Thursday Boots Duke Chelsea Boot Review (After 4+ Years)

In this long term Thursday Boots Duke review, we’re going to take a look at a pair of Chelsea boots I’ve owned for over four years now.

These have gotten a ton of wear since I got them – possibly more than any other boots I’ve ever owned.

They were the first pair of Chelsea boots that I really fell in love with and wore regularly, and I want to share with you my thoughts and recommendation after having putting so many miles on them.

Quick Take

These casual suede Chelsea boots have aged nicely and gotten more comfortable with time. They’re one of the most worn pair of boots I’ve ever owned.

The Duke definitely gets my seal of approval, so if you’re thinking about buying a pair for yourself, you have my full support.

If you prefer, you can also buy these boots on Amazon.

The Duke Chelsea Boot

This is Thursday’s first iteration of the Chelsea boot, a boot style that made a huge comeback a few years ago and doesn’t seem to be going anywhere, at least not anytime soon.

All Chelsea boots have laceless uppers and elastic side panels. Most of them have pull tabs (a functional but sometimes annoying detail – more on that later).

But not all Chelsea boots are the same. While some are very dressy, the Duke is more casual. Its silhouette is sort of like a work boot (i.e., slightly chunky).

Construction & Aesthetic

This boot features Goodyear welt construction, which is great for long term durability and water resistance, but it’s not as lightweight or sleek as a Blake stitched boot, for example.

So if you’re looking for a Chelsea boot to wear with business casual outfits or suits, this is not your best choice. However, it’s perfect for casual and smart casual looks (e.g., with jeans or chinos).

Note that Thursday Boot Co. now offers another Chelsea Boot style that’s a bit more refined and dressy. One isn’t better than the other, but they are different and probably better for certain people.

Since my everyday style is pretty casual, the Duke is perfect for me.

Duke Sizing

This is a size 7 boot, and in my opinion, it fits true to size. It’s a very comfy boot to wear. It didn’t require much break in, and I haven’t experienced any loss of support over time.

I wear it with thin or thick boot socks, depending on the temperature outside, and it feels great either way.

For reference, I wear a 7D in the Allen Edmonds Park Avenue.

Weatherproof Suede

This boot (here it is on Amazon) comes in leather or suede. Like many guys, I sometimes worry about suede being too fragile, especially if you live somewhere that gets rain.

I really don’t like to baby my shoes. I want them to be able to take a beating, and I don’t want to let them sit in the closet for fear of ruining them on a rainy or snowy day.

So I was really curious to see how Thursday’s Weatherproof Suede held up against the elements, as well as general wear and tear.

I have to say: I’m really impressed. I’ve worn these on wet, rainy days. I’ve walked through the woods with bob boys on, as well as countless urban jungles (with all of their hazards).

I even got caught off guard in a New York City blizzard, and I was stuck here for two days without any other shoes. I walked all over, through fresh snow and gross city slush, and these took the beating happily.

Long-Term Wear & Tear

I’ve worn fresh, inky dark wash jeans with these honey colored boots, and some ink transfer has occurred, but it’s surprisingly not that bad.

I’ve never cleaned these boots or used a suede brush. I’ve never treated them before winter. They’ve never been to the cobbler or shoe shine stand.

And while they definitely show some signs of wear, I’d say they still look pretty darn good.

Not to mention, I’ve never felt any moisture get through these boots, likely thanks to that sturdy Goodyear welt construction.

Thursday Boots Duke vs. Cavalier

It’s worth noting that Thursday Boot Co. offers another Chelsea boot style called The Cavalier. Compared to The Duke, it’s a dressier boot.

Both of these styles are great choices, so you really can’t go wrong with either one. If your style leans smart casual or business casual, go with The Cavalier.

If you mostly wear casual outfits (jeans, t-shirts, henleys, etc.), The Duke is a great choice.

My Recommendation

I really don’t have any complaints about the Thursday Boot Co. Duke. It’s a casual Chelsea boot made with remarkably durable suede, and it’s a Goodyear welted boot for under $200.

My only advice for you is this: if you want a dressy boot that you can wear with dress pants or even suits, The Duke wouldn’t be my top pick (go with something like the Beckett Simonon Bolton instead).

But for me? With its casual silhouette, comfy footbed and versatile honey color, the Duke has become a staple in my wardrobe, and I don’t think that’ll change anytime soon.

I hope this long term Thursday Boots Duke review helps you make the best possible purchase for yourself.

If you have any questions, please ask below in the comments section!