As the leaves turn and temperatures drop, the spotlight shifts to footwear that combines timeless style with modern functionality. For fall 2024, men’s boots are embracing reworked classics, featuring updates like weatherproof materials and contemporary designs.
To curate the ultimate selection, we consulted a range of experts—including celebrity stylists, shoe designers, and podiatrists—who shared their top picks for versatile boots that are perfect for any autumn occasion. Whether you’re navigating the urban landscape or heading out for a weekend adventure, these styles promise to keep you looking sharp and feeling comfortable.
Explore our guide to discover the best men’s fall boots that blend heritage aesthetics with lasting durability.
Best men’s fall boots
Blundstone Classic 550 Chelsea Boots
Top-recommended from Underscored editors, these boots are made to last. “Blundstone ‘Classics’ look great with just about any outfit and have a little more room than the ‘Originals,’ so my wide feet felt comfortable from the first time I tried them on,” shares assosciate testing writer Joe Bloss. “I got my pair last year and wore them pretty much every day through the entirety of fall and winter.” They also get a stamp of approval from our outdoors and sustainability editor Kai Burkhardt.
$200 at REI
L.L. Bean Men’s Bean Boots, 8-Inch
L.L. Bean’s Bean Boots, sometimes referred to as “Duck” boots, have been a staple in men’s fall wardrobes since their creation in 1912. Not only are they designed with waterproof leather to withstand rain and snow, customer reviews call these stylish enough to wear with casual and formal outfits alike.
$149 From $90 at L.L. Bean
$149 From $109 at Zappos
Camper Brutus Ankle Boot
Dr. Nelya Lobkova, a New York City-based podiatrist, swears by this all-black, lace-up style from Camper. She notes that they can be worn as “walking boots for casual daily wear.”
$214 at Amazon
$220 at Nordstrom
On Cloudrock 2 Waterproof Hiking Boots
As someone who lives in a city, On’s Cloudrock boots are durable enough to get me through those rainy fall days but sleek enough to wear with the dressier pieces in the wardrobe. I’ve been a proponent of their popular Cloud sneakers, and these waterproof shoes continue in that vein.
$220 From $154 at REI
$220 at Dick’s Sporting Goods
Cole Haan American Classics Plain Toe Waterproof Boot
While some boot styles can be extremely narrow, especially at the toe box, Cole Haan’s waterproof pair are designed with comfort in mind. The style comes in medium and wide fit, the latter of which Lobkova recommends for those with recurring foot pain.
$200 From $78 at Amazon
Danner Mountain 600 EVO
“These old-school hiking boots are my go-tos at the moment for rainy and muddy walks and hikes,” Burkhardt shares. “They’ve got Gore-Tex to keep your feet dry, a super sticky Vibram sole for traction and they’re just stylish enough to pull off around town. I especially love that these boots are ‘recraftable,’ and Danner will repair and rebuild them once they’re worn down.”
$250 at Danner
$249 at Amazon
Solovair Black Greasy 8 Eye Derby Boot
Engie Hassan, global creative director and celebrity stylist, swears by Solovair’s leather Derby Boot, calling them so “versatile [that] you can wear them with jeans on the weekend, to work and when you’re in a dressier mode.” If the sleek silhouette looks familiar, it’s because Solovair’s parent company, NPS shoes, made the first pair of Dr. Martens in the 1950s.
$219 at Solovair
Timberland 6-inch Classic Waterproof Boots
Timberland’s waterproof boots are as classic as it gets. Hassan adds that “Timberland are famously known for their water and stain-resistant boots” that she says can be “taken right out of the box with no preparation.”
From $125 at Amazon
$170 at Target
Bruno Marc Motorcycle Boots
Underscored business coordinator Devin Zacchino has three different styles of Bruno Marc’s lace-up boots, he just loves them that much. “They’re extremely comfortable — I don’t even have to wear high socks with them because they don’t chafe,” he notes. On top of that, he says they’re lightweight, affordable and stylish.
$44 From $38 at Amazon
Donald Pliner Sloan
Donald Pliner’s Sloan Boot reimagines the classic Chelsea style with key, comfort-first features like foam insole padding and a stacked heel. Colin Robertson, the creative director of the brand, calls this pair “Versatile and durable for casual errands and polished enough for work outings [and] date night.”
You can also get a great deal on the similar Rocco Chelsea boot from the brand, which are only $125 and available with Prime shipping on Amazon.
$385 From $189 at Donald Pliner
J.Crew Adults’ 1990 MacAlister Boots in Suede
These elevated desert boots from J.Crew are comfortable enough to walk around town in — they feature a rubber sole and an unlined interior — and stylish enough to wear during a social gathering. Men point out the quality craftsmanship on these boots, with reviews comparing them to popular brands like Clarks and UGG.
