Chukka Boots Definition

Chukka boots, also referred to as "turf boots" or "desert boots," are ankle-high boots, laced up through 3 pairs of eyelets. Designed to be worn in the desert by British troops, the boots were comfortable and practical enough that their design became popular after the second World War as a casual shoe worn by civilians.

History

British soldiers needed cool, yet sturdy, boots to wear during the desert campaigns of World War II. Tall boots would have been too warm. Therefore, designers created ankle-length, lace-up boots with a crepe sole that were dubbed "desert boots." After the war, this design became popular as a casual shoe, sometimes termed "turf boots."

Features

Chukka boots are casual, ankle-high boots that are most often made of either suede or calfskin, although some are made of more exotic materials such as alligator or ostrich hide. The eyelets may or may not have grommets. Laces are usually made of leather or waxed cord, and the soles are either leather or man-made crepe.

Function

Chukka boots were popular as casual shoes, because various thicknesses of socks could be worn with them. By treating the leather with a product such as mink oil, the chukkas became waterproof and, with winter-weight socks, were practical for winter wear. The crepe soles helped prevent slipping on icy sidewalks, and the height of the boots helped keep out wet, slushy snow.

Origin of the Term

During the 1940s and 1950s, the game of polo was becoming more popular in America, and these boots took on the name of "chukka boots"---named after one of the timed periods in a polo game.

Today's Chukka Boots

Present-day chukka boots are still made of leather, and while some remain ankle-high, many newer styles are cut much lower and have the support, spring and movement of a good athletic shoe. Heavier weight chukkas are made of thick leather, with 3 to 7 pairs of eyelets, and are often used as hiking boots. Some are even insulated with materials such as GoreTex, so they can be worn in cold temperatures. Those with steel toes are sometimes used by policemen, and laborers use them as work boots.