Barbour Shoes & Boots: The Jones Bootmaker Guide

24 September 2025

Barbour footwear brings the brand’s countryside-ready practicality to everyday shoes and boots. From Chelsea and chukka silhouettes to boat shoes and wellies, these are styles built to work hard and look timeless.

What makes Barbour footwear different?

Barbour began in 1894 in South Shields and remains a fifth-generation, family-owned British brand. While best known for wax jackets, the brand’s footwear collection offers that same heritage quality, now crafted into everyday staples for town and trail alike.

Rugged yet refined, Barbour shoes and boots combine country utility with sleek, timeless silhouettes. Think Chelsea boots with just enough structure for the office, or waterproof wellies that don’t compromise on style.

Construction matters. From leather uppers and suede panelling to durable rubber soles and breathable linings, these are shoes you’ll rely on season after season. Many styles feature practical touches like elastic gussets, grippy soles, pull tabs, and stitch-down welting.

If you're shopping for something that lasts, Barbour nails the buy once, wear for years ethos.

Men’s Barbour Shoes & Boots: Editor Picks

Chelsea Boots

Barbour Farsley Chelsea Boots — Tan

  • Clean almond toe for versatile wear
  • Elasticated gussets and rear pull tab for easy on/off
  • Low profile works with both jeans and tailoring

Barbour Chunky Chelsea Boots — Black

  • Thick rubber sole for a modern edge
  • Matte black finish for a rugged urban vibe
  • Padded insole for everyday comfort

Chukka & Desert Boots

Barbour Readhead Chukka Boots — Cognac

  • Polished suede upper with open-laced construction
  • Cushioned footbed for extended wear
  • Great with chinos or dark denim

Barbour Siton Desert Chukka Boots — Brown

  • Soft suede upper and minimal stitching
  • Casual and lightweight for weekend use
  • Stitched crepe-style sole for flexible grip

Boat Shoes & Moccasins

Barbour Basalt Boat Shoe — Black

  • Classic deck shoe design with rawhide lacing
  • Grippy tread ideal for spring–summer walks
  • Breathable leather lining

Barbour Armada Boat Shoes — Cognac Suede

  • Rich suede upper for a relaxed polish
  • Two-eyelet profile for sleek lines
  • Cushioned sole for all-day dockside wear

Barbour Leather Slip‑On Boat Shoes — Brown

  • Easy slip-on silhouette
  • Textured sole and side panels
  • Airy and versatile

Wellingtons & Outdoor

Barbour Nimbus Ankle Wellington Boots — Olive

  • Short profile for wet weather city wear
  • Pull loops and grip soles for practicality
  • Fully waterproof rubber outer

Smart Shoes

Barbour Acer Suede Derby Shoes — Slate

  • Soft, flexible suede
  • Derby construction = easy fit
  • Great for soft tailoring or casual Friday

Barbour Sandstone Lace‑Up Shoes — Taupe Suede

  • Textured suede upper
  • Minimalist lacing and contrast sole
  • Built for smart-casual outings

Women’s Barbour Boots: Editor Picks

Wellingtons

Barbour Banbury Wellington Boots — Black

  • Classic tall silhouette
  • Waterproof and wipe-clean
  • Ideal for festivals, dog walks, wet commutes

Barbour Wilton Wellie Ankle Boots — Black

  • City-friendly profile
  • Low shaft for comfort and movement
  • Works with jeans or leggings

Chelsea & Knee‑High Boots

Barbour Nina Chelsea Boots — Black

  • Sleek finish and comfortable fit
  • Dual elastic gussets
  • Go-to for daily wear

Barbour Birch Chelsea Boots — Black

  • Slightly chunkier silhouette
  • Treaded sole and supportive lining
  • Adds edge to dresses and jeans

Barbour Ingrid Knee‑High Boots — Black

  • Smooth upper and equestrian styling
  • Structured shaft with zip entry
  • Elegant and practical

Biker & Hiking Inspired

Barbour Heidi Biker Boots — Black

  • Harness details and zip fastening
  • Tough-luxe silhouette
  • Best paired with denim and chunky knits

How to Choose Your Barbour Footwear

When it comes to choosing the right footwear, it really does start with purpose. Think about where your shoes will take you most often. For city commutes, a classic Chelsea boot keeps things polished yet practical. If your weekends are more about muddy fields and fresh air, a sturdy Wellington is your best friend. And for those breezy coastal walks, nothing feels more at home than a boat shoe.

Material is the next big consideration. Leather is a long-term investment; it lasts beautifully if you’re prepared to condition it regularly. Suede, on the other hand, brings a sharp, sophisticated finish, though it does ask for a little more care. For days when the forecast is unpredictable, rubber steps up as the most reliable choice, offering effortless waterproofing.

Then there’s the matter of soles and traction. Urban-ready pairs tend to keep their profiles sleek and streamlined, perfect for navigating pavements and office corridors. Countryside styles, meanwhile, usually feature deeper lug soles that are built to grip uneven ground and keep you steady underfoot.

Finally, don’t overlook fit. Most styles run true to size, but it’s always worth checking individual product reviews before you decide. And remember, the thickness of the socks you wear most often can make all the difference to how comfortable your boots feel day to day.

Barbour Darlene

How to Wear Barbour Shoes & Boots

  • Chelsea boots: Dark denim, cable-knit jumper, and a waxed jacket
  • Chukka boots: Rolled chinos, Breton top, Harrington jacket
  • Boat shoes: Oxford shirt, chino shorts, light knit over the shoulders
  • Wellingtons: Jeans tucked in, waxed outer, umbrella optional
  • Knee-high boots: Midi dress, longline trench, oversized scarf
Men's Footwear

Care & Cleaning Tips

  • Leather: Remove dirt with a damp cloth, dry naturally, condition occasionally
  • Suede: Brush dry with a suede brush, remove marks with a suede block, spray with protectant
  • Wellies: Rinse and wipe down, avoid direct heat, store upright to prevent sagging

FAQs

Are Barbour boots waterproof?


Rubber wellington styles are fully waterproof. Leather and suede pairs are water-resistant, however, it's recommended to double-check the product page for details.

Do Barbour shoes fit true to size?


Generally, Barbour shoes do fit true to size, but styles vary. Use each product’s size guide and factor in sock thickness.

How do I clean Barbour leather and suede footwear?

Leather needs just a little care; clean it gently and condition sparingly to keep it supple. Suede asks for a softer touch: use a dry brush, apply protector spray, and steer clear of water wherever possible. And with both, one golden rule applies: never dry your shoes near direct heat.

What’s the difference between Readhead and Chelsea boots?


A Redhead is your classic chukka: a laced ankle boot with a laid-back feel. A Chelsea, on the other hand, is instantly recognisable with its elastic sides and sleek, pull-on shape.

Does Barbour make footwear as well as jackets?


Yes, Barbour’s modern wardrobe includes boots and shoes alongside their iconic outerwear.

Find Your Fit

Explore more from Barbour’s men’s and women’s collections now:
Shop Men’s Barbour Boots & Shoes
Shop Women’s Barbour Boots & Shoes