The 31 Best Ankle Boots for Women to Wear This Winter
If you purchase an independently reviewed product or service through a link on our website, Footwear News may receive an affiliate commission.
Boot season is here, and while there are a variety of women’s boots out there, the best ankle boots for women top shoppers’ lists year after year. This timeless shoe silhouette is effortlessly relaxed with just the right amount of polish, and ankle booties are versatile enough to go with any type of ensemble. If you’re looking for a perennial pair, kitten-heeled ankle boots are a great option because they’re sophisticated, add height to your looks, and have been seen on everyone from Kendall Jenner to Matilda Djerf. The slight heel also means you can comfortably stride around all day without sacrificing style. Alternately, tap into one of this season’s biggest trends by adding a chunkier style to your accessories arsenal. Women’s combat boots, lace-up designs, and classic Chelsea boot styles make the perfect counterpoint to ultra-feminine midi dresses. Whatever type you choose, you can pair comfortable ankle boots with everything from joggers with a T-shirt to leather pants with a bodysuit. In short, without a pair of ankle boots, your closet isn’t complete.
More from Footwear News
Emma Roberts Blooms in Floral Boots & Off-The-Shoulder Dress on 'The Kelly Clarkson Show'
Oprah Winfrey Meets With Maryland Governor Wes Moore in Purple Wool Dress & Ankle Boots
With the holidays upon us, there truly is no better excuse to snag a fresh new pair of ankle boots for yourself. They’d even make a great holiday gift for the women on your holiday shopping list (just sayin’). If you play your cards right, you might even snag a majorly discounted pair during Black Friday sales.
Below, shop 30 of the best ankle boots for women for comfort and style, as well more information about the different types of comfortable ankle boots and how to style them.
Top Ankle Boots for Women
Best Leather Boots: Christian Louboutin Marchacroche Boots
Also Consider Western Boots: Isabel Marant Crisi Boots
Best Chelsea Boots: Vince Cecyle Chelsea Boots
Best Rain Boots: Chooka Plush Chelsea Boots
Best Duck Boots: L.L. Bean 8-Inch Bean Boots
Also Consider Duck Boots: Sperry x Who What Wear Duck Float Boots
Best for Wide Calves & Feet: Vince Camuto Zanilla Ankle Boots
Best Low-Heeled: Jeossy Ankle Boots
Best Trendy Style: Steve Madden Howler Booties
Best Wedge Style: Dr. Scholl’s Mania Boots
Best Snakeskin: Schutz Zachy Western Boots
Most Versatile: Dolce Vita Huey Booties
Best for Hiking: Timberland Courmayeur Valley Water Resistant Hiking Boots
Best Pointed-Toe: Rag & Bone Icons Brea Sock Bootie
Best Embellished: Chloé Susanna Studded Leather Ankle Boots
Best All-White: Sam Edelman Nina Combat Boots
Also Consider Western Boots: Free People New Frontier Western Boots
Best Platform: Mia Easton Platform Boots
Best for Cold-Weather: Naturalizer Val Boots
Best for Casual-Wear: Ugg Classic Ultra Mini Shearling Booties
Most Water-Proof: Sorel Harlow Rain Boots
Best Leopard-Print Style: Journee Collection Gwenn Booties
Most Stylish Boot for the Winter: Ugg Neumel Platform Boots
Tecovas The Penny Boots
Best Western Ankle Boots for Women
Size range: 5-12
Colorways: Scotch Goat, Sequoia Bovine, Mighnight Calf, Turquoise Bovine, Carmel Bovine, Bourbon Calf
Materials: Calfskin
What Reviewers Say: “I enjoy everything about my boots, they fit like a glove, they are a true size, used them for 12 hrs the first time and my feet didn’t hurt, and the complements I got, make me feel very smart about my shopping, that was worth the money I pay for my boots”
You should try the western trend sooner rather than later, and these authentic cowboy boots are a great way to get into it. The modern ankle bootie is crafted with genuine calfskin. Minimally embellished with a touch of contrast stitching and available in five rustic shades, these can easily be styled with a variety of looks — from slip dresses to denim on denim.
