What Are Chukka Boots?

What are Chukkas?

The original chukkas were a light brown. The boot had two or three lace holes, with the upper reaching the ankle. Nowadays, the term is a lot looser and can mean a range of boots and shoes of any color with no limit to the number of lace holes.  They do, however, tend to be made from thin leather or suede, have open laces, round toes, and a simple design.

Nobody really knows why they’re called chukka boots. They probably get their name from the chukka (or chukker) - a period of a polo game lasting a quarter of the total game length. As the game is actually played in knee-length riding boots, not ankle-highs, it’s all a bit of a mystery. One popular theory is that chukka boots were traditionally worn after the game. To be totally honest, nobody is 100% sure… 

A subset of the chukka is the desert boot, which you may also have heard of. Desert boots are more unstructured and casual, with a similar height and silhouette.  

 Now that you know some of the history of this timeless boot design, let’s get to the present. How exactly do you wear chukka boots, and how do you put together a great chukka boot outfit? We have plenty of ideas!

What Makes a Good Chukka Boots Outfit?

Wondering how to style chukka boots? They can work for both formal and casual events. In theory, they can go with jeans, pants, or even a suit. Generally, the tan suede ones go best with jeans. Chukka boots can also create a pulled-together and casual look with chinos. Meanwhile, polished black or brown leather chukkas have a more formal vibe - just make sure the pant leg isn’t too narrow at the ankle. 

The high ankle of the men's chukka boot means you need to be careful when you choose the width of your pants or jeans. Too narrow and they’ll get bunched up at the bottom as they won’t slide over the boots. Too loose and you could end up rocking a retro 1970s look. The chukka will always lend your outfit a formal edge, even if you’re quite informal, so always keep your bottoms long - shorts don’t tend to work, unfortunately.

What are Chukka Boots Used For?

In modern times, chukka boots are an everyday pair of ankle boots that can be dressed either formal or relaxed. Fun fact: chukka boots were historically used by British soldiers in the North African campaign to help keep the sand out while not being too heavy.

“Chukka boots” is an umbrella term for a wide range of styles, so you can wear them on formal or semi-formal occasions. If you’re going for an alternative to your sneakers, try the Men's Maple Grove Leather Chukka. For a sturdier look, go for the Men's Timberland® 1973 Newman Waterproof Chukka Boot. There are all sorts of chukka boot styles on the market.

What are Chukka Boots Used For?

The main difference between chukka boots and desert boots is the sole. Desert boots have a flat but rough crepe sole with a small heel. Chukka boots have either a leather sole or a more normal grippy rubber sole, depending on the formality.

Desert boots are actually a kind of chukka - it’s possible to trace their history back through the style. Unlike chukkas, desert boots are never really intended for formal wear – they are a much more rough and ready design, even when they are expertly made. Desert boots are almost always in a sandy or tan color with a suede finish - a nod to their wartime desert roots.

Are Chukka Boots Waterproof?

Chukka is a shape of boot, not a specific brand or product. Therefore, some are waterproof and others are not. It depends entirely on their intended use. Outdoor sports chukka boots will be waterproof but a formal pair might not be. General-purpose chukkas are usually water-resistant but not fully waterproof boots.

Outdoor-style boots are usually waterproof, so they can tackle the wet and snowy terrain. However, some of our other street chukka boots are water-resistant, too. These kinds of chukkas usually also have a deep grip so that you can be dry and sure-footed even when it’s raining.

Can You Wear These Boots in the Winter?

Chukka boots can be worn all year round. In fact, they’re ideal for winter as the high sides offer some protection against the chilly air. Be careful with classic suede chukka boots, though – they can lose their finish in rain and snow.

If you’re looking to do some outdoor work or winter hiking, you might want to consider some outdoor-style chukka boots with waterproof protection, like the Men’s Arbor Road Waterproof Chukka. They share many characteristics with our men's and women’s hiking boots but include a more urban sole.

So, Are Chukka Boots Good for Hiking?

Formal chukka boots are not meant for hiking – in fact, it could be dangerous to wear them on rough, steep terrain. If you prefer the chukka style and want hiking boots for men and women, get a pair that’s specifically designed for the activity. They really do exist!

Our Men's Maple Grove Sport Mid Hiking Boot is a chukka boot that’s  perfect for day-long hikes. It has relatively high sides for maximum comfort and stability. It also comes with a firm sole and midsole which are great for hitting the mountain trails.

Chukka footwear has a mysterious name and a military history that seamlessly functions in formal, casual or active settings, the boot goes beyond the status quo. As soon as you step into a pair, you get an instant sense of comfort, surefootedness and style that tells you without a doubt that it’s a chukka. If you love the chukka vibe, take a look through our chukka boot collection now and get ready to lace up a piece of history.