If you’re not familiar with duck boots, then you’re sure to remember their unique look moving forward after a glance at some of the ones on their page. Undoubtedly, they’ll stand out from any other pair of boots on the shelf.
Duck boots boast a waterproof exterior to keep your feet dry in any weather, but also an insulation factor to make sure your toes don’t freeze in the colder months.
Despite their interesting look, once you try them and discover how functional and practical they are in the environments that they’re designed for, you’re also likely to find yourself shopping for your very first pair!
On this page, we’ll be taking a look at the history of the duck boots as well as featuring some of our favorite pairs that can be purchased directly on Zappos, one of the largest shoe retailers on the web.
The Best Duck Boots On Zappos
In This Guide
- Where Do They Come From?
- Benefits Of Duck Boots
- Are L.L. Beans’ Boots The Best?
- Best Duck Boots On Zappos
Other Winter Boots Guide
Zappos Shoe Guides
Where Do Duck Boots Come From?
Duck boots were first worn by New England fishermen in the early 1800s. They were made of rubber and had a low top so that they could be easily removed when wet.
In the late 1800s, L.L. Bean began selling duck boots to hunters and outdoor enthusiasts. The company still sells duck boots today, and they are now made with a leather/rubber upper and a rubber sole.
Benefits Of Wearing Duck Boots
Duck boots are a great choice for anyone who needs a boot that is both waterproof and insulated. The rubber bottom of the boot keeps your feet dry, while the insulation keeps your feet warm.
Also critical to duck boots is their sole! Duck boot soles are specifically designed to help you keep your footing when traversing slippery surfaces such as an icy sidewalk. This can prevent painful slips and falls that can turn a cold and groggy day into an even worse one.
Does L.L. Bean Make The Best Duck Boots?
This is a matter of opinion, but we certainly think that if you want the classic, wormy-sole, rubber upper design, you can’t go wrong with L.L. Bean. They’ve has been making duck boots for over 100 years, and they have perfected the design.
On the other hand, if you want the duck-boot functionality but aren’t the biggest fan of the L.L. Bean style, there are plenty of other brands crafting equally-unique designs that are just as practical.
Why Do Men Wear Duck Boots?
Duck boots are worn for both function and fashion. They are practical for wet, snowy, or icy weather, but they also have a stylish look that can be dressed up or down.
Duck boots can be worn with many outfits, but they look best when paired with casual clothing. Jeans, chinos, and sweaters are all great options. If you want to dress up your duck boots, you can pair them with a sport coat or blazer. However, we’ll admit this is difficult to pull off and a rugged pair of dress boots may work best in such a scenario.
- Style: Duck Boots
- Formality: Casual
- Pricing: $229 [Buy Now On Zappos]
It’s probably not a surprise that we’ve listed L.L. Bean’s Duck boot as the first choice on this list. that’s because if you’re looking for a reliable, comfortable, and stylish boot to take you through the cold weather months, this is likely the best place to start.
This iconic boot is handcrafted in Maine from high-quality materials, including tumbled full-grain leather and a soft padded collar, for a remarkably soft, broken-in feel. The unique foot form provides stability and comfort, while the original rubber chain-tread bottom offers traction and durability.
While the price isn’t exactly cheap, the quality is definitely there to back it up, and you’re unlikely to need another pair for the next couple of years.
- Style: Duck Boots
- Formality: Casual
- Pricing: $129.99 [Buy Now On Zappos]
With these Sperry Cold Bay Duck Boots, you can keep your feet warm and dry during winter as well as the rainy months.
This stylish winter boot features a waterproof synthetic leather upper and a microfleece lining for added warmth. The waterproof rubber shell and non-marking rubber lug outsole provide dependable traction, while the molded Wave-Siping enhances traction on wet or icy surfaces.
Thanks to their slightly-muted styling, these would likely be easier to style as opposed to the classic L.L. Bean style, which may draw a lot of attention towards your footwear choice.
- Style: Duck Boots
- Formality: Casual
- Pricing: $150 [Buy Now On Zappos]
These Tommy Hilfiger Idan Boots are perfect for anyone who loves to explore, and especially for those who hope to keep their feet dry and warm while doing so!
With a man-made upper and lining, the Idan boots are built to last. The lace-up closure and round toe provide a roomy and snug fit, while the removable insole makes them easy to clean. Spot clean them as needed and enjoy the rubber sole that further enhances the comfort and support factors.
Tommy Hilfiger is not merely a shoe or clothing manufacturer, but rather a lifestyle brand that aims to highlight the essence of classic American cool style. These Idan shoes embody that preppy-yet-modern design that the brand is known for.
- Style: Snow Boots
- Formality: Casual
- Pricing: $199.95 [Buy Now On Zappos]
The Caribou Duck Boots are an ideal choice for everyday cold weather activities.
These comfortable boots feature a waterproof construction resulting from the suede and ballistic nylon that compose the upper. Furthermore, the trademark Caribou lug design and vulcanized rubber shell provides all the traction you need for any kind of terrain. Differentiating it from the rest of our picks a removable felt lining (that’s augmented with a Sherpa cuff) as well as a felt midsole which adds another layer of insulation.
Like the L.L. Bean boots, these are also on the pricier end of the spectrum. However, the price tag is supported by premium materials and hand-crafted elements.
- Style: Duck Boot
- Formality: Casual
- Pricing: $99.95 [Buy Now On Zappos]
Don’t let the affordability of the Sperry Avenue Duck Boots fool you, these are still a great choice if you’re facing wet weather and/or rugged terrain on a regular basis. Notably, if you’re not keen on spending a lot on a style of boot as unique as the duck boot, the Avenues are a great place to start.
Designed with essential features, such as a waterproof leather upper, thermal insulation lining, and a rubber sole, the Avenue boots will hold strong through any inclement weather (or surface) you may encounter.
Closing Thoughts
Duck boots have come a long way since they were first worn by New England fishermen. Today, they are an essential part of the wardrobe of men who live in regions where the winter months get more than just a little bit treacherous. If you find a pair that’s right for you, you’ll undoubtedly understand the hype and make them part of your regular footwear rotation during the colder months.
Do you own a pair of duck boots? Let us know your thoughts in the comments below.
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