Once the go-to footwear for soldiers and subcultures alike, the Monkey Boot has always stood for strength, attitude, and authenticity. Today, it’s stepping firmly back into the spotlight. With its timeless silhouette, this distinctive boot is being rediscovered by people who appreciate heritage with a bit of edge.
At Tricker’s, we’ve long believed in the beauty of boots that tell a story, and few tell it better than the Monkey Boot.
What Exactly Is a Monkey Boot?
The Monkey Boot is instantly recognisable thanks to its unique lace-to-toe construction. Designed to provide maximum support and adjustability, this detail is more than just a visual quirk, it’s rooted in function.
Typically ankle-high, with a rounded toe and sturdy sole, Monkey Boots are known for their robust build. Originally created as practical workwear, they’re created for durability and comfort, which explains why they’ve endured through generations of wearers.
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A Boot with History
Monkey Boots first rose to prominence during and after WWII, worn by British soldiers for their dependability and supportive design. From there, they found new life in the hands (and on the feet) of youth subcultures throughout the latter half of the 20th century.
In the 1970s and 80s, punks and skinheads adopted Monkey Boots as part of their defiant style, favouring their utilitarian edge and hard-wearing appeal. For many, these boots weren’t just something to wear. They were part of what you stood for.
Why Monkey Boots Are Back
Today, the Monkey Boot’s fusion of heritage and bold design is resonating once again. As fashion shifts towards vintage influences and practical silhouettes, the Monkey Boot offers something refreshingly different.
This is footwear with attitude but also elegance. The kind of boot that anchors a look without overwhelming it. Its enduring charm lies in its balance: rugged, yet refined. Nostalgic, yet surprisingly modern.
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Tricker’s Take on the Monkey Boot
Our version of this classic doesn't stray far from its roots but it does elevate every element.
Handmade in our Northampton factory using traditional techniques, each pair of Tricker’s Monkey Boots is made with the finest leather and stitched to last a lifetime. The Ethan Monkey Boot available in Moss, Snuff, and Black Kudu for example is our refined tribute to this cult favourite.
While we’ve honoured the original design, we’ve added a contemporary polish. The silhouette is sleek but substantial, and the materials, carefully chosen for their texture, durability, and patina potential add a level of sophistication that sets our boots apart.
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How to Wear Them Today
Monkey Boots are more versatile than you might think. Their balance of form and function means they can work across a range of styles adding a rugged twist to clean lines, or complementing more utilitarian outfits.
Try pairing them with selvedge denim, a heavyweight overshirt, or a waxed jacket for a look that nods to workwear without feeling costume-like. For a modern contrast, wear them with tapered trousers and a minimal knit.
Whether you’re drawn to the Monkey Boot for its history, its practicality, or its unmistakable style, Tricker’s offers a version that honours its roots while stepping confidently into the now.
Explore the full Monkey Boot collection here and find your pair of boots with character, craftsmanship, and a story to tell.
