What to Buy The 10 Best Fall Boots of 2023 The Dansko Brianne Boot combines function and style with its supportive design that will keep you free of foot pain all day long. By Danielle Zoellner Danielle Zoellner Danielle Zoellner is a freelance writer who has covered the health and wellness industry for more than five years. Past publications include Verywell Health and The Independent. Danielle's interest in the health and wellness industry first stemmed from her family's own work in healthcare. health's editorial guidelines Updated on March 2, 2023 Medically reviewed by Danielle McNeil, D.P.M Medically reviewed by Danielle McNeil, D.P.M Danielle McNeil, D.P.M., is a board-certified podiatrist who has practiced in both private and hospital clinics. learn more Fact checked by Richard Scherr Fact checked by Richard Scherr Rich Scherr is an updates strategist and fact checker for Dotdash Meredith brands, including Health and Verywell. He is a seasoned financial and technology journalist who served as editor-in-chief of the Potomac Tech Wire for nearly two decades, and is a regular contributor to the sports pages of The Baltimore Sun. He has also been a news editor for America Online and has contributed to the Associated Press and The Washington Post. health's fact checking process In This Article Expand Jump to a Section Our top picks Reviews How We Selected What to Know Your Questions, Answered Who We Are We independently evaluate all recommended products and services. If you click on links we provide, we may receive compensation. Learn more. Health / Marcus Millan Shopping for fall boots can be a difficult task, specifically if you struggle to find pairs that are supportive while suiting your style. If the boot fits improperly or lacks the necessary support, you can exacerbate foot conditions like bunions or plantar fasciitis and cause pain as you go about your daily tasks. Important characteristics to look for in a supportive fall boot include the fit of the boot from heel to toe, the comfortable and durable materials used, and the style of the boot. “A few things I have my patients check for in a good fall boot is to make sure that you cannot bend the shoe in half (bending the toe box upwards is fine), and to make sure the heel counter is firm for support,” says Priya Parthasarathy, DPM, chair of the American Podiatric Medical Association (APMA) communication committee and podiatrist at the Foot & Ankle Specialists of the Mid-Atlantic. “If looking for a slight heel, a wide chunky heel is better than a narrow, pointy one,” adds Dr. Parthasarathy. Remember that the proper fall boot to suit your foot will depend on your foot shape and specific conditions, such as bunions and high arches. We spoke with podiatrists and reviewed boots based on their materials, durable structures, heel shape, insole support, third-party certifications, and toe box shape. A podiatrist on our Medical Expert Board also reviewed this article for medical and scientific accuracy regarding what to look for in fall boots, how they should fit, and whether they need to be waterproof. Our Top Picks Best Overall: Dansko Brianne Boot at Amazon Jump to Review Best Budget: Asgard Ankle Chelsea Boots at Amazon Jump to Review Best Splurge: Stuart Weitzman 5050 Lift Boot at Nordstrom Jump to Review Best Waterproof: Chaco Fields Chelsea Boot at Amazon Jump to Review Best for Men: Samuel Hubbard Uptown Maverick at Amazon Jump to Review Best for Hiking: Timberland Linden Woods Boot at Dsw.com Jump to Review Best for Walking: Birkenstock Stalon Chelsea Boot at Amazon Jump to Review Best for Comfort: L.L. Bean Rugged Cozy Boots at L.L.Bean Jump to Review Best for Wide Feet: Lucky Brand Basels Ankle Booties at Amazon Jump to Review Best for Wide Calves: LifeStride Xtrovert Knee High Boots at Amazon Jump to Review Best Overall Dansko Brianne Boot Amazon View On Amazon Why We Like It The water-resistant material and durable rubber sole ensure that the boot lasts all season long, no matter what terrain you wear it in. It's Worth Noting The boot comes in medium-width only, so the toe box might be too tight for wider feet. If you’re looking for a supportive and durable boot that you can wear on different terrain or for long periods without pain, the Dansko Brianne Boot is a great option—and our top choice. On the outside, the waterproof leather material prevents water from leaking into the shoe and wetting the foot. Then the memory foam insole cushions the forefoot and arch, so you remain pain-free, no matter how long you’re on your feet. Dr. Parthasarathy recommends Dansko as a top brand for comfort and stability because the shoes incorporate quality materials and designs that support the foot. The Brianne Boot is no exception and even received the APMA Seal of Acceptance for how it supports the foot. The breathable leather is optimal for various weather conditions throughout the fall. But besides support and comfort, the stylish