The 15 Best Duck Boots for Men Will Never Go Out of Style
When wet and cold weather arrives, every guy needs a waterproof pair of functional footwear that features top-notch insulation. Duck boots, also known as Bean boots, were invented back in 1912 when L.L. Bean himself grew weary of the discomfort he experienced after hunting trips that left him with freezing, damp feet.
And lo, the iconic L.L. Bean Duck Boot was born. Since 1912, these boots have been hand made in Brunswick, Maine by L.L. Bean, and they often sell out before the winter is over. Even after 100 years, these boots still feature the triple stitching that makes them so good at keeping moisture away from your feet. In recent years, these boots have become particularly popular, part of the trend in menswear toward dad-style clothing, bags, and shoes (you can thank dad-core for the white sneaker trend, too). You can still buy the original duck boots at L.L. Bean, but there are similar styles available from other top retailers. They aren’t the most attractive shoes in the world, but they will keep your feet warm and dry no matter what.
If you’re looking for the best ducks boots available today, we’ve included a range of duck boot dupes below, but you should start by checking out the original. These are the men’s boots that started it all:
Buy: The Original L.L.Bean Boot $139.00
Why Do People Love Duck Boots So Much?
The term “duck boots” is thrown around loosely today and may include rain-proof footwear alternatives that don’t always align with the original design of the duck boot. For those of us who are in the know about footwear or want to hop on the resurfaced outdoor trend, the duck boots you want are the ones made with rubber soles, a leather upper, quality insulation, and long rope laces. And yeah, they’re certified cool right now.
Partly, that’s because dad-style shoes, hats and clothing are popular right now, but duck boots are also super practical if you live in a cold, wet region. Duck boots will not only keep feet well-protected from the elements, but they’re built to remain functional and reliable in icy, slushy and creepily cold conditions. Thanks to the lace-up style that mimics an ice skate, duck boots can be tightened to keep even the smallest spec of snow from hitting the top of your socks. The leather-and-lace upper design keeps the usual winter bulk at bay, so not only does it look better resembling a regular shoe, but you’ll be more in control of your stride, too.
Don’t take duck boot shopping lightly and wind up with a pair that will make you look and feel like a quack. We’ve reviewed the best duck boots on the market, so you can take home the perfect pair. Check out the best duck boots for men below.
1. L.L. Bean Shearling-Lined Bean Boots
BEST OVERALL
This updated version of the classic Bean boot features a warm shearling lining, dark earth leather and laces, and the classic rubber bottom. The full-grain leather fiends off frosty intrusions while the chain-tread bottom will keep you firmly planted on the ground despite slippery conditions. Handcrafted in Maine, the all-weather performance of these duck boots is unbeatable.
Duck Boot Tip: If you wear a half size and intend to wear your duck boots on only uber cold days, order a half size down. If your shoe size is a whole number, order your regular size. If you know you’ll wear light or midweight socks with the duck boots, order a full size down if you normally wear a whole size and a size and a half down if you typically wear a half size.
Buy: L.L. Bean Shearling-Lined Bean Boots $230.00
2. The North Face Back-to-Berkeley Redux Remtlz Lux
BEST EVERYDAY LOOK
North Face is the top name in the outerwear industry, and it’s no surprise the brand offers up one of the best duck boot alternatives designed to conquer (and not just get through) the elements. Not only were these shoes crafted to keep you swift on your feet, but they also come with an elevated aesthetic and, dare we say, swagger. While you might not want to slip these on to shovel snow after the biggest storm of the season hits, these duck boots will be your go-to for work, shopping sprees and more on wintry days.
Because these don’t match the typical duck boot style, snag your regular shoe size for these bad boys. They run to fit how any other sneaker would, so these aren’t quite as rocket science as some of the other boots listed.
30% OFF
Buy: The North Face Back-to-Berkeley Redux Remtlz Lux $94.50
3. Sperry Saltwater Nylon Duck Boot
CONTENDER
Now that the weather’s getting chillier, it’s time to throw those Sperrys in the back of your closet for next summer’s pontoon boat parties. Or… is it? Well, yes, it is, but if you’re going to miss your Sperrys oh-so-much during the next couple of months, transition from your go-to summer boat shoe to your a pair of duck boots that have the same level of comfort. Tell the rain to screw off in style with a sturdy rubber shell and slip-proof sole that will keep your tootsies dry and warm as the rain falls down and snow begins to accumulate until the sun’s steaming next May.
