Boots are a versatile piece of footwear. Originating in Tasmania, adaptable to suit both casual and formal styles, and affectionately termed ‘blunnies’, Aussie-staple Blundstone boots offer options that make them ‘right’ for a myriad of settings and fashion styles.
Finding the ideal style and fit of Blundstone boots
The Original Chelsea boot were conceptualized in the Australian island state of Tasmania as work boots, but Blundstone boots have evolved to become a beloved footwear choice for fashion-forward individuals and outdoor enthusiasts alike. The iconic unisex design boasts elasticated sides to make them easy to pull on and off. Blundstone boots offer a range of styles suitable for every workplace and occasion, and year-round wear.
Renowned for their superior quality and iconic design, Blundstones have become a must-have staple. With a wide range of styles available, selecting the right pair of Blundstones can be a thrilling but overwhelming task.
Follow this guide to help you make the best choice for the perfect Blundstones to suit your needs and preferences.
1. Purpose and Lifestyle
Blundstones are designed to be all-purpose boots that can be worn for a variety of activities, from walking around town to working on a farm. However, if you have a specific activity in mind, such as hiking or hunting, you may want to choose a boot that is specifically designed for that activity. Purchasing your first pair of Blundstones narrow your options by considering how and where you intend to wear your boots. Needing everyday boots which can withstand city commutes, office life and smart-casual styling will differ from the hardier requirements of waterproof winter boots for hiking adventures and camping trips.
Consider whether your activities will include lots of walking or hiking, that will need a more supportive footbed and greater durability of the outsole. If you are just going to be wearing your boots for casual wear, you can get away with boots that have a less supportive footbed and a less durable outsole.
2. Climate
Blundstones are made from water-resistant leather, so they can be worn in wet weather. Very cold climates may need a boot choice with thicker leather uppers, a warmer lining and a more durable outsole.
3. Leather Type
Blundstone boots are manufactured from materials that are breathable, protective and supportive, primarily crafted from two types of premium leather: full-grain leather and nubuck or suede. Full-grain leather is highly durable, water-resistant, and tends to age gracefully, developing a beautiful patina over time. Nubuck and suede offer a softer texture and a more refined appearance but may require additional care to protect them from water and stains.
4. Color Selection
Blundstone offers a wide array of color options, ranging from classic black and rustic brown to vibrant shades of red and blue, which should complement you wardrobe and personal style. Neutral tones like black and brown are generally more versatile and can be effortlessly paired with several outfits, while bolder colors add a unique flair and make a fashion statement.
5. Additional features
Blundstone boots with a removable insole provide additional cushioning and support for comfort. Some styles may have extra features like thermal lining for cold weather, additional high-top ankle support, or slip-resistant soles. Consider these features based on your climate and intended activities.
Tough, synthetic TPU soles ensure hardy flexibility as well as traction on various terrain and midsole cushioning maximizes comfort with shock-absorbing heels.
Styles that offer sheepskin footbeds extend your Blundstone wear into winter with natural wool changeable insoles.
6. Classic vs. Heeled
Blundstones come in classic and heeled styles. Classic Blundstone boots are flat-soled, pull-on boots with a sleek versatility that suits casual wear, outdoor activities, and travel. Heeled Blundstone boots feature a slight heel for a more stylish and elevated look, adding a touch of sophistication to any fashion ensemble that needs dressing up.
7. Fit and Sizing
Blundstone boots fit true to size, and ensuring a proper fit is crucial for the ultimate comfort and satisfaction that your purchase will provide. Be sure to measure your feet accurately and refer to the sizing chart to select the appropriate size. Some styles offer a round toe with a wider fit and more toe room than a dress boot, while safety toe cap material in work boot styles maximizes protection.
8. Trying Them On
If possible, visiting a store that stocks Blundstone boots is a good first step to acquainting yourself with the look and feel of the various Blundstone boot styles. Try different boot styles on and walk around in them before making a final decision. Checking the fit and ascertaining how the boots match your requirements and look will help to decide which ones are the right ones to purchase. When purchasing online, buy from reputable retailers with a flexible return policy in case the boots don't fit as expected.
Bear in mind that Blundstone boots may require a wearing-in period to allow the boot to mold to your foot for a best fit.
Blundstone series include:
- Originals: The Originals are the classic Blundstone boot, made with a premium full-grain leather upper and a comfortable, cushioned footbed. They are a good choice for both work and casual wear.
- Classics: The Classics Series features added leather lining and additional cushioning in the footbed.
- Chelseas: Chelseas are an iconic pull-on boot that is easy to get on and off, and a good choice when a stylish and functional boot is required.
- Work boots: Blundstones line of work boots is designed to be durable and comfortable for demanding work environments.
A few popular Blundstone boots to consider
- Blundstone 500s: These boots are a staple Chelsea boot, made with full-grain premium leather and a comfortable, cushioned footbed. They are a good choice for both work and casual wear.
- Blundstone 550s: These boots are similar to the 500s, but they have a thicker TPU outsole that provides greater durability and traction as a favoured choice for walking boots or for individuals who need boots that can handle rough terrain.
- Blundstone 1300’s such as 1306: These boots are a bit more dressy than the 500s and 550s with a leather lining and a steel shank that provides support and stability. They are a good choice for individuals who need versatile boots that can be dressed up or down.
- Blundstone 2000s such as 2057: These boots are the most rugged of the Blundstone lineup. They have a thick, heavy-duty leather upper and a Vibram outsole that provides excellent traction. They are a good choice for individuals who need a pair of Blundstone boots that can handle extreme weather or rough terrain.
The best type of Blundstones for you will depend on your personal preference and the style you are going for. Here are a few things to consider when choosing the right Blundstone boots for you. No matter what your needs are, there is a Blundstone boot that is perfect for you. With their high quality and versatile design, Blundstones are a boot that you will love for years to come.
Here are some additional tips for choosing the right pair of Blundstones for you:
- Try them before you buy them: Blundstones are designed to be worn with thick socks, so it is important to try them on with the socks you will be wearing with them.
- Size up: Blundstone boots are true to size but remember to use a size guide and size up by a half size for a less snug fit.
- Break them in slowly: Blundstones are made from full-grain leather, which means they will need to be broken in. Start by wearing them for short periods of time and gradually increase the amount of time you wear them each day to allow them to mold to your foot.
We hope this information helps you choose the right pair of Blundstones for you.
The perfect pair of boots
As a timeless blend of fashion and functionality, different color, style and design materials provide variants of to suit the diverse tastes and needs of both city slickers and outdoor lovers.
Careful consideration of your purpose, lifestyle, leather type, color preference, fit, and additional features, will shape your confident choice of the perfect pair of Blundstones boots to accompany you on countless adventures and elevate your style to new heights.
Hailing from the outback’s rugged origins to style-icon status, our range of distinctive Blundstone styles ensures your purchase will be worth it, as they become your go-to boot.
View Blundstone Boots in various styles and sizes for men and women via the links below.