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Byrdie / Alli Waataja
There’s no better way to feel badass than throwing on a pair of platform boots. Maybe you fancy the extra boost of height, the shoe’s chunky base, or even the sleek shape, but whatever it is, there’s something to be said about the confidence that this boot style delivers.
Byrdie Researched & Tested
When it comes to our top pick, the AGL Sandy Platform Boots take top honors. They're perfect for everyday wear, can be easily dressed up or down, and they're ultra sleek.
While shopping, it’s important to keep in mind what you plan to wear the boots for. Do you want an everyday pair with subtle detailing and a platform height that will not risk your ankle’s well-being? Or do you want to wear them to dress up an outfit for an event, opting for a precarious platform and embellished accents? The factors to consider can seem endless.
Meet the Expert
Alicia Martinez began her career at the established brands Thursday Boots over 8 years ago, as Founding Partner and Chief Customer Care Offer. Chelsea Hansford has been Creative Director at Simon Miller for over 9 years, leading the Los Angeles-based lifestyle brand through the luxury space.
We consulted two fashion experts—Alicia Martinez, Founding Partner and Chief Customer Care Officer of Thursday Boots and Chelsea Hansford, CEO and Creative Director of Simon Miller—both of whom helped us narrow down the criteria for selecting the best platform boots to stylishly stomp around in this year.
Best Overall
AGL Sandy Platform Boots
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Farfetch
When you think of platform boots, something like these probably comes to mind. A light leather atop rubber construction, the simple silhouette is perfect for everyday wear. Dress them up or dress them down, this Italian brand makes some of the most versatile and quality shoes.
Price at Time of Publish: $540
Material: Leather, Rubber | Sizes: 37 - 41 | Platform Height: 2.2 in | Colors: 1
Best Chunky
Casadei Pull-on Platform Boots
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Farfetch
Casadei makes boots that are chunky but also flattering, and this pair is no different. Complete with a hefty heel, this option will deliver a major height boost. If that's what you're looking for, you'll love these otherwise sleek boots with a classic silhouette. Get ready to stand sky-high in these bad boys.
Price at Time of Publish: $532
Material: Leather, Rubber | Sizes: 38.5 - 41 | Platform Height: 2.6 in | Colors: 1
Best Printed
Simon Miller High Raid Boots
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Simon Miller
We love Simon Miller for their prints and eye-catching silhouettes, so it’s no surprise that its platform boots reinforce this. There’s really no other brand to turn to like Simon Miller when it comes to choosing a patterned option. To Hansford, “the most important thing with platforms is the balance between big, bold, and chic. It’s a fine line, but when it meets, the magic happens.” The Raid boots definitely strike this balance.
Price at Time of Publish: $695
Material: Leather | Sizes: 5 - 11 | Platform Height: 4.3 in | Colors: 4
Best Chelsea
Ganni Cleated Mid Chelsea Boots
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Shopbop
While we love a standard Chelsea boot, these have a little bit of a kick to them. Ganni puts a spin on the classic style with a chunky platform lug sole and contrasting stitching, giving edge to the traditional silhouette. Throw on some leather leggings and a bomber, and you’ve got a rocking look.
Price at Time of Publish: $495
Material: Leather, Rubber | Sizes: 35 - 42 | Platform Height: 1 in | Colors: 1
Best Black
3.1 Phillip Lim Kate Lug Sole Combat Boots
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Shopbop
Phillip Lim is the king of lug soles, and these boots are no exception. With a lightly cushioned footbed, these provide the comfort that you are looking for in a pair of black boots. Also, the pull tabs make them easy to slide on and off, a practical option that will go with any outfit.
Price at Time of Publish: $595
Material: Leather, Rubber | Sizes: 35 - 41 | Platform Height: 0.25 in | Colors: 1
Best Combat
Thursday Boots Dynasty Combat Boots
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Thursday Boots
Thursday Boots is serving up some of the most durable boots around. Martinez is a particular fan of the Dynasty combat style, as she “loves wearing [them] for going out at night.” With a thick platform, these will give you the extra inches without the worry of freezing your feet in heels.
Price at Time of Publish: $190
Material: Leather, Rubber | Sizes: 5.5 - 10 | Platform Height: 2.75 in | Colors: 4
Best for Winter
Mackage Conquer Boots
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Shopbop
One of the hardest parts about shopping for winter boots is finding some that aren’t going to take away any sophistication from your outfit. One of our favorite outerwear brands also makes fabulous boots. The rubber lug sole sets you above the treacherous ground, while the shearling lines the boots to keep your toes toasty. Plus, they are water resistant and repellent, which is going to go a long way come the winter.
Price at Time of Publish: $590
Material: Leather, Shearling, Rubber | Sizes: 35 - 41 | Platform Height: 1.5 in | Colors: 1
Best Affordable
Steve Madden Fella Ankle Boots
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Amazon
Steve Madden really does have a shoe for everything. And not only that, but said shoe is typically at a price that won’t burst your budget. These ankle boots are the perfect transition shoe; wear them during the day with some tapered pants and out at night with a mini skirt and tights.
