The Best Chukka Boots – British Military Style Desert Boots

By David Alegeta · On November 13, 2019 · Updated: December 27, 2019

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Chukka boots are ankle-high boots that have a suede or leather uppers and a leather or rubber outsole; the lacing system usually has two or three pairs of distinct eyelets.

The name Chukka is derived from the game of polo where a period of play is called a chukker. The best chukka boots are the ones that have a very thin rubber or leather sole for a more minimalist feel.

The Desert Chukka Boot

The Chukka boot is a timeless and traditional classic men’s footwear that originated all the way from World War II.

These boots are lightweight and offer a good grip that you can wear for any occasion, the Desert Chukka boot is a fashionable and elegant choice.

The Desert boot always has a crepe rubber sole and suede uppers and are used by soldiers in various bush and desert wars. Desert boots became popular in the 1950s and later on became a very popular footwear item in South Africa which was worn by almost every farmer known as a veldskoen or “vellies”.

How To Wear a Chukka Boot or Desert Boot

There are different styles of Chukka Boots available for more formal occasions and professional in-office occupations a dress style Chukka boot that is more elegant and classy, worn with a suit should do the trick.

For casual encounters and every day where the traditional style Chukka boot can be worn with a pair of Jeans or Chinos and a T-shirt or comfortable button-up shirt.

There are also more sporty styled casual Chukka boots that can be worn with shorts and jeans for a more comfortable and casual look.

Whatever the occasion you can make a pair of Chukka boots work for you, stick to the traditional basics and you will never be out of fashion

Unique Features of the Chukka Boot

They are always just ankled high
The uppers are made from calfskin or suede traditionally but can be made from other materials.
They feature a lace-up system with two to three eyelets only.
They have a very thin rubber or leather sole for more minimalist feel.

Style & Materials used in a Chukka Boot Traditionally

Chukka boots are traditionally made from soft and supple calfskin or suede although today they are made from many other materials. The Chukka boot became popular in the late 1940s throughout the 1960s as casual footwear.

Today Chukka boots are still a very popular choice in men’s footwear and come in a large variety of styles and colors, from formal dress styles to casual and sporty styles.
According to historians the essential and traditional style of a Chukka boot is the ankle height, open lacing with two or three eyelets, a thin leather sole, calfskin suede uppers that are unlined and a rounded toe.

Reviews: Best Chukka Boots

Here are some of the best selling Chukka boots you should consider;

Clarks Men's Bushacre 2 - Desert Chukka Boot

Reviewed by: David Alegeta Score: 98.6

Clarks have been making some of the finest and most comfortable dress shoes for men in an enormous variety of styles. The Chukka boot from Clarks called the Bushacre is a stylish and quality made shoe.

Soft and supple leather uppers for comfort and durability.
A durable synthetic sole.
An ankle-high style boot that can be worn for any occasion.
The slight heel offers added stability and class.
Available in a large variety of colors suiting any style preference.

Timberland Men's Kendrick - Versatile Chukka Boots

The ideal pair of boots to pair with a formal or casual outfit. The Timberland Kendrick are comfortable Chukka boots of the finest quality.

Durable and comfortable leather uppers that feature a sleek two eyelet lace-up system with contrasting welt stitching and leather accented heel for durability and unmatched style.
These Chukka boots are Waterproof!
Pull-on ribbon loop ensures easy to pull on of these boots for a quick and comfortable fit.
The synthetic sole has a slight heel for more stability and a sleek appearance.
There are many colors available to choose from.

Score: 96 By David Alegeta

Clarks Men's Originals - Chukka Desert Boot

For a comfortable and supportive fit in a stunning and classic shoe, the Clarks Chukka Desert Boot is inspired by the crepe-soled boots used by the British Officers in World War 2.

Iconic leather uppers with natural variations for the perfect traditional desert boot style and a comfortable fit.
The Genuine Plantation crepe outsole is durable and delivers all-day comfort and support.
An added leather-covered EVA footbed cushions your feet and keeps them dry and comfortable.
Suede lined counter promotes heel stability, and the Nature-Formed last allows you wiggle and stretching room for your toes.

Score: 96 By David Alegeta

Rockport Men's Ledge Heel 2 - Chukka Boot

The Rockport Ledge Heel Chukka Boot has a more professional and formal style with a luxurious comfort and shock absorbing system for a long day on your feet.

A lace-up Chukka boot manufactured from the finest quality leather with blind eyelets and a contrast midsole stripe.
The outsole is made from synthetic materials and has a stylish stacked heel for better stability and comfort.
The EVA outsole and midsole ensure maximum shock absorption and comfort for all-day wear.
A Dewix bacteria-resisting lining helps to reduce odor and prevent foot infections.
There are different colors to choose from to meet your personal requirements.

Score: 97 By David Alegeta

Rockport Men's ZoneCush - Plain Toe Chukka Boot

A cuasual and lightweight shoe, the Rockport ZoneCush is made for comfort and durability.

Durable and comfortable leather uppers with a lace up system.
The rubber sole ensures excellent traction and durability.
The perforated padded collar will provide you with breathable comfort and a snug fit.
Available in dark brown and tan.

Score: 95 By David Alegeta

Merrell Men's Freewheel - Cushioned Chukka Sneakers

The Merrell Freewheel offers a much sleeker and sporty spin on the classic traditional design of the Chukka Boot.

Durable and comfortable pig suede uppers for robust performance.
A canvas lining is keeping your feet dry and protected.
The EVA removable footbed ensures cushioned comfort and allows you the freedom to use your orthotics.
The cycle tread rubber outsole ensures excellent traction and grip.
A molded nylon arch shank for added support and stability.
The Merrell Air Cushion in the heel reduces impact by absorbing shock and improving stability.
Five stunning colors available.

Score: 96 By David Alegeta

UGG Men's Neumel - Warmest Winter Chukka Boots

The UGG Neumel Chukka replaces the Old Mel model, and it has an updated look and features;

Classic chukka outsole with a low, sleek profile.
Uppers: Genuine suede twin face made of the best quality materials.
Internal material is a genuine sheepskin that naturally wicks away moisture and keeps you warm in winter.
It is very flexible and lightweight boot.

Score: 95 By David Alegeta

Vivobarefoot Men's Gobi - Minimalist Chukka Boots

Score: 96 By David Alegeta

Index Table: Top Rated Chukka Boots

No.	Shoe	Brand	Features	Score
1	Clarks Men's Bushacre 2 - Desert Chukka Boot	Leather Slight Heel	Clarks	98.6
2	Timberland Men's Kendrick - Versatile Chukka Boots	Leather Pull-on Loop Waterproof	Timberland	96
3	Clarks Men's Originals - Chukka Desert Boot	EVA Footbed Toe Room Crepe Sole	Clarks	96
4	Rockport Men's Ledge Heel 2 - Chukka Boot	Lightweight EVA Outsole Shock Absorbent Leather	Rockport	97
5	Rockport Men's ZoneCush - Plain Toe Chukka Boot	Rubber Sole Leather Padded Collar	Rockport	95
6	Merrell Men's Freewheel - Cushioned Chukka Sneakers	Lined EVA Footbed Nylon Shank Air Cushion	Merrell	96
7	UGG Men's Neumel - Warmest Winter Chukka Boots	Lightweight and Flexible Genuine Sheepskin	UGG	95
8	Vivobarefoot Men's Gobi - Minimalist Chukka Boots	Thermal Insole Durable & Light	Vivobarefoot	96