Courtesy of Tecovas
Tecovas The Penny
Everlane The City Boot
Size range: 5-11
Colorways: Toasted Almond Suede, Black, Desert Tan, Cream
Materials: Leather, Suede
For an ultra-sleek look, try these suede ankle boots that hit mid-calf. They feature rich an Italian suede composition with a modern square toe, cushioned insole for extra comfort, and side zip for added ease. The black sole contrasts the tan colorway nicely and makes them even more versatile to style with any type of outfit. In addition to classic tan, they come in three leather styles: Black, Desert Tan, Cream. Take them out for a spin with a fall floral dress and a wool coat.
Everlane The City Boot
Open Edit Rafael Pointed Toe Booties
SPONSORED
Size range: 5-11
Colorways: Black, Tan, Red
Materials: Synthetic textile, Rubber
If you’re looking for perennial ankle boots, a pointed-toe style is the way to go — they’re a fail-safe option in every fashion editor’s wardrobe. Nordstrom’s Open Edit Rafael boot has a sock-fitted upper with a knit-like material that fits snugly around the ankle for comfort and support. The toe box and heel feature a leather-like panel, while the 3.5-inch block heel gives you added height while still maintaining stability. The best part? The well-treaded bottom gives great traction for your evening stroll to dinner. Style this one with a white button-down shirt, a lace bralette, and coated black jeans.
Open Edit Rafael Pointed Toe Bootie
Dr. Martens Jadon Boots
Best Combat Ankle Boots for Women
Size range: 5-12
Colorways: Black, White
Materials: Leather
What Reviewers Say: “I was a little worried at first because these were way out of my comfort zone, but I love them! I gravitate towards them every morning before I leave the house, walking around feeling like I could take on the world. They are great quality and very comfortable after wearing them a few times.”
Haven’t you heard? Dr. Martens are officially back. The iconic ‘90s trend is making the Instagram rounds and for good reason. The shoes’ clunky soles will add a punk rock touch to a floral mini dress or jeans and tee combo. For just under $200, these are bound to be heavy in your rotation.
Courtesy of Dr. Martens
Dr. Martens Jadon Boots
Christian Louboutin Marchacroche Boots
Best Leather Ankle Boots for Women
Size range: 4-12
Colorways: Black
Materials: Calf leather
Classic black ankle boots will never do you wrong, so you’re smart to want to invest in a designer pair. Christian Louboutin may be known for its red-bottom heels, but these everyday boots from the brand also earn high marks. They’re made of super-soft Italian calfskin leather and feature a round-toe silhouette for an easy pairing with your winter favorites. Think: big coats, leather leggings, mom jeans and more.
Courtesy of MyTheresa
Christian Louboutin Marchacroche Boots
Isabel Marant Crisi Ankle Boots
Also Consider Western Ankle Boots for Women
Size range: 5-12
Colorways: Taupe
Materials: Calf leather
Isabel Marant has a distinctly Parisian approach to dressing that runs through the label. Her effortless, stylish but hard-working essentials fit into anyone’s closet, including these books. The western vibe strikes again, this time with a softer silhouette. These concealed wedge booties are lined with leather and feature an outer suede layer. Wear them with bare legs, if you dare, or pair them with jeans and a sweater for a classic winter look.
Courtesy of MyTheresa
Isabel Marant Crisi Ankle Boots
The Row Zipped 1 Leather Ankle Boots
Size range: 5-12
Colorways: Black
Materials: Leather
There’s no cooler way to rock the platform boot trend than with this luxurious pair from The Row. Crafted in Italy, the chunky style is dressed in calfskin leather from the inside out and adorned with a utilitarian-style front center zipper. Pair these with any minimalist look like head-to-toe black or neutrals.
Courtesy of MyTheresa
The Row Zipped 1
Vince Cecyle Chelsea Boots
Best Chelsea Ankle Boots for Women
Size range: 5-11
Colorways: Black
Materials: Calf Leather
The smooth leather boots easily slip on and off, thanks to the elastic side panels and a heel tab. The flat sole is lightweight, yet durable and the entire shoe is water-resistant. They’ll elevate any look, from casual legging combos to a maxi dress and leather jacket.
