The best ankle boots don’t just make life easier. They make it a walk in the park. No more aching arches and sodden soles. With the best women’s ankle boots, your feet will feel comfy, cosy, and oh-so-cool—and you can hit the streets ready to take on whatever life has in store.

Whether you’re a devoted Chelsea boot girl or a recent cowboy boot convert, there’s no reason why you can’t have more than one pair of super-stylish ankle booties. After all, they’re one of the most wearable and versatile footwear choices known to womankind.

The best ankle booties for women can be worn from morning ‘til evening. To the office, for running errands, and to that rooftop cocktail bar where you’ve already reserved a table. They can also be worn year-round, from January’s hail and sleet to balmy September afternoons—and with everything from floaty silk dresses to skinny jeans and jumpers.

But while pulling off the ankle boot look is easy, choosing a pair is far from simple. Which is why we’ve compiled a selection of the best ankle boots for women. From classic black booties to combat lace-up ankle boots—from cute kitten heels to comfortable flat ankle boots—they’re all down below.

The 17 best women’s ankle boots of 2020

To help you find the ankle boots that are best for you, check our style guide to choosing the best women’s boots after the list.

-BY FAR Lange: Overall best women’s ankle boots-

Scoring gold in our selection of the best ankle boots for women are these gorgeous offerings from Bulgarian label BY FAR. Coincidentally, they are by far the most wearable and most stylish ankle boots on our list.

With a silhouette that transcends trends, and made from durable black leather, they will become your most trusty shoes to date. The ultimate lesson in how to say a lot with very little, they’re the ideal finishing touch to any number of outfits, whether that’s dressing up a pair of cropped jeans or toughening up a silk dress.

The square toe is bang on trend while the heel is the perfect height—sleek and style-conscious but also comfortable. Plus everyone knows that kitten heels make your legs look longer.

And, the leather has just enough sheen to catch people’s eyes without being showy.

BY FAR’s Lange boots are the kind of understated chic footwear we dream about. Comfortable, versatile, and with timeless fashion appeal.

Best for: literally anything and everything

-Christian Louboutin Eloise 85s: Best designer ankle boots for women-

What’s a list of the best women’s boots that doesn’t feature a pair of Louboutins? The iconic designer’s Eloise 85s are the best designer ankle boots for women around.

No other material brings such instant edge to an outfit like leopard print. Channel that too-cool-for-school vibe with these Eloise ankle boots—the perfect addition to low-key outfits, such as a white shirt and leggings.

Made in Italy from soft and supple suede, these shoes are of the highest quality. The heel is just under 90 mm (3.5 inches), giving you all the height you need to stride around the office.

These shoes are certainly not for the shy, but if you want to get people’s attention—and let them know all about your impeccable taste in footwear—then head straight to check out.

Best for: delivering the fashion-factor from a legend of high-end footwear

-Amazon Essentials: Best value women’s ankle boots-

Who says elegance has to cost the earth? These stylish walking boots from Amazon Essentials are all the evidence we need that the best wardrobe additions don’t have to cost a month’s paycheck.

These comfortable booties for women are set to become your loyal everyday companions.

The leather lining is soft and smooth. The TPR outsole—anti-slip and high-grip—will keep you going from dawn ‘til dusk. And a zipper closure makes them super easy to kick off in the evenings.

And, with that sturdy stacked heel and padded insole with 6 mm memory foam, you’ll feel like you’re walking on air.

Style up with a mini dress or keep it cool and casual with a chunky sweater and some distressed boyfriend jeans. These Amazon Essentials ankle boots are affordable, reliable, adaptable, and most importantly, walkable.

Best for: everyday elegance at an unbeatable price

-Hush Puppies Mazin Cayto: Best flat women’s ankle boots-

There’s no point in wearing the world’s most luxurious shoes if, at the end of the day, your feet feel like they’re about to fall off. Comfort is important. Which is why Hush Puppies Mazin Cayto is our favourite women’s flat ankle boot.

These boots should be a staple in every woman’s wardrobe. Made from supple and long-lasting nubuck, they boast a removable anatomically mobile EVA footbed. And, with no heel, you can wear these all day, every day, and never feel like you have to take a break.

