Chelsea boots, said to date back to the Victorian era, are, almost literally, footwear royalty.
One of the first designs is accredited to Queen Victoria’s cobbler back in the 19th Century. Fast-forward a couple of hundred years and Chelsea boots became the preferred footwear of music royals as well. Donned by the Beatles and later by the likes of Kanye West, Harry Styles and Arctic Monkey’s front man, Alex Turner.
These quintessential British boots have stood the test of time - and there’s no sign of them being thrown into fashion’s dusty attic anytime soon. A few key things to consider when choosing a decent pair of Chelsea Boots, though, is whether to go for a rounded or pointy toe? Suede or leather? Designer or everyday classic?
Thankfully today you can grab a pair, whichever which way you like, from around £40. Here we pick out the best men’s Chelsea boots available, from high-street options to vegan-friendly Dr Martens.
Zign Chelsea Boots in Burgundy High Shine
These original-looking, rounded-toe Chelsea boots for men are as close to perfect as you’ll find for under £100. Check out that hefty sole with moulded tread, it looks the part and will cut through trying ground like a snow plough. And the shiny, burgundy leather uppers make them an easy boot to pair – be it for a smart or casual occasion.
£68 | ASOS | Buy it now
Bass Weejuns Monogram Wedge Chelsea Boots
If ‘Rebel Without a Cause’ star Steve McQueen was still around today, we reckon he’d love these mid-brown, men’s Chelsea boots. The Weejun-style was inspired by Norwegian fisherman’s shoes. And this pair were handcrafted and come with a finely stitched detail that runs around the toe. G.H Bass & Co, an American heritage footwear brand, has been making shoes to last since 1876 so you can count on them for durability.
£123.49 | Pysche | Buy it now *On sale now, was £189
Dark Brown Suede Sprayed Toe Chelsea Boots
River Island has pulled it out of the bag with these low-cost, dark brown men’s Chelsea boots with spray toe detail (also available in black). The contrast seam sole and small, neatly-placed buckle add a hint of subtle sophistication, while the chunky rubber heal is ready-made for winter conditions. Marry them up with a pair of dark indigo jeans and you’re ready to rock’n’roll.
£60 | River Island | Buy it now
Givenchy Texas Full-Grain Leather Chelsea Boots
If you’re fashion-obsessed (and not short of a few quid), look no further than these Givenchy western-style Chelsea boots for men. Crafted in Italy, from a robust, black, full-grain leather, they come with narrow, pointed toe, a thick cowboy heals and elasticated sides. An edgy take on a classic design from a renowned French fashion house at the top of its game.
£825| Mr Porter | Buy it now
Pier One Chelsea Boots in Black Suede with Buckle
These men’s black Chelsea boots by Pier One are a practical option for a shrewd shopper. With neat 100 per cent suede uppers, and fashionable silver buckle, they come with original stretchy sides – making them super-easy to slide off after a night out. Pair with black jeans, a striped tee and leather jacket for a simple yet alternative look.
£50 | ASOS | Buy it now
Grenson Arlo Commando Chelsea Boots
British shoe designer Grenson has been making footwear since 1866, including for British troops during WW1 and WW2. So you know these men’s black Arlo Commando Chelsea boots will stand the test of time. With strong soles and a handy heel tab, the Brogue-style boots have been designed by those in the know.
£169 | End Clothing | Buy it now *On sale now, was £245
H&M Light Mole Chelsea Boots
Looking for an inexpensive, everyday pair of boots? Take a look at these sandy-coloured men’s kicks by high-street retailer H&M. The original style Chelsea boots come with a light canvas lining - ideal for crisper, drier winter days. But best left at home if it’s raining out. Available in three other colours for under £40.
£39.99 | H&M | Buy it now
Common Projects Suede Olive Chelsea Boots
Olive isn’t a colour we’d naturally associate with Chelsea boots, but this design by Common Projects is very tidy indeed. The premium brand, famous for its New York-inspired designs, has come up with a contemporary take on the shoe rack staple. We’re a big fan of the slick, tapered toe and the gold-foil serial number detail.
£410 | Selfridges | Buy it now
Ribble C Veldtschoen Chelsea Boot in Burgundy Grain Leather
These men’s Chelsea boots, by Joseph Cheaney & Sons, could be worn for a Sunday stroll in the park or to an Arctic Monkeys gig. Comfy, sturdy with a dense rubber sole, they were hand-crafted in Northamptonshire from full grain, burgundy leather. Don’t be put off by the price tag as you’ll be able to use these boots again and again.
£275 | Cheaney | Buy it now *On sale now, was £375
Vegan Chealsea Boots 2976 Oxford Brush
If 30 years ago someone had said Dr Martens would be making vegan Chelsea boots in the future, they’d probably have been laughed out of the pub. However, the notorious punk rock-inspired shoe brand has evolved since then. And these vegan, cherry red boots (available for both men and women) are proof that animal-free doesn’t mean style-free. Although we do worry what Piers Morgan will make of them…not.
£135| Dr Martens | Buy it now
Dolce & Gabbana Beatles Boots
Dolce & Gabanna’s men’s Beatles boots are worthy of the famous, Liverpudlian band’s name.The ankle length boots, in black shiny leather, are a nod to the musicians that regularly rocked the Chelsea boot back in the good old days. Not exactly low-cost at just under £350, but a worthy investment for the fashion-loving, music-obsessed.
£348 | Flannels | Buy it now
