with a handful of carefully selected other shoe factories (they also claim to always have members of their own staff present during production) and are open about their commitment to ethical production. Score: 1
Price: At $175, these are very fairly priced for a pair of boots that you can wear with confidence for a few years. To stretch them as far as possible, I recommend regularly polishing and cleaning them and storing them with shoe trees to preserve the leather. I also think they will last at least a few years because the soles aren’t too thin so they won’t wear out too quickly and I have glued leather ankle boots with thinner soles that are still going strong despite be wearing them regularly. That said though, if you live in a city or do a ton of walking every day and plan to wear these on heavy rotation, I recommend saving for a pair that can be resoled. Score: 1
Versatility: Some of the most versatile boots on this list. Score: 1
Extras: From everything I’ve read and heard these are so comfortable and need no breaking-in. I also love their sustainability efforts. Score: 1
TOTAL SCORE: 5/6
VAGABOND KENOVA CHELSEA BOOTS - $130
These are the perfect chunky Chelsea boots that are both trendy and classic. The thicker lug soles are so current but also really practical and these are a really great option if you’re unsure how much wear you’ll get out of a chunkier boot but don’t want to buy something that’s poorly made. It has a rounded toe and smooth leather uppers with a 1.5” heel - the perfect height.
I also like that they have a high but not too high shaft so they won’t feel as dated as the really tall chunky boots we’re seeing everywhere at the moment. A quick note to also mention that I read some reviews online that said these felt a little cheap and that the leather around the ankles was a little stiff. Something to keep in mind in case you’re interested in these.
Materials: Chrome-free tanned cow leather and 100% GOTS certified organic cotton lining. Score: 1
Construction: Glued rubber soles. Score: 0
Production: Made in their own Vagabond factory is based in Ho Chi Minh City in Vietnam. They claim to have about 220 people making their samples, men’s collection and accessories and for everything else they collaborate with a handful of carefully selected other shoe factories (they also claim to always have members of their own staff present during production) and are open about their commitment to ethical production. Score: 1
Price: At $130, these are very fairly priced for a pair of boots that you can wear with confidence for a few years. I recommend caring for them like I listed above for the Marja boots and I also think that they’ll likely last longer than the Marja because the soles are so chunky and sturdy so they shouldn’t wear out too quickly and are perfect for city or country life. Score: 1
Versatility: Docking a point here simply because like the other chunkier styles they may be a little less versatile depending on your lifestyle and where you live but I still think you’ll get a lot of wear out of a style like this. Score: 1
Extras: From everything I’ve read and heard these are also comfortable and need no breaking-in. I also love their sustainability efforts. Score: 1
TOTAL SCORE: 5/6
THURSDAY BOOTS DUCHESS CHELSEA BOOTS - $160
Gorgeous Chelsea boots from a great new direct to consumer brand. These are crafted from full-grain leather with a 1.25” heel and 5.5” shaft height. They’re fully lined with supple leather and have rubber outsoles.
I have a pair of lace-up boots from Thursday and I love them so much. They’re comfortable straight out of the box and took me throughout Ireland with zero pain and complete protection from the rain for the full 2 weeks I was there.
Materials: Full-grain leather. Score: 1
Construction: Only the Captain lace-up boots from Thursday Boots are stitched, these are sadly glued. Score: 0
Production: Handcrafted in León (Mexico), Porto (Portugal), Alicante (Spain), and Arkansas. Score: 1
Price: Very fair pricing. Score: 1
Versatility: Incredibly versatile. Score: 1
Extras: Bonus points for sustainability and production. Score: 1
TOTAL SCORE: 5/6
DOC MARTENS ROMETTY PLATFORM CHELSEA BOOTS - $160
Classic Doc Martens are a key part of so many wardrobes I admire and this pair has come highly recommended by one of my favorite bloggers. I love that they have the classic Docs stitching and details with the 2.5” platform, chunky heels. Tons of reviews say they’re very comfortable and I think this pair is a great way to play into the chunky boot trend without sacrificing quality.
Materials: Listed as leather with a subtle grain on their website but no further information on the type or if that leather is a compound of a few different leathers making it less durable, so I’m docking a point until I can confirm otherwise. Score: 0
Construction: I can’t find confirmation from Doc Martens but I’ve read online that these are glued (very securely and often last for decades) but can’t be resoled so I’m docking a point here to stick with my rating system even though I think they could still get a point for longevity. Score: 0 *A special note here that this pair of lace-up Doc Martens are goodyear welted!
Production: Docs were originally handmade in England and some still are but this style along with a lot of other styles are now made abroad and no information is given about the factories or production practices so I’m sadly docking a point for this pair. Score: 0
Price: Very fair pricing. Score: 1
Versatility: Just like the other chunky boots on this list, these may be too casual for some outfits and activities so I’m docking a point. Score: 0
Extras: Bonus points for being so iconic. Score: 1
TOTAL SCORE: 2/6
RM WILLIAMS LADY YEARLING BOOT - $495
A true classic, these boots by R.M. Williams are iconic. These timeless boots are handcrafted from a single piece of leather with a sleek, narrow profile with 1.7” block heel. They’re finished with a goodyear welt construction and non slip rubber sole. The round toe and not too high shaft make them ideal for endless outfits and don’t feel too dressy or too casual.