Perfect for anyone whose job means they’re on their feet a lot—and that includes you, mums—this is the footwear your feet deserve.

Available in a whole range of colours, from classic black booties to eye-catching burgundy, the Mazin Caytos are ideal for stomping the streets on sunny spring days and stormy autumn evenings alike.

Best for: powering through your day with some ultra-comfy footwear

-BY FAR Este: Best low heel ankle boots for women-

BY FAR’s Este Ankle Boot are the best white ankle boots out there. Well, they’re not technically white, but off-white—a subtle difference that immediately accords these booties a little more refined elegance.

The low block heel is both fashionable and functional—enough elevation to give you that edge, but still fantastically wearable. The square toe is super trendy, while the zip fastening allows for easy removal at the end of a long day.

The white boot trend is not for the fashion-fearful. You need to have a certain amount of daring to pull it off. But if you do, you’ll secure your seat among the most style-savvy out there.

The best thing about white boots? You can wear them from spring through to summer and well into winter. Combine with thick jumpers and jeans on cold December days, and team with your favourite floral skirt come July.

BY FAR’s Este ankle booties for women prove that white boots are timeless—and perfect for stepping off the beaten path.

Best for: just enough glam to get people’s attention

-STAUD Eva: Best leather ankle boots for women-

A pair of white boots offers a level of glam that few other shoes can even attempt. Which is why STAUD’s Eva boots are the best leather booties for women on our list.

Freshen up your favourite outfit with some easy-breezy elegance with these white ankle boots. Exceptionally versatile, you could wear them with everything from cut-off jeans and a trench coat to a maximalist summer dress in the warmer months.

Made from a creamy-coloured sleek and supple cow leather, they have a super fashionable square toe and 70 mm heels, giving you height without crippling you in the process.

Master the swinging 60s sophistication of white leather with these Eva boots. They’re crisp, cool, and comfortable—here to give your favourite black booties a run for their money.

Best for: causing a sensation with some seriously stylish booties

-Isabel Marant Dernee: Best black women’s ankle boots-

Black ankle boots are every girl’s best friend. They’re versatile, timeless, and don’t show up stains—so take a look at these Isabel Marant Dernee booties for women. With their slouchy Western-style silhouette, these black booties are almost definitely the new best pal you’ve been looking for.

If shiny patent leather is a bit too ostentatious for you, then you’ll appreciate the laid-back luxury of these suede boots. And while the cowboy-esque profile adds easygoing charm, the little heel brings the polish to keep it all in balance.

Bunching slightly at the ankles, they’re incredibly flattering on all body shapes, while the fact that they’re pull-on is a bonus for those of us who are always in a hurry.

Blaze a trail with these eminently lovable Isabel Marant Dernee black booties. The old-school Americana trend is very in right now, and these shoes capture the Western vibe perfectly. Pigtails and cowboy hat not necessary.

Best for: multifunctional and fashionable footwear for every occasion

-AEYDE Neil: Best women’s Chelsea boots-

We can’t get enough of Chelsea boots. No other shoes in our closet are so comfortable and versatile and yet so stylish simultaneously. Take AEYDE’s Neil boots, for example. You won’t want to wear anything else.

Chelsea boots are also the best boots for women with shorter legs as their minimal profile won’t over clutter your figure. Team with black jeans and you’ll suddenly look half a foot taller. These boots will even give you favourite flats a run for their money.

Crafted in the label’s family-owned workshops in Italy, these boots have a quality and attention to detail you won’t find elsewhere. They also offer a uniquely modern twist on the classic Chelsea boot style with a slight heel, a squared toe, and a slender silhouette that is flattering on smaller women.

Destined to become your favourite wardrobe fixture, snap up a pair of these AEYDE Neil leather ankle booties now. They won’t be around forever.

Best for: unfailing comfort and an iconic silhouette

-Stuart Weitzman Mckenzee: Best lace-up ankle boots for women-

For those of you blessed with slim ankles, you’re in luck. You can pull off black lace-up boots—considered the very apex of cool. Take a look at Stuart Weitzman’s Mckenzee leather boots to see what we mean.