Price at Time of Publish: $74
Material: Leather, Thermoplastic | Sizes: 5.5 - 10 | Platform Height: 1.5 in | Colors: 4
Best Knee High
Windsor Smith Badgirls Stretch Knee Boots
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Windsor Smith
If you prefer your boots high, these platforms are doing double duty. Stretchy and flexible, the non-leather is making these pretty irresistible. And speaking of non-leather, we appreciate the emphasis of a style that aims for sustainability.
Price at Time of Publish: $170
Material: Non-Leather | Sizes: 6 - 10 | Platform Height: 1.7 in | Colors: 2
Best White
Jeffrey Campbell Quavo Platform Booties
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Nordstrom
A hint of ‘70s flair offers a retro vibe to these booties. The white patent leather stacked atop a utilitarian lug sole will ensure the attention of the fit is going towards the footwear. Yes, you could wear them everyday with a pair of frayed denim, but you could also wear them with a mini dress out to a bar. Your choice, and we support whichever you decide.
Price at Time of Publish: $124
Material: Leather, Synthetic | Sizes: 5 - 11 | Platform Height: 2 in | Colors: 2
Best Plush
UGG Classic Ultra Mini Platform Boot
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Ugg
Ugg’s has gotten in on the platform game as well, with these mini boots that have been selling ferociously. Following their traditional styles, these also have the same comfort and lush feeling. Something about a pair of Uggs is like a warm hug from an old friend, and these are the hug we’ve been waiting for this season.
Price at Time of Publish: $150
Material: Rubber, Leather | Sizes: 5 - 12 | Platform Height: 2 in | Colors: 9
Best Moon
Chloé x Moon Boot Lace-Up Boot
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Nordstrom
Moon Boots are back, baby. Don’t just take our word for it—Chloé has spoken. These wool ankle boots with patterned laces crisscrossing the knit are going to be the boot you need for sophisticated stomping. Both Moon Boots and Chloé are branded across the shoe, keeping them subtle and stylish.
Price at Time of Publish: $725
Material: Wool, Leather, Thermoplastic | Sizes: 35, 37, 39, 41 | Platform Height: N/A | Colors: 2
Best High
Stuart Weitzman Skyhigh 145 Platform Boots
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Nordstrom
If you are looking for platforms to really give you that boost, then these are the ones for you. The shoe gives you over half a foot of height, so be sure that you won’t be walking miles in these. Unless you have fantastic balance and soles of steel, in which case, be my guest. Pro tip: a printed midi dress would pair quite well with these boots.
Price at Time of Publish: $209
Material: Leather | Sizes: 5 - 12 | Platform Height: 2 in | Colors: 3
Best Designer
Burberry Mason Platform Hiker Boots
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Neiman Marcus
If you feel like splurging, then there’s nothing like some classic Burberry’s to treat yourself to. The house’s check is iconic, the British brand putting their signature on all even their hiking boots. But, don’t worry, you don’t only have to wear these while hiking. Platforms aren’t going anywhere anytime soon, so think of this as an investment.
Price at Time of Publish: $1150
Material: Cotton, Faux Leather | Sizes: 35 - 41 | Platform Height: 1.5 in | Colors: 1
Final Verdict
When it comes to our top pick, the AGL Sandy Platform Boots take top honors. They're perfect for everyday wear, can be easily dressed up or down, and they're ultra sleek. If you're looking for a standout pair for your next night out, we'd suggest the Simon Miller High Raid Boot, and if you need to keep your budget in mind without sacrificing style, the Steve Madden Fella Ankle Boot is your best bet.
What to Look for in Platform Boots
Platform Height
As expected, the platform height is one of the most important things to consider. To Martinez, it’s important to realize that “there is a big variance in how tall the platform is. Technically a platform boot can range anywhere between 1”, which most of us would consider a standard or relatively low heel height, to 6”! You might love a style with a 2.5” platform but at 4” you might not want the extra height, so I would always double check the product details.”
Material
From patent leather to suede to shearling, think about the construction of the shoe. If you intend to wear the platform boot in harsher conditions, then you may want to opt for a pair that can defend itself. The rubber soles are also great for more casual wearing, so consider the material of the sole as well.
Design Details
Look closely at the boot. There may be a little logo, a shearling lining, or a simple design on the laces that make it either more or less appealing. It’s also important to be sure that the platforms are well crafted and sturdy, while giving you enough support.
Fit and Comfort
Be sure that you can actually walk in your boots. The extra height is great and all, but if you can’t move then you can’t go where anyone will actually see it. Martinez finds that one easy way to check for fit and comfort is to “Read the reviews! Other customers often give great feedback regarding the fit that is worthwhile before placing an order.” We agree, and Hansford adds that she can “work and move furniture in platform shoes.” The shoe should feel like an extension of self.
Why Trust Byrdie
Gaby Keiderling is a freelance writer based in New York City, covering fashion, lifestyle, sports, and travel. Her work can also be seen in Esquire, Harper’s Bazaar, Vogue, Who What Wear, and Travel + Leisure. She’s also an avid shoe collector, and she loves some extra height from a good pair of platform boots.
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