I wore Kate Middleton's favourite Blundstone boots every day for 2 weeks — here's my honest review
If they're good enough for the Princess of Wales, they're good enough for me.
In general, I am very much an "I'd rather be outside" kind of gal. Sartorially speaking, this means that I spend most of my time rotating my footwear between my big three: Birkenstock sandals, New Balance sneakers and Blundstone boots.
Being it fall in Canada and all, the latter of the three, Blundstone, is on heavy rotation in my wardrobe. In the past two weeks alone, I have worn my Blundstone Chelsea Boots nearly every single day. These chunky-yet-lightweight boots go with everything (and are water-resistant), which makes them a perfect option for unpredictable fall weather. And you know what? I'm in good company — Kate Middleton loves them too.
No matter the weather, these durable (and cute!) Blundstones will keep your feet dry and comfortable.
- No break-in period needed
- Premium leather
- Outsole resistant to microbial attack
- They're great for mucky weather
- Comfortable on long walks
- Perfect for rain, snow, slush and shine
- They're not super easy to slip on
- They need higher socks, at least at first
Now, I cannot say for certain that Blundstone is Kate Middleton's favourite shoe brand (she also likes Sorel and Superga), but she has been photographed wearing Blundstone Chelsea boots on multiple occasions, so it's possible!
While the Princess of Wales may be the brand's most famous supporter, the chunky, slip-on leather boots are one of my all-time favourites for fall and winter.
They're crafted using premium leather and are engineered with impact-protection technology, which provides its wearers with shock protection and support in the heel. I have worn them for multiple hours hiking on muddy trails, rock-strewn paths and uneven terrain, and they've always felt supportive and comfortable.
Shop the look: Silver Jeans 90s Baggy Mid Rise Wide Leg Jeans (truly the most comfortable pair of jeans), Arc’teryx Beta Jacket (super warm and perfect for fall and early winter) and Ray-Ban Round Metal Sunglasses.
Silver Jeans Co. High Waist Baggy Wide Leg Jeans
Arc'teryx Women's Beta Jacket
Ray-Ban Round Metal Sunglasses
My Blundstones of choice — the #2444 New Classics Chelsea Boots in Antique Brown Brogue — are a slight variation of the brand's most famous styles (and the styles found in Kate Middleton's wardrobe), as they feature a subtle detail on the toe. If you would prefer the Princess of Wales' classic boot — the Chelsea Boots #1609 in Antique Brown Leather — you can shop them here.
1609 Classic Chelsea Boots in Antique Brown
Are Blundstones worth it?
Aside from their unofficial royal seal of approval (P.S. Barbour jackets have a real-deal royal seal of approval), there are dozens of reasons to invest in a pair of Blundstones — especially given Canada's forever-changing weather conditions.
They're made of premium leather: I won't name names, but there are some boot brands whose quality almost never matches the price. Blundstones, on the other hand, last for years. The cost upfront may seem steep, but the ROI is there — if you take care of them, they'll last forever.
They're weather-resistant: I don't have to explain to anyone the ins and outs of Canadian weather. Depending on the day (or the hour of the day), it can be slushy, snowy, wet, dry and every degree of mucky. These shoes are made for all-season endurance and will see you through almost every weather change.
They go with everything: Barring weddings and cocktail hours, Blundstones can go with almost everything in your wardrobe. Princess Kate styled hers with jeans and a turtleneck, but you could wear them with leggings, a maxi dress or whatever else you see fit.
Are Blundstones good for hiking?
While I wouldn't necessarily wear Blundstones on the Camino de Santiago (or any long-distance hike), they're comfortable for shorter distances. I recently wore them on a 10 km hike in the Rockies and had no issues. However, if you're trekking for longer distances, I would recommend a proper pair of hiking boots.
Are Blundstones waterproof?
The Blundstone Winter Thermal Series and Winter Thermal All-Terrian Series are 100 per cent waterproof. This includes style #566, #584, #1478, #1477, #1391, #1392, #2242, #2250 and #2241. All other Blundstone boots, including my Blundstone 2444 New Classics Chelsea Boots, feature weatherproof leather. They're water-resistant but not completely waterproof.
Room for improvement
My Blundstone boots required next to no break-in period, but I will say, the socks you wear are important. As they're ankle-length, you might want to wear a higher sock (at least at the beginning) so that the leather doesn't rub on your skin.
Additionally, they're not super easy to slip on, especially with chunky socks. If you live in a shoe horn household, this would be a good time to use it.
Best Blundstone boots for fall and winter 2024
No matter the weather, these durable (and cute!) Blundstones will keep your feet dry and comfortable.
These Kate Middleton-approved boots go with everything.
Reviewers call the 585 Classic Chelsea Boots the "best" shoes for fall.
A fun twist on the traditional Blundstone colours, grab these boots in "oat" while supplies last.
Winterize your Blundstones with these sheepskin footbeds.
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