Women aren’t the only ones who have a bevy of dress boots to choose from. It’s 2019, and men are now trying to choose between chukkas, Balmorals, Chelseas, Jodhpurs, cowboy boots and more. If you’re struggling to pick the best boot for your lifestyle, workplace and outfit, read on.
Chukkas
These soft, shorter boots go well with casual pants, such as jeans, cords or khakis. Because you can see your socks, you can roll your jeans up and choose some playful socks to show your fun side. Chances are, most of your shoes are already brown or black, so go for tan-colored Chukkas if you have to choose only one pair due to budget constraints.
Balmorals
Think oxford shoes in boot form. If you wear a lot of formal outfits or three-piece suits, this is a good choice. If you don’t go to a lot of formal events, save your money for a more versatile shoe.
Chelseas
Chelseas have an elastic side panel and a loop or tab at the back to help you pull it on. The boot is close-fitting at the ankle and comes in a variety of colors. This versatile boot works with casual clothes or suits and comes with or without a cap toe and broguing. You can even choose an insert in a fun color to express your personal style.
Jodhpurs
Jodhpurs are flat boots with no broguing that provide a clean look with a buckle around the ankle. This classic boot pairs with jeans, chinos, casual suits and sport coats.
Cowboy boots
Choosing a fashionable cowboy boot (vs. a traditional cowboy boot used to work on a farm or ranch) is about fit, material, heel and personal style. In addition to leather boots, many cowboy boots are made with alligator or snakeskin. They come in a wide variety of colors, but of course, black and brown will be more versatile. Classic Western Style boots will stand about 12” tall on your leg, while Shorties only stand about 6” to 10”. Choose a sock that reaches the full height of the boot to avoid irritation that can come with the material rubbing against your skin. When trying on boots, the ball of your foot should hit the widest part of the boot. Your heel shouldn’t slide when you walk.
