How to Choose Cowboy Boots

With so many cowboy boot brands available, it may feel difficult to find the right style for you. This is especially true if you’re new to wearing boots and have no idea what type you like to wear. There are a few key factors to consider when choosing a pair of Western boots: material, heel, toe shape, and shaft. Once you get a general idea of what you like in each of these categories, you’ll be on your way to the best cowboy or cowgirl boot style for you.

1) Cowboy Boot Material

Essentially, there are two groups of cowboy boot leathers—domestic and exotic. Domestics commonly include cow, steer, and pig, whereas exotics include iguanas, alligators, ostrich, shark, and even rattlesnake. Depending on what you’ll use your boots for will help you decide between domestic or exotic leather. Western work boots and cowboy boots are made with cowhide or other domestic leathers, whereas dressier and occasion wear options often incorporate exotics. No matter the material you choose, cowboy boots require proper cleaning and maintenance so they look and perform their best.

2) Boot Heel Options

There are several heel heights that will affect how your cowboy boots fit and what they can be used for. The most common heel height is around 1.5 inches, which offers a wide bottom for good balance. This size is good for activities like walking, riding, and working. Low heels, measuring one inch or less, are good options if you need a very lightweight option for general walking. Higher heels, two inches or higher, are used for riding as the rider can easily hook the boots into the stirrups. When wearing higher-heeled cowboy boots, you may find them difficult to walk in at first.

3) Western Toe Shapes

Cowboy boot toe shapes will greatly inform the overall look. There are four general toe shapes that you’ll see. The pointed toe is a traditional, dramatic shape that you see in many Western films. They have a classic appeal and look great. Pointed toes include both snip toe—in which the point appears to have been clipped off—and needle toe styles.

Another common cowboy boot toe shape is the rounded toe, which features a soft curving end. They’re perfect for work, offering extra foot room and a very comfortable fit. Roper boots, for example, often feature this toe shape.

For a fashionable shape, the square toe is a stylish look that has been extremely popular in recent years. Versatile square toe cowboy boots are ideal for walking or riding. There’s an even wider option similar to the square toe that’s called broad squared toe. These have an excellent amount of room, making them ideal for everyday wear. They’re wildly comfortable and give your feet room to move.

4) Cowboy Boot Shaft Height and Style

Cowboy boot shafts—the part of the boot above the ankle—typically measure between 11 and 14 inches. Choosing the right shaft height may depend on your height and what size shaft you feel looks best on your legs. Cowboy boots with very large shafts can help protect your legs while riding—Buckaroos and Riding boots are fantastic, tall shaft options. On the opposite end, Shortie boots have short shafts measuring six inches.

Consider these four cowboy boot elements to choose the perfect style for you. Other qualities, like embroidery, color, and pull straps will impact your choice as well. You can find the cowboy or cowgirl boots for you in our collection of men’s and women’s options from the best bootmakers in the business.