Thursday Boots President vs. Captain: What’s the Difference?

If you’re torn between the Thursday President and Captain Boot, you’re not alone. These two popular men’s boots look similar at first glance—but there are key differences in style, construction, and use.

This guide breaks down everything you need to know to decide which Thursday boot fits your lifestyle (and your wardrobe).

Quick Answer: What’s the Difference?

FeatureCaptain BootPresident BootLookCap toe (more structured, dressy)Plain toe (clean, minimal)StyleRugged refined, dress-casual crossoverMinimalist, casual-to-smart casualBest ForDressing up or downEveryday wear, simple clean outfitsLeather OptionsMore variety (e.g., Chromexcel, suede)More limited, classic finishesToe BoxSlightly more structuredSlightly softer and more flexibleSame Fit?Yes – same last (order same size)Yes – same last (order same size)

1. Style & Appearance

Captain Boot

• Signature cap toe gives it a more refined, structured look

• Great with jeans, chinos, and even dress pants

• Looks like a dress boot from the front, rugged boot from the side

• Slightly more formal than the President

President Boot

• Plain toe design is clean and minimal

• Ideal for casual to smart casual outfits

• Looks sleeker when worn with jeans or slim pants

• Easier to dress down than the Captain

Bottom Line:

• Want versatility and edge? Go Captain.

• Want a cleaner, subtle profile? Go President.

2. Construction & Materials

Same build quality across both boots:

• Goodyear welt construction (resoleable)

• Cork-bed midsole for comfort

• DuraEVA comfort strip for shock absorption

• Full glove leather lining

• Studded rubber outsole (solid grip, low profile)

Captain tends to come in more leather options (including Horween Chromexcel and suede).
President is usually offered in classic finishes like brown and black full-grain.

3. Comfort & Fit

Both boots use the same last, which means:

• Same fit, same sizing

• Most men should order half a size down from sneaker size

• Break-in time is minimal for both

If one fits you well, the other will too.

4. Which One Should You Choose?

Choose the Captain Boot if:

• You want a boot that can double as a dress boot

• You like the defined cap toe look

• You want more leather and color options

• You dress up more often

Choose the President Boot if:

• You prefer minimalist style

• You want a boot that leans casual

• You wear jeans, chinos, and tees more than suits

• You like clean lines and less structure

Customer Feedback Highlights

• Captain Boot owners love how it bridges casual and formal: “I wear these to work and on the weekend.”

• President Boot buyers praise the simplicity: “No toe cap means they go with everything.”

Both styles have 1,000+ reviews and average 4.8+ stars. Quality isn’t the issue—style preference is

Final Verdict

You can’t go wrong with either boot. But here’s the rule of thumb:

Go Captain if you want your boots to dress up.
Go President if you want them to disappear into your outfit.

Both are built with the same comfort, construction, and durability. The difference comes down to the toe shape and how much structure you want.

Bonus Tip: Already have dress shoes? Go President.
Don’t own boots yet? Start with the Captain