If you’re looking to learn about different types of boots for women, along with the various boot style names, and boot length names, your search is over!
Boots come in a variety of sizes, shapes, and designs, providing everything from the practical utility (consider rain or snow boots) to pure aesthetic power (consider high-heeled, chukka, and soaring knee-high boots).
Continue reading for a list of a whopping 22 different types of boots from which to choose.
History of Boots for Women
Around 1000 BC, the first boots in the modern sense appeared. Before then, “boots” were made of 3 separate parts: soles, uppers and a form of legging that wrapped around the legs.
Boots didn’t become popular among women until the 19th century. Furthermore, they weren’t considered a high fashion item until the swinging 1960s. Of course, since then, the history of women’s boots is, well, history!
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22 Different Types of Boots for Women
Below we list most common types of boots for women:
Ankle Boots
There are various shaft and heel heights for ankle boots. You’ll observe that the names of many different types of women’s boots reflect how much of the foot and leg they cover.
Ankle boots fit this description; they are a type of boot that extends a few inches above the ankle.
When they were first introduced in 1804, ankle boots were initially made of silk and satin. Leather was eventually used by shoemakers. It remains a well-liked material for ankle boots today, alongside nubuck and suede.
Ankle boots are now available in bright hues, jet black, stark white, and metallics like gold. Some, like these Valentino ones, have studs and even embroidery. Animal prints are common, like snake prints.
Along with the others mentioned in this post, western-inspired ankle boots and Chelsea boots with lug soles are currently in style. Shoes that go well with skirts, jeans, and dresses include ankle boots.
Ankle boots are a fantastic addition to any woman’s capsule shoe collection, especially in black or neutral colors! In my most recent post, you can learn how to dress with ankle boots.
High Heel Boots
A high heeled boot can be any kind of traditional boot! Any boot with a 2 inch or higher heel qualifies as a high heel boot, including over-the-knee boots and boots with high heels. If the boot shaft is just below the ankle, the alternative term is bootie.
There are as many different types of high heels for women as there are high heel boots! These include:
- Kitten Heel Goots
- Block Heel Boots
- Stiletto Boots
- Wedge Heels Boots
- Platform Boots
Knee-High Boots
One of the most attractive boot styles you can keep in your closet are undoubtedly knee-high boots. As the name implies, they cover the entire bottom half of your leg and land just below or at your knees.
They come in a variety of designs; some have leather uppers that are oversized or precisely tailored, while others are made of stretchy materials like rubber that fit like a second skin. Additionally, they come in a variety of shapes, from bulky versions with wide rubber soles to more streamlined forms with short heels.
For more outfit ideas, read our guide on How to Wear Knee High Boots.
Thigh High Boots (Over-the-Knee Boots)
In connection with that, we now discuss tall boots, another type of women’s boot. These boots, also referred to as over-the-knee boots, were initially developed to prevent leg injuries in horseback riders.
Up until the 18th century, they were a style of boot that were only worn by men. The 1960s were when women started wearing knee boots more frequently, as was mentioned in the section on knee boots.
Historically, ladies of the night and courtesans were associated with thigh-high boots, especially Julia Roberts’ character.
Around 2016, however, they became a fashion sensation for both celebrities and regular people to wear on a daily basis.
An illustration of this is Ariana Grande. The Stuart Weitzman Highland boot is one of her absolute favorites. Maxi dresses with a lot of flow, sweater dresses, and mini skirts with big sweaters go best with tall boots.
Visit my most recent post to see where to buy and how to wear thigh high boots outfits!
Short boots are exactly what they say they are—short! Since they end at or below the ankle, the shaft is short.
They are frequently referred to as booties and are also regarded as ankle boots. They resemble a tallish shoe more often than a boot most of the time.
Chelsea Boots
Women’s Chelsea boots are a style of shoe created by renowned shoemaker Joseph Sparkes Hall. Later in the 1890s, they weren’t known as Chelsea boots.
Chelsea, the epicenter of the Swinging London revolution, is where the name originated. After all, Chelsea’s heyday in the 1950s and 1960s is when the boot style became widely recognized.
Chelsea boots are ankle boots by definition, but they stand out because of the side elastic panel. To make it simple to remove them, most styles have a loop or tab at the back heel.
Especially with a thick lug-sole, Chelsea boots are more popular than ever right now. They come in versions with knee boots and mid height as well.
