I resumed my search for practical lug sole boots earlier this season, and decided on a perennial bestseller: Sam Edelman’s Laguna Chelsea Boot. This versatile boot, which retails for $170 but can be found for 15%-25% off in popular colorways during sale season, is available in a number of neutral colorways and two widths (M and W).
The waterproof exterior and heavily lugged soles (for excellent traction) are useful updates to the classic Chelsea boot look. And the elastic gore insets help with easy-on, easy-off while the 1.5″ heels add some height without introducing discomfort.
The treated leather upper, far from luxurious, feels stiff at first, but will stretch and soften with wear.
The Laguna Boot fits true to size. However, as this is a pull-on style, for those with a high instep, wider feet, or if you plan to wear heavier socks with this shoe, consider sizing up (or order it in a wide width). A well-fitted pair of boots should never feel too narrow in width, nor should your toes press up against the toe cap.
You can find the Sam Edelman Laguna Waterproof Lug Sole Chelsea Boot at Amazon, Anthropologie, Backcountry, Belk, Dillard’s, Macy’s, Nordstrom, Nordstrom Rack, Revolve, Saks Fifth Avenue, Sam Edelman, Shopbop, and Zappos.