Have you ever noticed how many different types of men's shoes there are? Of course, we often don’t think about it, putting on the usual pair every morning, and after all, each version of boots has its own characteristics and its own history.
We have already talked about oxfords, derbies and bluchers, monks, moccasins, loafers, topsiders and various types of sports shoes, and today our article will be devoted to chukka boots and their subspecies – deserters. You've probably seen these shoes many times in stores, and maybe even in your closet. Now you will find out why chukka boots have this name, as well as what to wear with them and how to choose.
What are chukka boots
Chukka boots (sometimes spelled 'chukka') are ankle-high closed men's shoes with 2-3 holes thin lacing. These boots are often referred to as 'deserters', and this is also true, but only partially. Deserts are made of suede, usually in muted, 'desert' colors, while chukkas can be made of any material: from leather to textiles. Thus, deserts are a subspecies of Chukka boots, but in stores and magazines you can often find both designations.
Classic brown leather chukka boots
The classic chukka boots have the following features:
- height to the ankle (bone), not higher,
- two or three rows of lace holes,
- traditional material – calfskin suede,
- round toe,
- sewn in two pieces, each of which is a single piece of leather,
- the back is sewn over the front,
- open lacing with thin laces,
- thin sole made of leather or rubber,
- in the traditional version – without lining.
Chukka boot history
The boots got their name 'chukka' ('chukka' in English) from a term associated with playing polo: a period of seven and a half minutes is called 'chukker' or 'chukka', and this word, in turn, comes from Indian 'chukkar' which means 'circle' or 'round'. The story goes that lightweight calfskin boots with leather soles were worn by British soldiers in India in the 1920s, where they later took root for the extremely popular polo game at that time.
Deserts – a suede version of Chukka boots – became popular in the post-war period
During World War II, a variation of the Chukka boots was born – Desert boots, which entered the Russian language as 'deserts'. These shoes were sewn according to the same pattern – from two parts with lacing, but the thin leather sole in them was replaced by a durable rubber one, and suede was chosen as the material. These boots, as the name suggests, were used primarily for campaigns in hot desert areas, and after the war, like many other wartime attributes, they became part of modern men's fashion.
How to wear chukka boots and desert boots
These days, there are many varieties of chukka boots that allow them to be used in a wide variety of styles and situations.
For example, models made of smooth leather in restrained tones may well replace oxfords and other types of classic shoes, complete with a business suit. Perhaps they should not be used in situations involving a particularly strict dress code, but for everyday office work, this is a very good option.
Chukka boots will not break the office style, but will allow you to look a little less serious
The most versatile purchase will be dark-colored chukka boots, such as brown, made of soft suede or leather: they will suit almost everything in your wardrobe. At the same time, such shoes will make the official look slightly relaxed, and the everyday one more elegant and stylish.
Suede chukka boots and desert boots in beige, gray, green and other neutral shades will fit well into smart casual style. They are recommended to be worn with chinos, colored jackets and jumpers, polo shirts.
In any incomprehensible situation, combine chukka boots with jeans – a win-win option
For a bright, creative look, you can purchase light-colored chukka boots that have been popular in the past few years with contrasting laces and soles. They will be an excellent alternative to sneakers and sneakers in sets with jeans, bright shirts, stylish jumpers, etc. The combination of deserts with colored socks also looks spectacular.
Despite its long history, chukka boots fit perfectly into youth style.
For the summer, you can purchase chukka boots made from lightweight materials such as canvas. They will match any jeans, including tight jeans, and will help maintain a touch of elegance even in the most relaxed and comfortable set.
Where to buy chukka boots
On the one hand, it is quite easy to buy chukka or desert boots, these shoes are produced by most shoe manufacturers, as well as many clothing brands that work in casual style. However, the definition of this type of shoe has blurred over time, so it is not uncommon for you to see any kind of shoes labeled as 'chukka' in stores. This can be a little confusing, but since this is a casual shoe that should suit your taste and not a specific style, you don't have to worry too much about it. That is, if you like suede boots in which not three, but five rows for laces – in general, what's the difference, the main thing is that they fit your clothes and you personally like them.
You can find chukka shoes in a variety of colors in stores, but we recommend that you first of all pay attention to the shades of brown.
Traditionally, the widest selection of chukka boots can be found in online stores. Here are some of the current fall / winter 2017-18 options:
Clarks Boots
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Timberland Boots
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Fred Perry Boots
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ITI boots
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Mango Man boots BUY FROM A PARTNER STORE 
Dr. Martens
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Conclusion
It is not for nothing that Chukka boots have almost a century of history: they are a comfortable and rather versatile type of shoe that can serve you in various situations, from office to travel. At the same time, it is often the Chukkas and deserts that can become elements of interesting style experiments, so you should pay attention to such models because they love bright shoes and are already a little tired of the ubiquitous sneakers.