Vince Ceycl Chelsea Boots
Chooka Plush Chelsea Boots
Best Ankle Rain Boots for Women
Size range: 6-11
Colorways: Deldrige Black, Grey, Olive
Materials: Rubber
What Reviewers Say: “I live in mountains and so nice just to slip on and off. Nice loop in the back but typically I don’t need to use it. My foot just slips right in. I had to get another pair because I damaged one of the boots ..my fault. I started using boots as garden boots. 5 stars for sure. Waterproof is great. I was in snow, rain, and pebbles a lot. Very easy to slip off also. Sizing is perfect.”
On rainy days, opt for these lined Chelsea-style rain boots. The plush interior is an ultra-cozy complement to thick socks and is accompanied by a moisture-absorbing lining to keep feet dry and cool. The tread on these boots not only offers grip, but is also self-cleaning, meaning you don’t have to scrub at it to remove caked-on dirt and grime. A sleek matte finish gives these waterproof rubber boots a modern edge.
Courtesy of Amazon
Chooka Plush Chelsea Boot
L.L. Bean 8-Inch Bean Boots
Best Duck Ankle Boots for Women
Size range: 6-10
Colorways: Tan/Black, Tan/Navy
Materials: Leather, Rubber
What Reviewers Say: “I love these boots! This is my third pair of bean boots and they do not disappoint. I love the unique color.
Featuring a hand-sewn triple stitch that keeps mud and snow at bay, the Bean boot is hands down L.L. Bean’s most iconic style. Equal parts functional and stylish, it can easily be dressed up with some mom jeans and oversized sweaters.
Courtesy of Nordstrom
L.L. Bean 8-Inch Bean Boot
Sperry x Who What Wear Duck Float Boots
Also Consider Duck Ankle Boots for Women
Size range: 5-12
Colorways: Black, Tan
Materials: Leather, Rubber
Sperry is an American shoe brand that designs with inclement weather in mind, and this season they’re partnering with Who What Wear to create the chicest duck boot yet. Its winter-ready style has a waterproof exterior that prevents rain from seeping in through the seams and wavy grooves on the rubber soles that provide extra traction on slippery surfaces. Plus, the shoe features a full zip closure with a heel pull tab for easy on/off. This minimalist style comes in a solid black colorway and a tan and black color block option — both super cute to style with any winter white look.
Sperry x Who What Wear Duck Float Boots
Vince Camuto Zanilla Ankle Boots
Best Women’s Ankle Boot for Wide Calves & Feet
Size range: 5-11
Colorways: Black, Tortilla, Warm Caramel
Materials: Leather
What Reviewers Say: “These are very nice boots, high quality but for me ran 1/2 size bigger than my other Vince Camuto shoes”
This everyday boot from Vince is a great buy for the money. Thanks to its wide opening and what customers call a roomy fit, the boot is even great for people with wide feet or calves. Their soles come in a stacked, block design, making them easy to style and wear from day to night. As we transition into autumn, pair them with something form-fitting like skinny jeans or leggings to balance out the relaxed fit.
Vince Camuto Zanilla Ankle Boots
Jeossy Ankle Boots
Best Low-Heeled Ankle Boots for Women
Size range: 6-11
Colorways: Black, Cognac, Yellow Brown, Brown, Tan, Grey, Coffee
Materials: Leather, Rubber
What Reviewers Say: “I really love these boots. The material feels nice and they are super comfy to wear. I got these in the beige/tan color and I’m waiting for the black to go on sale so I can buy another pair. I got them in my normal size and they fit well. They do come with an additional set of inserts if you need to make them a little smaller.”
This Amazon favorite is a great casual black boot, featuring a vegan leather upper and side zipper for easy entry. The classic ankle design paired with the barely-there heel make it a perfect pick for your next business trip or weekend outing.
Courtesy of Amazon
Jeossy Ankle Boots
Steve Madden Howler Booties
Best Trendy Ankle Boots for Women
Size range: 6-11
Colorways: Black, Sand Suede
Materials: Leather
What Reviewers Say: “I love the chunky look, especially since they usually offer a comfortable platform. These ones were a great color (I needed a lighter color) and they are indeed comfortable and cute at a great price too. Love them.”
