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Updated August 16, 2023: This best combat boots for women guide was updated with new in-stock product for fall and winter 2023, along with more information on combat boot trends for the upcoming seasons.
When the weather gets crisp and the leaves start to turn, you know it’s time to slip on some combat boots. Combat boots for women are one of the most timeless shoe styles of all time, and embody the perfect combination of cool and comfortable, without ever sacrificing an ounce of style. Across fashion and footwear, today’s trends have taken a shine to practicality, with fresh, function-forward styles on deck for fall and winter 2023. This season, combat boots are reborn with new trends, like maximalist buckle straps, stacked platform heels, moto embellishments, distressed leather, sustainable construction, and even improved foot support.
Combat boots are modern, but their history runs deep. People have worn a variation of the classic silhouette for centuries, and it’s stood the test of time for its versatile use in all kinds of terrain, and eventually evolving into a style cue for groups that identified anti-fashion aesthetics. Introduced originally as shoes for — surprise, surprise — combat, the shoe morphed from a battlefield basic into an adopted shoe of choice for the subculture set in the ’60s and ’70s. Seen on everyone from rockers, punk music enthusiasts, gothic, and alternative kids, combat boots carry a reputation for their durability, performance and overall comfort.
Pretty quickly, the fashion set caught on to the appeal of grungy women’s combat boots, with Marc Jacobs leading the charge with his iconic Perry Ellis collection in 1992. Google “1990s style,” and you’ll find about every celebrity — from Cameron Diaz, Cindy Crawford, and Kurt Cobain — in a pair.
Today, the shoe has become as ubiquitous as a clean white sneaker for women, an essential piece for any wardrobe. It’s easy to see why. Combat boots carry an effortlessly cool flare, pairing well with everything from flowy dresses to cashmere sweaters. Women’s combat boots are also ideal for colder months as winter boots, as they often come with rubber and lug outsoles, perfect for battling a walk through icy city streets. From classic to modern silhouettes, we present you with the 29 best combat boots for women this season, along with information on stylish combat boots trends and tips for finding the most comfortable combat boots for all foot types and conditions.
Colorways available: Black, cream
Materials: Calfskin leather
Pros: Durable and crafted with high-quality materials
Cons: Pricey
Net-a-Porter Top Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.9/5 stars
Fwrd Top Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.9/5 stars
Price upon publish date of this article: $779
Courtesy of Dr. Martens
Colorways: Black, white, cherry red, purple
Materials: Smooth leather upper, rubber sole
Pros: Classic and versatile, these boots are the standard for women’s combat boots
Cons: They take some time to break in
Revolve Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.8/5 stars
Amazon Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.5/5 stars
Dr. Martens Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.6/5 stars
What reviewers say: “These are my [fifth] pair of Dr. Martens I own. Well-made, most comfortable boot. I’ve been wearing Dr. Martens for over 20 years and they are timeless.”
Price upon publish date of this article: $170
Colorways: Black
Materials: Leather upper
Pros: Detachable crystal belt offers versatility for more wear
Cons: Simple without the belt
Saks Fifth Avenue Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4/5 stars
Gucci Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.8/5 stars
Price upon publish date of this article: $1,250
Colorways available: Black, green
Materials: Leather, nylon
Special features: Removable strap with nylon zip pouch
Pros: Durable
Cons: Pricey
Saks Fifth Avenue Top Quality Store Badge on Google: 4/5 stars
Nordstrom Top Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.8/5 stars
Price upon publish date of this article: $1,690
Colorways available: Fuchsia, black, brown, green
Materials: Faux leather
Special features: Distressed finish
Pros: Pull-on style
Cons: May be tight on wide feet
Free People Top Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.7/5 stars
What reviewers say: “Just got these boots in today and they are awesome!! Exactly what I was hoping for! Rugged and the leather is butter soft. They are pricey but you will have them a lifetime.”
Price upon publish date of this article: $530
Colorways available: Black, brown, white
Materials: 100% Polyurethane
Special features: Padded footbed
Pros: Affordable
Cons: Customers report that color may fade with wear
Amazon Top Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.5/5 stars
What reviewers say: “I absolutely love these boots! They are super comfortable. I have worn them mainly with floral babydoll dresses from Amazon. They also looks great with a long black shirt dress that I wear with a black cardigan and my layered gold necklaces. Bringing me back to my 90’s style in high school!”
