We Put Dozens Of Tall Boots To The Test To Find The 17 Best Knee-high Boots Around

Birdies, Sally Kaplan

"I could not be more obsessed with the Starling Boots from Birdies! I have really wide and muscular calves with a 16.5-inch circumference, and I often find that even stretchy pairs are too tight and impossible to zip. Not these! With just a little coaxing, the zipper glides shut and the stretch suede forms around my leg like a glove, without feeling constricting.

"The boots come in leather, black suede, and a rich chocolate brown color, which is what I have. The brown is so sophisticated and elegant, and the boots look twice as expensive as they really are. I've tested tall boots at this same price point (around $400) that don't even hold a candle to this pair, so I wouldn't hesitate to recommend the splurge. These are also super comfortable!

"The footbeds use Birdies' signature cushioned insole that keeps my feet comfortable even over hours of walking in the city. And lastly, in terms of sizing, I'd recommend sticking with your true size if you like a little space in the footbed for thick socks or thin insoles, or going down a half size if you prefer a snugger fit for your boots." — Sally Kaplan, executive editor, Insider Reviews.

Amazon

Colors: Brown, black, light brown, wine, khaki

You can get these boots on Amazon for under $60. They have a slew of rave reviews, with many buyers mentioning how comfortable they are, how they look more expensive than they cost, and how they run true to size. The only note is that the shaft on the boot is a tiny bit tall, so it may come up a little over your knee if you're under five-foot-three.

Naturalizer/Samantha Crozier

Colors: Black and brown leather

This is the second Naturalizer pick on the list — and for good reason. The brand, always known for going above and beyond when it comes to comfort, has stayed true to its DNA by including all the practical bells and whistles you could want.

The Axel Weatherproof Knee-High Boot has a padded footbed and a special lining in the shaft to keep warmth in. It's also completely waterproof and designed to withstand heavy rain. But just because it is a sensible shoe doesn't mean it has to look like a sensible shoe.

I love how elegant these boots look. The nearly three-inch block heel adds height and chic-ness, despite the fact that it feels like you're wearing sneakers. Plus, the streamlined design has a slimming effect on your legs, made even more prominent by the boost you get from the heels. 

Inez/Sally Kaplan

"When I first saw this pair of boots, my wife had to basically pick my jaw up off the ground. I mean, they're utterly gorgeous, to say the least. They also come in wide calf and footbed sizing, which just made me even more sure that someone designed these special for me. I get so many compliments every time I wear them — to the point that I've been buying outfits specifically to pair with these boots! 

"The croc-embossed finish has a luxurious sheen to it that makes the Inez Paloma boots look particularly elegant, and the texture and shine gives even the simplest sweater dress outfit a sophisticated flare. I love the brownish-burgundy pair I tested, but if you prefer a simpler look you can also opt for black leather or chestnut suede. Perhaps the biggest selling point was that I, a notorious heel hater, was able to wear these four hours on end while walking in the city thanks to the boots' well-constructed arch support." — Sally Kaplan, executive editor, Insider Reviews.

See our full thoughts on the Paloma and other super comfy and stylish boots from Inez in our Inez Review.

Samantha Crozier/Insider, DuoBoots

As a five-foot-two person, I often find knee-high boots to be a tricky purchase. Since my calves are shorter than average, lots of boots will squeeze my knee in an unflattering way or bunch up at the ankles because the shaft is too long.

So when DuoBoots came out with petite-fit boots, I was ecstatic. Their petite knee-high boots have a shaft that is a little less than an inch shorter than the standard, and this small detail makes a world of difference when it comes to picking flattering boots.

I love that these hit right under my knee and have minimal bunching. But the great fit might also be because DuoBoots lets you pick an exact shaft width. Their selection goes from 30cm to 50cm, making it one of the most inclusive boot brands we've ever tested.

Vagabond

Colors: Black leather

Vagabond is a brand that's famous for well-constructed styles in trendy silhouettes. It has tons of celebrity devotees, but the prices still make the shoes accessible for non-celebrities — and the Blanca is one of their best.

I have the Ansie, which is a similar style to the Blanca but in an ankle boot. It's one of the most comfortable and versatile boots I own. For three winters, I wore them at least once a week and they still look as good as new. The square toe adds a fashionable touch and a bit of visual intrigue to an otherwise very classic black boot. 