boot comes in multiple colors and sizes, making it a versatile choice for many activities. Price at time of publication: $200 Product Details: Sizes: 5.5 to 12Fit: Medium Materials: Leather, rubber, memory foam Colors: Black, brownHeel: Low Best Budget Asgard Ankle Waterproof Chelsea Boots 4.2 Amazon View On Amazon Why We Like It The Chelsea boot protects the foot in rainy weather without breaking the bank. It's Worth Noting The material provides minimal insulation, so we recommend wearing thicker socks if you wear these boots in colder weather. Finding affordable boots doesn’t mean you have to sacrifice comfort. The Asgard Waterproof Chelsea Boots combine comfort with fashion. First, the boot’s waterproof PVC material protects you from the rain, so water doesn’t seep inside the shoe. At the same time, the tractions on the sole prevent slipping or sliding on slick surfaces. The boot is easy to clean by wiping it down with a wet cloth. The insole’s EVA foam material makes this shoe comfortable for all-day wear. This material provides the foot with cushioned support, so you never have to worry about feeling uncomfortable or in pain when on your feet for long periods. These boots are lightweight in their design, which means they will not weigh down your foot when you walk. Price at time of publication: $33 Product Details: Sizes: 4 to 12Fit: Medium Materials: PVC, EVA foamColors: Black, brown, burgundy, gray, navy, yellow, green, olive green, whiteHeel: None Best Splurge Stuart Weitzman 5050 Lift Over the Knee Boot Nordstrom View On Nordstrom View On Lyst.com Why We Like It These boots strike the right balance between function and style by incorporating durable and supportive materials in the design. It's Worth Noting This tall boot comes up high on the leg, so it may not be suitable or comfortable for people with shorter legs. Shopping for supportive fall boots doesn't mean sacrificing fashion and style. “If you're going for a fancier look and want to splurge, Stuart Weitzman is a great brand that offers comfort with stylish options,” says Jennifer C. Van, DPM, chair and clinical associate professor at Temple University’s School of Podiatric Medicine. The Stuart Weitzman 5050 Lift boot hits just above the knee and is made with lightweight leather that doesn’t weigh you down. Sometimes this style does not work for individuals with larger calves, but this boot’s leather stretches to fit around many leg shapes. The boot also comes in four different widths, so you should be able to find a size that works best for you. In addition, the boot incorporates large treads on the bottom of the shoe for traction on most surfaces. The wide-toe box also aids in comfort for the foot, because it gives ample room for the toes to wiggle without feeling too restricted. Although the boot is a splurge, the durable materials make the investment worth it, because the shoe will likely last for many years. Price at time of publication: $850 Product Details: Sizes: 4 to 11Fit: Narrow, medium, wide, extra wide Materials: Leather, syntheticColors: BlackHeel: None Best Waterproof Chaco Fields Chelsea Boot 4.8 Amazon View On Amazon View On Zappos View On Campsaver.com Why We Like It This waterproof boot offers protection in harsh weather conditions while also cushioning the foot. It's Worth Noting The boot only comes in a medium width, so those with bunions might find the shoe too tight. Dr. Parthasarathy recommends the Chaco Fields Chelsea Boot, because it received the APMA Seal of Acceptance for its supportive design. “The APMA Seal of Acceptance is awarded to products of exceptional quality that promote good foot health [and are] manufactured with consumer's comfort and safety in mind,” says Dr. Parthasarathy. Waterproof leather or suede encompasses the outer layer of the shoe, making it optimal for rainy days or snowy weather. The rubber sole’s traction design assists the wearer in navigating slippery or bumpy terrain. When looking for a supportive boot, a rubber sole—like this one—helps because it stabilizes the foot as you walk. This boot also incorporates podiatrist-recommend EVA foam insoles. EVA material provides cushioned comfort to the forefoot and arch so that you can stay on your feet all day without pain. In addition, the slip-on boot comes in multiple colors and either a suede or leather outer material, which allows you to choose the best option, depending on how you wish to wear the shoe. The boot size only includes a medium width; therefore, the tight toe box might be too restricting for individuals with bunions or hammertoes. Price at time of publication: $150 Product Details: Sizes: 6-11Fit: Medium widthMaterials: Leather, suede, EVA, rubber Colors: Tan, brown, black, mustardHeel: Low Best for Men Samuel Hubbard Uptown Maverick Amazon View On Amazon Why We Like It The lace-up boot supports the foot’s arch with its memory foam insole and rubber outsole for all-day wear. It's Worth Noting The