Price upon publish date of this article: $80
Colorways available: White, burgundy, black
Materials: Leather
Pros: Inside zipper closure, lug traction
Cons: Sizing runs big
DSW Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.9/5 stars
What reviews say: “These booties are comfortable and so cute. Great for fall weather!”
Price upon publish date of this article: $189
Colorways available: Black
Materials: Leather, sheepskin
Special features: Water-resistant, shearling lining
Pros: Heat insulation
Cons: Not waterproof
Madewell Top Quality Store Badge on Google: 4/5 stars
Price upon publish date of this article: $330
Colorways available: Black
Materials: Leather
Special features: Side zipper
Pros: Lug sole
Cons: Not waterproof
Urban Outfitters Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.6/5 stars
Zappos Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.8/5 stars
Price upon publish date of this article: $250
Colorways available: White, brown
Materials: Leather
Pros: Treaded outsole
Cons: Not waterproof
Zappos Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.8/5 stars
Anthropologie Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.6/5 stars
Price upon publish date of this article: $348
Colorways available: Lilac and glitter, matte beige and lilac, matte green, beige and green, pink, black
Materials: PVC
Special features: Made of recycled material and recyclable
Pros: Water-resistant
Cons: Bubblegum scent may irritate those sensitive to fragrance
Nordstrom Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.8/5 stars
Price upon publish date of this article: $109
Colorways available: Tan, white, green
Materials: Recycled polyester
Special features: EVA midsole
Pros: Water-resistant or waterproof
Cons: Bulky
Nordstrom Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.8/5 stars
Zappos Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.8/5 stars
Price upon publish date of this article: $140
Colorway: Wheat, Black
Materials: Nubuck
Pros: Timeless and durable
Cons: Stiff upon first wear
Amazon Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.5/5 stars
Zappos Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.8/5 stars
What reviewers say: “Sturdy, non fussy, waterproof shoes that’ll make you walk faster and more confident through the streets or through the woods. I’m an 8-8.5 length wise but I normally wear a size 9 because I have wider feet. One caveat is 9s leave too much space between my toes and the tip of the shoe and I look like I have big feet for a girl my size. I bought the 8.5 in Wide thinking it might be too big but they fit me well with a good wiggle room at the toes. It’s waterproof so you can’t open up the tongue all the way (and people complain about not being able to get their feet in, but I was able to get mine in just fine, with my very wide feet), and I imagine that it’ll become easier with wear. Overall, a great buy for this pricey boot. Comfortable and cozy for the winter! Note, I live in snowy Chicago and will use these to trudge through the snow.”
Price upon publish date of this article: $169.95
Colorways: Chocolate Brown, Black Suede
Material: WorryFree™ leather and suede
Special features: Bounce™ footbed
Pros: Lightweight
Cons: Not waterproof
DSW Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.9/5 stars
Hush Puppies Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.5/5 stars
What reviewers say: “I LOVE These Boots! They are very Comfortable! I Love the Quality, Fit, and Style.”
Price upon publish date of this article: $109.95
Colorways: Over 11 colors
Material: Durabrush
Pros: Roomy toe box
Cons: Sole may feel stiff
Amazon Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.5/5 stars
What reviewers say: “These boots are so adorable, fairly warm – but the arch support is THE BEST. I wish all my boots had the exact same insoles. They are so comfy to wear.”
Price upon publish date of this article: $64.02
Colorway: Black
Materials: Vegan leather upper and bottom
Pros: Under $100
Cons: Non-functional ties, zip-and-pull tab for pull-on and pull off
Amazon Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.5/5 stars
What reviewers say: “These boots are everything I dreamed of! They’re exactly as pictured, true to size. They’re comfy and ready to wear, no breaking-in necessary. It’s also a huge plus that even when I’ve gotten a scuff on them it rubs right off!”
Price upon publish date of this article: $88.08
Courtesy of Dream Pairs
Colorways: Black, brown, grey, white
Materials: PU leather upper, rubber sole
Pros: Under $100, classic style
Cons: Non-functional tie
Amazon Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.5/5 stars
What reviewers say: “I’ve been a barista for a year now and I got these boots near the beginning of starting my job. I LOVE how sturdy these boots have been. They’re water resistant and the soles show very little wear even though they’ve been my only work shoes for the past year. I am shocked at how they still feel and look new even though they’ve been in daily use for a year. I know these will last me a long time and I would recommend them to anyone.”
