Let’s be honest – wearing boots in the summer can be a challenge. They’re usually bulky, hot and the last things you want to slip your feet into when the temps rise. But legend has it that, there is a boot where such concerns disappear. A light, breathable boot that permanently became a fashion staple in the 1950s. This boot of legend has come to be known as the Chukka Boot.
Launched in 1949, Clark’s modeled their Desert Boot after the boots worn by the British Army in their desert campaign of WW2. It was unique, distinct, and comfortable, with a soft crepe rubber outsole and an unstructured upper made of suede or calfskin. Each wearer’s feet would shape the boot as it was worn.
The Chukka was permanently entrenched in modern-day cool when Steve McQueen wore a pair of the Sanders “Playboy” Chukka in Bullitt and the Thomas Crown Affair movies. The rest, as they say, is history. Today, the Chukka is still as hot as it ever was, and works great with a huge variety of styles. You can dress your chukkas up and down. They work just as well with a t-shirt and a pair of jeans as they do with dress pants and a button-down. Their minimal nature doesn’t feel overwhelming in any environment, and although you can rock them in the summer, they are absolutely perfect for the transition into fall and winter. Check out some of my favorite ways to style them with Whiskers below!
––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––
Here we have the Hush Puppies Chukka Boot paired with Whiskers 29” Boot laces. I just love how the laces pop against the green suede. The lace takes this classic boot to the next level.
The next boot came from a new source for me. It’s The Chill Chukka from Johnnie-O. The athletic DNA of this chukka provides a fresh take on an old classic. Add in the Whiskers laces and you have a lethal combination at work or on date night.
Now is a great time to invest in a pair of Chukkas. They are a great addition to your closet, and you will find them to be versatile boots that you can (and will) wear all year round.