leather lining will not be a desirable option for people who live a vegan lifestyle. Dr. Parthasarathy recommends Samuel Hubbard boots, which received the APMA Seal of Acceptance for their supportive designs. The Upton Maverick lace-up boot includes breathable leather on the outside of the shoe, so you won't need to worry about feeling overheated when you're wearing it. If you want to wear boots in any terrain—from slippery surfaces to rocky trails—then the Upton Maverick is a versatile choice because of the rubberized grip on the sole. The real selling point about this shoe is that it comes in both medium and wide widths. People with bunions or hammertoes should comfortably fit into the boot without pain, while a memory foam insole cushions the foot. Although the boot costs more than others on this list, the investment is worth it because of the durable design. The quality leather material means the boot should last you for a few years without replacement. Price at time of publication: $295 Product Details: Sizes: 7 to 14Fit: Medium and Wide Materials: Leather, memory foam Colors: Brown, black Heel: None Best for Hiking Timberland Linden Woods Boot DSW View On Dsw.com View On Macy's Why We Like It This boot’s over-the-ankle design supports activities like hiking or walking long distances. It's Worth Noting The shoe runs larger for many individuals, so the brand suggests sizing down when purchasing. Hiking boots must provide stability for the ankles and cushion the bottom of the feet to help avoid pain when navigating rough terrain. The Timberland Linden Woods Boots offer this support with its over-the-ankle design. You can tighten or loosen the laces, depending on how much ankle support you need while hiking long distances. The waterproof design ensures that your feet remain dry regardless of weather. The interior insulating materials keep the foot warm during colder weather. A foam insole cushions the foot, so it stays pain-free while on your feet for long periods. Even though the shoe only comes in two colors, it makes up for the lack of color choices with sizes in both medium and wide widths. Price at time of publication: $90 Product Details: Sizes: 5.5 to 11Fit: Medium and wideMaterials: Leather, foam Colors: Black, brown Heel: None Best for Walking Birkenstock Stalon Chelsea Boot Amazon View On Amazon View On Zappos View On Nordstrom Why We Like It This versatile design offers support to the foot and ankle, making this boot a stylish and comfortable option. It's Worth Noting The width might be too narrow for individuals with bunions or hammertoes. Walkable shoes must feel comfortable on the pads of the feet for long periods while also fitting well to prevent blisters. We like that the Birkenstock Stalon Chelsea Boot has a wide toe box, which means there will be room for your toes to wiggle and spread as you walk. The wider toe box guarantees that the shoe, when the right size, will fit comfortably without rubbing or pressure on the toes. Another important addition that improves walkability is a removable insole. Birkenstock designed this boot’s removable insole with a cork-latex material that is sturdy enough to provide support while soft enough to mold to the shape of your foot. This feature assists with providing arch support to the foot. These boots only come in a medium width, so they might not fit well if you have wider feet or bunions. The boots run small, so size up for a more comfortable fit. Price at time of publication: $200 Product Details: Sizes: 5.5 to 12.5Fit: Medium Materials: Leather, cork, rubberColors: Burgundy, black, grayHeel: None Best for Comfort L.L. Bean Rugged Cozy Boots L.L. Bean View On L.L.Bean Why We Like It These fleece-lined boots keep the feet warm and insulated no matter how cold it gets outside. It's Worth Noting Fleece-lined boots can sometimes cause the foot to sweat, creating an environment for bacteria. Slipping on the L.L.Bean Rugged Cozy Boots feels just like a warm slipper but in a boot form that is sturdy enough to withstand any hike. The fleece-lined material on the inside makes these boots a standout for comfort and warmth. The insole also aids in comfort because it's soft enough to mold around the foot while providing the necessary support to the instep and forefoot. Another key feature of this boot is the lace-up design. Dr. Van recommends lace-up shoes because they support the feet and ankles when walking on uneven terrain. “I love that L.L.Bean boots are popular again, since they provide great support,” says Dr. Van. Besides providing support, the boot is versatile, because it allows you to roll it down for a different look depending on the activity or outfits you pair with the shoes. If you live in warmer climates during the winter, these boots might not be for you. The fleece-lined material might provide too much warmth to the foot and cause excessive sweating. Make sure to spray the inside boots with anti-fungal spray if