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The 21 Best Combat Boots for Stomping Your Way Through Fall

Photo-Illustration: by The Cut; Photo: Retailer

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Even if you aren’t a fan of cold weather (and you’re thoroughly enjoying the summer’s last hurrah), you have to admit that shopping for fall and winter clothes is fun. From cozy coats to thigh-high boots, there are plenty of ways to have a good time while bundling up. But mustering the desire to wear heeled shoes is hard when your toes feel like icicles, and your best slippers, while cozy, aren’t the smartest choice once the snow starts falling — or when the hybrid work situation starts calling. Which is why we present to you: combat boots. The iconic anti-Establishment shoe is constantly being reimagined in new styles, and its rugged soles have enough traction for traversing icy surfaces.

Whether you’re in the market to splurge on a designer pair that will last you a lifetime or looking for inexpensive durable ones for right now, shop the best combat boots for women below.

The Lived-in Pair

These boots from the favorite boot brand will only get better with time; made with durable but soft leather and soft insoles, they’ll be a staple in your closet for years.

The One You Can Wear With Skirts

A slim-fitting shaft is extra flattering and works better with skirts and dresses.

The Quintessential Combat Boot

You can’t go wrong with Docs. Even though they’re notoriously stiff until you break them in properly (but now’s the time do that!), these at least have a side zipper for extra convenience.

The Cut Shop Favorite

This brand comes highly recommended by the Cut Shop team since they’re more of a hybrid Chelsea-meets-combat style.

The Printed Pair

Snakeskin is totally a neutral and this Vince Camuto pair will get as much wear as your go-to black pair.

For the Winter-White Lover

The classic silhouette in an off-white shade to pair with your white puffer coat and accessories.

The Slightly Punk Pair

A few extra inches of height thanks to the heeled rubber outsole — this is what people mean when they say to stomp in your combat boots.

The Pair That’s Like Slippers

Get the combat-boot look without the stiffness of leather. These boots with faux-fur lining are basically like slippers.

A Very Fuzzy Option

Instead of just a faux lining, these cushy boots are fuzzy all over for extra warmth. We guarantee you’ll turn a few heads with them on.

If You Want More Height

If you absolutely must wear heels, get ones with traction.

A Chunky Option

This option has an exaggerated lug sole and padded details that’ll pair well with your puffer jacket.

Another Fuzzy Pair

Marc Fisher LTD Izzie
From $172
From $172

The furry lining will keep your toes extra toasty.

The Wide-Calf Option

Made with a wider shaft, these lace-up boots will help avoid the dreaded mid-calf blister.

The Clueless Inspired

Get these for a Halloween costume and keep them for all your preppy outfits.

The Jelly Pair

From $36

We know jelly shoes are in and they’re not limited to sandals or clogs. Just prepare for your feet to get extra sweaty.

The Suede Pair

Who says combat boots have to be leather? These suede boots still have a leather lining so you know they are just as durable. Plus it has Madewell’s WL Cloudlift Lite padding so they’re probably more comfortable than you typical combat boot.

The Flatforms

A little grungy and very cool, the best way to wear these mid-calf boots is laced up just halfway for an even better look.

The Unexpected Color

Boots made for the maximalist or the person who just appreciates a little color.

If You’re Indecisive

These strappy combat boots are a little luxe and a little Fifth Element.

The Embellished Pair

Add a bit of edge with these studded boots. Plus they are pull-on so they’re beyond easy to put on and take off.

If You Want Something Versatile

Available in fun neutrals like this burgundy and an olive that match with any and everything, these boots hit higher than your ankles and are perfect to pair with fall dresses. However, if you’re petite you might want to reconsider.

21 Combat Boots for Stomping Your Way Through Fall