Naturalizer/Samantha Crozier

Colors: Black leather, brown suede

I can't say enough good things about these boots. They straddle the line perfectly between an everyday shoe that you can walk for miles in and a dressy boot that you'd wear out to a chic winter dinner. 

They pair well with almost anything — you can wear them with black jeans, tights and a sweater dress, or even peeking out from under a maxi skirt. It's a huge deal when I have a pair of heeled shoes that I don't have to think twice about wearing when I know I'll be out all day. I trust that these will not only keep my feet happy but also get a few compliments along the way. 

Naturalizer's Ona Boot features the brand's signature comfort technology like thick padding for maximum shock absorption and a cloud-like arch support insole. That's why, despite these being three inches high, I've never gotten one ache or blister from them.  

I remember the brand as a mall staple selling padded loafers, clogs, and all kinds of ultra-practical shoes. But now, the brand has evolved its styles while maintaining its comfort DNA. You can now shop much trendier styles that are sleek and made for walkability, yet usually under $200.

Ally, Samantha Crozier/Business Insider

If you're always struggling with getting the perfect fit when it comes to boots, Ally is the place to go.

You can pick between three different footbed widths: medium, wide, and extra wide. Plus, you can also choose between a regular or roomy shaft width. I highly recommend taking their fit finder quiz to determine which size is best for you. And if you want to be super sure, you can even order a complimentary measurement kit that will come in the mail.

This custom-feeling fit is the best part about Ally. You can absolutely feel the difference when the toe box cradles your forefoot perfectly, and the shaft doesn't strain or droop.

These are priced higher than many of the boots on this list, but you're paying for comfort, a perfect fit, and high-quality materials.

Inez/Samantha Crozier

Colors: Black suede, espresso snake embossed, silver, black leather

We first discovered this brand when we tested a bunch of shoes for our Inez review. We were obsessed with how elegant and stylish the boots are — but perhaps even more impressed with how walkable even Inez's highest heels are.

The Mila was one of my personal favorites. It's endlessly versatile and I love wearing it with sheer tights, peeking out from a maxi skirt, or even paired with bootcut jeans. The silhouette is also the moment and I spotted tons of similar styles at 2024 Fashion Week. 

Camper/Gabrielle Chase

Colors: Black, powder gray

"A music festival is the ultimate baptism by fire when it comes to testing shoes. I started to break these Camper boots in a few weeks before heading to one that took place on a speedway, where the unforgiving pavement would put their comfort to the test. At first I had some friction around the edges of the ankles cups, but it was only temporary.

The BCN Tencels have a ribbed exterior, while the original BCN boots have a less textured look. They're practically identical, but some may prefer the higher recycled content of the Tencel. I recommend sizing up a half size in these — I tested one of each on both feet, and while I'm typically a size US 8, the 39 (US 8.5) fit me best.

I danced in these sock boots for two eleven-hour nights in a row, and they gave me no issues. The uniquely-shaped chunky soles are actually incredibly lightweight, and their platform height is great if you want to be able see over a crowd. Inside the recycled OrthoLite insoles are quite rigid, but I like how breathable and quick-drying they were."— Gabrielle Chase, associate style editor, Insider Reviews.

Scarlett Chase / Samantha Crozier

Colors: 12 including black, camel, red, purple, bright pink

I cannot get over how stunning these Scarlett Chase heeled boots are. Scarlett Chase is quickly becoming one of my holy grail brands for finding shoes that are just as stylish as they are comfortable. And just look how incredibly stylish these Lola 75 boots are — to match that top-tier level in comfort is a huge feat. 

The shorter version of these boots made our list of the best ankle boots for women and I can't decide which one I like better. Both are gorgeous, statement-making, and feel so supportive that I could wear them all day.  

Vivaia/Gabrielle Chase

Colors: Black, brown, black and red, burgundy, navy blue

"Vivaia's Tara Pros have been my go-to rain boots. I've worn them throughout the especially rainy stretch of weekends we've had in New York City, and falling raindrops would bead on the uppers and brush off with a simple swipe. I also tested them by pouring water over them before putting them on, and the flexible knit fabric wicks moisture so effectively that I was honestly impressed. You couldn't wear these as waders, but they're a more stylish alternative to rubber rain boots." — Gabrielle Chase, associate style editor, Insider Reviews. 

