by 
Looks like a boot, laces like a shoe: the chukka is the great in-between. Named for the word that indicates a period of play in polo, chukka boots were first adopted by British soldiers serving in India before seeing more widespread (and civilian) wear in the 1940s and ’50s.
Like its close cousin, the desert boot, the chukka is identified by its shorter, ankle-height height and a two- to three-eyelet closure. But unlike the desert boot, which features a characteristic crepe sole, chukkas may have leather or rubber soles.
Often left unlined for greater comfort, the chukka has risen in popularity in recent years as a more casual alternative to the dress shoe, while also appearing more polished than sneakers. It should come as little surprise that the chukka is also favored for travel, as its fewer eyelets make it easier to kick on and off.
Keep those pluses in mind as you parse this collection of chukkas from Drake’s, Carmina, Rancourt, and other brands below.
August Special Aviator Boot
Inspired by a pair of boots once issued to U.S. Navy flyers, August Special’s Aviator boot has an exceptionally low profile and is built from unlined, full-grain steer suede. Made according to a hand-drawn last that follows the natural contours of the feet, it should prove to be an exceptionally comfortable wear as well.
Alden 1493 Unlined Chukka Boot
A chukka by which many others are judged, Alden’s 1493 boot is made from soft snuff suede and left unlined for exceptional comfort. Casual enough for jeans yet smart enough to pair with a suit or sport coat in a more casual fabric, it’s a true jack-of-all-trades.
Drake’s Crosby Moc-Toe Chukka Boot
Drake’s Italian-made Crosby boots feature a moccasin-stitched toe and are constructed from unlined roughout suede. A studded rubber sole gives them a slightly more elevated appearance while allowing them to better navigate rain-slicked streets.
Carmina Chukka Boots 708 Detroit
Carmina’s 708 boot sits on the dressier side of the chukka spectrum, with a high, refined topline and a slightly squared-off toe. It’s built on the Spanish maker’s Detroit last, notable for its wider toebox and heel.
Viberg Uplands – Toast Waxy Commander
The chukka gets a workwear flavor in Viberg’s Uplands boot, made from waxed suede sourced from England’s legendary C.F. Stead tannery. It also features a treaded Ridgeway brown sole.
Billy Reid Indianola
Billy Reid’s Indianola chukka has a distinctly Italian feel, with a sleeker, more elongated last and a higher toe spring. Its three-piece upper is made from a patinated kudu leather and features a burnished toe cap.
Crockett & Jones Brecon
C&J’s Brecon is a dressy chukka built on the shoemaker’s 341 last, featuring a medium-round toe that strikes the perfect balance between comfort and a smart silhouette. Built from grained country calf leather, it also features a studded rubber sole.
Rancourt Acadia Chukka
Named for the state’s national park, Rancourt’s Acadia boot is a fittingly rugged take on the chukka, made from water-resistant leather and a grippy wedge sole. Each pair is made in Maine according to traditional moccasin-stitching techniques.
Sid Mashburn Chukka Boot
Featuring a slightly narrowed toe and a sleek topline, Sid Mashburn’s chukka is a true jeans-to-suits boot. Its Goodywear-welted Dainite sole can be replaced for many years of future wear.
Tricker’s Polo Chukka Boot
In contrast to the maker’s chunky brogues, Tricker’s Polo chukka is made on its slightly tapered W2298 last for a more elegant look. Adding to its appeal is an upper made from full-grain Castorino suede.
Edward Green Shanklin Suede Chukka Boots
Made in Northampton, England, Edward Green’s Shanklin chukka features a rich suede upper and a more contoured shape. A narrow rubber last follows the foot’s shape, and a stacked heel further enhances its polished appeal.