According to fall runways, this season is all about cool-girl boots with a classic thick sole and fresh feminine edge. Go for a pair done in a light pink or sand color like this style from Steve Madden. Not only will it instantly brighten up any look, but it will also pair well closet staples you’re already wearing like mini dresses, mom jeans and skinny jeans. The style’s elastic sock band forms to your ankle, which reviewers say make these some of the comfiest boots you can own.
Courtesy of Nordstrom
Steve Madden Howler Bootie
Dr. Scholl’s Mania Boots
Best Wedged Ankle Boots for Women
Size range: 6.5-11
Colorways: Black, Toasted Coconut, Grey
Materials: Leather
What Reviewers Say: “These boots are gorgeous, love the detail. Very modern. They are a bit tight in the arch area so I’m hoping they stretch. Definitely recommend!”
A wedge bootie is an excellent option if you want a little height but aren’t willing to commit to a traditional heel. These lightweight, flexible slip-ons comes in two neutral shades: brown and black. So take your pick and don’t be surprised if they become your new favorite.
Courtesy of DSW
Dr. Scholl’s Mania Boot
Schutz Zachy Western Boots
Best Snakeskin Ankle Boots for Women
Size range: 5-11
Colorways: Neutral, Eggshell, Black
Materials: Leather
One easy way to dress up a basic outfit is to add in an animal print boot. This snakeskin pair is a lightweight ankle boot that’s very flexible, so you won’t have to break them in. It also has a leather outsole with texture at the ball of the foot for added traction. They’ll instantly add a sophisticated touch to jeans and a button-up for your next meeting or with an LBD for date night.
Schutz Zachy Western Boots
Dolce Vita Huey Booties
Most Versatile Ankle Boots for Women
Size range: 6-10
Colorways: Mocha, Onyx, Sage, Sandstone, Cafe Patent, Ivory, Whiskey, Almond, Camo
Materials: Canvas
What Reviewers Say: “These boots are a must have!!! I want a pair in every color. I sized up due to stock levels and I just wear thick socks but they’re not too big so I’d say true to size”
Complete with a chunky rubber sole and croc-embossed upper, these versatile booties are elevated but not too fancy. They pair best with ankle-cut jeans that stop right at the top of the boot so you can see the full look. Add a silk top for a night out or a printed shirt for a weekend brunch.
Courtesy of Dolce Vita
Dolce Vita Huey Booties
Timberland Courmayeur Valley Water Resistant Hiking Boots
Best Women’s Ankle Boots for Hiking
Size range: 6-9.5
Colorways: Olive, Taupe
Materials: Leather, Rubber
What Reviewers Say: “I tend to get peroneal tendinitis in my right foot, so I needed to invest in some solid, comfortable shoes with arch support. For reference, depending on the shoe, I hover between a 9M and a 9W. These don’t come in W, but they looked super cute so I bought them anyway and hoped for the best. I’m glad I did. These are incredibly comfortable as soon as you put them on – no break-in required. My right foot (my larger foot) was a little snug in the toe, but not painfully so, and the material stretches out a bit after some walking.”
Equal parts rugged and stylish, these must-have Timberland hiking boots are made with a sturdy sole, cushioned footbed and a water-resistant finish. We won’t blame you if you wear them off the trail, too.
Courtesy of Nordstrom
Timberland Courmayeur Valley Boot
Rag & Bone Icons Brea Sock Bootie
Best Women’s Pointed-Toe Ankle Boots
Size range: 6-11
Colorways: Black
Materials: Leather
Additional features: 3″ heel, 6 1/2″ shaft, textile lining, leather sole
An exaggerated pointed-toe bootie will add a little je ne sais quoi to your OOTD. French girls are known for that effortlessly thrown-together look which often includes an ankle boot like this one from Rag & Bone. It blends classic tailoring and an edgy-yet-understated New York aesthetic, which the brand is known for and soft black leather that will withstand wear and tear. Wear yours with denim and sweater dresses alike.