Wedge Boots
A specific kind of heeled boot is a wedge boot. Any boot with a “wedge” heel is referred to as a wedge boot.
Here, there is no break in the continuous attachment of the raised heel to the boot’s outsole. Different winter boot styles often feature wedge boots.
To fulfill an orthopedic purpose in the early 1930s, Salvatore Ferragamo is credited with inventing the wedge shoe.
Because leather and rubber were in short supply due to the war, he used wood and cork instead. Boots are less common than wedge heels in women’s dress shoes.
Sock Boots
Sock boots get their name from the knit or jersey fabric that hugs your ankle and legs tightly, just like a sock.
They are constructed from a range of materials, including luxurious leather and plush suede. Neoprene and fabric are used to create certain styles.
Sock boots come in a variety of boot shaft heights, despite being most frequently seen as ankle boots. Some are even offered in thigh-high variations. They are the kind of boots that look great with both casual and more formal attire.
The majority of sock boots are neutral in color, but they can also be found in other unusual hues, such as metallic gold.
The most popular styles are black stretch neoprene, knit, or stretch suede ones with stiletto, block, or clear heels. See my dedicated post on sock boots for styling tips!
Riding Boots
Although they were once only worn for riding horses, riding boots today are a great choice for women who want to exude a charming, country club vibe. They go by the name Derby boots as well.
Riding boots are great with skinny jeans or straight leg jeans for casual occasions and go well with many outfits, including shirt dresses or sweater dresses.
Therefore, even if you aren’t planning on going riding anytime soon, these boots can still make you feel secure and fashionable.
Riding boots are a common feature in the current collections of high-end designers. Everywhere I go, I see Khaite’s all-black minimal riding boot!
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Cowboy Boots
As time goes on, designers are turning more and more to the past for inspiration for shoe silhouettes. One such silhouette is the cowboy boot, which has been updated seasonally. There are now many alternatives to cowhide leather in terms of prints, hues, and textures. From a kitten heel option to a metallic pointy-toe design, there are many options for this season.
Tall Cowboy Boots
The cowboy boot is the footwear style that best embodies the United States. But this particular style of boot has swept the fashion industry!
Cowboy boots, a type of riding boot, are typically constructed with a high shaft and leather stacked. They come with an angled heel, no laces, and frequently have a round or pointed toe shape. Strong leather is used to make traditional cowboy boots.
Combat Boots
Combat boots are tough, functional footwear worn during — you guessed it — combat or combat training. They were created with the particular requirements of those fighting in the English Civil War in mind.
The War of 1812 saw the use of combat boots in the US. However, they date all the way back to the time that the Romans wore their caligae hobnail boots.
They are currently among the most popular women’s boot styles. With a lug sole and various finishes, they’re very popular right now. But nothing beats the timeless style of a black combat boot!
For use in snow and rain, women’s combat boots are also available that are waterproof. It’s not surprising that Katie Holmes, Bella Hadid, and other stylish women adore them given their grip and stability.
Moto Boots
Moto boots, a shorthand for motorcycle boots, were traditionally crafted from durable leather to protect those who wore them while riding motorcycles. The thick heel of this style of boot aids in better pedal control when riding a bike.
They are a great choice for women even though they perform an essential duty for motorcycle riders. They come in a variety of styles, ranging from just below the knees to ankle height, so why not?
They typically have a size zipper and a buckle across the front of the ankle.
I adore how fashionable and tough they are for a combat boot, making them ideal for any outfit and, if treated for water resistance, a fantastic option for the winter!
Hiking Boots
People who enjoy the outdoors should wear hiking boots because they are comfortable on rocky terrain.
I enjoy dressing in my winterized ones in the fall! They are high up to the ankles, have thicker, more grippy tread soles.
Despite the fact that they were all initially designed exclusively for men, weren’t they all?? – it was not long before women sought them out as well.
Their distinctive feature is that they have strong, metallic hooked eyelets. They are available in a wide variety of designs, substances, and colors.
Rain Boots
Rain boots are your best option if you want complete waterproof protection. The Wellington is the most widely used variant; it is made of rubber, polymer, or PVC and can withstand even the muddiest puddles and splashiest water.
They can make a statement in terms of color and function, as well as keeping your feet warm and dry on chilly days. A pair with black-and-white polka dots or a fun mustard color are both good choices.
Ankle Rain Boots
Ankle rain boots are a more subdued version of rain boots. Numerous designs of ankle rain boots are available, but the slip-on or rubber Chelsea boot style is the most popular.
