Forget pumpkin spice. Boots are the real superstar of fall. And while good ones should last for years, there’s nothing more exciting than a brand new pair that’s totally on trend.
This season there are a lot of timeless styles in the spotlight, but combat, chelsea and western styles are hitting hard. Less practical but totally swoon-worthy, structured knee-high (and higher!) stunners and slouchy styles are hot and we have to admit, it makes us feel totally validated for holding onto those skinny jeans after all. And like everything else in current fashion, 90’s inspired styles are hot as well. As far as color, black obviously never goes out of style, but light neutrals (like taupe, sand and even white) make the case for stepping (see what I did there?) out of your comfort zone. And if you’re really feeling daring, metallics are having a moment. I’m not saying every occasion calls for wearing disco balls on your feet, but I’ve had these in my cart for the past six months and I tell you, I’ve mentally styled them with more outfits than I can count. (Maybe it’s finally time to check out, no?)
I live in Vermont which, admittedly, isn’t exactly a style mecca (I mean, the most fashion buzz we’ve ever gotten was for a pair of handmade mittens.) It is, however, boot season approximately nine months out of the year, so trust me when I tell you that I’ve owned more than my fair share. I’ve spent countless hours internet shopping for styles all across the spectrum and it truly would be a shame to let that hard work go to waste.
Here are some of the not-to-be-missed fall boots of 2022
Our top fall boots this year are…
BEARPAW
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$99.99
A cozy slip on that feels like a slipper? Yes please. The wine color is so very autumnal and the sheepskin footbed makes you never want to take them off.
Timberland
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$130
These lug sole Timberlands are giving us major ’90s vibes and we’re totally here for it. (And they’re comfy too!)
Tory Birch
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$458
For a similar vibe with a little more hardware, this luxe style from Tory Burch has us swooning.
Sorel
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$180
As a Sorel devotee, I can say with confidence that their boots are made to survive the apocalypse and look good while doing it. My Joan of Arc Chelsea boots from 2019 are still going strong, but this year I’m looking for an update. I’ve got my eye on these chunky bad boys which offer a break from the traditional black options and a silhouette that’s just funky enough to be eye catching. And that pop of orange on the heel tab? So autumnal! Like the majority of their styles, the leather is waterproof and wipeable, so no need stress about your kid stepping all over your feet. (Why do they always manage to do that?)
Naturalizer
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$220
Well, well, well. If there were a pair of boots that aimed to check every Fall 2022 trend box, these would be it. Light neutral? Check. Western style? Sure thing. Knee high? You got it. Sold!
Dr. Martens
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$200
Like everything else ’90s fashion, combat-style boots are back big time. But find me a mom with the time to lace those puppies up while also doing battle with kids who can’t put their own shoes on…
That’s where this twist on Doc Marten’s classic really shines. The zip front makes them practically a slip on but you still have the option to lace them up if you want to.
Ugg
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$150
Yes, we know girls have been schlepping around in Uggs since our college days, but what can we say? They’re timeless! The shorter style had a major comeback last winter which made them super hard to come by and left the itch unscratched, personally. Since they’re now fully stocked and clearly not going anywhere, I’m adopting them as my slip-on-and-go boot for pilates and pick ups. They come in tons of colors, but this super soft sage is perfection.
Vince Camuto
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$124.99
If kicking butt and taking names is on your fall bucket list, well, this is the footwear for doing so. The mix of luxe leather textures and not-messing around shaft height says you came to slay and slay hard.
Dolce Vita
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$160
Who doesn’t love the holy matrimony of function and fashion? These block heel kicks are the perfect answer to “What kind of shoes are we supposed to wear now that skinny jeans are out ??” while their waterproof upper and chunky rubber sole make them apple orchard adventure-ready. (They also come in a bunch of colors and leather finishes as well!)
Free People
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$198
Every person needs one pair of boots with fringe in their closet. Full stop. And these colors? Come on. I’m about to pack a suitcase to Nashville just so I can trot them out the way the deserve.
Universal Thread
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$39.99
After years of coveting, I scored a pair of very similar Hasbeens on Poshmark last year. Save even more dough and scoop up these classic beauties from Target instead.
Sarto by Franco Sarto
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$210
Cowgirl booties > cowgirl boots. With their tonal stitching along the seam, pointed toe and metallic finish, this stylish pair from Sarto hits all the trends without trying too hard.
Universal Thread
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$39.99
Grey might not be the first color you think of when it comes to boots, but it’s surprisingly versatile. Grab it in this bootie style and every sweater and jeans pairing looks effortlessly on point.
Kodiak
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$180
Leave it to Canada to master the functional/fashionable boot. The country’s premiere boot maker has been in the game since 1910 and it shows. From their completely waterproof, seam-sealed upper and rugged, grippy sole to the super cute buffalo plaid lining and wrapped laces, these timeless beauties are well worth the investment and then some.
Hunter
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$150
They may be known for their stall-mucking appropriate knee-high boots, but the Hunter Chelsea is the true superstar. They’re far less cumbersome and are the only shoe that can tromp around the dog park and out for drinks with the girls without missing a beat.
Forsake
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$170
If you’re looking for something a little more rugged that lets you keep up with busy adventuring kiddos, the Sofia is your girl. She’s fashionable. She’s functional. She’s waterproof and comfy and fit with a rubber sole that can do anything from climb a mountain to trek across the grocery store.
Aerosoles
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$170
Every mom needs a pair of puddle-ready boots. Of course there’s always the classic Hunter style, but frankly we’re feeling this chic matte option from Aerosoles. Not only are the sure to be supremely comfy, they guarantee you won’t show up to the pumpkin patch looking like every other mud-ready mama.
Softwalk
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$174.95
Practical but polished, these knee high equestrian-inspired boots have a rubber sole to keep you from slipping while you wander through the leaves.
Seychelles
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$159
Let’s normalize everyday sparkle from here on out, ok? Seriously, there is nothing stopping you from adopting these glittery gals as your signature style. They’re surprisingly easy to incorporate into all kinds of wardrobe styles, including a T-shirt and jeans. Especially a T-shirt and jeans. They’re an instant punch up with little effort and check multiple 2022 style boxes.
Azalea Wang
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$99.90
Look at you, trendsetter. Pair these thigh high, chunky lug sole numbers with everything from your favorite leggings and 90s flannel to tunic style sweater dresses and be on point all season long.
Soludos
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$155
We’re loving the wrap-front style of this simple bootie from Soludos. The brand gets top marks for their all day comfort that requires no breaking in.
Madden Girl
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$79.99
Gucci taste on a Target budget? (Me too, friend. Me too.) These stylish Trip-dupes are just what the doctor ordered. And look at it this way. You’re not spending 80 bucks—you’re saving $1,020.
This article is sponsored by HSN. Thank you for supporting the brands that support Motherly and mamas.
A version of this story was published September 30, 2021. It has been updated.