Price upon publish date of this article: $49.99
Courtesy of Vionic Charm
Colorways: Olive, cream, port wine, black, olive patent, black patent, black tumbled, cream tumbled
Materials: Patent leather, suede, tumbled leather upper (varies based on the colorway), and rubber sole
Pros: Ideal for those with foot pain or orthotic issues
Cons: Narrow cut requires thin socks
Amazon Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.5/5 stars
Zappos Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.8/5 stars
What reviewers say: “I’m a General Contractor & painter & own 2 businesses & I’m a single mom. I say that only to truly describe just how much I’m on my feet. I’ve had 2 back surgeries and a double spinal fusion, and I honestly hate to walk barefooted from the pain. These boots are great!!! These are always a go to for all day support & comfort.”
Price upon publish date of this article: $169.95
Courtesy of Erocali
Colorways: Black matte, black patent, white matte, multicolor, pink and white shiny
Materials: PU vegan leather upper and rubber sole
Pros: Eclectic mix of colors
Cons: Limited Size range
Amazon Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.5/5 stars
What reviewers say: “I ordered these to wear to a concert this summer, they are nice and light, came as pictured and they are comfortable. Excellent value for the price. I have seen the same boots for 2-3x as much as what I paid for these. Very happy with my purchase!”
Price upon publish date of this article: $28.88
Courtesy of Koio
Colorways: Black, fawn, sandalwood
Materials: Leather upper
Pros: Water resistant
Cons: Long laces add bulk at the ankle
Koio Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 3.5/5 stars
Price upon publish date of this article: $296.25
Courtesy of Forever Link
Colorways: Black, brown, tan, taupe, dark brown, burgundy, camo, leopard, white, dusty pink, grey, navy, white, olive
Materials: 100% vegan leather or suede
Pros: Variety of colorways
Cons: Not ideal for cold weather or rain
Amazon Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.5/5 stars
What reviewers say: “I love these boots! I bought them to replace an old pair I had that was falling apart. But I like these even better. They are very supportive, and I love the inside zipper!”
Price upon publish date of this article: $33.83
Courtesy of Isabel Marant
Colorways: Black
Materials: Leather upper with a rubber sole
Pros: Classic boots with minimal detailing
Cons: Lace-up style, no zippers
Mytheresa Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.7/5 stars
Ssense Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.5/5 stars
Price upon publish date of this article: $401
Colorways: Black
Materials: Calf leather and rubber sole
Pros: Cold weather-proof
Cons: Only intended for cold weather wear
Cettire Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 3.9/5 stars
Price upon publish date of this article: $325.84
Courtesy of Dr. Martens
Colorways: Black
Materials: Synthetic vegan upper, rubber sole
Pros: Vegan
Cons: Not ideal for wider feet
Amazon Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.5/5 stars
Dr. Martens Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.6/5 stars
What reviewers say: “I’m originally a size 10 and that’s the size I chose. They fit perfectly & you don’t have to break them in either. Personally, I don’t think they are heavy either, I get so many compliments.”
Price upon publish date of this article: $199.95
Colorways: Black
Materials: Man-made upper, lining, footbed, and outsole
Pros: Trendy detailing
Cons: Limited sizing options available
Shopbop Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 5/5 stars
Farfetch Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.1/5 stars
Price upon publish date of this article: $530
Colorways: Black, Tawny Buff, Warp Red
Materials: Leather and textile upper
Pros: Sustainable
Cons: Only offered for medium feet, no narrow or wide options available
Zappos Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.8/5 stars
Amazon Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.5/5 stars
What reviewers say: “Sorel really hit the ball out of the park with this boot! I purchased the Sorel Brex Boot Lace in three colors: the chalk/black, sandy tan/black, and dark moss/black in size 12M. (I did not like the look of this boot with the white sole and solid black upper… the soles would show the winter dirt and the solid black did not have that “spectator” look from the contrast. So I did not purchase them in that color combo.) I am 69 years old and not as tall as I used to be, so the height of the heel is great and the extra height in the platform gives me stability. Thank you Sorel. The rounded laces are very thick and high quality; I can tell they will not stretch out and they will last for years. The ankle support is awesome, especially the way the boot hugs the little nook in the back of my heel. The leather is so perfect it’s hard to believe it’s real and the stitching is impeccable. The bottom on the inside of the boot is firm yet cushiony.”