your feet sweat when wearing them. Price at time of publication: $169 Product Details: Sizes: 6 to 11Fit: MediumMaterials: Leather, suede, fleece Colors: Gray, rust brown Heel: Low Best for Wide Feet Lucky Brand Basels Ankle Booties Amazon View On Amazon Why We Like It These boots offer ample room in the toe box for wider feet and come in multiple colors to suit any outfit. It's Worth Noting Since they provide more room in the ankles for a wider fit, the shoe is bulkier than other styles on the market. When shoes are too narrow, they can cause rubbing and pain if you have wider feet or bunions. To prevent those problems, the boot must have a wide toe box that will provide enough space for the width of your foot. Therefore, we recommend the Lucky Brand Basels Ankle Booties. The boot offers optimal room in the toe box for wide feet, which prevents any rubbing or pain. Sometimes wider shoes sacrifice style to accommodate the larger toe box. These boots maintain both function and style with the rounded toe-box design. Also, even though the boot has a heel, this heel is wide enough to provide support for the foot so that you don’t place too much pressure on the forefoot. The affordable price of the boot makes this pair optimal for most budgets. However, the boot is not as durable as some other choices. Price at time of publication: $100 Product Details: Sizes: 5 to 13Fit: Medium and wide Materials: Leather, suede, rubber Colors: Tan, brown, gray, black, blue, navy, printedHeel: Low Best for Wide Calves LifeStride Xtrovert Knee High Boots Amazon View On Amazon Why We Like It These boots provide ample room for calves, so you do not need to worry about fitting the boot around the leg. It's Worth Noting The faux leather lacks the same durability as leather but should still hold up for various activities while wearing the pair. Sometimes boots designed to hit the knee are too narrow for all types of calf sizes. We recommend the Life Stride Xtrovert Knee High Boots, because the design prioritizes fit for people with wider calves. Made with faux leather, the material’s water-resistant structure makes the boot more durable in various weather conditions, including rain. The boot incorporates a foam-based insole that makes walking around in them a comfortable experience. We found that brands sometimes sacrifice style over making boots wider for the foot or calf. However, this style mirrors the classic riding boot design and comes in three different colors. The boot fits true to size and zips up comfortably around the calf. While we like the boot’s overall structure, it is important to note that the faux leather material will not be as durable as leather. Price at time of publication: $100 Product Details: Sizes: 5 to 11Fit: Medium to wideMaterials: Faux leather, syntheticColors: Black, brown, gray Heel: Low How We Selected the Best Fall Boots To determine the best fall boots, we spoke with several podiatrists about the difference between boots and what makes them the most supportive and comfortable. Experts we spoke to included: Priya Parthasarathy, DPM, chair of the American Podiatric Medical Association (APMA) communication committee and podiatrist at the Foot & Ankle Specialists of the Mid-Atlantic Jennifer C. Van, DPM, chair and clinical associate professor at Temple University’s School of Podiatric Medicine Luis Rodriguez, DPM, assistant professor at Barry’s School of Podiatric Medicine Michael J. Trepal, DPM, vice president of academic affairs and dean at New York College of Podiatric Medicine, and professor of surgery We prioritized fall boots that were third-party certified but didn’t use those criteria as automatic grounds for dismissal from our list. In reviewing the various fall boots available on the market, we considered materials that provide support and comfort, the durability of the boots, the style, and how they fit the foot. We curated various styles and shapes so you can find the best pair that suits your personal needs—and fits your budget. What to Know About Fall Boots How to Choose Comfortable Boots When selecting comfortable shoes, podiatrists recommend a rigid outsole paired with a cushioned, removable insole for optimal comfort. “You should not be able to bend the sole of the boots in half,” says Dr. Van. Bending the shoe in half indicates that the outsole will not give you the proper support when wearing the boots all day long. “Poor-fitting and non-supportive shoes predispose you to pain and sometimes, worse, injuries,” says Dr. Van. “For instance, if you have flat feet, you want to make sure you have boots that provide strong arch support.” Figure out your foot type and the size that works best for you. That can assist you in selecting comfortable boots that will not cause you pain. “People tend to think that a lighter boot is better,” says Luis Rodriguez, DPM, assistant professor at Barry’s School of Podiatric Medicine. “That’s not necessarily true, because the boot