These combat-style boots are not only some of the coolest women’s ankle boots out there, but they’re also some of the best ankle boots for women with skinny ankles.

Accentuate your slim frame with the elongated profile of these ultra edgy leather booties. Perfect for pavement pounding, they nail that rocker-girl aesthetic.

Offering a sigh of relief to any woman who’s had enough of stilettos, these comfortable booties have no heel and a well-supported ankle. The practical soles also provide plenty of traction, so no danger of sliding your way down the street on snow days.

Take a walk on the wild with these Stuart Weitzman Mckenzee boots that are the last word in gritty modern style.

Best for: rugged and androgynous glamour for feet that never rest

-The Attico Tate: Best women’s ankle boots for dresses-

We love dresses and we especially love the dress-boots combo. Perfect for adding a bit of devil-may-care attitude to a soft feminine look.

The best boots for the job? These Tate Suede ankles boots from The Attico. With their slouchy and easygoing vibe, they have a nostalgic charm. It also helps that they’ve been expertly crafted in Italy and are incredibly high quality.

The little kitten heels are super cute, pain-free, and add a bit of sophistication so you can wear these in smarter corporate settings. Simply add a shirt, midi skirt, and some statement jewellery.

The Attico is known for its street-style smarts and the Tate boots are a prime example. Stay on the move and send all the right signals with these booties for women. Team with your favourite dress, whether that’s an elegant all-black frock or summer florals.

Best for: ladies who love dresses and having dry feet

-Aquazzura Saint Honore: Best sock boots for women-

An Instagram-favourite whose rather inelegant name doesn’t do them justice, sock boots are the best. With their slim fit, they create a wonderfully streamlined silhouette that makes everyone’s legs look good. Aquazzura’s Saint Honore 85 sock boots are our favourites.

They’re rather no-frills when it comes to style—and we like that. It’s all back-to-basics, cool and classic. Made in Italy from soft-as-butter suede or sleek lamb leather, they have a slender heel that offers the perfect amount of elevation—plus a sharply pointed toe.

Coming up to mid-calf, they offer a smart, svelte, and no-nonsense silhouette. The perfect morning ‘til after-dark choice of footwear and the dream wardrobe addition.

No tying of laces necessary, and they go with everything—in particular classic blue jeans that land just on your ankle. This pair of Aquazzura Saint Honore would also look fabulous with tailored A-line skirts and floaty dresses.

Best for: evoking an aura of refined luxury

-Isabel Marant Crisi: Best women’s ankle boots for walking-

Queen of the slouchy boot, Isabel Marant is back again with these Crisi Suede women’s ankle booties: the ultimate in cute and comfortable all-season footwear.

With their faded-black suede and Western-inspired topstitching, they feel suitably heavy-duty but also offer some old-school romance. Plus they have a concealed interior 70 mm wedge heel, covertly offering you a bit more height with no-one any the wiser.

These are the perfect ride-or-die boots—always there for you, no matter the occasion or style requirements. Imagine them with your favourite high-waisted jeans and an oversized jumper. Or what about a biker jacket for some insouciant irreverence? They would also be a heavenly match with a long bohemian-style dress.

Keep pace with life with a pair of Isabel Marant Crisi boots that don’t mess around. Comfort, style, and quality from master fashion designer, Isabel Marant.

Best for: staying one step ahead with the perfect ankle boots for walking

-KHAITE: Best women’s ankle boots for work-

No one does relaxed luxury quite like Khaite and this pair of women’s ankle boots are a case in point. The ideal choice of booties for work, they offer a casual yet classic vibe, combining hard-hitting style with comfort and cosiness.

These are certain to become your go-to office companions with their flattering streamlined silhouette. The elongated square toe is very contemporary, while the curved heel is perfect for the business casual look. They also go the extra mile with their Italian-grade quality.

And shoes that are fastening-free are shoes we always say yes to.