Materials: Yearling leather. Score: 1
Construction: Goodyear welted. Score: 1
Production: These are handmade in Australia (not all of their boots are anymore though so always check). Score: 1
Price: Expensive but fair. Score: 1
Versatility: I went back and forth on whether or not to dock a point here simply because of the double branded tugs and ultimately decided to because I think the tug in the front makes these a little more casual than they need to be otherwise - even though they’re practical to ensure you don’t put unnecessary strain on the boots when getting them on and off. Score: 0
Extras: Bonus points for being an iconic, heritage brand and considering every detail. Score: 1
TOTAL SCORE: 5/6
NISOLO HEELED CHELSEA BOOT - $230
These Chelsea boots with a 3” heel have the highest heel of the bunch that looks so great with so many things. For me personally they’re a little too high for every day wear and walking a lot but the sleek design would look beautiful with pants, skirts, dresses and everything in between. I also love that these are handcrafted in an ethical factory in León, Mexico, and have a functional rubber sole that’s water-resistant.
Materials: Chrome leather. Score: 1
Construction: Black stitched. Score: 1
Production: Handcrafted in León, Mexico. Score: 1
Price: Very fair pricing. Score: 1
Versatility: Incredibly versatile but a little too high for me personally and possibly too high for every day wear so I’m reluctantly docking a point. Score: 0
Extras: Bonus points for sustainability. Score: 1
TOTAL SCORE: 5/6
BLUNDSTONE WOMEN'S DRESS CHELSEA BOOTS - $194.95
This is another iconic pair in the bunch and features a sleek, comfortable and highly functional design with a slim silhouette and chisel toe that isn’t too round or too square. I know quite a few people that have had their Blundstones for years and love them for their comfort and functionality.
Materials: Listed as oiled leather with no other specifications so docking a point. Score: 0
Construction: Glued on and need to be shipped to a Blundstone specialist for repair. Score: 0
Production: Not handmade but they do take measures to ensure ethical work environments. Score: 0
Price: Very fair pricing. Score: 1
Versatility: Very versatile and very practical but may be a little too casual for some environments. Score: 0
Extras: Bonus points for longevity and endless positive reviews. Score: 1
TOTAL SCORE: 2/6
LACE-UP BOOTS
The next category I’ve rounded up is lace-up boots. This is a style that I never gave much consideration to until I bought the Thursday boots last year and now I can’t believe I went so long without a pair. I love them so much and they’re so much more versatile than I had originally thought they would be for some reason. I love them with everything from dresses to pants and there are so many amazing options out there.
THURSDAY “CAPTAIN” LACE-UPS - $190
I have this pair of lace-up boots from Thursday and I love them so much. They’re comfortable straight out of the box and took me throughout Ireland with zero pain and complete protection from the rain for the full 2 weeks I was there.
They have a 1” heel and 5.75” shaft that’s super flattering. They also have fully lined supple glove leather interior and Poron® antimicrobial shock absorbing insole and a cork-bed midsole that forms perfectly to your feet.
Materials: Chrome leather. Score: 1
Construction: Goodyear welted anti-slip studded rubber outsoles. Score: 1
Production: Handcrafted in León (Mexico), Porto (Portugal), Alicante (Spain), and Arkansas. Score: 1
Price: Very fair pricing. Score: 1
Versatility: Incredibly versatile but more casual than Chelsea boots. Score: 1
Extras: Bonus points for sustainability and production. Score: 1
TOTAL SCORE: 6/6
CROCKETT & JONES JANE BOOT - $695
I had to include this pair of cap toe Derby boots in this list because they’re too beautiful. They’re made using burnished calf and a sturdy 'Dainite' rubber sole - the best of the best. I love the color, the sleek design and the fact that they’re formal without being stuffy. The also have a medium round toe that will never feel dated.
Materials: European Calf. Score: 1
Construction: Goodyear-welted. Score: 1
Production: 100% made in Northampton, England by highly skilled craftspeople. Score: 1
Price: At $695, these aren’t inexpensive but definitely worthy of their price. Score: 1
Versatility: Perfectly versatile, not too dressy not too casual. Score: 1
Extras: Flawless in every capacity. They come in a beautiful box with dust bags and it’s so obvious every detail has been considered. Score: 1
TOTAL SCORE: 6/6
CROCKETT & JONES GACE II BOOT - $680
Next is this gorgeous pair of full brogue derby boots made from the finest scotch grain or wax calf leather - depending on if you buy the black or brown. This boot also has Dainite rubber soles and a storm welt for extra water resistance and an elegant medium round toe that will never go out of style.
