From army surplus to the punk scene
In the late 1960s, young people in England walked around in heavy black army boots from the surplus store. In the 1970s, the punks took them over. Almost every town had an army surplus shop back then, and the boots were affordable, indestructible and easy to make your own with paint, different laces or homemade decorations. Heavy lace-up boots became a statement against everything that was supposed to be neat and well-behaved.
In the early 1980s, more and more women started wearing them, precisely because they broke with how a girl was supposed to look. In the 1990s, grunge and the alternative music scene kept the sturdy lace-up boot alive. Whoever puts on punk boots today chooses a style of their own, just like back then, whether you wear them to a concert, at work or at the weekend.
Punk boots are tall leather lace-up boots with a tough, distinctive silhouette. You see them just as easily with a dress as with black jeans. In this guide you'll read what to look for when choosing punk boots, which versions there are and how to combine them. As an example we use the Samelin 511, the punk boot in our collection.
What are punk boots?
By punk boots we mean tall lace-up boots with a robust sole and an upper that reaches above the ankle. They are also called combat boots or lace-up boots. What sets punk boots apart is the style: a clear, characteristic model that deliberately stands out, often in black leather, but also in bright colours or with a print.
Punk boots are basically unisex. The same boot is worn by men and women; the difference is in the size.
What to look for when buying punk boots
1. The upper: genuine leather
A leather upper shapes itself to your foot over time and, with good care, can last for years. The Samelin 511 has a genuine leather upper and is made in Estonia, by a manufacturer that has been producing footwear for more than 75 years.
2. The sole
The sole determines grip, cushioning and how long your boot lasts. The standard 511 has a direct-injected PU sole: the sole is moulded directly onto the upper, which creates a strong bond. The lined winter versions have a TR rubber sole for grip and durability.
3. Lining and footbed
A light textile lining makes a boot suitable all year round. The 511 has such a light lining, combined with an anatomical, antibacterial and washable footbed for all-day comfort.
4. Laces or laces with a zipper
Tall lace-up boots close nicely around your ankle, but putting them on and taking them off takes a moment. A version with a zipper combines the lace-up look with a quick entry: you tie the laces properly once and then use the zipper.
5. The size
When choosing your size, always check the size chart on the product page. It opens via the link next to the size selection. The black 511 is offered from size 35 up to and including 48, so there are both small and large sizes.
The Samelin 511: versions at a glance
The 511 comes in more than ten colours and finishes. This is how you choose the punk boot that suits your style:
- Classic black: the 511 black is the most versatile choice and goes with almost any outfit.
- Black with zipper: the 511 2.0 black with zipper has the same recognisable silhouette, with a zipper for putting them on and off faster.
- Glossy patent leather: the 511 patent leather black with zipper gives your boots a striking shine.
- With a print: the 511 with red rose print makes your boots the centrepiece of your outfit.
- Bright colours: from apple green and yellow to purple, blue and pink.
- Lined for winter: the lined 511 with zipper has thick, water-repellent leather and a warm lining for the coldest months.
How to combine punk boots
Punk boots are more versatile than their tough look suggests. A few combinations that always work:
- With a dress or skirt: the contrast between a light dress and sturdy lace-up boots is a classic.
- With skinny or straight jeans: tuck your trousers into the boot or let them fall loosely over it.
- With wide trousers: show only the toe and sole for a tough, modern look.
- All black: black boots, black jeans and a leather jacket for the classic punk look.
- Colour as an accent: choose a coloured or printed 511 with a calm outfit, so your boots make the difference.
Caring for your punk boots
Leather boots stay at their best when you care for them regularly:
- Brush off dirt and mud after use with a soft brush or a slightly damp cloth.
- Let wet boots dry calmly at room temperature.
- Care for the leather with a product suitable for the type of leather, so it stays supple.
You'll find more tips in our guide how to care for your Samelin boots.
Frequently asked questions about punk boots
Are punk boots for women or men?
Both. The Samelin 511 is unisex: the same boot is made for women and men, the only difference is the size.
Can you wear punk boots all year round?
Yes. The standard 511 has a light textile lining, so you can wear it in every season. For the coldest months there is a lined winter version with a warm lining.
What is the advantage of punk boots with a zipper?
With a zipper you put your boots on and take them off quickly, while the laces take care of the fit. So you keep the lace-up look with the convenience of a zipper.
What size punk boots do I need?
Check the size chart on the product page of the model you choose. In doubt between two sizes? Then get in touch with us and we'll help you decide.
Finding your punk boots
Punk boots combine a distinctive style with a sturdy leather construction. Will you go for classic black, a zipper, patent leather or a striking print? The Samelin 511 comes in all these versions. View all colours in our Women's Boots collection or start with the Samelin 511 black.