A Quick Guide to Desert Boots

There are many variations of desert boots and this can sometimes lead to confusion. Many people associate desert boots as what are actually known as chukka boots or turf boots. Chukka boots are usually made from suede or calfskin. They have also been known to of been made from crocodile skin.

The name chukka comes from the game of polo, where the game has periods of play, known as chukkas (also chukkers or chuckers ). This term originated in 1898 and is derived from Hindi chakkar from Sanskrit chakra "circle, wheel".

The confusion between desert and chukka boots comes from the Clarks desert boots, in which are similar in design, being ankle boots with two or three pairs of lace eyelets.

Another form of desert boot is that used by the military, which is based upon the US jungle boot. This is a high leg boot which did not come into play until the Gulf War in 1990. Prior to then, these types of boots had to be privately purchased however a few variations were dispatched to specialised units. At one time this also included the Clarks version as described above.

The Clarks desert boot can still be purchased today under their ‘Originals’ brand. The military desert boots can also be purchased, mainly from military surplus outlets. The military desert boots are still being used today in places such as Afghanistan. You can also buy them new from selected retailers who stock them direct from the manufactures. The most well known manufactures of these boots include Magnum, Lowa and Mil-Com.

The modern design military boots are designed for comfort within extreme conditions. Materials such as gore-tex are used to allow feet to breathe whilst maintaining waterproofing. Due to the comfort and hard wearing ability many opt for these boots for everyday use, knowing they will last for many years.