Low rain boots’ strongest point? Due to their plastic or rubber construction, they are simple to wipe clean with some soap and water. In a variety of stylish and fun prints, ankle rain boots are available.
Roper Boots
Fashionable consumers today have two different styles to choose from. One is the aforementioned traditional western design. The other type of western boot is a Roper, which has a shorter shaft that stops at the ankle.
They are essentially a cowboy boot with an ankle strap. Numerous clothing companies have joined the roper trend. Yee-haw!
Shearling Boots
Shearling boots, also known as sheepskin boots, are luxurious-feeling boots, and traditional styles come at a price to match. They are known as shearling boots because of the shearling that lines them, which comes from a sheep or lamb.
Most people think of the traditional UGG boots when they think of shearling boots. In Australia, these boots are used as slippers; originally, surfers wore them to stay warm after early-morning sessions.
Shearling boots have become popular as all-year-round outdoor footwear in the rest of the world. Nowadays, sheepskin boots are made by many Australian shoe brands, including EMU Australia, and come in a variety of styles in addition to the traditional slip-on boot.
Winter Boots
Winter boots help keep your feet warm and comfortable in chilly weather because they are typically water-resistant and made for comfort. There are many different styles that are appropriate for colder climates, such as mid-calf pac boots, classic duck boots, and shearling-lined boots. They also come in cheerful hues and designs to cheer up gloomy days and showcase your unique style.
With the aforementioned styles already in your closet, you can choose a pair of boots that complements your personality and the occasion at hand. Boots are a must-have item for every woman’s wardrobe.
Sneaker Boots
It’s difficult to leave out sneaker boots even though I said I wouldn’t discuss boot hybrids in this post. They resemble a cross between a high top sneaker and a boot and typically have a thicker sole.
Many of them are insulated and function as winter boots. Some sneaker boots have side zippers, bungee cord laces, slip-on style, or traditional laces. In place of heavier winter boots, they’re a great substitute.
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How to Care for Boots So That They Last Longer
Boot care is essential to maintaining your boots’ appearance, feel, and functionality. Especially with our favorite boots, which are easily damaged.
Not surprisingly, the snow, slush, and salt do not spare my winter boots; they likely take the brunt of it. That’s why maintaining boots is important both before and while wearing them.
Make sure to treat your boots when you first get them if you haven’t already. Both waterproof boots and snow boots are typically pre-treated.
Applying care, such as leather conditioners, is essential for those who aren’t, though, in order to preserve the material.
Use a waterproof spray if your boots aren’t waterproof but you anticipate having to deal with the elements. To get you started, check out my post on the top boot waterproofing sprays available.
Once you begin wearing your new boots, make sure to clean them after each use and to treat stains as soon as possible, especially those caused by salt. Look at how to clean suede shoes to learn how to remove those annoying salt stains from suede and nubuks.
When you’re done using your winter boots for the season—or for the day—be sure to store them properly.
Read More: Can You Wear Boots In The Summer?
FAQs
What Type Of Boots Are In Style 2022?
- The cowboy boot is a footwear trend that never goes out of style, Wild Cowgirl.
- Biker Cool.
- Stiletto Steps.
- Above and Beyond.
- Metallic Element.
- Classic Chelsea.
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What Boots Go With Dresses?
Short boots, like ankle boots and Chelsea boots are perfect for wearing with dresses through every season, whether it be winter or summer. Due to their short silhouette, ankle boots are probably the most popular choice for pairing with dresses because they make your legs appear longer.
Why Do Women Wear Boots?
A pair of boots are mainly bought by women to keep warm in the winter months as well as staying in fashion. Boots are a very adaptable and comfortable shoe style. For instance, boots can be worn with skirts or, more specifically on trend this year, with pants.
How Do You Wear Jeans and Boots?
- Wear your boots with your jeans tucked in. Because they don’t bunch at the ankle, skinny jeans are perfect if you want to tuck your jeans into your boots.
- To showcase your boots, cuff your jeans.
- Subtly tuck your boots into your hems.
Final Words on Types of Boots for Women
Boots are another item that you can never have too many of, much like white t-shirts.
Of course, this list isn’t the final list of all boots for women. This is due to the fact that many of the aforementioned boot types can be created by combining different boot styles with various heels, finishes, and details.
Which boots are currently your favorites? There may be some types of women’s boots that I missed. Please respond in the comments section below.
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