17 Pairs of Combat Boots to Rely On Forevermore
Suddenly, combat boots are all I wear.
Every item on this page was chosen by an ELLE editor. We may earn commission on some of the items you choose to buy.
Loved for their durability, versatility, and undeniable cool factor, combat boots have evolved far beyond their military origins. Nowadays, the style is an edgy staple in any fashionistas closet—and likely one she relies on quite heavily. As you shop for your next, or first, pair, we’re diving into the best combat boots to shop now.
Adding an extra layer of expertise to our exploration is Vanessa Beckett, president and CCO of Zadig & Voltaire. From edgy urban looks to bohemian chic, these boots are as durable as they are diverse. The beauty of wearing shoes designed to be industrial strength is that they’re built to last. Plus, they can be worn throughout the year. Beckett styles her with sweet dresses in the spring, tights and leather frocks for autumn, or any time at all with cropped pants or cuffed jeans. “You can also [style] with a simple tank or tee and a cool military-inspired pant—the best ones are found in a vintage store and you have them tailored to fit you perfectly,” she adds. (On that note, we know the best vintage stores in NYC.)
From comfortable platforms to designer shoes, there are so many stylish options to browse. Here, find 17 of the best combat boots to add a bit of edge to your closet.
Here’s Beckett’s personal favorite, a solid, high-quality black combat boot. Although an investment, they will surely last you a lifetime.
Size: 6-11
Colors: Black, Military
Material: Calf Leather
I dream of an aprè ski moment in these. Prada, fur, combat silhouette—what more could you want?
Size: 4.5-11.5
Colors: Black
Material: Leather, rubber
Who said a combat boot can't be white? A fun and different twist on a classic style.
Size: 5-11
Colors: Chalk, Black
Material: Faux Leather
A favorite among our editors, these combat boots are so comfortable, you’ll never want to take them off. You will have these for generations, literally.
Size: 5-14
Colors: Black, White, Red
Material: Leather
Customer Review: “This is my third pair of Jadons. I have them in Black and white. When I saw Cherry on sale I couldn’t resist and I was not disappointed. They fit great and were comfortable right out of the box.”
Jeffrey Campbell Jeffrey Campbell En-Route Boot
If tall combat boots are your thing, these are the ones for you. The platform is an ideal height, and the side zipper makes it easy to slip on and off.
Size: 6-10
Colors: Black, Brown
Material: Leather, rubber
Customer Review: “I have been looking for a pair of super chunky platform boots to replace an old pair on a budget and these are pretty great!”
Maje really brought this old reliable to a whole new level. The stud detailing is just so cool.
Size: 6-11
Colors: Black
Material: Ethylene vinyl acetate, leather
In cold weather, these will provide warmth and protection, while in warmer weather, pair perfectly with a dress or shorts.
Size: 5-12
Colors: Black Leather
Material: Cow Leather
I’m obsessed with these. The internal lacing is elevated while the rugged brown color provides a break from the classic black style.
Size: 5-13
Colors: Cocoa Suede, Midnight Crinkle Patent, Off White Leather, Olive Suede, Sandstone Knit
Material: Suede, rubber
Customer Review: “Love the edgy cool girl vibe these have. They’re also some of the most comfortable boots I own. Will be wearing these all the time.”
The perfect combat boot to dress up any casual look. These are extremely transitional and versatile.
Size: 5-11
Colors: Black Shine
Material: Leather, rubber
Head to Amazon for this durable, fun style at a reasonable price. These are a great alternative to pricey options and are the perfect color to make you subtly stand out.
Size: 6-10
Colors: Camel-Tan, Fuchsia, Black, Sandstorm
Material: Rubber
Customer Review: “I really like the look of these boots; they are a stylish addition to casual outfits. They also have side zippers, which makes them super convenient; you can adjust the laces for the best fit one time and not worry with them again.”
These boots from The Row boots are yet another ELLE editor favorite. With a center zip rather than typical laces, these offer something different. They are a truly great investment.
Size: 5-12
Colors: Black, Beige, Brown
Material: Leather
Steve Madden knows how to make a good boot, and he did it again with this classic combat. It’s reasonably priced and has a platform for some added height.
Size: 5-12
Colors: Black Leather, Blue Leather, Brown Leather
Material: Leather
Customer Review: “I LOVE these boots! Very stylish and they add a few inches to my height! I bought both colors and I’m quite pleased.”
Miu Miu, platform heel, lace up combat boot. I repeat, Miu Miu, platform heel, lace up combat boot. That is all.
Size: 8-11
Colors: Black
Material: Calf leather, rubber sole
These are SO chic. The boot length is so good and they give off a really luxury feel for a very reasonable price.
Size: 5-11
Colors: Black Leather
Material: Classic soft nappa with a supple hand and slight wax
These are the stand out combat boots. They will make any outfit extra edgy and sure to get you noticed.
Size: 5-9
Colors: Black
Material: Leather
These are absolutely stunning. Genuine, pristine, and offer the fabulous patent detail to make you stand out with elegance.
Size: 5.5-12
Colors: Black
Material: Calf/patent
Valentina Rangoni Folgore Lug Tie Black Piumalux
The fur detail. Truly incredible. I have never seen a boot like this before and quite literally died when I found them. A need not a want.
Size: 6-10
Colors: Black
Material: Leather
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