Who said boots can’t be convenient? Here’s why slip-on boots might be your new favorite winter footwear.
Most types of boots were designed to hold up to inclement weather and intense activity.
This is why they often come with extra-long shoestrings — the added length ensures that the boots you can lace all the way up, supports different tying styles, and prevents the footwear from coming loose.
But for plenty of guys today, tying boots is more of a curse than a blessing. If you’re wearing boots casually and aren’t venturing out in tundra-like weather, you probably don’t need all that security.
Enter the slip-on boot. This style of boot eschews laces to provide a level of convenience you don’t get with most boots.
Most slip-on boots can be put on without using hands, while others just require a little tug that takes two seconds. (Technically, the latter category is pull-on boots, but many pull-ons can be easily slipped on).
The term slip-on boot is often used to describe Chelsea boots, but Chelsea isn’t the only kind of slip-on boot out there.
I’ve picked out 12 of the best slip-on boots for men you can buy right now and compiled them into this handy list, so read on if you’re looking for a convenient boot option.
Quick Take
Here are our recommendations from the list:
The Duke boot shines for its style and performance, coming in leather or WeatherSafe™ suede with durable Goodyear welt construction.
Crocs All Cast Rain Boots has simple all-rubber construction that keeps water out and is cushioned for comfort. At around $50 mark, these are the most budget friendly boots you can find.
These Goodyear-welted boots, made of oiled leather with Vibram® outsoles and EVA cushioning, blend work, cowboy, and rain boot styles for a versatile addition to your footwear collection.
Read on for more info and the complete list…
12 of the Best Slip-on Boots for Men
From lightweight casual to heavy-duty winter boots, here are my picks for the best slip-on men’s boots:
Best Men’s Everyday Slip-on Boots: The Chelsea From Amberjack
Are you looking for a versatile slip-on boot that takes you from desk to dusk? Look no further than The Chelsea from Amberjack.
Not only is this book sleek and stylish, but it also ranks high in comfortability. Inside, Amberjack uses a heat-activated foam arch support so it molds to your foot.
On the exterior, the dual-density outsole uses a blend of performance athletic technology and hiking boot materials. No matter the mileage you put on your feet, they won’t tire out.
Amberjack offers The Chelsea in 9 different colors. Whether you’re looking for an everyday boot or something to fill the style gap in your closet, The Chelsea has you covered.
Best Men’s Slip-On Rain Boots: Crocs Men’s AllCast Rain Boot
Crocs deserves a lot more credit than it gets. Look past the infamous clogs and find surprisingly good footwear options like the AllCast Rain Boot.
As far as rain boots go, the AllCast is pretty sleek. The clearly Wellington-inspired design is understated enough to work with a variety of outfits.
In terms of construction, this waterproof boot uses Crocs’s proprietary Croslite™ foam to provide comfort in a minimal package. For around $40, it’s hard to go wrong with this slip-on rain boot.
Best Men’s Slip-on Mud Boots: Muck Boot Company Men’s Chore Mid
While Muck Boot Company makes great winter boots, the brand is mostly known for its “muckproof” boots. The Chore Mid stands out as a reliable slip-on boot that’s ideal for muddy, swampy conditions.
The Chore Mid features a breathable mesh lining that facilitates airflow and an easy-to-clean rubber outsole that provides grip for slippery surfaces.
And while it’s made with function in mind, the Chore Mid doesn’t look half bad. It’s no Chelsea, but it will fit right into a workwear-inspired wardrobe — throw on a flannel and a pair of jeans, and you’ll be good to go.
Best Men’s Slip-on Work Boots: Danner Romeo
What if you cut off the top part of a Chelsea boot? That’s the question the Danner Romeo answers, and the result is much more stylish than you’d imagine.
This slip-on boot was designed for contractors, so it’s built to last with a full-grain leather upper, stitch-down construction, an oil- and slip-resistant outsole, and electrical hazard protection.
Even though the Romeo is such a rugged boot, you wouldn’t know by looking at it. It’s a fresh and feature-packed alternative to a traditional Chelsea boot, and it’s also affordably priced.
Best Men’s Everyday Slip-on Boots: KEEN Men’s Anchorage III Waterproof Boot
Consider the Anchorage III from KEEN if you’re looking for one slip-on boot that can do it all. With a hardy leather upper, a warmth-capturing insole, and a high-traction outsole, the Anchorage III can tackle everything from wet weather to blizzards.
Two of KEEN’s technologies are hard at work here. The KEEN.DRY membrane provides breathability while keeping water out. At the same time, the KEEN.WARM insulation keeps your feet toasty (even when the boots get damp).
The Chelsea-style look is both versatile and practical, and the build quality is excellent for the price point. Overall, the Anchorage III is a fantastic choice for a jack-of-all-trades boot.
Best Men’s Stylish Slip-on Boots: Blundstone BL550 Classic 550 Chelsea Boot
It’s easy to see why the Classic 550 Chelsea Boot from Blundstone is widely regarded as one of the most fashionable boots — the 550 is pretty much the definitive Chelsea silhouette.
