How does the Madewell Archival Ankle Boot fit?

It runs true to size for most people, but the toe box is on the narrow side. If you have wide feet or wear thick socks, consider going up half a size.

Does it need breaking in?

Yes. The leather is firm at first and softens over a few wears. Wearing it for short stretches at home helps.

Is it good for rain or snow?

It handles light rain and dry cold, but the leather upper and rubber sole are not waterproof. It is not a winter boot for deep snow.

What is the shaft height?

The shaft is 7.9 inches, so it sits just above the ankle. That height works well under straight-leg and cropped jeans.

How do you put it on?

It has a side zip, so you step in and zip up rather than lacing. No tugging required.

How does it compare with other Madewell boots?

It is a simpler, more casual ankle boot than Madewell's heeled styles, with a flat rubber sole and round toe. It is the pick for everyday walking rather than dressing up.

Madewell The Archival Ankle Boot in True Black

Best price now

$125.70at MadewellChecked Nov 10

Prices are checked against each store and labelled with when.

Visit Madewell

Madewell The Archival Ankle Boot in True Black

Best price now

$125.70at MadewellChecked Nov 10

Prices are checked against each store and labelled with when.

Visit Madewell

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Price facts

Last seen at $125.70 at Madewell on Nov 10.

Our take on the Madewell The Archival Ankle Boot in True Black

The Archival Ankle Boot is Madewell's everyday leather ankle boot, built on a round toe with a side zip and a rubber sole. The 7.9-inch shaft sits just above the ankle, so it works under straight-leg jeans and midi skirts alike. It is a casual, unlined-looking leather boot in the same family as Madewell's other leather footwear, and it competes with boots from Everlane and Clarks on clean styling rather than technical features. Owners tend to like the look and the easy zip; some find the leather stiff at first and the fit narrow through the toe box.

Best forEveryday casual wear with jeans or skirtsShoppers who want a clean, minimal leather ankle bootAnyone who prefers a side zip over lacesFall and mild-winter city wear

Pros

Genuine leather upper with a rubber sole for grip
Side zip makes it quick to put on and take off
Round toe and 7.9-inch shaft suit straight-leg jeans
Clean, minimal styling that works with most outfits
Ankle height is easy to walk in all day

Cons

Leather can feel stiff out of the box and needs breaking in
Toe box runs narrow for wider feet
Ankle shaft may rub until the boot softens
Rubber sole and leather upper are not built for heavy snow or rain

Madewell The Archival Ankle Boot in True Black prices at every store

MadewellNew
In stock
$125.70Checked Nov 10
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Madewell The Archival Ankle Boot in True Black price history

Lowest price we've seen: $125.70 on Nov 10 at Madewell. Tracked across 1 store since Nov 10.

What reviewers say

Owners describe a good-looking, easy-to-wear leather ankle boot that pairs with most outfits. Many say it needs a break-in period, and some with wider feet find the toe box tight.

What people mention

Break-inMixedOwners say the leather starts stiff and softens after a few wears.
FitCriticisedSome shoppers with wider feet find the toe box narrow.
ZipPraisedThe side zip is called out as quick and convenient.
StylePraisedReviewers like the clean, minimal look that pairs with many outfits.
Ankle comfortMixedA few owners report rubbing at the ankle until the boot breaks in.

Specifications

Width: Width Medium
Material: Genuine Leather, Rubber
Shaft Height: Ankle
Closure Style: Zip
Style: Casual
Toe Shape: Round
Shaft Length: 7.9″ shaft

Questions and answers

How does the Madewell Archival Ankle Boot fit?: It runs true to size for most people, but the toe box is on the narrow side. If you have wide feet or wear thick socks, consider going up half a size.
Does it need breaking in?: Yes. The leather is firm at first and softens over a few wears. Wearing it for short stretches at home helps.
Is it good for rain or snow?: It handles light rain and dry cold, but the leather upper and rubber sole are not waterproof. It is not a winter boot for deep snow.
What is the shaft height?: The shaft is 7.9 inches, so it sits just above the ankle. That height works well under straight-leg and cropped jeans.
How do you put it on?: It has a side zip, so you step in and zip up rather than lacing. No tugging required.
How does it compare with other Madewell boots?: It is a simpler, more casual ankle boot than Madewell's heeled styles, with a flat rubber sole and round toe. It is the pick for everyday walking rather than dressing up.
Where is the Madewell The Archival Ankle Boot in True Black cheapest?: At Madewell, for $125.70, as of our latest check.