Price upon publish date of this article: $79.98
Colorways available: White, brown, black
Materials: Leather
Special features: Water-resistant
Pros: Stable block platform
Cons: Some may find the heel is too high
Nordstrom Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.8/5 stars
Price upon publish date of this article: $349.94
Colorways: Tan, black
Material: Calf leather
Pros: Low-profile with a sneaker-like feel
Cons: Expensive
24s Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.5/5 stars
Price upon publish date of this article: $395
Colorways available: Brown suede, black leather
Materials: Leather
Special features: Side zipper
Pros: Adjustable lacing
Cons: Break-in required
Reformation Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 2.4/5 stars
Price upon publish date of this article: $348
Stylish Combat Boot Trends for 2023
If you glance at the fall 2023 collections, it is clear that this will be the season of the boot. Whether it’s an over-the-knee, western style, or combat boot, this footwear style dominated shows. While combat boot trends of the past included simple, understated women’s combat boots, this season, it’s all about the maximalist iterations for those who dare.
- Dyes and distressing: Take cues from Altuzarra’s fall 2023 show. Underneath a stellar showing of outerwear and evening gowns was a series of combat boots with silk satin uppers dyed to match the colorful garments. They were done in Rorschach, inkblot, and shibori prints (creative director Joseph Altuzarra referenced reading tea leaves as part of his inspiration).
- Femininity-meets-utility: At Roberto Cavalli, models wore crocheted dresses with calf-length pointed-toe combat boots with platform soles, offering a sense of drama to a typically straightforward boot style. At Fendi, the fall collection featured masculine tailoring with utilitarian deconstruction, which was seen through the thigh-grazing boots that consisted of leather lace-up details on top of a classic platform-like Mary Jane heel.
- Hybrid boot styles: What’s even cooler? The emergence of hybrid styles, with combat boots as the common denominator. You’ll see the best designer boots for 2023 include nods to other popular boot styles, taking details from the upper part of the boot and closures from Chelsea boot, motorcycle boot, or riding boots — it’s all with an emphasis on the tough-girl, thick lug sole. Essentially, newer styles we’ve seen show us combat boots have no limits and can fit into a variety of wardrobes. We’ve also seen an emergence of elongated Chelsea boots, a newer concept snapped up by models and influencers alike, with longer shafts typically set atop lug outsoles and paired with shorter shorts, coordinated sets, and skirts. These elongated styles visually lengthen your legs, whereas another style, with bulkier toe boxes, adds attitude to your outfits as we transition into fall.
- Platform boots: Stacked heels on the classic combat boot were seen all across the 2023 runways and Copenhagen fashion week street style. Lugged soles with chunky traction are anchoring boots of all shapes an sizes this season, whether as ankle booties, mid-calf lace-up waders, or stylish over-the-knee boots. Designers including Off White, Valentino, Max Mara, and more are all leaning into thicker outsoles and heavy rubber for fall.
What to Look for in the Most Comfortable Combat Boots for Women
In terms of function, women’s combat boots are ideal for cold weather because of their snug, lace-up design and rugged rubber soles — which, when made for walking on slick, icy terrain, make these great winter boots. Adding to their durability, most silhouettes are made with sturdy leather or suede and many include double-stitched details.
Not only that, combat boots are podiatrist-approved. “They’re great for people with chronic lateral ankle instability or for people that hike on uneven terrain,” explains Silicon Valley-based podiatrist Najwa Javed. But not all styles are created equal. According to Dr. Javed, “If the upper material is too stiff, like in an ice skating boot, you fall and it will cause a fracture because there is no give in the material.” On the other hand, “if the material is too soft, there is no support to control ankle motion,” she warns.
Therefore, keep these specific factors in mind when choosing new combat boots:
- Durability: Whether investing in designer combat boots or not, you want to ensure your new boots last years and can withstand adverse conditions and terrains. Durable materials, like full-grain leather, and a protective rubber sole will make sure the boot does not tear or damage when faced with rough conditions.
