If you're thinking about purchasing Chelsea boots or already have, you might be wondering if you will get your money's worth out of them. Chelsea boots, named after their popularity in the Chelsea region of London, are both trendy and practical, but will they withstand years of use, or are they likely to need replacing after a few wears? We have done some extensive research and compiled tips, tricks, and important information on how long your Chelsea boots will last!
If taken care of, Chelsea boots can last well over ten years. Of course, this also depends on the brand and material used to make the Chelsea boot. For example, though both resilient fabrics, a leather boot will likely last longer than a suede boot.
So how can you make Chelsea boots last? Will they hold up on a rainy day, and are Chelsea boots even in style? Keep reading as we answer these and some more questions you might have about Chelsea boots!
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How To Maintain Chelsea Boots?
As mentioned above, a good pair of Chelsea boots can last you well over a decade. Taking good care of your boots can make them last even longer. There are ways to protect and maintain your boots, and you can even replace the soles of your boots by contacting a cobbler if they become worn or damaged.
Maintenance for your Chelsea boot will vary depending on the material your boot is made from. Traditionally, Chelsea boots are made from leather or suede. We have detailed below how to maintain both leather and suede Chelsea boots, and don't worry because the process is pretty simple!
How Do I Protect My Leather Chelsea Boots?
Equipment:
- Shoe tree
- Horsehair brush
- Cloth
- Dustbags
- All-weather protector spray
- Leather creme or polish
- The first step to protecting your boot is to make sure the boots are clean. Begin by placing a shoe tree inside your boots. It's okay to skip this step if you don't have a shoe tree, but shoe trees will help prolong the life of your boot by wicking away moisture and preventing cracks in the leather.
- Use a horsehair brush to brush the boot to remove any dirt and dust. Take a damp cloth with warm water to remove any stubborn marks.
- Apply a leather creme or polish to your boot. Remember to follow the directions on the manufacturer's packaging of the product of your choice.
- Finally, spray your boot with an all-weather protector spray.
After cleaning and protecting your boot, store them in dust bags when they are not used for added protection! Lots of Chelsea boots will come with dustbags already, but be sure to check when you're making your purchase.
Click here to see Stratton Cedar Shoe Tree on Amazon.
Click here to see Cobbler's Choice Premium Shoe Brush on Amazon.
How Do I Protect My Suede Chelsea Boots?
Equipment:
- Shoe tree
- Hard and soft brush
- Dustbags
- Suede protector
- Suede eraser
- As mentioned in step 1 of cleaning a leather Chelsea boot, begin by inserting your shoe tree. Though suede won't crack the way leather might, it will help the boot maintain its shape.
- Use a suede eraser to remove any scuffs or marks on your boot.
- Go over your boot with a stronger, stiffer brush and then again with a softer brush to remove any dirt or dust.
- Spray your boot with a suede protector. Hold the can approximately six inches from your boot, but follow the packaging instructions if it differs.
- Allow your boots to air out for about half an hour before placing them in dust bags.
Click here to see OrthoStep Suede Protector on Amazon.
Click here to see Miscly Suede & Nubuck 4-Way Brush + Eraser on Amazon.
What About The Elastic?
Don't worry too much about the elastic part of your boot, as this has also been proven to withstand the tests of time, and if for some reason it does become overstretched or worn, a qualified cobbler should be able to handle this problem too.
Can You Wear Chelsea Boots In The Rain?
Good news! You can wear leather Chelsea boots in the rain. Leather is naturally water-resistant, but we do recommend using a water-resistant spray to help give them additional protection from any water-related damage that might occur. Chelsea boots are actually a great piece to add to any rainy day outfit. They pair great with a raincoat!
Suede is not water-resistant and will get damaged if exposed to too much water, so suede Chelsea boots should not be included in your rainy-day wardrobe! Don't fret too much if you get caught in the occasional rain shower with your suede boots, but prepare for the chance by spraying your boots with a suede protector.
Both suede and leather protector sprays help weatherproof your boots and stain resistance, so be sure to reapply when cleaning your boots or approximately once every three to six months.
Click here to see Cadillac Shield for leather and suede on Amazon.
There are definitely some water-proof options for Chelsea boots. You can now even purchase rain boots in the Chelsea boot style.
Click here to see Sorel - Women's Harlow Chelsea Waterproof on Amazon.
Are Chelsea Boots In Style?
Chelsea boots became popular in the 1950s and have yet to go out of style. They have a long history and were even worn by The Beatles, which helped drive their popularity. Now worn by both men and women, this boot has been a staple in people's closets for decades. Chelsea boots are now made in various colors, so there is a boot to go with every outfit.
What Pants Go With Chelsea Boots?
One of Chelsea boots' benefits is that they can be paired with almost any outfit for any occasion. From casual to business casual, these boots can be paired with jeans, dress pants, and even khakis. Chelsea boots are extremely versatile, and buying a pair in either black or brown will allow you to match them with multiple outfits.
If you want to show off your Chelsea boot, pair them with skinny fit, ankle-length pants—either jeans or chinos will work! You can also wear cuffed jeans to help show off your boots. For a more concealed look, pair them with any straight fit pants.
Straight-leg Jeans
Pairing a brown chino boot with a straight leg jean is a great idea for a comfortable, everyday outfit. It can be dressed up or down with either a button-up shirt or a t-shirt.
Here, the Chelsea boots are paired with a black cuffed jean. This style will allow for the entire boot to be seen.
Skinny Jeans
For that traditional rock and roll look, pair a black chino boot with black skinny jeans! This is a great look if you're just hanging out with friends or on a casual date!
Pair with blue denim skinny jeans for a more relaxed, fall look!
Dress Pants
Don't be afraid to pair Chelsea boots with a suit and tie for a formal event! They make great dress shoes!
Wide Leg Trouser
For a more eccentric look, a grey Chelsea boot is paired with wide-leg trousers to really accentuate the boot!
For more ideas on what to wear with your Chelsea boots, check out "How To Wear Chelsea Boots (9 Suggestions For Women)."
Final Thoughts
If you're looking for a long-lasting, versatile, and durable boot, Chelsea boots are a worthy investment. Even though they will last you for years, even without taking care of them, following our steps on protecting your leather and suede Chelsea boots will give them an even longer life-span. Remember that if your boots do become damaged, you can contact a local cobbler to bring them back to life!
For more boot style ideas, check out our other blog on "25 Types Of Boots For Women [A Fashion Guide]."
