If you want to learn about different types of boots for women, as well as boot style and boot length names, your search is over!
I’ll walk you through all of the different types of boots for women, from ankle boots to knee boots to trendy styles like combat and cozy shearling boots. You’ll never have to wonder again, “what are those boots called?”
We’ve already discussed the various types of women’s shoes available on shoe-tease.com, as well as the various types of women’s heels.
So it was only natural that I write a comprehensive guide to various types of women’s boots for you as well. Especially since I’ve already written about these 27 incredible boot quotes!
You’ll become acquainted with all of the boot style names, boot shapes, and heights that are available. Each type of boot will be illustrated, so you’ll gain some visual knowledge from this guide as well. Not to mention some styles of women’s boots that you can buy and wear!
How many different kinds of boots are there? Let’s just say there are a lot of them. I’ve been in the shoe industry for over 15 years, and the sheer variety of women’s boots astounds even me!
A Condensed History of Boots for Women:
Around 1000BC, the first boots as we know them today appeared. Previously, “boots” were made up of three distinct parts: soles, uppers, and a type of legging that wrapped around the legs.
Women did not begin to wear boots until the nineteenth century. They were not considered a high fashion item until the swinging 1960s. Of course, women’s boot history has been – well, history!
Popular Women’s Boot Brands
Reading from here, you will notice how many different types of boot types available to women there are. However, not all women’s boots are made equally. Below are a few notable boot brands that are famous for both quality and style, below:
- Stuart Weitzman
- Taos
- Frye
- Aquatalia
- EMU Australia
- Sorel
- Geox
- Rockport
- Marc Fisher
- UGG
- Doc Martens
- Hunter Boots
- Timberland
- Blundstone
- Jeffrey Campbell
>>> See more: Best Boot Oil For Leather Boots – Top 5 Hot Hit
18+ Different Types of Boots for Women
Boots for the Ankle
Boots are available in a variety of shaft and heel heights. Many types of women’s boots are named after how much of the foot and leg they cover. This is the case with ankle boots, which are a type of boot that extends a few inches above the ankle.
When ankle boots were first introduced in 1804 they were made of silk and satin. Shoemakers eventually used leather, which, along with nubuk and suede, is now a popular material for ankle boots.
Ankle boots are now available in a variety of bright colors and metallics, including gold. Some are studded and even embroidered, such as these Valentino ones. Many have animal prints on them, such as snakes.
Western-inspired ankle boots and lug-soled Chelsea boots, among others mentioned in this post, are currently popular ankle boots.
Boots for the Knees
If ankle coverage isn’t your thing, knee-high boots are an option. They are made from a variety of materials, including leather, suede, and fabric, and they end just above or below the knee.
Knee boots didn’t become a fashionable boot style for women until 1913, when socialite Denise Poiret sashayed around New York in her Moroccan leather boots.
Over-the-knee boots briefly surpassed women’s knee boots in popularity in 2019, but are now more popular than ever! Straight leg boots with room around the ankle, as shown in the photo above, are currently popular knee boots.
Knee boots go with everything and are my favorite boots for sweater dresses!
Stuart Weitzman’s 50/50 boot is a popular choice for those who prefer a more snug fit.
Boots that are tall (Over-the-Knee Boots)
Speaking of which, tall boots are another type of women’s boot. These boots, also known as over-the-knee boots, were created to protect horseback riders’ legs from injury.
Until the 18th century, they were a type of boot only worn by men. As mentioned in the section on knee boots, it wasn’t until the 1960s that they became more popular for women as well.
Thigh-high boots were once associated with courtesans and ladies of the night, especially Julia Roberts’ character. However, they became a fashion phenomenon for everyday wear for celebrities and ordinary people in 2016.
Ariana Grande is a prime example. She’s a huge fan of Stuart Weitzman’s Highland boot. Tall boots look great with flowy maxi dresses, sweater dresses, and mini skirts paired with voluminous sweaters.
Boots with Short Legs
Short boots are exactly that – short! The shaft is short, so they end just above or below the ankle. They’re also known as booties and are classified as an ankle boot. Most of the time, they resemble a tallish shoe rather than a boot.
Boots from Chelsea
Chelsea boots are a style of women’s shoe designed by renowned shoemaker Joseph Sparkes Hall. In the late 1890s, they were not known as Chelsea boots.
The name was inspired by Chelsea, the epicenter of the Swinging London revolution. After all, the boot style was popularized during Chelsea’s heyday in the 1950s and 1960s.
Chelsea boots have an elastic panel on the side, which distinguishes them from other ankle boots. Most have a loop or tab at the back heel that allows them to be easily removed.