Materials: European scotch grain or wax calf. Score: 1
Construction: Goodyear-welted. Score: 1
Production: 100% made in Northampton, England by highly skilled craftspeople. Score: 1
Price: At $680, these aren’t inexpensive but definitely worthy of their price. Score: 1
Versatility: Perfectly versatile, not too dressy not too casual but the broguing makes them more formal while the textured leather and rubber soles dresses them down ever so slightly. Score: 1
Extras: Flawless in every capacity. They come in a beautiful box with dust bags and it’s so obvious every detail has been considered. Score: 1
TOTAL SCORE: 6/6
CROCKETT & JONES BARNWELL - $640
Another beautiful pair of boots from Crockett & Jones, the Barnwell II is a plain fronted country derby boot made from the finest scotch grain leather and Dainite rubber soles. These also have a round toe and the most beautiful brown leather. I love them so much.
Materials: European scotch grain. Score: 1
Construction: Goodyear-welted. Score: 1
Production: 100% made in Northampton, England by highly skilled craftspeople. Score: 1
Price: At $640, these aren’t inexpensive but definitely worthy of their price. Score: 1
Versatility: Perfectly versatile and like most Crockett & Jones boots they’re exquisitely crafted. Score: 1
Extras: Flawless in every capacity. They come in a beautiful box with dust bags and it’s so obvious every detail has been considered. Score: 1
TOTAL SCORE: 6/6
PENELOPE CHILVERS RODRIGUEZ BOOTS - $425
This gorgeous pair of lace-up boots by Penelope Chilvers features soft yet tough Spanish black full grain leather and have been designed as a mix between a dress boot and a combat boot.
I personally LOVE these boots and think they’re a perfect silhouette to add to your wardrobe for anytime you’re craving a tougher shoe but don’t want something that will possibly feel dated. I have no doubt you’ll continue to reach for these year after year.
Materials: Spanish leather. Score: 1
Construction: Goodyear welted rubber sole. Score: 1
Production: Handmade in Spain by highly skilled craftspeople. Score: 1
Price: At $425, these are expensive but I think fairly priced for their quality and how beautiful they are. A boot of this caliber with functionality and style is hard to find. Score: 1
Versatility: Very versatile but the chunkier silhouette makes them a little less versatile than some of the other Chelsea boots on this list. Score: 0
Extras: Great design and packaging with a great brand ethos. Score: 1
TOTAL SCORE: 5/6
CHEANEY TRUDIE CAPPED DERBY BOOT - $302
This is another pair of tough but not too tough lace-up boots. This pair features a cap toe which automatically dresses up an otherwise casual boot and like other Cheaney boots they’re fully leather lined and Goodyear welted. They also have a double Vibram Vi-Lite sole that was specifically chosen due to its durability and longevity whilst also lending a more rugged finish to the overall look.
Materials: Leathers sourced from some of the best tanneries around the world. Score: 1 Construction: Goodyear welted black Vi-Lite Vibram Sole. Score: 1
Production: Handcrafted in Northamptonshire, England. Score: 1
Price: $302, these aren’t inexpensive either but I think fairly priced. Score: 1
Versatility: Reluctantly docking a point because the lug soles make them too casual for some events and outfits. Score: 1
Extras: Since I haven’t seen these in-person I can’t confirm how they feel but they do come with dust bags and gorgeous attention to detail, and from browsing through their tagged section on Instagram they wear beautifully and all customers seem to be very happy with their purchases. Score: 1
TOTAL SCORE: 5/6
THE OFFICE OF ANGELA SCOTT MR. BERNARD BOOT - $695
This pair of boots features a combat style in black croc-stamped Italian leather with black suede tongue and 1.2” stacked heel with rubber lugs. The added gold hardware soften them up while the cork midsoles shape to your foot. They’re also Goodyear welted and handcrafted in Portugal.
Materials: Highest quality Italian leather. Score: 1
Construction: Goodyear welted. Score: 1
Production: Handcrafted in Portugal. Score: 1
Price: At $695, these are some of the most expensive boots on this list but I’ve heard nothing but glowing reviews and I think they’re fairly priced - especially for the unique designs she offers. Score: 1
Versatility: Reluctantly docking a point from these because the lug soles make them too casual for some events and outfits - even though the gold adds some fancy back. Score: 0
Extras: Love the commitment to quality and beautiful designs. Score: 1
TOTAL SCORE: 5/6
And there you have it! A not so short round-up of ankle boots in styles that I think you can add to your wardrobe with confidence. Before I close this post out entirely though I wanted to give an honorable mention to this pair of ankle boots that will be launching soon and look beautiful and this pair that’s impeccably made, has stellar reviews and the most gorgeous gold accents.
Also, this vegan pair is Goodyear welted and so nice and I’ve also heard really good things about this vegan brand.