$158 $120 at J.Crew
Hunter Original Waterproof Chelsea Rain Boot
Growing up, Hunter’s rainproof boots were flying off the shelves not only because of their affordable price point, but also due to their ability to withstand harsh elements. Almost my entire family, from myself to my mom and sister, own a pair of Hunter boots.
$160 From $62 at Amazon
From $135 at Nordstrom
Salomon Cross Hike 2 Mid Gore-Tex Hiking Boot
Salomon’s sneakers have become my go-to for activities like running and hiking, and their boots (which use the same Gore-Tex technology) mix the function of traditional athletic shoes with the durability of hiking boots.
$190 $159 at L.L. Bean
$190 at Backcountry
Cos Suede Desert Boots
As someone who enjoys a unique silhouette, these suede desert boots by Cos have become a focal point of my fall wardrobe. They can be dressed with something like black trousers or worn casually alongside a pair of jeans.
$220 at Cos
Dr. Martens Embury Leather Casual Chelsea Boots
These Chelsea-style pair from Dr. Martens have been a staple of my seasonal wardrobe as I prefer the sleek silhouette of this shoe when compared to the brand’s more popular combat styles.
$130 at Dr. Martens
$130 $103 at Amazon
Danner Mountain Light Kenton Boots
“Danner Mountain Boots are an American classic that are weather-proof and breathable,” Hassan explains. “The bold red laces and texture of the leather give the boot versatility. Pair them with jeans or chinos — some men even pair it with casual suiting.”
$440 $299 at Uncrate
Sorel Hi-Line Chelsea Boot
These waterproof Sorel boots have been a part of my closet for over four years and have withstood quite the beating from rain, sleet and snow. Aside from its sleek design, they also feature tabs that make them quite easy to slip on and off.
G.H. Bass Leather Ranger Super Lug Boot
G.H. Bass has been designing boots since 1876, so you can expect their popular lug boots to withstand the test of time — and the test of fall elements, too. Customers note to the boot’s stylish appearance, comfort and use of quality materials — especially at this price point.
$245 at Nordstrom
Carlos by Carlos Santana Zappa Cowboy Fashion Boots
Those looking for something out of the box should check out this rodeo-style pair from Carlos by Carlos Santana. After all, Hassan says that Western boots are destined to be top trend this season.
“I personally like a shorter length, which are easier and more comfortable to wear with different bottoms,” she adds, noting this pair’s brown leather and sleek, low-profile shape.
$180 at Macy’s
Tecovas The Dean Boots
For another stylish cowboy boot, Hassan recommends checking out editor-favorite brand Tecovas. This Western-style pair has the inclusion of a side zipper which makes them a more comfortable alternative to the popular slip on style.
From $295 at Tecovas
Hoka Kaha 2 GTX Men’s Hiking Boots
Hoka’s popular running shoes are all the rage currently thanks to details like cushioned soles and ergonomic design. The brand’s Kaha 2 GTX boots continue in that vein, with similar comfort-driven technology that are “especially helpful if there’s any heel pain or ball of the foot pain with lots of walking,” according to Dr. Lobkova.
$240 at Hoka
$240 at REI
What to Look for in Men’s Fall Boots
When shopping for fall boots, men should prioritize versatility, quality, comfort, and fit. Style experts emphasize the importance of selecting timeless designs that will seamlessly integrate into your wardrobe while enduring beyond seasonal trends.
Jordan Hancock, lead shoe designer at Taft, advises, “I always look for pieces that resonate with my personal style—something I’ll continue to love and wear long after the buzz of the latest trend fades.”
How to Choose the Best Men’s Boots for Fall
Selecting the ideal fall boots involves considering both fit and function. For those with active lifestyles, waterproof and stain-resistant options are essential. If you prefer a more polished look, opt for sleeker, versatile silhouettes.
Celebrity stylist Robertson champions the Chelsea boot, describing it as the “perfect blend of style and durability with an air of timelessness.” He also suggests exploring exotic materials that add a unique, sophisticated touch.
While aesthetics are key, comfort should not be overlooked. Podiatrist Lobkova recommends boots with a wider toe box to prevent discomfort, particularly around the fourth and fifth toes. She notes that issues can arise where the Achilles tendon meets the shoe, leading to painful conditions. Her advice includes looking for boots with supportive counter heels or considering higher styles like cowboy boots.
Trending Men’s Boots for Fall 2024
For fall 2024, expect sturdy boots with thick wedge soles that prioritize comfort. Designer Hassan highlights the rising popularity of lace-up styles featuring bold colors and thicker laces.
Look for deep, autumnal shades like cocoa brown and desert tan, with slip-on designs gaining traction. Durable materials such as oil-tanned leather, wool, and suede will also dominate the season.
Hassan notes a shift in fashion, stating that hiking boots can now effortlessly transition from outdoor adventures to casual outings or even the office. As brands increasingly embrace seasonless collections, waterproof boots are set to become a staple in fall offerings.
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