Chelsea boots are more popular than ever right now, especially with thick lug-soles. They’re also available in mid-height and knee-high boot styles. But don’t forget the classic Blundstone’s weatherized version!
Boots with a High Heel
A high heeled boot can be any type of classic boot! High heel ankle boots, knee boots, and even over-the-knee boots are all considered high heel boots if they have a 2inch or higher heel. If the boot shaft ends just below the ankle, it’s called a bootie.
High heel boots come in as many varieties as there are high heels for women! These are some examples:
- Kitten Heel Boots
- Block Heel Boots
- Stiletto Boots
- Wedge Heel Boots
- Platform Boots
- Boots with a wedge
Wedge boots are a specific style of heeled boot. A wedge boot is one with a special heel known as a ‘wedge.’ This is where the raised heel is permanently attached to the boot’s outsole without a break. Wedge boots are a popular winter boot style.
In the early 1930s, Salvatore Ferragamo is said to have invented the wedge shoe to serve an orthopedic function. He used wood and cork because leather and rubber were in short supply during the war. Wedge heels are more commonly found in women’s dress shoes than in boots.
Boots with Socks
Sock boots get their name from the knit or jersey fabric that fits snugly around your ankle and legs, just like a sock.
They’re made from a variety of materials, ranging from plush suede to opulent leather. Fabric and neoprene are used in some styles.
Sock boots, while most commonly seen as ankle boots, can also come in a variety of boot shaft heights. Some are even available in thigh high versions. They are the type of boot that can look great with both casual and formal attire.
While most sock boots are available in neutral colors, they are also available in a variety of unique colors, including metallic gold. The most popular styles are black stretch neoprene, knit, or stretch suede with stiletto, block, or clear heels.
Boots for Riding
While riding boots are traditionally used for horseback riding, they are no longer limited to that purpose and are a great type of boot for ladies who want to exude a pretty, country club vibe. Derby boots are another name for them.
Style riding boots go well with many outfits, including shirt dresses and sweater dresses, and they look great with skinny jeans or straight leg jeans for casual occasions.
Even if you’re not planning on going horseback riding anytime soon, these boots will make you feel safe – and stylishly posh. Riding boots are used by many high-end designers in their current collections. I’ve seen Khaite’s all-black minimal riding boot everywhere!
Boots for Combat
Combat boots are tough, purposeful footwear worn during – you guessed it – combat or combat training. They were designed to meet the specific requirements of those fighting in the English Civil War.
Combat boots were used in the War of 1812 in the United States. They can, however, be traced all the way back to when the Romans wore their caligae hobnail boots.
They are now one of the most popular types of ladies’ boots. They’re very popular nowadays, with a lug sole and a variety of finishes. But nothing beats the classic look of a black combat boot!
Waterproof combat boots for women are also available to keep you dry in the rain and snow.
It’s no surprise that Katie Holmes, Bella Hadid, and other fashionable women adore them because of their grip and stability.
The great thing about combat boots is that they go with everything. Check out my post on how to wear combat boots to learn how to style them!
Motorcycle Boots
Moto boots, an abbreviation for motorcycle boots, were originally made of tough leather to ensure the safety of their motorcycle-riding wearers. The chunky heel of this type of boot aids in bike control while pedaling.
While they serve an important purpose for motorcyclists, they are also an excellent choice for women. And why shouldn’t they? They are available in a variety of styles, ranging from ankle height to just below the knees. They typically feature a zipper and a buckle across the front of the ankle.
I love that they are stylishly rugged for a combat boot, making them perfect for any outfit and a great choice for winter if treated for water resistance!
Boots for hiking
Hiking boots are boots designed for people who enjoy the great outdoors and perform well when trekking over uneven terrain. For the fall, I love wearing my winterized ones! They have grippy, thicker tread soles and are tall enough to reach the ankles.
Although they were initially designed for men – weren’t they all? – it wasn’t long before women began to seek them out as well. Their distinguishing feature is the rugged metallic hooked eyelets. They are available in a variety of styles, materials, and colorways.
Wellington Rain Boots
Boots for Rain
Wellington rain boots were named after the Duke of Wellington and were inspired by leather Hessian boots. Instead of leather, they’re made of water-resistant rubber.
While mud boots are intended for outdoor use, such as fishing in shallow water, they also serve a fashion function. Hunter Boots have completely transformed the Wellington boot game and are worn by fashionistas worldwide.
As you can see from my post about Silver Hunter rain boots, I am one of them! However, many other brands, such as Kamik, which I’m wearing in the Jennifer rain boot review, offer chic and affordable tall rubber rain boot styles.