If you’ve ever worn a pair of Sperry’s boat shoes before, get whichever size you’d typically get for those when purchasing the Saltwaters unless you plan to double (or triple) up on the sockage. If that’s the case, we suggest heading up a half size.
Buy: Saltwater Nylon Duck Boot $119.95
4. UGG Emmett Duck Boot
BEST READY FOR THE DAY
No matter what’s going on, the UGG Emmett Duck Boots will keep you cozy on the coldest of days. But, you shouldn’t be surprised — they’re UGGs. These duck boots are perfect for romping around the outdoor portion of the resort on your next ski trip and they’re durable enough to keep feet warm and dry on the trails, too. Unlike the traditional UGG boot for women synonymous with the word, these duck boots will actually keep you looking quite handsome. The pair also comes in two colors to choose from that are both totally waterproof and insulated.
This line is sold in whole sizes, so you can order your regular size or size down if you’re typically a half size. If you’re looking for men’s boots for freezing temperatures only, you’ve found the pair to snag. Literally, these babies can hold their own in temperatures as low as -25 degrees.
Buy: UGG Emmett Duck Boot $130.00
5. UPSOLO Duck Boots
BEST DUCK BOOTS UNDER $50
These duck boot dupes cost under $50, which is quite literally almost impossible for a solid pair of duck boots. Yet, here we are reviewing a pair of duck boots under $50. We’re just as shocked. These duck boots are rugged enough for all weather conditions in the great outdoors. They have more of a snow boot vibe to them so they aren’t the most fashionable, but these have your back at a low price for any ugly weather happening outside. Thanks to the durable rubber soles which contain slip-resistant patches, you’ll be swift on your feet even when there’s slush and snow on the ground.
Order your regular size and if you wear a half size then order a size up. Some reviewers have experiences off sizing based on their needs, but exchanges through Amazon are a breeze.
Buy: UPSOLO Mens Duck Boots $49.99
6. Wolverine Heritage Muscovy Chukka
HEAVY-DUTY PICK
If you’re wearing your duck boots to work, these chukkas from Wolverine Heritage make for the perfect companion. These heavy-duty bad boys use a waterproof full grain leather upper with a TPU shell to stay both handsome and durable under all weather circumstances. They merge brown and black in a way your mom told you wasn’t allowed but looks way too rugged doing so. Your feet stay dry yet breathable with 200g Thinsulate™ Ultra insulation and a moisture-wicking mesh lining. So, yeah, wetness will never be a problem you’ll have to face. Each boot is complete with an EVA midsole.
Buy: Wolverine Heritage Muscovy Chukka $144.95
7. Sorel Cheyanne II Snow Boot
BEST FOR BAD WEATHER
Sorel is a name everyone should know as soon as the temperatures begin to drop. Why? This brand has absolutely mastered snow-ready boots. For real. Just take a look at the Cheyanne II snow boots and see what we mean. Not only are these boots tremendously handsome, but they can keep your feet toasty in temperatures as low as -25°F. And, yeah, they’ll also keep your feet as dry as can be. In addition to this, you can expect total traction to make sure that if you’re walking on slippery sidewalks, you won’t ever take a tumble.
Buy: Sorel Cheyanne II Snow Boot $154.99
8. Sperry Cold Bay Duck Boot
BEST LOOK
If you want a pair of duck boots but don’t want L.L.Bean, the Cold Bay Duck Boots from Sperry are quite the reliable option. Not only are these some of the best looking duck boots on this list, but they use a smart 200-gram Thinsulate insulation to ensure your feet stay warm and dry no matter where you’re walking. Water never saw it coming. Each boot is bottomed off with Wave-Siping™ for traction, which ensures you won’t slip in the slickest of circumstances.
Reviewers say that these puppies fit just right, so unless you plan on bundling sock after sock, get your exact size.
Buy: Sperry Cold Bay Duck Boots $120.00
9. L.L.Bean 8″ Flannel-Lined Thinsulate Insulation Bean Boots
BEST FLANNEL-LINED
Dip your toes into lumberjack territory with these flannel-lined duck boots ready for whatever life throws at them. Hiking? Sure. Working outdoors? Of course. Wandering the city streets? Why not. With a pair of boots this good looking, the possibilities are endless. The boots are lined with the same cotton used in L.L.Bean’s famous Scotch Plaid Shirts to bring the coziness down from your abdomen to your feet. They really will be a winter fav of yours in no time.
With mid or lightweight socks, order a whole size down with these ones. If you’re the thick sock type, these should be roomy enough to fit your whole foot at your normal sizing.