Alohas/Samantha Crozier

Colors: Brown, black, dark brown, cream

It's rare to find a pair of heeled boots that wears just as well as a flat pair, but Alohas' leather knee-high boots fit the bill. They're made with a sturdy 2.9-inch block heel and were surprisingly easy and comfortable to walk in. I chose the brown croc design (although there were 31 colors to choose from!) because it's an easy neutral color with a bit of flair.

As Alohas promises, I found these boots to be very versatile. They looked equally polished with a cashmere mini dress, a flowing midi skirt and sweater, and worn over a pair of skinny jeans. — Talia Ergas, freelance writer, Insider Reviews

Rebecca Strong/Insider, Naturalizer

This is the third Naturalizer pick on this list, so you know that Naturalizer boots are something special. We love the brand for its comfort and for its prices, which reflect the quality of the product.

Freelance style writer Rebecca Strong tested these for her article on the most comfortable boots and loved the style and walkability.

She writes: "Riding boots are a classic for a reason: they work with everything from floaty floral dresses to distressed boot-leg jeans. But the features that make the Naturalizer Rena 2 stand out are the eye-catching criss-cross straps, flattering almond-shaped toe, and polished buckles. The fact that they zip on and off is a plus for me, too, because pull-on styles don't tend to be as svelte in the ankle area."

Plus, they're exceedingly walkable. "Most importantly, though, thanks to the 1-inch block heel, removable insole, and Contour+ Comfort technology, I definitely wasn't racing to tear these off at the end of my work day," she says.

Tecovas

Leather colors: 10 including black, white, dark brown, beige, and light blue

Suede colors: Dark blue, light brown

When it comes to quality cowboy boots, you can't get much better than Tecovas. The brand topped our list of the best cowboy boots for men and the best cowboy boots for women since they craft their boots with the most authentic materials and have a cult following among Western wear enthusiasts. It takes over 200 careful steps to create one of these rugged masterpieces, which is why getting these for under $300 is a great value. 

Learn more about the creation process in our full Tecovas Dean boots review.

Margaux/Gabrielle Chase

Colors: Black suede, black leather, snakeskin, brown suede

We love all of Margaux's shoes and have raved about their Demi Flats, but their boots are just as great. The Bleecker Boot, in particular, is fantastic for people who have ultra-specific needs when it comes to footwear. It comes in three widths: narrow, regular, and wide. Plus, they have half-sizes so that you can get the perfect fit. 

"The Bleecker Boots from Margaux are my favorite knee-high boots in my closet. They pull on effortlessly, and the embossed leather has a textured snakeskin pattern that aligns with the current 'mob wife' trend. I did sustain some toe blisters on my first couple wears — par for the course when breaking in new leather boots — but the 3.25-inch block heels are easy to walk in.

"I'm 5-foot-9, and the shaft hit between my mid-calf and knee. The Bleecker is meant to be worn with thin socks or tights, so I ordered my true size (US 8) in a regular width, and the almond toe shape fit me well without any pinching. Margaux tailors these in half sizes but if you're unsure which way to lean, I recommend sizing up." — Gabrielle Chase, associate style editor, Insider Reviews.

Rebecca Strong/Insider, J.Crew

These leather pull-on boots have dressy details like a pointed toe, delicate heel, and shiny finish. Freelance style writer Rebecca Strong counts the Stevie Knee-High Pull-On Boots among her favorite shoes and talks about how walkable they are in her guide to the most comfortable boots.

"Since the angle created by kitten heels puts less pressure on the ball of my foot, I find that I'm far less likely to deal with any pain after a long day of wearing them," she says.

Plus, they are beautifully versatile. "The 2.24-inch heel on these knee-high boots is reasonable enough that I be on my feet for long hours at, say, a networking event or cocktail party. And I love that I can pop them on with a blazer dress, or a cowl-neck sweater dress, and transition seamlessly from a work meeting to date night," she says.

However, she does warn that they may need some breaking in: "The one thing I will say about the Stevie is that the back part that cradles your heel can feel a bit stiff when you first put them on — but rest assured that this will soften and stretch with wear."