Rain Boots for the Ankle
Ankle rain boots are a more subtle way to wear rain boots. Ankle rain boots come in a variety of styles, but the most common are rubber Chelsea boot versions or slip-on versions.
What’s the best part about low rain boots? Because they’re made of plastic or rubber, they’re simple to clean with soap and water. Ankle rain boots come in a variety of fun and sophisticated prints.
Boots for cowboys
Cowboy boots have long been a popular boot style for both men and women. However, in 2022, these and other western-inspired boots are gaining popularity in the fashion world.
Many are wearing both contemporary and western-style dresses with cowboy boots, while others are borrowing ideas from Princess Diana’s style book, such as pairing them with mom jeans and blazers.
A pair of cowboy boots represents the United States better than any other type of footwear. However, this style of boot has taken the fashion world by storm!
Cowboy boots are a type of riding boot that typically has a high shaft and leather stacked. They lack laces and frequently have a round or pointed toe shape, as well as an angled heel. Cowboy boots are traditionally made of tough leather.
Boots for Ropers
Fashionable shoppers can now choose between two distinct styles. One is the previously mentioned classic, western design. A Roper is a type of western boot with a shorter shaft that ends at the ankle.
They’re essentially an ankle-length cowboy boot. Many fashion houses have jumped on the roper trend. Yee-haw!
Boots Made of Shearling
Shearling boots, also known as sheepskin boots, have a luxurious feel to them – and traditional styles are pricey to match. They are known as shearling boots because they are lined with shearling, which is derived from a sheep or lamb.
Most people think of UGG’s classic shearling boots when they think of shearling boots. These boots were originally worn by surfers to keep warm after early-morning sessions, and they are now worn as slippers in Australia.
The rest of the world has adopted shearling boots as all-season outdoor footwear. Sheepskin boots are now available in a variety of styles, not just the classic slip-on boot, and are manufactured by many Australian shoe brands, including EMU Australia.
Check out my post on how to clean UGG boots and other shearling boots!
Boots for Snow
Snow boots are boots that have been winterized and are ideal for walking in the snow. They’re both waterproof and warm. Some styles even include a temperature rating to indicate how cold you can go in the boots.
Snow boots have excellent outsole traction to keep you from slipping on ice and snow. Some even have sole grips and spikes to help with traction in wet conditions.
Snow boots are available in a variety of styles and are a must-have for anyone who lives in a colder climate, such as myself! Most city styles are ankle length, but many are a few inches above the knee.
There are far too many brands of snow boots to list here.
EMU Australia makes some of the warmest winter boots on the market. For a great selection, see my post on the best Canadian winter boots.
Remember to learn how to store winter boots for the summer so they’re ready for the next snowfall!
Boots for Sneakers
I promised not to discuss boot hybrids in this post, but it’s difficult to ignore sneaker boots. They are a cross between a high top sneaker and a boot, with a thicker sole.
Many of them are insulated and can also be worn as a winter boot. Some sneaker boots feature traditional laces, bungee cord laces, a slip-on design, or a side zipper. They’re an excellent substitute for a bulkier winter boot.
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How to Take Care of Boots to Make Them Last Longer
Boot care is essential for extending the look, feel, and use of your boots! Especially with our favorite boots, which are easily damaged.
My winter boots are no exception; they are likely to take the brunt of the damage from the snow, slush, and salt. Yuck! That is why, both before and during wear, boot maintenance is critical.
If you haven’t already, treat your boots when you first get them. Snow boots, as well as waterproof boots, are typically pre-treated. However, for those who aren’t, using treatments such as leather conditioners to preserve the material is critical.
Use a waterproof spray if your boots aren’t waterproof but you know you’ll be out in the elements. To get you started, here is my post on the best waterproof sprays for boots on the market.
Once you’ve started wearing your new boots, make sure to clean them after each use and treat stains – especially those caused by salt – as soon as possible. Check out how to clean suede shoes to learn how to get those pesky salt stains out of your suedes and nubuks.
And don’t forget to properly store your winter boots when you’re done with them for the season – or for the day!
Final Thoughts
I hope you have a good idea of what boots are available now that I’ve given you plenty to think about when it comes to the various types of boots and boot styles for women.
Of course, this isn’t the complete list of women’s boots. This is due to the fact that many of the above-mentioned boot styles can be a combination of boot styles with a variety of heels, finishes, and details.
If you must, call them fusion boots! As a result, the total number of different types of boots is virtually limitless.
It just goes to show how difficult it can be to get dressed in the right boots for your outfit. It is, at least, for me! Check out my shoe styling posts to learn how to pair the perfect shoes with your outfit.
Which boots are your current favorites? Are there any types of women’s boots that I may have overlooked? Please let me know in the comments section below!
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