Rag & Bone Icons Brea Sock Bootie
Crown Vintage Laverrick Combat Boots
Size range: 5.5-10
Colorways: White/Taupe
Materials: Leather
What Reviewers Say: “These are beautiful in person. I wasn’t sure if I was going to love them, and I contemplated returning while I was waiting on them. When I got them I fell in love! The rose gold accents are so cute and the boot itself has character but it’s not too bulky. I wear a 10/10.5 and a 10 fit perfect”
Just because the weather is gloomy doesn’t mean your outfit has to be. Upgrade your chilly weather look by subbing in these crisp, cream-colored boots. The monochromatic look is very of-the-moment, and comes complete with rose gold details for added style.
Crown Vintage Laverrick Combat Boots
Belle Chelsea Boots
Size range: 5-12
Colorways: Off-White, Black, Light Brown, Tan
Materials: Leather
What Reviewers Say: “Love these boots! They are exactly what I was looking for, and at a great price. I got a half size up and they fit perfect.”
A chic Chelsea-style boot will always be a smart choice. You won’t be led astray with this Target find priced at just $37.99. The classic style has a comfy 1.75-inch block heel, a back tag to take them easily on and off, and a memory foam sole for comfort and easy wear. The white shade is a nice departure from a go-to black options and is neutral enough to team with all your winter staples.
Belle Chelsea Boots
Coach Lacey Booties
Size range: 5-12
Colorways: Black
Materials: Leather, Rubber
What Reviewers Say: “I absolutely love this boot. It was love at first sight when it popped up on my Facebook feed. Love the rugged looked with a touch of gold femininity. Can’t wait to west them very soon as the weather is rapidly changing.”
This new design from Coach is on the pricier side, but with fashion-forward details like gold buckle and a mini hang tag design, you can’t go wrong. It also features a cushiony memory foam padding for all-day comfort and a zipper for easily getting them on and off.
Coach Lacey Bootie
Chloé Susanna Studded Leather Ankle Boots
Best Embellished Ankle Boots for Women
Size range: 5-12
Colorways: Black Gold Leather
Materials: Leather, Rubber
What Reviewers Say: “After lusting over these boots for years I decided to treat myself for my 30th birthday. Great quality and very comfortable but I wouldn’t expect anything less for the price. I am a true 9.5 not wide or narrow. I sized up to a 10/40 and they fit perfectly.”
By now, you already know that ankle boots are a staple. If you’re going to pull the trigger on a designer pair, this black leather studded pair from Chloé is an excellent choice. A-listers like Miranda Kerr and Heidi Klum both own the style — need we say more?
Courtesy of Net-a-Porter
Chloé Susanna Ankle Boots
Sam Edelman Nina Combat Boots
Best All-White Ankle Boots for Women
Size range: 5-13
Colorways: Eggshell, Bright White, Wheat, Black, White
Materials: Leather, Rubber
What Reviewers Say: “My normal size in Sam Edelman is 7.5 I had to return these for a size 7 because the 7.5 was a bit on the large side but the size 7 was just perfect!! I love this boot!!!”
A bright white boot always adds an unexpected pop of freshness to your look. These synthetic leather lace-ups are more understated than your usual heavy combat boots thanks to a thin, lightweight sole. Dress them up with a cocktail dress or pare them down with your favorite casual denim pieces.
Courtesy of Sam Edelman
Sam Edelman Nina Combat Boot
Free People New Frontier Western Boots
Also Consider Western Ankle Boots for Women
Size range: 6-11
Colorways: Distressed Tan, Dusty Camel Suede, Silver, Dusty Blue Suede, Cognac Patent, White, Black Suede
Materials: Leather, Suede
What Reviewers Say: “Bought these in yellow and they did not disappoint. They’re super cute and even my husband liked them. I typically wear a 7.5 in boots an I bought a 7.5 bc that’s all they had left in yellow. They are a bit tight but i don’t care, beauty is pain. So size up .5 size if u can, or just suffer. Worth it”
Lean into the cowgirl trend without veering into cheesy costume territory with this western-style option from Free People. Subtle appliqué details and a flattering slim fit ensure these will blend seamlessly into your closet. Casually tuck your baggy jeans into them or pair the boots with a flouncy skirt instead.
