How to Wear Duck Boots in the Summer

Co-authored by Neepa Sikdar

Last Updated: October 8, 2022 References

Duck boots, also known by the brand name Bean Boots, are a distinctive style of comfortable waterproof boots. With rubber on the bottom and leather on top, the classic duck boot is instantly recognizable.^{[1]
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Research source} Though they're typically thought of as winter gear, duck boots can be worn all year. By choosing the right pair and putting some thought into styling them, you can make duck boots your go-to summer footwear.

Method 1

Method 1 of 2:

Styling Your Duck Boots

1
Wear thin socks. Duck boots can get hot and sweaty, so it’s important to wear them with light socks in the summer.^{[2]
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Expert Source

Neepa Sikdar
Personal Stylist
Expert Interview. 11 February 2022.} Thinner socks leave space for air to circulate and cool your feet down.^{[3]
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- Tall socks work best with duck boots. They’re better at keeping your pants tucked in, and the boots look great with some sock showing.
- For men, the untucked look is fine with duck boots.
2
Tie the laces tightly. Duck boots look and feel better if you pull the laces tight and tie them in a bow. That way, they won't slip as you walk.

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3
Pair them with skinny jeans for a casual look. Jeans look great with duck boots for day-to-day activities, but make sure they're a slim-fitting pair. Baggy pants paired with duck boots just look sloppy.^{[4]
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- The jeans-and-boots look is very versatile. You can roll up the cuff, tuck them in, or wear a cropped pair.
- You can also pair your duck boots with a skirt when it's too hot for jeans.^{[5]
  X
  Expert Source
  
  Neepa Sikdar
  Personal Stylist
  Expert Interview. 11 February 2022.} A skirt cut at or above the knee looks good with a long boot. A maxi skirt also works, but go with another option if it's raining so the hem doesn't get wet.
4
Pair them with leggings if you're going to be active. A good pair of duck boots is perfect for a hike or outdoor workout, but nobody wants to get sweaty in their jeans. Leggings will give you the comfort you need and still look great.^{[6]
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Dress up your boots with a flowy dress. Duck boots are so versatile that you don't have to reserve them for casual occasions. They might not work for a black-tie affair, but you can definitely pair them with a dress to more up-scale events.
- A flowy dress looks better than a form-fitting one with heavier boots like these.
- With tops, the same principle applies: wear a flowy blouse or top. This will create a nice contrast with your skinny jeans or leggings. Duck boots are extremely versatile, though, so try out lots of outfit combinations.
- You can even pair them with shorts, rompers, and cotton T-shirt dresses.^{[7]
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  Expert Source
  
  Neepa Sikdar
  Personal Stylist
  Expert Interview. 11 February 2022.}

Method 2

Method 2 of 2:

Buying Duck Boots for the Summer

1
Buy high-quality duck boots. Duck boots can last for years, or even decades, so think of them as an investment.^{[8]
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Research source} The most important thing is that your duck boots will keep water out. If you skimp and buy a cheaper brand, they might not really be waterproof, which defeats the purpose of buying boots that you intend to wear all year. ^{[9]
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Research source} Make sure to read reviews or ask a salesperson if the duck boots you're considering are 100% waterproof.
- Like any footwear that you'll wear regularly, you want your duck boots to be comfortable and sturdy. When you try them on and walk around, they should feel supportive and should give you plenty of traction.^{[10]
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- The top part of the duck boot can be made of weather or a waterproof material. The highest-quality brands are made with tough, weather treated leather, which will last for years and keep you dry.^{[11]
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- If you plan to order duck boots, do it in spring or summer. Since they’re so popular, they’re often on back order in winter.
2
Try on boots one size down from your usual size. If you try on duck boots in your size and they're too big, don’t get discouraged. Duck boots are known to fit very large, and many customers find that they have to go a full size down from their regular size.
3
Pick non-insulated boots. You can buy duck boots with or without a warm insulating lining. If your goal is to wear them in the summer, go for boots without insulation. Otherwise, your feet will overheat and sweat when you wear them during the summer.^{[12]
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Try on a few different styles. While the iconic classic look is popular, there are now styles designed specifically for warmer seasons. The lighter boots designed for spring are definitely recognizable as duck boots, but they come in bright colours and multiple lengths so you can customize your look. For summertime, a great option is the low-cut Chelsea duck boots. ^{[13]
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- If you find seasonal duck boots that you like, snatch them up while you can. These tend to be limited-run boots, so they're even harder to find than the classic design. Your best bet is to buy them online as soon as they're released. Another good option is put your name on a store's waiting list.^{[14]
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Community Q&A

Question

Are duck boots only for teens or young adults?

Community Answer

They are for everyone who likes to sport them. Depending upon the occasion, they could be paired with a variety of outfit combinations for a casual to a semi-casual look.