Buy: L.L.Bean 8-inch Flannel-Lined Thinsulate Insulation Bean Boots $169.00
10. Sperry Breakwater Duck Boot
MOST CASUAL
In a similar vein as the duck boots above, Everest-conquering duck boots aren’t always the goal. For those of you out there who really only need the most basic option that will keep their feet dry without requiring physical work to put them, consider Sperry’s Breakwaters. These men’s duck boots offer up a rubber footbed, easy to work laces and a plush lining throughout the inside to keep you warm. They’re not that high, so watch where you’re stepping, but if you’re only in need of shoes to get you to the corner store and back during a downpour, you can end your search with Sperry.
These fit your foot as well as any other shoe your size would. Throw these on with a casual pair of joggers and a hoodie and hit the road.
$10 OFF
Buy: Sperry Breakwater Duck Boot $79.95
11. Thom Browne RWB Stripe Chelsea Duck Boot
BEST DESIGNER
While most of us aren’t really looking to sport any designer brands while wearing duck boots, some of us are. You do you! These waterproof duck boots from Thom Browne take the style into another realm by bringing high-fashion to the mix. They’re exceptionally crafted from smoothed leather to be durable and good-looking. Rock them with a pair of ripped black jeans and an oversized sweater this fall and give us a look that nobody on the streets is at all ready for. Maybe throw on a cowboy hat for good measure
With these, we suggest you purchase your regular shoe size for your best fit. Maybe get a half-size up if you plan on tripling up on the socks this season.
Read more: Best Red Wing Boots
Buy: Thom Browne RWB Stripe Chelsea Duck Boot $1,190.00
12. Kamik Fargo Snow Boot
BEST FOR SNOW
While most duck boots work appropriately on snowy terrain, the Kamik Fargo snow boots are 100% meant to take on any snowscape. These are the perfect duck boot for guys living up north and tend to see a decent chunk of powder during the colder months. They’re completely waterproof, insulated and seam-sealed, so absolutely nothing, and we mean NOTHING, is going to get your socks wet when these are on. They’re totally warm and even elevate your step a bit, making that classic snow trudge a little less difficult than it normally has to be.
We suggest ordering your regular shoe size, but some reviewers claim that these duck boots run a little small. We just think that considering these are built to wear in the snow, these guys are choosing to wear an extra pair of socks on their feet to combat the cold, making the boots a little tougher to squeeze into. All in all, it really just depends on how you wear boots in the winter — if you’re a thick sock lover, maybe it’s smart to size up.
Buy: Kamik Fargo Snow Boot $84.99
13. Tundra Boots Duluth
MOST WARM
When Tundra Boots says tundra, boy, do they mean tundra. These sturdy boots are made with suede leather and a leather shell foot that’s made to last years upon years of wear and tear. The boots include faux fur on the interior to keep those tootsies extra cushioned and feeling warmer than ever so you can wear them on even the most cold days of the year. On the bottom, expect tons of traction to stay safe in slippery conditions. Visually speaking, these kind of mimic women’s UGG boots. And, let’s get real, we know you’ve always wanted to know what those feel like on yourself.
Buy: Tundra Boots Duluth $82.95
14. L.L.Bean Bean Boots Rubber Moc
BEST MOCCASINS
Something we never thought we’d see? A half duck boot, half moccasin hybrid. Yet, here it is, proving that in 2021, just about anything can happen. Unlike most regular mocassins, these shed both rain and snow with ease in order to keep your feet dry and cozy when wearing them outdoors. They aren’t necessarily like most snow shoes though, given the fact they’re lacking coverage for the ankle and lower leg. With that being said, if you’re going on a couple of errands in a dusting, these should be your go-to. But, wearing these when the snow has accumulated more than two inches? Good luck, Charlie.
Buy: L.L.Bean Bean Boots Rubber Moc $99.00
15. Lands’ End Insulated Flannel Lined Chelsea Duck Boots
BEST CHELSEA
Merging the classic duck boot design with the more modern, elevated Chelsea boot is the handsome-looking Chelsea duck boot from Lands’ End. Who would have thought these two styles could coexist so perfectly? Not us. They’re a timeless look make with a fine leather upper, capable to both dress up or dress down no matter the look you’re going for. Thinking about sizing up? Don’t. These boots were made for walking exactly in the size you normally wear.
40% OFF
Buy: Lands' End Insulated Flannel Lined Chelsea Duck Boots $65.97
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