Whether you go for the delectable caramel suede, timeless black, or the glossy leather version, this pair of KHAITE are the boots to keep in step with your daily demands. Perfect for corporate-friendly fashion—whether you’re rushing to a meeting across town, rattling off a hundred emails, or enduring your commute home.

Get into your stride with a pair of short booties made with the professional woman in mind.

Best for: lending personality to everyday office attire

-Asgard: Best water-resistant ankle boots for women-

f there’s one thing that can ruin your day, it’s soggy feet. Banish all memories of sodden socks with these waterproof Chelsea boots by Asgard. The best water-resistant boots on our list, they have that instantly iconic silhouette—plus they come in a huge range of colours.

In fact, the only thing stopping us picking up a pair immediately is trying to choose which shade to go for. Versatile black? Charcoal grey? Silver glitter could be fun for festivals and concerts.

These booties for women are made of rubber and have a rubber sole. That means you can look trendy even in a thunderstorm. They’re also lightweight and the elastic-goring on the sides, plus the tag on the back, allows you to slip them on with ease.

As for the EVA foam insole? Our feet couldn’t be happier.

These Asgard Chelsea boots will have your back, rain or shine. Warning: don’t lend to a friend. You’ll never get them back.

Best for: staying cool, calm, and comfortable even when it’s bucketing down outside

-TOETOS Booties: Best women’s ankle boots for wide feet-

Charge up your commutes with this pair of heeled ankle boots from TOETOS. With that covetable chunky heel, they’re the ideal everyday boot—and also accommodate women with wider feet.

They’re made out of a soft and durable PU leather. The heel is the perfect height, adding inches without diminishing comfort. And the cushioned insole will be a blessing come 5 pm.

Offering simple and undemanding style, these shoes have a trendy buckle that adds just a hint of cowboy cool.

And you’ve got a whole range of colours to choose from. We’d opt for traditional black or maybe one of the many shades of grey for something more modern.

As for styling, you could team these booties with straight-leg trousers and a blouse for a perfect day-to-night look. Or why not pick a pair to match your work bag? These TOETOS boots would also look great with a tartan skirt or mini dress.

Best for: women with wider feet looking for stylish and comfortable ankle boots

-TOETOS Chicago: Best budget women’s ankle boots-

With laces crisscrossing up the ankle, these chunky ankle booties from TOETOS are the definition of low-cost style. Invest in a pair of versatile and comfortable classic black ankle boots-without going bankrupt in the process.

These bargain women’s ankle boots are made for every walk of life. You can wear them on the school run, when meeting a friend for coffee, to the office-teamed with a blazer and skinny jeans-or on a romantic date, paired with a cute dress.

Stomp through autumn’s leaves and escape the drizzle unscathed-PU leather is durable and water-resistant. The lace-up aspect adds a bit of aesthetic intrigue and an interior side zipper makes taking these booties off a breeze.

Finally, the chunky heel is just the right height to give you the boost you need without leaving you limping home at the end of the day.

Wearable, affordable, and dependable: these TOETOS Chicago are do-it-all boots for women who want it all.

Best for: keeping your bank balance intact and looking effortlessly cool

-Alaïa: Most expensive women’s ankle boots-

Live your best life with a pair of ankle boots made for five-star stays, last-minute trips on private jets, and front-row seats at all the hottest events. Alaïa is famous for its artistry and craftsmanship and these embellished ankle boots are the most luxurious on our list.

Treat yourself to some Paris Fashion Week-worthy style with these boots that are embellished with hand-applied eyelets—a signature Alaïa technique. The mood is gritty yet sophisticated, and daringly fashion-forward.

Team with a sculptural blazer and tailored trousers—or who says you can’t wear boots with an evening gown? Add some industrial edge to a designer dress with these ankle boots that immediately conjure up street-smart glamour.

Indulge yourself with Alaïa’s designer ankle boots that only want the best for you. A passport to a more exciting world.

Best for: boots that double as tickets to the most exclusive events in town

Style guide: How to choose a pair of women’s ankle boots?

When choosing a pair of ankle boots, there are a few things to consider and look out for.