Courtesy of Free People
Free People New Frontier Western Boots
Mia Easton Platform Boots
Best Platform Ankle Boots for Women
Size range: 6-10
Colorways: Black, Beige
Materials: Faux Leather
MIA was founded in 1976 during the era of disco and bell-bottoms, launching with just a few styles of clogs. Today, the brand is a footwear powerhouse, with platform styles leading the way. For those of you that gravitate toward a black boot with a rounded toe, this is your classic boot with modern edge. The lugged platform sole is rugged and will lend you extra height while the contoured cushioning will keep you comfortable.
Mia Easton Platform Boots
Naturalizer Val Boots
Best Cold-Weather Ankle Boots for Women
Size range: 5-12
Colorways: Black
Materials: Suede
What Reviewers Say: “I love these! They’re very sturdy for having some height in the heel. I don’t get hot spots on the ball of my feet like I do with other heeled boots. Make sure you tighten the laces every wear since they have a tendency to loosen up and coming undone at the hook eyelets. I’m a true 7.5 with a narrow heel and these fit great.”
Forget about sacrificing performance for style when it comes to winter boots. This pair from Naturalizer offers the best of both worlds. Trimmed with faux fur and packed with heat-retention technology, the boots are a no-brainer for surviving the harshest of weather. And, they look great with leggings, jeans and even your snow pants for après ski activities.
Courtesy of Nordstrom
Naturalizer Val Boot
Ugg Classic Ultra Mini Shearling Booties
Best Casual Ankle Boots for Women
Size range: 5-12
Colorways: Black, Canary, Chestnut, Carantion, Emerald Green, Grey, Orange Soda, Pink Blossom, Ribbon Red, Sky, Red Taffy, Samba, Antelope, Pollen, Magnolia, Purple
Materials: Wool, Lyocell
What Reviewers Say: “These are the first pair of ultra mini uggs I’ve had. They’re cute & comfy. I bought them one size up bc I plan to wear two layers of socks one being a boot sock.”
The slipper-like winter boots are probably the easiest, coziest pair on this list. Luckily, you can get away with wearing the slipper hybrids outside these days. For in-between temperatures, you’ll want these cozy low-cut Uggs in your arsenal. Wear them with leggings on your way to yoga or joggers on a lazy Sunday.
Courtesy of Saks Fifth Avenue
Ugg Classic Ultra Mini Booties
Sorel Harlow Rain Boots
Best Waterproof Ankle Boots for Women
Size range: 5-10
Colorways: Quarry, Black, Velvet Tan, Coffee
Materials: Leather, Ethylene Vinyl Acetate
What Reviewers Say: “These boots are super comfy right out of the box. I have a wide foot so I did stretch them but they are great for walking and will be my go to boots for a trip this fall”
Weatherproof boots are a must if you live in a climate where rain is a regular occurrence. These side-zip ankle booties are made with moisture-wicking, full-grain leather to withstand the elements and a molded-rubber outsole to keep feet dry. An included memory-fit footbed is also supportive for walking long distances.
Courtesy of Amazon
Sorel Harlow Rain Boot
Journee Collection Gwenn Booties
Best Leopard Print Boots for Women
Size range: 5.5-12
Colorways: Leopard, Grey, Black, Olive Green, Burgundy
Materials: Faux suede
What Reviewers Say: “I’ve been looking for a good pair of booties that are pointed at the toe and a pair I could wear with tights to work or jeans on the weekends. I wore these the day after they arrived and they were actually comfortable! I wore them to work for 9 hours and my feet didn’t hurt much at all. Received a lot of compliments.”
Leopard print anything is always in style. A cool cut-out detail at the ankle makes these boots look way more expensive than they actually are. Plus, they feature a Comfort Foam insole to fight off foot fatigue as you go about your day.
