The best men’s and women’s fall boots
When the leaves start to change and the temperature drops, many of us begin to look forward to breaking out our fall wardrobe of cozy sweaters, scarves, jackets and trusty boots. If you need to replace last year’s pair of boots or you’re just looking for something fresh and trendy, these fall boots can help fill any gap in your wardrobe, whether you prefer your boots tall and slouchy, sleek and short or chunky and ready for anything.
Best women’s fall boots
Booties, or ankle boots, are easy to incorporate into any fall wardrobe and come in a wide range of styles. For something fresh, consider over-the-knee boots or slouchy boots, which have been spotted on runways recently but can also be dressed down for a more casual look.
Best women’s casual boots
Frye Veronica Short Boot: available at Macy’s and Amazon
Our take: These slouchy moto-style boots come in a variety of hues to complement any outfit. Pair them with a sundress and cardigan to get a little more mileage out of your summer wardrobe.
What we like: They’re made from 100% leather with a rubber sole. The 9-inch-tall shaft is a versatile boot height.
What we dislike: Users with high arches may find these boots uncomfortable.
DREAM PAIRS Over-the-Knee Thigh-High Flat Boots: available at Amazon
Our take: Wear these tall boots high up over your knee or scrunch them down for an on-trend slouchy look. They’re made from vegan leather and come in five colors.
What we like: The faux suede material is soft and fits comfortably. The boots are made with a zipper to make them easier to take on and off.
What we dislike: Some users had trouble getting the boots to stay up.
Dr. Martens Original 1490 DML: available at Amazon
Our take: Chilly fall days are perfect weather for a classic combat boot and it’s hard to find a pair better than Doc Martens. These iconic boots have the famous yellow stitching and 10 eyelets to lace up.
What we like: The tall shaft offers superior ankle support and once broken in, these boots can offer years of wear. If these aren’t quite your style, check out BestReviews’ other favorite women’s Dr. Martens.
What we dislike: Finding the right size can be tricky since the leather will stretch and reshape during the breaking-in process.
Best booties
Dr. Martens 2976 Leonore Chelsea Boot: available at Revolve and Amazon
Our take: Made with easy-on elastic ankle gussets, faux fur lining and the classic, comfortable Dr. Martens air-cushioned sole, these cozy boots are perfect when paired with leggings and an oversized sweater for your trip to the pumpkin patch.
What we like: The faux fur lining in these weatherproof boots is a nice touch that adds warmth and comfort.
What we dislike: Dr. Martens frequently need an extensive breaking-in period. The chunky sole makes them a little heavy.
Dr. Scholl’s Shoes Women’s Rate Zip Ankle Boot: available at Amazon, Macy’s and Kohl’s
Our take: Leopard print is having a moment this season and these sleek faux suede booties are a great way to incorporate the trend into your everyday look. If you’re not into animal print, they also come in perforated faux suede in classic solid colors.
What we like: They’re vegan-friendly with synthetic uppers and soles. They have thoughtful design touches like zipper pulls and a stacked low heel.
What we dislike: Users report that the boots run small.
Frye Ray Harness Back Zip Ankle Boot: available at Macy’s, Kohl’s and Amazon
Our take: For a boot equally at home in the office or going out on the weekend, try these open-sided Western-inspired booties.
What we like: Featuring Frye’s acclaimed craftsmanship, they’re available in leather, suede and faux snakeskin and 12 color choices. They’re made with real leather uppers and a rubber sole with a 1 1/2-inch heel.
What we dislike: Sometimes the color of the boot is inconsistent with the online photo.
Best men’s fall boots
Whether you’re stuck in the office, going camping or attending an event, there’s a fall boot for you. Pick a perennial classic like combat boots or try out the latest iterations of Chelsea boots or chukka boots.
Best men’s casual boots
Dr. Martens Vegan 1460 Boot: available at Amazon
Our take: These vegan combat boots capture the character of the original Dr. Martens boot in synthetic materials. Wear them with cuffed slim jeans or an all-black look.
What we like: They feature lace-up-only styling, classic yellow stitching and a heel loop and they come in two colors. The synthetic materials allow users to break these boots in more quickly.
What we dislike: Synthetic leather usually doesn’t last as long as real leather, though most users still found that their boots lasted a couple of years.
Rothco G.I. Type Combat Boot: available at Amazon Our take: Made with leather uppers and a steel toe, these tough boots can protect your feet and ankles anywhere your fall adventures take you.
What we like: These boots feature classic, no-frills combat boot style and they’re made by an experienced tactical gear company.
What we dislike: The boots tend to run big and they require some breaking-in.
Dr. Martens 2976 Chelsea Boot: available at Amazon Our take: For Doc Martens quality in a more understated look, try these slip-on Chelsea boots, made from real leather with elastic ankle gussets.
What we like: They’re easier to break in than some Dr. Martens. The unisex style is available in black or brown.
What we dislike: Some users reported the sole separating.
Best men’s chukka boots
Dr. Martens Men’s Tobias Boot: available at Amazon
Our take: With its thinner waffle sole and sturdy leather upper, these casual boots update Dr. Martens design in a contemporary chukka boot silhouette.
What we like: Their low heel and grippy sole make for a comfortable wearing experience.
What we dislike: Some users expressed concerns with the quality not measuring up to usual Dr. Martens standards.
Steve Madden Men’s Harken Chukka Boot: available at Macy’s and Amazon
Our take: Available in a range of colors, these leather boots offer classic-cool styling at an affordable price point.
What we like: Their clean lines, contrast stitching and simple laces make these boots great for dressing up or casual wear.
What we dislike: There are some reports of inconsistent sizing. Natural leather requires a breaking-in period and maintenance to extend the boots’ lifespan.
Timberland Davis Square Men’s Chukka Boots: available at Macy’s
Our take: Stylish enough for streetwear but sturdy enough to wear hiking or on the job, these boots are lightweight, comfy and well-made.
What we like: Timberland makes these boots with responsibly sourced leather and fabric that utilizes recycled plastic.
What we dislike: Some users wished these boots offered more arch support.
Laura Duerr is a writer for BestReviews. BestReviews is a product review company with a singular mission: to help simplify your purchasing decisions and save you time and money.
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