The 12 Best Men's Chelsea Boots: Blundstone, Thursday Boot Co. and More

Today's best men's Chelsea boots are the perfect balance of rugged and refined. They create a unique aesthetic that falls somewhere between chic and badass and can look just as good with worn-in men's jeans as they do with a three-piece suit. Despite the Chelsea boot's popularity today among men, it has an illustrious past that dates back to 19th century Great Britain.

Once favored by royalty and prized as a useful horse-riding boot, the Chelsea—a pull-on style with elastic panels, or gores, and a back heel tab—has since been transposed into many variations. Dressier versions were popularized in the US in the '60s with the rise of The Beatles, who frequently wore black leather Chelsea boots with a Cuban block heel (dubbed the Beatle boot). At the same time in Australia, a brand called Blundstone had put a workwear spin on it, creating what would become known as the #500 that's still one of the best Chelsea boots for men today.

You'll also find men's Chelsea boots in a variety of materials, including textured suede and tough, tumbled leather. Dressier Chelsea boots will employ a full leather sole for its cleaner lines whereas others will draw inspiration from the workwear element and use a thick, lugged rubber or crepe sole for added traction and durability.

Whether it's your first or fifteenth pair, narrowing down the options can be overwhelming. These are Men's Journal's favorite pairs of Chelsea boots for men right now based on versatility, longevity, and comfort.

The Best Men's Chelsea Boots of 2024