Arthur Knight Shoes are proud to offer the largest selection of elasticated slip-on designer Chelsea Boots for men with over 100 styles to choose from by famous designer brands. Originating in the 1800s as a type of leather riding boot known as jodhpur boots, the classic Chelsea (also known as ‘ankle boots’) was first worn by royalty after being designed and made by J. Sparkes-Hall. Created for both men and women, Queen Victoria was known to wear a pair of Chelsea boots around the palace grounds. Of course, it wasn’t long before the design was highly sought after across the country and beyond. The Chelsea’s boot classic markings include rear pull tabs and side gussets for a slip-on and slip-off motion, an invention that was only possible following the creation of stretchy, vulcanised rubber.
Black Chelsea boots for men became hugely popular again in the 1960s when famous musicians such as The Beatles wore them. The most distinctive feature of the men’s leather Chelsea Boot style is its elastic siding, called a gusset, running from the heel to the top of the boot. They are renowned for their timeless appearance and continue to be a bestselling style worldwide.
Compared with laced shoes and boots, this style has the advantage of having both an easy slip-on nature (hence the sewn finger-pull-loop at the back of the Chelsea Boots) as well as a very ‘clean’ appearance on the foot as a result of the whole leather cut. For this reason, Chelsea’s are typically very versatile and can be worn in the workplace, at social functions or just as an everyday boot. It also supports the ankle area more than other styles, which some of our customers have found provides additional comfort during wear. All slip on boots offered by Arthur Knight have robust, hard wearing soles and comfortable interior lining, as well as supportive foot beds, ensuring that your foot can breathe but remains snug and secure while you’re out walking. When cared for properly, a well-made Chelsea will serve you with comfortable wear for many years.
If you are looking for a classic, round toe tan Chelsea boot for men, we might direct you to the incredible range offered by John White. For a more flamboyant look, you could check out the brown leather boots by Jeffery West. Designer Chelsea boots for men come in a huge number of variations and can include pointed, round or square toes, various side gusset contrast colouring and sometimes both front and rear pull tabs for a more distinctive look.