- Breathability: Although it’s crucial to look for footwear that is comfortable, durable, and robust when it comes to choosing new combat boots, you also want breathable ones, especially if you have sweaty feet. Therefore, look for leather boots since it draws moisture and sweat away from the feet while preventing any external moisture from entering the boot.
- Traction: Whether you’re using your combat boots for hiking or walking on the city street, you want a boot that will keep your feet stable. This is particularly crucial to consider when using them in cold, wet weather. With ice and wet surfaces to contend with, you need a pair of leather boots that you can rely upon to keep you on your feet.
- Weight: Combat boots have a tough look — sometimes with chunky embellishments and soles — which can contribute to unwanted heavyweight. The last thing you want is to feel weighed down by a heavy boot, so look for flexible soles and uppers while still providing necessary support.
- Comfort and Support: As with any shoe or boot, good ankle support and comfort are key to preventing the ankle from rolling. Therefore, you want to try on the boot before you purchase it because while you want your foot to be supported, you also want it to be comfortable. If you intend to walk long distances, you also want to guarantee the heels of your combat boots to be a moderate height so that they do not cause any discomfort or pain.
And if you have any of the following foot conditions, heed Dr. Javed’s advice:
- Bunions: “A wide and open toe box is the key,” she says. “Boots can be narrow in the toe box, and that can cause pinching, which can worsen the pain of an existing bunion. Find a pair with a stretchable upper like suede or soft leather.”
- Plantar Fasciitis: “Go for a raised heel,” she notes. “Having a heel counter or lift of at least one inch can significantly reduce heel pain. Wedged boots are also a great option.”
- Flat Feet: “Boots that are made with anti-pronation technology are the best option, as well as boots that can accept insoles/orthotics,” Dr. Javed explains. “Flat feet are generally a more unstable foot type so opt for a rigid sole, arch support, and ankle length to help reduce the pronation that flat feet are known for.
- Wide Feet: “For women with wide feet, using a men’s shoe in their size is the best option, given that most women’s boots are built narrower.”
- High Arches: “Boots with lace-up designs can be better than those with a solid upper in accommodating higher arches or feet that swell,” she shares.
- Heel Spurs: Like many other foot conditions, heel spurs develop from overuse. Proper footwear can prevent and alleviate pain from the condition, such as a cushy heel.
How We Selected the Best Combat Boots for Women
For more than 75 years, Footwear News has been the shoe authority. Our coverage spans top industry news, retail trends, head-to-toe fashion, athletic and outdoor analysis and more. Footwear News’ global network of editors has carefully curated all product selections featured using our expansive brand knowledge and thorough research to find quality, long-lasting items.
We curated this shopping guide for the best combat boots for women by paying special attention to key boot elements such as silhouette, structure, fit, support, and function. We made sure to select combat boots that featured impressive technology like insulation, waterproof materials, and sustainable construction, as well as boots that reflect of-the-moment trends for fall and winter 2023. We conducted wide research across the footwear market and analyzed hundreds of customer reviews to determine the most loved stylish women’s combat boots to invest in for years of function. Learn more about us here.
Meet the Expert
Najwa Javed is a Silicon Valley-based Board Certified Podiatrist and Founder of E’MAR Italy. She specializes in foot and ankle surgery and clinical research.
Meet the Authors
Nikki Chwatt is the Style Commerce Editor at Footwear News and WWD, where she both writes and edits stories on the latest clothing, accessory, and shoe must-haves. As a city dweller, she’s garnered a love for footwear, especially ankle boots, because they’re versatile enough to be worn with any type of outfit and comfortable enough when running uptown, downtown, or cross-town. Therefore, she takes an interest in keeping up with footwear trends and innovations by testing and reviewing shoes in a wide range of categories — from athletic to streetwear styles.
Olivia Cigliano is a Commerce Writer & Producer at Footwear News and WWD where she writes shopping content on the best-rated footwear, TikTok style trends, and more. Olivia received her bachelor’s degree in journalism from Emerson College, and her byline can be found in publications including Elite Daily and CR Fashion Book. In her free time, Olivia can be found scouring the internet for deals on cool combat boots and dad sneakers to add to her ever-growing collection. Cigliano updated this best combat boots for women shopping guide in August 16, 2023, with fresh trends, new retailer releases, and top-rated product picks for fall and winter 2023.