Styles

Firstly, booties vs. ankle boots—what’s the difference? The words are often used interchangeably but technically booties end at your ankle while ankle boots end a couple of inches above the ankle.

Below are the main styles of ankle boots and booties:

* Chelsea boots – named after the famous London borough, Chelsea boots have a distinct profile. They are flat, with a chunky sole, elasticated panels on both sides, and a close-fitting ankle. Comfortable and also stylish.

* Lace-up ankle boots – these often come in the combat or biker style and offer a rugged and edgy aesthetic. They are comfortable, sturdy, and look greatwith a dress or skirt.

* Sock boots – as the name suggests, sock boots fit like a sock. The upper is slender and snug-fitting, and they usually have either a slim stiletto or block heel. Sock boots are very flattering and look good with jeans and dresses alike.

* Cowboy boots – with their Western-inspired silhouette, cowboy boots have chunky heels, rounded or pointed toes, and no laces. They are comfortable and iconic.

* Slouchy boots – these boots have an unstructured shaft that folds or slouches around the ankle. They offer a laidback aesthetic that, when teamed with a cute kitten heel, adds that relaxed yet refined vibe.

* Heeled ankle boots – boots with heels offer elevation and add elegance to an outfit. They are also some of the most comfortable heeled shoes. Stiletto heeled boots look sophisticated but can be uncomfortable so stacked or block heels are a good alternative.

Comfort

When it comes to comfort, the first thing to decide is heel or no heel, and choosing the right heel height is crucial.

If you want something casual, opt for flat ankle boots. But if you need elevation without compromising on comfort, wedge heels, stacked heels, and block heels add inches without causing pain, offering enough support and stability to keep your feet happy.

Kitten heels are another option. Under 50 mm (2 inches), they’re easy to walk in but create a more elegant look.

Furthermore, to ensure optimum comfort, look for ankle boots with EVA midsoles. These offer wearers extra cushioning, absorbing the impact of footfall.

Material

When it comes to the material of ankle boots, these are the most popular options:

* Leather – the most traditional material for ankle boots, leather is durable, supple, and breathable. However, it’s only water-resistant, better for drizzle than downpours—although you can treat it to make it more water-resistant. Leather can also absorb stains, so a darker shade might be practical.

* PU leather – a lightweight, long-lasting, and cheaper alternative to real leather.

* Patent leather – ultra-glossy and sleek.

* Suede – ankle boots made from suede are lightweight and comfortable. However, suede is more easily damaged than leather and can be ruined by water unless you treat it beforehand or dry it carefully afterwards.

* Rubber – ankle boots made from rubber are waterproof, durable, lightweight and supportive. However, they might not look as stylish as traditional leather boots.

Frequently asked questions about women’s ankle boots

What are the most comfortable women’s booties?

The most comfortable women’s booties are the Mazin Caytos by Hush Puppies. These boots have been designed for cosy everyday wear with a flat heel and an EVA footbed for cushioning. Made from nubuck leather, they are soft and supple.

What are the best ankle boots?

The best ankle boots for women are the Lange boots by Bulgarian label, BY FAR. These boots combine great style with superior comfort and are also long-lasting. The little kitten heel offers just enough height while the durable black leather makes them versatile and timeless. The square toe is also very on-trend. Check out our list for more ankle boot inspiration.

Are ankle boots going out of style?

Ankle boots are definitely still in fashion. In fact, it seems unlikely that women’s ankle boots will ever go out of style. Thanks to the huge variety of designs-Chelsea boots, biker boots, heeled boots-it’s always possible to find the perfect pair to complement your ensemble.

What colour ankle boots should I buy?

The best colour for ankle boots is black. This is the most versatile shade. You can match it to any outfit, whether that’s a work get-up or something more casual. Brown is classic and cool while white ankle boots are a fashion-forward pick.

Do ankle boots go with dresses?

Ankle boots can look great with dresses, whether it’s a playful mini dress or a more sophisticated midi dress. We recommend teaming more masculine looking ankle boots-like biker boots or combat boots-with long flowing silk dresses, while sock boots with a kitten heel look great with shorter dresses and leather jackets.