How to Find the Best Cowboy Boots for Kids

Finding Western boots for little cowboys and cowgirls is about more than style alone: Kids’ boots should fit well, provide the right support, and stand up to the wear and tear that comes with daily use and rough play. We’ve created this youth cowboy boot buying guide to help you choose the best-fitting, most stylish boots for your child.

Choosing Baby’s and Toddler’s First Cowboy Boots

Bigger kids can tell you if footwear is comfortable, but choosing cowboy boots for babies can be a bit trickier. They can’t tell you if they’re too small or pinching. But, here’s some good news: Baby’s first cowboy boots are often soft bootie-style shoes that feature Western embellishments, so they provide a more forgiving fit, they’re easier to get on and off, and they’re padded for extra comfort. For babies who are too little to walk, look for soft booties with hook-and-look closures for easier on-and-off—hard soles aren’t necessary until they’re steady on their feet.

Toddlers are always moving—it’s the most exciting part of being a kid. Because they’re constantly walking, running, and climbing, cowboy boots in little kid sizes offer more supportive insoles and outsoles to keep them comfortable. Choose toddler cowboy boots with flexible soles to properly support growing feet, and check for suitable traction to help keep them steady. Sturdy pull tabs to provide a bit of independence so kids can tug on their boots all by themselves. To make it easier to get boots on toddlers or preschoolers who are on the go, choose shafts that close with zippers or hook-and-loop fasteners—the added room makes all the difference when it comes to getting boots on your little partner’s feet.

Bigger Kids Need Comfortable Boots for School and Play

Most of us have experienced the pinching and discomfort that comes with breaking-in cowboy boots, but here’s some good news: Kids’ cowboy boots don’t need that same adjustment period. They should be comfortable from the first wear, so if your child says their boots are pinching or hurting their feet, try another style before making your final choice.

To find the right pair for your kid, explore boots from the top names producing Western footwear in youth sizes, including Ariat, Anderson Bean, Dan Post, Tin Haul, and Dingo Boots. These brands focus on comfortable Western boot styles crafted with durable materials—just because they’re made in smaller sizes, it doesn’t mean they skimp on quality.

Kids are active: They climb, jump, leap, and run, and their footwear shouldn’t hold them back. When it’s time to trade athletic sandals for Western boots, ensure they’re getting the support they need. Check these features to ensure boot comfort and quality:

• Are the insoles supportive? Cushioned footbeds keep your kid on their feet all day, but it’s about more than cushy comfort: The best cowboy boots for kids are designed with insoles that properly support growing bones.
• Does the toe box allow enough room? Many kids’ cowboy boots come in square-toe designs because it is one of the more accommodating styles available, giving plenty of room for wiggling toes. Older fashionistas may like the pointed toe look, but younger kids who are still working on coordination may be better off with shorter, square toes to prevent tripping and stumbling. No matter the toe shape—square, round, pointed—there should be enough space to prevent pinching or discomfort.
• Do the outsoles offer stability and traction? Choose boots made with durable soles—kids’ boots are most often made with rubber outsoles because they offer shock absorption and better traction for slip-free fun, but you can also choose from styles made with traditional leather soles and stacked leather heels for a classic look.
• Is the material breathable? High-quality leather, suede, and canvas boots are constructed for breathability, with better airflow to help prevent sweaty, uncomfortable feet. Some boots even feature special linings for even more breathability. When paired with moisture-wicking boot socks, your kid’s feet will stay cool and dry even longer.
• Will the stitching hold up? Boot pull tabs should be sturdy so they can withstand repeated tugging, but embellishments along the shaft and toe box should also be made to last. While the Western motifs stitched into the leather are for decoration, boots look newer, longer if the stitches resist pulling, snagging, or fraying.

Tips for Kids’ Cowboy Boot Fit

When it comes to fitting kids’ cowboy boots, you’ll want to check a few specific areas to ensure a comfortable, supportive fit. After measuring your kid’s feet, compare against the brand’s size guide and have your child try on a few pairs of boots. They should wear their boot socks when trying on new boots to ensure a proper fit. Then, check for comfort and fit in these key areas:

• Heel cups: The heels should fit inside the heel cups—but they should allow for a bit of heel slip. The slippage will lessen with time because the more your child wears their boots, the more the heel cups will form for a comfortable fit.
• Instep: The top of the boot should fit snugly, with slight pressure from the vamp, or instep, across the top of the foot. If the balls of the feet land too far forward, the boot is likely too small.
• Toe box: The toe box should allow your child to wiggle their toes. If they don’t have room to move easily, the toe box may be too narrow or you may need a larger size.
• Width: If your child’s feet fit the length of the boot—the toes comfortably within the toe box, and the heels where they belong—but the boots are too tight along the sides of the feet, you may need to choose a wide-width option. If no wide widths are available, look for boots with square toes or a wider style. Sometimes, sizing up can help improve fit when wide sizes aren’t available.
• Shaft: Does the shaft pinch or rub? If it’s too tight or not flexible enough, your child may not be as comfortable while they ride or play. For the smallest cowboys-in-training, soft-sided booties and forgiving canvas materials are good options, genuine leather and suede are perfect for active older kids.

Choosing a first pair of Western boots is a big day for cowboys and cowgirls alike. Follow these tips to find comfortable, well-fitted boots for your little buckaroo, then explore our blog for more Western fashion advice for kids and adults.