The Cavalier is our newest addition to the Chelsea lineup, and joined the Duke on our shelves in November. It’s noticeably dressier than the Dukes, with a slightly sleeker silhouette and it features a more formal sole. You’ll find the Cavalier in both our boot and dress shoe categories because of how well it pairs with formalwear.
One of the main differences between the two boots is shape, and it’s the last which is every boot’s defining feature. Utilized during the production process, the last is the mold on which a piece of footwear’s leather is shaped.
The Duke was shaped on the same last as the rest of our boots. Conversely, the Cavalier was built on our dress shoe last, giving it a more formal feel. This dress Chelsea practically begs to be worn with suit pants. At the same time, it works about as well as the Duke with a pair of jeans.
Another difference between the Cavalier and the Duke is the outsole. While the Duke features the same sole that the majority of our boots flaunt — a studded rubber outsole — the Cavalier has something a little different happening on its underside. We designed it with a hybrid outsole, with both leather and rubber, so that the leather’s dressiness would show between steps.
Whether you’re heading for a weekend walk in the park, or you’re dressing up for a big day at work, both of these Chelseas get the job done. Which you choose is a matter of personal taste. Stay comfortable and stylish in both the Duke and the Cavalier!