I Tried on the Top-Reviewed Boots at Nordstrom—I'm Certain These Are the 8 Best of the Season

fall boots
(Image credit: @_sierramayhew)

Buying shoes online has never been easy, but thanks to our associate fashion editor Sierra Mayhew, now it is. She zips around the stores of New York City trying on all the trending shoes to report on the comfort, fit, and style so you never have to make a return again.

Navigating the endless collection of boots at Nordstrom can be very time-consuming, but the worst part for me has always been the sizing. I’ve often found myself ordering the incorrect size or finding that two pairs of affordable boots I was excited about from the same exact brand fit me completely differently. All of this changed when I started my series If the Shoe Fits, in which I try out different shoes for style and size and report back on my sizing recommendations.

Boots are a very difficult accessory for me because of how much space they take up in my small New York apartment. Last winter, my floors were flooded with boots, and this season, I’m capping myself at only one or two new pairs. That means the styles I choose need to do it all and be comfortable. From classic black boots to the latest trends, I’ve rounded up the boots I saw at Nordstrom that I think are actually worth investing in. You’re welcome.

woman wearing nordstrom boots for fall

(Image credit: @_sierramayhew)

Were they comfortable?

These were a bit tight to squeeze into, but once they were on, it all made sense. The skin-tight vibe was quite flattering. If I could have walked home from this trip to Nordstrom with any pair, this would be my pick.

How was the sizing?

True to size!

Shop the boots:

woman wearing nordstrom boots for fall

(Image credit: @_sierramayhew)

Were they comfortable?

Rivaling some of my favorite sneakers, these shoes were the most comfortable to walk in by far.

How was the sizing?

I tried out my usual size, an 8.5, and 8 since I heard they ran big. I ended up favoring the 8.5 especially because I wore thick socks.

Shop the boots:

woman wearing nordstrom boots for fall

(Image credit: @_sierramayhew)

Were they comfortable?

Slipping into these shoes felt like wearing a pair that had already been broken in. I felt like I could walk anywhere in them, even in a heel.

How was the sizing?

It was easy to find my fit because they were very true to size.

Shop the boots:

woman wearing nordstrom boots for fall

(Image credit: @_sierramayhew)

Were they comfortable?

The leather is so soft, making this a great pick, and I consider it to be the most classic ankle boot silhouette you can choose.

How was the sizing?

The brand doesn’t do half sizes, so if you’re a half size like I am, size up.

Shop the boots:

woman wearing nordstrom boots for fall

(Image credit: @_sierramayhew)

Were they comfortable?

I’ve always known Bottega shoes are comfortable, and despite the unique-looking heel, this style fell in line with the rest.

How was the sizing?

European shoes usually don't fit me true to size but in Bottega’s world, it happens.

Shop the boots:

woman wearing nordstrom boots for fall

(Image credit: @_sierramayhew)

Were they comfortable?

I sometimes fear pull-on boots because they’re hard to get on and off, but this style was easy. The micro heel gave me just the right amount of height without sacrificing comfort.

How was the sizing?

Go up a half size. You won’t regret it.

Shop the boots:

woman wearing nordstrom boots for fall

(Image credit: @_sierramayhew)

Were they comfortable?

I’m newer to true thigh-high boots, so it was a bit of a weird feeling walking around in these, but the foot itself felt all good.

How was the sizing?

Another great win for the true-to-size category.

Shop the boots:

woman wearing nordstrom boots for fall

(Image credit: @_sierramayhew)

Were they comfortable?

Suede is one of our favorite trends of the season, and this style was another great comfortable take in that category.

How was the sizing?

I went up a half size so I could get more room for my socks, and I didn’t regret it.

Shop the boots:

Shop more boots at Nordstrom:

If you're looking for more boot options, just ask ISA.

Associate Editor

Sierra Mayhew was always destined to work in fashion, but she didn't know it at first. Growing up with no choice but to wear a rotation of school uniforms and activewear, her love for fashion really blossomed when she moved away for college and was able to finally define her very own personal style. Shortly thereafter, she interned at Elle magazine and instantly knew that editorial was for her. After graduating from the University of Notre Dame, she worked for ShopBazaar, contributing regularly to Bazaar.com, and finally made her way to Who What Wear, where she is an associate editor. When she’s not working, you can catch her always trying to catch a flight, trying the latest fitness craze in New York City, or exploring luxury vintage boutiques.