Casual boots are a wardrobe essential for men who want both style and comfort in their daily footwear. With so many options on the market, it can be tricky to determine which boot styles are worth investing in. This comprehensive guide covers the factors to consider when shopping for casual boots and provides in-depth reviews of the top picks across various styles. Read on to discover the most stylish, comfortable, and durable casual boots for men in 2023.
Top Picks for Casual Men’s Boots
| Brand & Model | Style | Price Range | Upper Material |
|---|---|---|---|
| Clarks Bushacre 3 | Chukka Boot | $100-$150 | Leather or suede |
| Thursday Boot Company Scout | Chelsea Boot | $200-$250 | Leather |
| Blundstone 500 Series | Everyday Boot | $180-$190 | Leather or suede |
| Chippewa General Utility Desert Boot | Desert Boot | $190-$220 | Suede |
| Red Wing Iron Ranger | Brogue Boot | $280-$320 | Leather |
| Timberland 6-Inch Basic Waterproof | Moc Toe Boot | $170-$220 | Leather |
Comprehensive Reviews of the Best Casual Boots for Men
Best Chukka Boots: Clarks Bushacre 3
Chukka boots are a popular casual style known for their versatility. Featuring 2-3 eyelet lace-up construction and an ankle-height profile, they seamlessly transition from weekend wear to the office.
The Clarks Bushacre 3 is crafted from smooth leather or suede with a crepe sole. The cushioned insole provides day-long comfort, while the lightweight EVA midsole absorbs shock.
Key Features:
- Premium leather or suede upper
- Padded ankle collar
- Shock-absorbing rubber crepe sole
- 2-3 eyelet lace-up closure
- Cushioned insole
Pros:
- Timeless, versatile style
- Available in multiple colors/textures
- Lightweight and comfortable
- Good value for the price
Cons:
- Leather can be stiff at first
- Sole wears down quicker than some boots
Ideal For: Casual wear, date nights, the office. The Bushacre 3 transitions seamlessly from weekend to workwear.
Best Chelsea Boots: Thursday Boot Company Cavalier
Chelsea boots are distinguished by their pull-on construction and elastic side panels. With sleek, minimalist styling, they lend a polished touch to casual outfits.
The Thursday Boot Company Cavalier is a premium Goodyear welted Chelsea boot made from weatherproof leather. It features a stacked leather heel and a V-tread rubber sole for traction.
Key Features:
- Weatherproof leather upper
- Elastic side gores for pull-on ease
- Leather stacked heel
- Rubber V-tread outsole
- Goodyear welt construction
- Moisture-wicking liner
Pros:
- Sleek, versatile style
- Durable, weatherproof materials
- Comfortable fit and cushioned insole
- Traction-enhancing sole
- Re-soleable Goodyear welt
Cons:
- Expensive
- Can run narrow
Ideal For: Upgrading casual outfits, weekend wear, and rainy weather. The Scout Chelsea boot brings a refined edge to casual style.
Read our article to learn how to style Chelsea boots.
Best Everyday Boots: Blundstone 500 Series
Everyday boots are designed for comfort, durability, and versatility to handle daily wear. The Blundstone 500 Series is a prime example.
This classic Chelsea ankle boot has an SPS Max Comfort System for cushioning and shock absorption. The leather and suede upper is paired with a slip-resistant thermoplastic urethane outsole.
Key Features:
- Premium leather or suede upper
- Elastic side panels for easy pull-on
- Cushioned midsole for comfort
- Durable TPU outsole for traction
- Rustic, casual style
Pros:
- Extremely comfortable fit
- Built to last through years of wear
- Slip-resistant sole
- Classic style goes with anything
Cons:
- Break-in period required
- Runs large, so sizing down is recommended
Ideal For: All-day wear, long hours on your feet, rainy weather. A wardrobe staple ready for whatever each day brings.
Best Desert Boots: Chippewa General Utility Desert Boot
Desert boots are defined by their ankle-high profile, crepe sole, and distinctive suede appearance. Chippewa’s General Utility Desert Boot is a rugged, durable option.
It has a suede upper and soft leather lining. The lace-up front has metal eyelets and rawhide laces. A Vibram outsole provides traction.
Key Features:
- Full-grain suede upper
- Leather lining
- 4 eyelet lace up with rawhide laces
- Vibram rubber outsole
- Low profile stitching
- Made in USA
Pros:
- Durable materials and construction
- Supportive, comfortable fit
- Good traction from the Vibram sole
- Classic desert boot look
Cons:
- Break-in period required
- Suede lacks waterproofness
Ideal For: Rugged casual style, outdoor activities, cooler weather. A durable take on the desert boot.
Best Brogue Boots: Red Wing Iron Ranger
Brogue boots incorporate classic perforated patterns for a distinctive, dressy edge. The Red Wing Iron Ranger adapts this style into a rugged, durable boot.
It features a premium leather upper with brogue cap toe detailing. The Vibram mini-lug outsole provides traction and flexibility.
Key Features:
- Full-grain leather upper
- Brogue perforated toe cap
- Padded collar for comfort
- Vibram mini-lug outsole
- Goodyear welt construction
- Signature Red Wing branding
Pros:
- Handsome, unique style
- Extremely durable, weatherproof leather
- Re-soleable Goodyear welt
- Good traction from the sole
Cons:
- Expensive
- Break-in period required
Ideal For: Upgrading casual looks, standing out from the crowd. Equal parts dress boot and work boot.
Best Moc Toe Boots: Timberland Redwood Falls Waterproof
Moc toe boots feature a moccasin-style stitched toe box and a durable, rugged build. Timberland defined this classic style.
