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As you fill your closet with fall wardrobe staples—chunky knits, scarves, and jackets galore—don’t forget about footwear. With this outfit essential in mind, we’re bringing you all of our top picks for the best fall boots. Whether you prefer heeled ankle-height or over-the-knee options, boots are a staple for every type of traveler since they offer the perfect combination of comfort, style, and versatility.
As you shop for the best fall boots, consider what silhouette you’re looking for based on your personal style preferences. If you tend to favor more preppy looks, a classic riding boot will be your new go-to. For an edgier aesthetic, look no further than a pair of combat boots. Ankle boots go with just about everything and come in a wide variety of styles and heel heights for every occasion. Last but certainly not least, a pair of rain boots is a must for any traveler; after all, as you plan your upcoming autumnal adventures, you never know when you’ll get caught in the rain (or sleet or snow or slush—you get the gist).
We’ve scoured the Internet, starting with tried-and-true brands we wear often, to bring you the best of the best in fall boots—keep scrolling to see them all or jump straight to your favorite style.
The best fall boots:
Ankle boots
Ankle boots are one of those autumn fashion staples that’ll never go out of style (see also: cashmere sweaters, cardigans, and cozy joggers). That said, there are dozens—if not hundreds—of amazing ankle boots for every occasion. Of course, the best ones combine comfort and style, be it in the form of a lug sole for traction, a water-resistant construction, a cushioned footbed for arch support, or perhaps a combination of the three. Below, find our favorite ankle boots to wear wherever your travels take you, be it a work conference, a night out at the bar, a long-haul flight, or an afternoon trekking through a new city.
Over-the-knee boots
Slipping on a pair of over-the-knee boots is an easy way to elevate any outfit. What’s more, these statement-making shoes, which can be dressed up or down, work especially well with mini dresses or skirts (paired with tights or leggings in cooler weather) or your favorite pair of skinny or straight-leg jeans. Keep the rest of your accessories to a minimum so as to not take away attention from the beautiful boots. Ahead, a few of our favorite picks—including wide-calf options—across an array of price points.
Rain boots
Rain boots are a must-have for any season, and the best ones combine fashion and functionality, shielding your feet from puddles, water, rain, and slush—that is, sans any bulkiness (which is key when traveling and preserving precious suitcase space!). Classic rubber rain boots are great for casual everyday wear, while those made with waterproof leather are slightly more formal—and are stylish enough to be worn on dry days, too. Most options feature thick rubber soles for grip and traction to help prevent you from slipping in the rain. All you need is a lightweight rain jacket to complete the weatherproof look.
Riding boots
For a polished and put-together look, a pair of tall boots will do the trick. Traditional riding boots are a timeless pick—and they can spruce up any outfit within a matter of seconds, be it jeans and a tee or a casual sundress. Options abound, from basic black or brown leather ones—including a waterproof pair from Cole Haan and an on-trend colorblock style from Sam Edelman—to those adorned with gold chains (see the splurge-worthy pick from Jimmy Choo) for an extra touch of chicness. Alternatively, for even more edge, opt for a pair with western-inspired flair complete with a pointed-toe silhouette and tonal stitching.
Combat boots
With their edgy lace-up design, chunky soles, and leather construction, combat boots practically ooze cool—and best of all, they’re actually practical. A quality pair of combat boots can last for several seasons and provide optimal comfort and foot support for hours on end, making them ideal for travelers looking for a functional and fashion-forward footwear option. And, despite their striking silhouette, these shoes are pretty easy to style: They look great with (almost) anything, from jeans and joggers to loungewear sets and leggings, as well as dresses or skirts of varying lengths. For a fun take on the trend, consider springing for a pair with pearl embellishments (like the option below from All Saints) or ones featuring bold colors or patterns.