Courtesy of DSW
Journee Collection Gwenn Bootie
Ugg Neumel Platform Boots
Best Stylish Winter Boots for Women
Size range: 5.5-12
Colorways: Forest Night, Black, White
Materials: Faux suede
What Reviewers Say: “I love these boots I bought the forest green one, and the color is so beautiful I love them so much am gonna get the black ones as well”
Love them or hate them, the classic Ugg boot is here to stay. Its Neumel boot is the hottest boots on the market because they’re the total package. Not only are these cute winter boots, but they’re also super easy to slip on and off with the double pull tabs. They also provide neutral arch support for optimal foot health and have a textured bottom so you won’t slip. With a super cozy plush lining and waterproof leather outer, they’ll keep your feet warm and dry in frigid climates. And the liner is insulating, featuring 200 grams of wool for toasty effects at any temperature. Style them with skinny jeans, a sweater for shopping with friends, or with sweatpants and a hoodie when going to a friend’s for movie night.
Ugg Neumel Platform Boots
How to Find the Most Comfortable Ankle Boots for Women
When searching for your perfect pair, comfort is a key factor to consider, notes Dr. Jackie Sutera, Vionic Innovation Lab Member and New York-based podiatrist. “As a starting point, look for boots that have a cushioned insole with arch support,” she says. “This provides comfort and shock absorption. Also, look for a stacked or a low heel for everyday use. Avoid very flat, or platform-heeled boots as your go-to boots.”
And if you have common foot issues like bunions or hammertoes, Dr. Sutera also advises looking for options with some key features. “People with bunions, wide feet and/or hammertoes should look for styles that can accommodate the forefoot, like materials made of a mesh or a soft, forgiving leather,” she says. “These folks should also avoid toe boxes that are tight, narrow, and pointy.”
She suggests avoiding pairs with thin, flat insoles and outsoles for people who suffer from plantar fasciitis or flat feet.
As for plus-size women, who may have wide calves, finding affordable-yet-chic options can be a headache. But thankfully, a range of brands now offer a great selection.
The Different Types of Ankle Boots
Ankle boots can range in design, but they’re described as a boot that covers the whole foot up to the ankle.
Chelsea Boots: Chelsea boots are a fall wardrobe staple thanks to their easy-to-wear design and polished feel. Typically, this boot style features a close-fitting, ankle-high design with an elastic side panel. Often, they have a loop or tab of fabric on the back of the boot, enabling the boots to be pulled on. They balance practicality and style and can withstand a snowy holiday night or take on slushy streets but still look glamorous.
Hiking Boots: Infused with elements of the great outdoors, hiking boots bring an adventurous mood to any outfit. These shoes are usually crafted from rubber so you can feel good about pounding the pavement no matter which storm you have to weather. Championed by labels including Gucci, Ganni, and 3.1Phillip Lim, the key to mastering its utilitarian styles with a fashion focus is to use them to toughen up feminine style garments such as a floral summer dress.
Combat Boots: Combat boots are endlessly wearable. They feature a classic lace-up style that hits right above the ankle with a sole and heel of hard rubber. This style is a true sartorial staple, providing the perfect silhouette for everyday ease. When picking a versatile year-rounder, look for one that centers around comfort and timelessness.
Platform Boots: Chunky boots with a platform are a great option if you want to add a few inches of height, be on-trend, and stay comfortable. Top designers like Valentino, Prada, and Gucci are taking note and sending their models down the runways in this style. Plus, they’re suitable for almost all occasions if styled correctly.
Heeled Boots: Whether it’s a slouchy or structured ankle design, heeled ankle boots add a sleek edge and ensure a myriad of styling possibilities. You can style them with a mini skirt or jeans. For a timeless pair, opt for one with an almond toe, neutral color, and stacked heel.
Cowboy or Western Boots: The classic cowboy boot is making a comeback. Traditionally they’re detailed with western elements like stitching, a snip toe design, and no lacing, but with designers today iterating on the timeless style, you can expect all sorts of unexpected designs. To style them correctly, remember to keep your outfit and other accessories fairly minimal since the boot is always the focal point of your look.