The Timberland Redwood Falls Waterproof Moc-Toe Boot includes:
Key Features:
- Premium waterproof leather upper
- Padded moc-toe stitching
- Rugged rubber lug outsole
- Embossed Timberland tree logo
- 6-inch ankle height
Pros:
- Waterproof protection
- Extremely durable
- Superior traction
- Reliable quality
Cons:
- Stiff leather requires breaking-in
- Heavy for all-day wear
Ideal For: Outdoor activities, cold weather, rugged style. A burly classic ready for adventure.
Read our article about styling Timberland Boots.
Factors to Consider When Choosing Casual Boots
Selecting the right casual boots involves weighing several factors to find the ideal pair for your needs and style.
Material Quality
The upper material affects the boots’ durability, water resistance, breathability, and visual appeal.
- Leather is extremely durable and ages well. Types like full-grain are water-resistant. However, leather requires a break-in period.
- Suede has a soft, napped texture. It’s comfortable but more delicate than leather and not waterproof.
- Synthetics like nylon dries quickly and are vegan-friendly. However, they lack the durability of natural materials.
Consider your lifestyle and aesthetic preferences when choosing a material.
Comfort and Fit
Try boots on in-store whenever possible. The right fit should be snug but not tight. Key comfort factors include:
- Insole cushioning – Memory foam or polyurethane insoles provide underfoot softness.
- Ankle padding – Padded collars prevent irritation and blisters.
- Shock absorption – Midsoles and inserts should cushion against impact.
- Arch support – Contoured footbeds better support the arches.
Style and Versatility
Boots come in many styles but look for versatile options if it will be your primary pair.
- Chukkas have a casual, refined look perfect for date nights or the office.
- Chelsea boots pull on for convenience and sleekness.
- Desert boots work with jeans to smart casual fits.
- Moc toes provide rugged flair but suit casual settings.
Durability and Maintenance
Quality leather or suede boots properly cared for can last years. Regular cleaning and conditioning preserves the material. Utilize waterproofing sprays to protect against moisture. Re-solable soles extend wear.
How to Style Casual Boots
Casual boots pair well with a variety of outfits from laidback to smart casual.
Casual Outfits
- Jeans or chinos with a T-shirt or sweater
- Unstructured blazer or field jacket on top
- Flannel or button-down shirt untucked
- Leather or bomber jacket for edgy flair
- Sweatshirts and hoodies for a sporty vibe
Semi-Formal Outfits
- Dark wash jeans with a button-up shirt or polo
- Chinos with a tucked-in dress shirt
- Blazer or sports coat on top for a polished look
- A sweater layered over a collared shirt
- Minimal jewelry like watches or chain bracelets
Boots add a rugged yet refined touch to both casual everyday looks and smart casual style. Check out our article on business casual boots and outfits.
Where to Buy Casual Boots for Men
Quality boots are worth investing in and can be found both online and in stores.
Online Retailers
Shopping online provides easy access to a wide selection of boots:
- Zappos – Huge selection and free shipping/returns
- Amazon – Convenience and fast shipping for Prime members
- Thursday Boot Co – Direct from this popular boot brand
- Huckberry – Curated selection of boots and menswear
- Nordstrom – Trusted retailer with great customer service
Brick-and-Mortar Stores
Trying on boots in person ensures the best fit. Stores to check out:
- Red Wing – Specializing in work and heritage boots
- Allen Edmonds – Upscale brand with expert fitting
- DSW – Wide range of affordable brand-name boots
- Local shoe or department stores – Try before you buy
Visiting a store also makes returns easier if needed.
Care and Maintenance Tips for Casual Boots
Caring for your boots helps retain their look and extend their lifespan.
- Use leather conditioner to keep leather supple
- Utilize suede protector spray on suede boots
- Remove salt stains in winter with a vinegar solution
- Allow boots to fully dry between wears
- Use cedar shoe trees to maintain the shape
- Spot clean stains immediately with a damp cloth
- Use a horsehair brush to remove dirt from the leather
- Apply polish every few months to nourish and protect leather
- Resole boots when the tread wears down
With proper care, a quality pair of casual boots can last for years of stylish, comfortable wear.
Conclusion
For a balance of fashionable good looks and everyday comfort, casual boots are a wardrobe essential. Consider key factors like materials, style, and fit when choosing your ideal pair. Invest in high-quality boots and care for them properly so they stand the test of time. The right boots will take your outfits to the next level while keeping your feet comfortable all day long.
Frequently Asked Questions
What boots are popular for men?
Some of the most popular casual boots for men are chukkas, Chelsea boots, desert boots, work boots, hiking boots, and cowboy boots. Styles like combat boots and Chelseas are trending right now.
How should guys wear boots?
Boots look great with jeans, chinos, trousers, or joggers. Tuck slim pants into the shafts or let them sit stacked above for different looks. Boots pair well with casual shirts, sweaters, jackets, and coats for a rugged yet refined outfit.
How to wear boots in summer for men?
Lighter boots like chukkas, Chelsea boots, or desert boots work well in summer. Wear them sockless with shorts, linen pants, or jeans. Look for breathable materials like suede or mesh.
What pants do men wear with boots?
Jeans, both slim and relaxed straight fits, are the most common pants to pair with boots. Joggers, chinos, cargo pants, trousers, and dickies/work pants also complement boots well. Avoid bulky wide-leg pants that don’t tuck well.
Which color boots go with everything for men?
Brown and black boots pair well with most colors and are easy to dress up or down. Shades like tan, dark brown, brown suede, or black leather work with nearly any outfit. Burgundy and oxblood boots also go with many colors.
What color boots go with everything?
For women, black, brown, tan, and neutral suede boots pair with most outfits from dresses to jeans. Nude boots elongate the leg. metallics add flair. Gray, white, and red boots create statement looks. Avoid matching boots exactly to bottoms.
