Today I’m reviewing the Everlane Boss Boot which is just less than half the cost of the Acne Studios Jensen. The closet of anyone defining their personal style as “minimalist” wouldn’t be complete without some key pieces from Acne Studios. The Scandinavian brand is the epitome of a low key utilitarian fashion aesthetic which is coveted (and copied) world wide.
Their statement shoe, the Jensen Boot is top on every minimalist’s capsule wardrobe checklist. But its unwavering $560 price tag is an investment piece that one could apply towards a 10 piece capsule wardrobe elsewhere.
However if you’re set on the Jensen style there are a handful of budget friendly options to choose from.
Radical Transparency disclaimer. As you know, I’m an Everlane affiliate. Although this particular post is not sponsored there are affiliate links in this post that help me continue to work with them.
After initially investing in the Acne Jensen about 3 years ago I decided to see how one of the designer dupes stacked up. Although I’m still very satisfied with the Jensen(it has held up to 2 heel replacements, rain, and even a rodeo) I wasn’t keen to drop big bucks on another pair. After reading numerous positive reviews about dupes by Marc Fisher ($180) and Everlane ($225), I settled on the Everlane Boss Boot version.
While the Everlane Boss Boot isn’t a dead-on dupe for the Acne Studios Jensen there are some key similarities and a few major differences.
As for similarities, both boots are constructed in a pebbled leather, which means the leather is “textured” rather than smooth. The Acne “pebbles” are difinetly more pronounced than the Everlane. Another difference I noticed was the level of sheen; the polish on the Everlane Boss Boot is significantly less glossy than the Acne Jensen. The Everlane website depicts a glossier sheen in both the still photography and the video. Not a deal breaker but something to be aware of if you are planning on picking up a pair. And like Acne Studios, Everlane’s version comes in two colors of patent leather, as well several colors of the smooth version.
The Everlane Boss Boot has a pointed toe and western styling, very similar to the Acne Jensen. The main exception is that the Boss does not include a metal edged detail at the toe. The Everlane Boss Boot includes a side zip whereas the Acne Jensen is a pull-on style. I think the zipper detail is a plus because it allows you to pull on the boot without stretching out the ankles. And it gives you an all-leather boot upper.
The Jensen has elasticated panels on the sides to allow you to slip the boot on. (If the metal tip and elastic panel is important to you I recommend the Marc Fisher version which has both of these features).
Another key difference is the Everlane Boss Boot heel is quite a bit blockier than the Jensen.
Overall, the quality of the Italian leather of Everlane’s version is worth the $225 price tag. I’d even argue that the leather is sturdier than the Acne, which in my experience scratches easily.
Comfort
On Day 1 of wearing I was pleasantly surprised at how comfy the Everlane Boss Boot is.
Everlane leather shoes are notoriously stiff and can be a challenge to break in. For example, I never broke in the Street Shoe and had to sell it after 2+ years of trying.
The Fit
I originally ordered the Everlane Boss Boot in my true size (9) based on reading the reviews stating to take your true size. However when they arrived I could see immediately that they would fit like an 8 ½. I sized up to a 9 ½ which is turns out has been my go to size for every shoe I’ve purchased from Everlane. So I should have stuck with my instincts and taken my usual size.
The Acne sizing is no walk in the park either. When I purchased the Acne Jensen boot they did not carry half sizes and the website recommended taking the next size up. So I sized up to a European 40 and as a result the boots have always been a bit roomy on me. The major downside to this is that the extra length has resulted in a crease across the toe. Take a look at the photos and you’ll see. Pretty disappointing. So If you decide to invest in the Acne, I do not recommend sizing up.
Buying Experience
Fortunately in my area I have a lot of options for Everlane returns. I could take them back to Everlane in San Francisco or pop them back in the mail. Or, choose Happy Returns, which I did. Happy Returns enabled me to drop off my boots at a local art store hosting a Happy Returns “Bar”. The best part was my store credit was deposited instantly into my Everlane account and I was able to reorder the correct size within minutes. No waiting, no risk of the boots selling out. Had I returned via mail I would need to buy a second pair and have a credit sitting on my Everlane account while the return was being processed.
But does the Everlane Boss Boot stack up to the Acne Jensen?
Obviously if you are a stickler for label and name recognition the answer is “no”. People on the street still compliment my (bent-toe) Acne Studios with a “where did you get those”? Or flash me that “I see you” nod of approval simply because it’s Acne Studios. So far, no one has stopped me on the street in the Everlane version. But it won’t be long. The Everlane Boss Boot’s sleek styling makes it a convincing every day version of the Jensen that can stand up to the morning commute.
The Everlane Boss Boot is a respectable, comfortable, and affordable addition to any capsule wardrobe.
Pairs Well With
The Everlane (and Acne) boot is a versatile piece that will add edge to any ensemble. My favorite combination is with a skinny jean. Everlane has a great selection that look and fit well. Read my Everlane Japanese Denim Review and my Review of the Everlane kick-crop jean here).
Did you buy the Everlane or Acne boots? If so, what was your experience?
