Buying guide for Best Frye boots
Everyone should have at least one pair of good, fashionable boots in their closet. You can dress them up for a night out, wear them with a favorite skirt to work, or pair them with jeans to run errands on the weekend. When it comes to great-looking, high-quality boots, you can’t beat the styles offered by Frye.
The Frye Company shoe, clothing, and handbag brand has been in business for over 155 years. While it offers a variety of footwear, it’s definitely best known for boots. Ranging from comfy basics that are perfect for everyday to knee-high styles for when you want to make a statement, Frye boots are known for their expert craftsmanship and quality materials. The brand makes boots for both women and men, with their women’s styles being the most popular.
Not sure where to start? Use our buying guide for all the tips you need to choose the best Frye boots for your closet. We’ve also included some specific product recommendations to get your shopping started.
Key considerations
Type
All Frye boots are essentially fashion boots. The brand offers a variety of high-quality, well-constructed boots, so you can find the perfect pair for any look.
Basic fashion boots add a style element to your outfit, but they aren’t necessarily designed to stand up to snow, rain, or rugged terrain. They come in a variety of heights and heel styles, so there’s an option to suit any outfit or occasion.
Booties are something of a cross between a boot and a shoe. While they cover the whole foot, the top typically doesn’t extend past the ankle. Some booties feature cutouts along the top or on the sides, and some have an open toe.
Chelsea boots are a classic style available in a variety of heel styles and toe shapes. What sets Chelsea boots apart from other types is that they have a close-fitting design with elastic side panels so they can be easily slipped on and off. Most Frye Chelsea boots also feature a tab at the back for pulling them on.
Combat boots are inspired by classic military footwear. These feature laces, a chunky sole, and a rounded toe cap. They can vary in height, with some extending above the ankle and others to the knee. Combat boots typically have a short, square heel, but Frye offers some with a higher heel.
Moto boots, also known as motorcycle boots, are designed to resemble the boots traditionally worn for motorcycle riding. They have short heels, chunky soles, and a rounded toe. Some lace up and some feature buckles or harnesses to give them an edgier look.
Hiker boots are inspired by traditional hiking boots, but they don’t offer the same tread as found on true hiking boots. These boots are designed with fashion in mind and typically have fabric laces and a low heel. Some styles also have a shearling liner for added warmth.
Western boots are a pull-on style, usually with a pointed toe, decorative stitching, and a lower heel. While classic Western or cowboy boots typically have a shaft that hits at the mid-calf, Frye’s offerings range from ankle to knee-high.
Leather vs. suede
Frye boots are generally made of either leather or suede.
Leather is the classic option because it’s generally more durable than suede. Leather boots can be treated so they’re water resistant.
Suede boots are pretty vulnerable when exposed to water, which means the boots require more maintenance. They do tend to be more flexible, which some people find more comfortable, but that also usually means they may not last as long as leather boots. Frye’s suede boots come in a wider range of colors than their leather boots.
Not all Frye boots are made in the US, but you can find several styles that are.
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Features
Height
Frye offers boots in a wide range of shaft heights to cover up less or more of your leg. Some styles are more flattering with certain clothing than others, so you might want to have a variety of Frye boots in your closet.
Below-the-ankle boots work well with long pants, but they can also be flattering with a skirt or shorts.
Ankle-length boots hit at or just above the ankle. These can work well with pants, shorts, or skirts.
Mid-calf boots extend to between the ankle and knee. They usually have a side zipper, but some styles have laces. These boots work best with skirts or skinny pants.
Knee-high boots hit right at the knee for a more dramatic look. Like mid-calf boots, they typically have a side zipper to make them easier to get on and off. These boots work well with skinny jeans or skirts.
Heel
Most Frye boots have a low stacked heel that’s comfortable to wear because your weight is balanced evenly across the boot. Some styles have a taller heel, which gives you more height but is still more comfortable than a stiletto. You can also find some Frye boots with a wedge heel that offers more height while still keeping your weight balanced.
Embellishments
Certain styles of Frye boots are embellished with such elements as the buckles often found on Moto boots or the decorative stitching on Western styles. Other boots offer metal studs or scalloped edges. These small details give your boots a distinct, fashionable look.
Color
Most Frye boots come in neutral shades like black, chocolate brown, and reddish-brown tones. Some styles are available in cream, beige, or gray tones. You can even find some of Frye’s boots in more off-beat colors like Pale Blush, Sea Pine, and Marigold.
Did You Know?
The Frye Company introduced its first boot in 1888. The original pair is on display at the Marlboro Historical Society in Marlboro, Massachusetts.
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Frye boot prices
Frye boots vary in price based on type, material, height, and embellishments. Most boots cost between $228 and $648.
Inexpensive: The most affordable Frye boots are typically bootie or ankle-boot styles. Many are made of suede, but there are plenty of leather options in this price range, too. These boots generally cost between $228 and $398.
Mid-range: These Frye boots are typically leather ankle or mid-calf boot styles. Some high-heeled booties also fall in this price range. These usually cost between $358 and $548.
Expensive: The most expensive Frye boots are usually leather mid-calf or knee-high styles. Some boots in this price range feature embellishments like metal studs. These boots generally cost between $428 and $648.
Avoid pairing Frye Western boots with Western-inspired clothing and accessories. You could wind up looking like you’re wearing a costume.
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Tips
- Match the boots to the outfit. Most flat or low-heeled boots have a more casual look that pairs well with jeans and leggings. Heeled boots tend to work better with skirts or dresses when you want to look a little more polished. Knee-high boots are often paired with pencil skirts that hit just above the knee, but they also look great with flowy midi or ankle-length skirts.
- Take care of your boots. Frye offers its own line of leather-care products that can help you maintain the look and extend the wear of your boots.
FAQ
Q. Do Frye boots run true to size?
A. In general, Frye boots do run true to size. Consult the brand’s sizing charts to figure out the best size option for you. Not all Frye boots are available in wide sizes, though. If you’re interested in boots that aren’t available in your width, Frye advises going up a half size.
Q. How should I care for my Frye boots?
A. It’s important to keep the leather hydrated and protected. A leather cleaner can help clean the boots and moisturize the leather to prevent cracking and staining. It’s a good idea to use a waterproofing treatment, too, which creates a protective barrier over the boots to keep them safe in rain and snow. If your boots start to look dull or scuffed, you can use leather polish to buff the shine back into them.
Q. Does Frye offer any warranty protection for its boots?
A. The brand does offer a warranty for one year after purchase for any issues that arise due to manufacturing defects. However, you must buy your boots from a retailer that’s authorized to sell Frye products.