With double pull tabs, sturdy elastic goring, and a cushioned midsole, the Classic 550s tick all the right boxes. The boots are also water resistant (but not waterproof), so they won’t get ruined in the rain.
Like most Chelseas, the 550s aren’t the most hardwearing boots out there, but they’re spectacular for wearing casually and hold up well after years of use.
Best Men’s Slip-on Winter Boots: Muck Boot Company Men’s Arctic Sport Mid Boot
The Original Muck Boot Co.® has been making gunk-resistant boots for decades, and as it turns out, the company also makes some of the best men’s slip-on winter boots..
The Arctic Sport Mid is a 100% waterproof boot with fleece-covered neoprene insulation, thermal foam, and a cushioned midsole. Thanks to the stretchy binding, the boots fit snugly without moving around.
These boots aren’t ideal for subzero temps or icy conditions but are excellent as general winter boots. Go for the Arctic Sport Mid if you live in a climate with harsher winters and want a pair of trusty boots you can throw on at a moment’s notice.
Best Men’s Vegan Slip-On Boots: Will’s Vegan Store-Insulated Waterproof Chelsea Boots
If you’ve ever looked for animal-free men’s shoes before, you’ve probably come across Will’s Vegan Store. This London-based vegan powerhouse has been providing alternatives to leather footwear since 2012.
The brand’s Insulated Waterproof Chelsea Boots are nicely balanced, offering stylish protection from wet and snowy conditions. With waterproof uppers, faux fur lining, and thick rubber outsoles, these Chelseas provide ample durability and comfort.
Will’s claims that these insulated boots will keep your feet warm down to -7.6° F/-22° C, which is really impressive for a completely vegan boot.
Best Men’s Slip-On Snow Boots: Baffin IMPACT Men’s Boot
For boots that can handle everything winter can bring, it makes sense to look to the Great White North, a landscape that requires heavy-duty snow gear. That’s something Baffin knows well — the Canadian brand has been manufacturing tough-as-nails boots since 1979.
In particular, Baffin’s IMPACT Men’s Boot packs a serious punch. It packs in an almost comical amount of technology to protect your feet from even the most brutal winters.
It features a multi-layer insulation system, an extra-grippy outsole, and a locking snow collar. As if that weren’t enough, the snowshoe-compatible IMPACT has also been tested at the North and South Poles.
It’s a bit pricey, but if you need what is quite possibly the ultimate snow boot, look no further.
Best Men’s Goodyear Welt Slip-on Boots: Thursday Boot Co. Duke
Thursday Boot Co. was founded in 2014 and quickly became one of the most talked-about contemporary boot brands. Today, Thursday is as popular as ever, and it’s never lost sight of its mission to provide affordable, high-quality footwear.
The brand offers several Chelseas, and while they’re all great in their own ways, the Duke boot is getting the spotlight for its stylish design and solid performance. Offered in leather or WeatherSafe™ suede options, the Duke boasts the much-loved Goodyear welt construction for durability and longevity.
Cork midsoles, a glove leather interior, and studded rubber outsoles round out the spec list. In short, the Duke is worth a look if you’re looking to upgrade your footwear without spending a fortune.
Best Men’s Heritage Slip-On Boots: Filson Roper Boots
Since 1897, Filson has been making long-lasting American outerwear and workwear, and its Roper Boots carry on that legacy with their Wild West charm and fantastic construction.
These Goodyear-welted boots have oiled leather and feature Vibram® outsoles with EVA cushioning. Stylistically, they’re somewhere between work boots, cowboy boots, and rain boots — in other words, they’re versatile enough to earn a spot in your footwear rotation.
At $400, these boots aren’t budget by any means, but they offer Filson’s legendary quality and are made to last a lifetime.
Best Men’s Western Slip-on Boots: Ariat WorkHog Pull-on Work Boot
Have you ever wanted cowboy boots that can withstand the demands of the construction site? The WorkHog Pull-on Work Boot from Ariat might just be for you.
These western-style boots combine Americana flair with a more modern workwear look. They don’t just look fancy, either — their specs include Goodyear welt construction, lightweight EVA midsoles, and pressure-dispersing technology.
While the WorkHog isn’t for everyone, it fills a niche that few other boots do, so it’s a good choice if you want old-fashioned looks with modern performance.
Slip-on Boot FAQs
Here are some quick answers to common questions about slip-on boots:
Are slip-on boots good for walking?
Since slip-on boots are designed with convenience in mind, most of them are ideal for walking. For maximum comfort, look for boots with features like cushioned insoles.
Do slip-on boots provide ankle support?
Generally, the taller the boot shaft, the more ankle support it will provide — so if you’re after ankle support, look for a taller slip-on boot.
Conclusion: Slip-On Boots are Functional and Fashionable
Although slip-on boots are nothing new, they don’t often get highlighted. And that’s a shame because these boots provide a ton of convenience.
Slip-on boots probably won’t replace a good pair of hardy lace-up boots, but they’re nice to have around so you can pop them on to dash outside, do housework, or run errands.
Questions? Comments? Leave them below!
Ask Me Anything