may not provide the support or structure your foot-type needs.” How to Make Your Boots Last Longer Once you find a pair of fall boots that provide ample support to the feet, the next step is to protect the shoes, so they'll last for years. First, to enhance protection for all boots, including waterproof and water-resistant styles, you can purchase a protective spray that will ensure that stains wipe away after they happen, instead of bleeding into the shoe. Second, for leather boots, you can moisturize the material with a conditioner. Otherwise, the leather might crack in cold weather. Finally, wipe down the shoes after each wear. That ensures that all stains, salts, or watermarks are wiped away before they can permanently damage the surface of the boot. Style and Type of Boots Different boot styles offer better support for the foot, depending on the individual. For example, laced-up boots provide the most stability for the ankle, according to Dr. Van. “Be cautious of extremely high heels; the higher the heel, the less stable you will feel, and you may be predisposed to ankle sprains,” adds Dr. Van. “If you insist on high heels, try to find ones that are wider in nature versus stilettos.” For individuals with wider feet, bunions, or hammertoes, Dr. Trepal recommends avoiding boots with pointed toe boxes because that narrows the space for the toes to spread. “People with deformities, bunions, or large hammertoes might find it harder to fit into a boot that they want to wear,” he adds. A shoe with a wide toe box works best for those types of feet. Function and Use There are two different reasons why someone buys a new pair of shoes. “One for functionality, and two for style or fashion,” says Michael J. Trepal, DPM, vice president of academic affairs and dean at New York College of Podiatric Medicine and professor of surgery. The functionality of the boots matters if you intend for this pair to be worn for hours at a time or during extraneous activities like a hike. “The key word is support,” says Dr. Rodriguez. “In a boot, you want rigidity in the [outer] sole.” This rigid sole will support the foot, helping the boot function as intended on various terrain. For the insole, moldable materials like memory foam cushion the foot so the shoe feels comfortable. Fit “I usually tell patients that the best time of day to buy shoes and boots is at the end of the day,” says Dr. Rodriguez. “That is when your foot is the most swollen.” Trying on shoes at the end of the day ensures that you will not purchase tight and uncomfortable shoes. “Does your foot fit inside the insole or is it slipping over? Do you have a thumbs width between your foot and the end of the insole? These are signs that the boot fits your foot,” says Dr. Parthasarathy. The boots should not feel like you need to break them in. “The only part that you should ‘break in’ is for a boot with orthotic support. Then you should slowly break in the arch support as advised,” adds Dr. Parthasarathy. “The rest of the boot—the toe box, heel, material—should feel comfortable right away.” Your Questions, Answered What boots are good for the fall? “There are plenty of designers that offer fall boots that are practical, comfortable, and stylish,” says Dr. Van. “I always tell patients not to skimp on comfort or quality, especially with all the offerings available to us consumers.” A cushioned insole, wider heel (or no heel), rigid outsole, and waterproof design all make for quality fall boots to wear all season long. How much should you spend on quality fall boots? Price does not necessarily equate with quality and support when shopping for boots. “Most designer shoes and boots come with an astronomical price tag but are terrible for your feet,” says Dr. Parthasarathy. Instead, she recommends that you pay attention to characteristics like a supportive insole, rigid outsole, wide-enough toe box, and materials used, among other things, when determining the quality of the boots. Do fall boots need to be waterproof? Whether the boots should be waterproof depends on how and where you intend to wear them. “If the boot is for inclement weather, like rain or snow, it needs to be waterproof,” Dr. Trepal says. “Not only will it protect the boot, but it will keep water from getting into the sock and the foot.” Waterproof boots will make the shoe more versatile so you can wear it in various conditions, not just dry weather. Who We Are Danielle Zoellner is a Boston-based freelance writer with an emphasis on health and wellness writing. She has written for The Independent, Verywell Health, DailyMail.com, and Vox Magazine, among other publications. Growing up in a household of healthcare professionals has fueled her passion for topics relating to health, fitness, wellness, and the medical field. Danielle has a bachelor’s degree in journalism and English from the University of Missouri. Was this page helpful? Thanks for your feedback! Tell us why! Other Submit