Winter Boots: Nothing gets us excited about winter quite like a pair of boots. After all, these sturdy soles will become your best friend during the season. Thankfully, designers have ankle boots for every mood. And, if you’re worried about the style not keeping you as warm as a knee-high boot, don’t fret because you’re sure to find a pair or two fully lined with shearling.
Rain Boots: Over the past few years, rain boots have become more than their intended purpose. As waterproof boot, now so much more, allowing wearers to make a style statement. From Gucci’s take on North Face to Bottega Veneta’s ‘Puddle’ boots, rubber shoes became more and more a part of runway collections, and rubber grew to the most sought-after material in footwear next to leather. With this fashion change, shoppers can now find more fashionable rain boot options other than from the likes of Hunter and Burberry.
What to Look For in Ankle Boots
With so many brands in the game, there’s a comfortable and stylish ankle boot for any occasion. Therefore, it’s essential to think closely about where you’re headed because not all ankle boots are created equal, and you want to ensure your pick is the best one for you.
Material: The outsole material and lining are two essential pieces to consider when finding the right ankle boot for you. If you want to ensure your shoe has traction, look for an option with a rubber outsole that has traction. On the other hand, if you suffer from tingling or numbness in your feet, opt for a firm sole such as classic rubber.
Size: Wearing the wrong shoe size can not only be problematic when it comes to comfort, but it can also cause the shoe to break down more quickly. Plus, if you wear a shoe that’s too big, your foot will be in the wrong placement, and the arch support won’t work to your benefit. As a result, you may deal with inflammation, flat feet, or plantar fasciitis.
Design: As discussed, there are many styles of ankle boots to choose from. Before impulsively purchasing, consider where you will be wearing your ankle boots and which type is best appropriate for the situation. Typically, kitten-heeled ankle boots are best for work, interviews, and evening wear, while lug-sole boots or combat boots are an excellent choice for everyday comfort, giving your heel more surface area and protection. Chelsea boots are also a smart casual everyday option that can take you from the park uptown on the weekend to a weekday business lunch downtown.
How to Style the Best Women’s Ankle Boots
Ankle boots are the ultimate cold weather shoe. With so many different options, it’s often difficult to get sick of wearing the same tried-and-true pairs with the same tired outfits week after week. That’s why, with any trend, look to your favorite celebrities to get inspired. For instance, take a note from Kendall Jenner and rock the look by teaming your platform bootie with a tank top and wide-leg pants before the brisk temperatures roll around. You can also go be dramatic and pair your ankle boots with a fancy holiday dress, dramatic fur coat, and patent leather booties like Anne Hathaway. You can also go your own route and experiment with the metallic trend by opting for a silver bootie that styles well next to any neutral ensemble. If you’re not ready to step out of your comfort zone, black leather ankle boots will always be there for you as they continue to be a fall favorite and pair with virtually anything.
No matter which silhouette you choose, ankle boots are incredibly versatile. On days when you just can’t decide what to wear, you can reach for them to add a cool-girl touch to even the most basic outfits. They also look great with skinny jeans — no, they’re not canceled— or peeking out from underneath wide-leg pants. Last but not least, don’t forget to invest in some socks. The rule of thumb is to choose something that doesn’t show (a.k.a. mid-calf, ankle, or no show-socks).
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.
Taylor Jean Stephan is an established editor with a decade of experience covering fashion and beauty trends for publications like Refinery29, Women’s Health, Elle and more. She previously held the beauty and style editor title at E! News keeping up with all the style and beauty must-haves.
Meet the Expert
Dr. Jacquelyn Sutera is an NYC-based surgically trained doctor of podiatric medicine specializing in the prevention and treatment of foot pathology. She graduated from Fordham University with a Bachelor of Science degree in Biology and Philosophy. She later attended the New York College of Podiatric Medicine, where she earned the degree of Doctor of Podiatric Medicine (DPM). She is a proud member and spokesperson for the American Podiatric Medical Association and the New York State Podiatric Medical Society.
Best of Footwear News
The 20 Best Platform Boots to Bring Your Style to New Heights
The 31 Best Boots for Women to Feel Comfortable and Look Fashionable This Season
Sign up for FN's Newsletter. For the latest news, follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.
