Rubber boots bring to mind rainy days, umbrellas, puddles, and the iconic Hunter brand. Established more than 150 years earlier, the British Hunter company makes boots in a variety of styles, colors, and sizes. Hunter Chelsea-style boots have all of the properties you want in a rain boot, but with a shorter profile and dual goring.
Chelsea boots date back to the Victorian era where they were supposedly created by the bookmaker to Queen Victoria. It is said that she considered them her walking shoes and they were worn by both men and women. Traditionally made from leather, Chelsea-style boots differentiate from other types of ankle boots by the elastic panels on either side of the close-fitting ankle. Mens Hunter Chelsea boots, for example, contain the trademark pull tab on the upper ankle by the heel, aiding the wearer in pulling them on the foot.
Throughout history, Chelsea boots have been the footwear of choice for many superstars including the Rolling Stones, and the Beatles – although they modified the design a bit to be fully leather and to ride a bit higher on each leg. Other derivations of the Chelsea boot include adding a Cuban heel, making the toe more pointed instead of rounded, and the addition of a seam running up the top middle of the boot.
An interesting fact about Chelsea boots – they were the footwear of choice for the Storm Troopers in the 1970s movie, “Star Wars.” Not surprising since Chelsea boots offer more flexibility and are easy off, easy on.
Chelsea boots are popular amongst various demographics today and popular amongst men and women. The clean lines and versatility of these boots make them a must-have for your wardrobe, whether you’re male, female, or a child.
We’ve reviewed some of the most popular Chelsea boots below, offering time-proven value.
Comparison Chart
Hunter Womens Refined Chelsea Boot
Features
- Imported from the UK
- 1.25” Heel
- Cushioned insole.
- Pull-on with Pull-tab on the rear edge.
- Textile lined.
- Buckle for decorative purposes only.
Fits as expected 100% of the time.
This pretty and versatile boot is designed for both comfort and to add a splash of color and beauty to your day. The tiny floral print pairs perfectly with skirts, pants, or leggings. Add a pair of Hunter Boots socks for added comfort and warmth.
Hunter Original Chelsea (Toddler/Little Kid)
Features
- Manmade Inner Lining
- Vulcanized All Natural Rubber
- Top opening measures 10” around
- Waterproof
- Modeled after the original Hunter Chelsea boot.
- Nylon pull tabs on the front and back.
- Calendered sole for the non-slip tread.
- 4.5” Height
Fits as expected approximately 86% of the time.
With the Hunter logo proudly displayed on the front, these Hunter Chelsea boots kids will love to wear are a great choice in footwear for little feet. The orthopedic and cushioned footbed are designed with growing feet in mind.
Turn your child’s rain boots into cold weather boots by adding Hunter Chelsea boot kids socks, with a cuff that is designed to fold ever the top edge. Available in a variety of colors and materials.
Available in sizes 1-3, 13 Little Kid and 4-5 Big Kid.
Available Hunter Chelsea boots kids colors: Black, Arcade Pink Plaid, Glossy Black, Candy Floss, Lightening Yellow, Ocean Swell 2, Twilight, Electric Storm
Hunter Men’s Original Seaton Moc-Toe Chelsea Hunter Black/Gum
Features
- UK and US sizing displayed on the box
- Natural Rubber with a textured design
- Lightweight
- Completely Waterproof
- Hunter logo at heel
- Cushioned insole
- Mock Toe Seam
When fashion is just as important as function, Seaton Moc-Toe Mens Hunter Chelsea boots will complete your outfit, whether you’re headed for the boardroom or the top deck. Waterproof and with dual goring panels, the sophisticated design and color combinations give this rainboot the look of an upscale dress shoe.
Available Colors: Pine Cone, Black, Black/Gum
Hunter Mens Original Chelsea Boot
Features
- Rubber upper
- Round toe
- Rear pull-tab
- Inner lining is made of quick-dry nylon
- Stands 6” from the Heel
Fits as expected approximately 87% of the time.
The original Black Mens Hunter Chelsea boot is a symbol of good taste and brings to mind all things British. The pull-on design makes these boots easy to get on and off. Exposure to moisture can cause a white film to appear on the surface of the rubber. The company states that this doesn’t compromise the properties of the boot and is simply a natural process for vulcanized rubber. This white film, “blooming,” can be wiped off with a damp polishing cloth.
Wet boots are best left to stand, away from direct sunlight and sources of artificial heat, until completely dried and then stored by standing upright. Available in a variety of colors and finishes.
Hunter Original Chelsea Rain Boot
Features
- 5” Height measured from the arch
- Waterproof material
- Flexible
- 6.25” Top circumference
- Deep Hunter Original tread pattern
Available in Military Red with black elastic goring on both ankles, a black textured rubber sole, and boot edging, and black nylon pull tabs on the front and back edges of the boot. Men’s Hunter Chelsea boots in a two-tone pattern are not only stylish, but they are also versatile and can be worn with a variety of fashion styles. The addition of Hunter boot socks adds a second layer of protection, making this the perfect boot for colder weather.
Chelsea Boots
Hunter Chelsea Boots kids and adult sizes will keep everyone’s feet warm and the moisture away from both little and big toes. With easy care instructions, easy on and off designs, and plenty of selections, we believe Hunter brand boots offer the best rain boots on the market. Are they the least expensive? No, but when it comes to your footwear and keeping your feet safe from all dangers, the cost is not nearly as effective as purchasing a quality product you can rest assured will be around for years to come.