Can You Wear Cowboy Boots in Summer? Absolutely! Here's How to Style Them

Why Cowboy Boots Work Year-Round

Cowboy boots never go out of fashion. Unlike fleeting trends like bell-bottom pants or man buns, cowboy boots have a timeless appeal. Their versatility makes them one of the rare items that combines practicality with enduring style. No matter the season, cowboy boots are always “in.” Leather boots are fashionable and functional, making them suitable for men and women on any occasion. But can you wear cowboy boots in the summer? The answer is a resounding yes! Leather is a breathable material that remains comfortable even on hot days, making cowboy boots an excellent choice, whatever the temperature.

Ariat VentTEK™ Boots: Designed for Summer Comfort

Leather cowboy boots breathe by design, but Ariat has taken them further with their innovative VentTEK™ technology. Crafted for warmer weather, Ariat VentTEK™ boots ensure maximum comfort through advanced cooling features.

For example, the Rowder VentTEK 360° Western Boot boasts 360 degrees of cooling, incorporating mesh panels into the shaft to regulate temperature. This technology enhances airflow, keeping your feet comfortable even in the summer heat. VentTEK™ is also available in some Ariat clothing, delivering a head-to-toe solution to staying cool—and stylish!—when the mercury rises.

How to Wear Cowboy Boots in the Summer

Summer is a season for outdoor exploring, barbecues, and weddings, and your footwear should reflect the energy and variety of the season. There are countless cowboy boot styles, from fun to classic and low cut to high rise. If you don’t already have a favorite boot style, shop the Ariat collections of men's cowboy boots and women’s cowboy boots to find the perfect pair.

For fashionable summer cowboy boots outfits, it’s all about finding a balance between your boot and the rest of your attire. If you love a loud, colorful boot, go for it, but don’t pair it with a patterned top or bottom. When in doubt, keep it simple in color and design, and add accent pieces like jewelry or a hat to make your look stand out. 

Keep cool and browse our outfit recommendations below for inspiration for summer cowboy boots.

Summer Cowgirl Boots: Style Ideas for Women

Cowgirl Boots with Shorts

Cutoffs and cowgirl (or cowboy) boots are a time-honored, iconic summer combination. If you’ve ever wondered, “Can you wear cowgirl boots with shorts?” you certainly can. Shorts keep you cool and let you move freely, but the key is selecting the right shorts for every situation during the sunshine season.

If your plans involve a lot of activity or being outdoors, shorts and cowgirl boots are the perfect combination. For a country concert, your denim shorts (with pockets!) might be a good choice, but if you’re heading to a family get-together, lightweight cotton shorts might be the better choice. We like to pair our shorts with a slightly tucked blouse or collared tank for a summery and classy look.

Cowgirl Boots with Dresses

One of the best ways to wear cowboy boots in summer is to match them with a dress. In hot weather, a light dress is an easy go-to that’s breezy and quick to style. Short or long, there are endless dress options to pair with summer cowboy boots.

A lightweight dress or skirt from our collection is a summer staple that won’t cling no matter the temperature. Perfectly versatile, they’re casual enough for a backyard barbecue yet polished enough for a summer party. Many designs feature subtle Western-inspired details, making them an effortless match for your favorite boots. Let your dress or skirt do the talking—pair it with a classic brown cowboy boot like the Ariat Hybrid Rancher VentTEK 360, featuring advanced cooling technology, so your look is ready for anything the day brings.

Summer Cowboy Boots: Style Ideas for Men

Classic Boots with Denim

Men’s cowboy boots are a summer staple, and denim jeans and cowboy boots go together like a cowboy and his horse. For a classic look, try wearing your cowboy boots with bootcut jeans or an athletic-style long pant that’s breathable to help keep you cool. Keep your collared shirt untucked for maximum airflow, and add a leather belt in a complementary color to your boots.

A shirt designed for hot weather can keep you fresh and dry all day. For a good match with denim, try the Ariat VentTEK™ Classic Shirt in short sleeves. Available in various summer-lovin colors, this shirt has powerful technology to combat the heat, including VentTEK™ body mapping for increased airflow, Sun Protection Fabric™, and Moisture Movement Technology™ to keep you dry.

Cowboy Boots with Shorts

You might be tempted to try wearing cowboy boots in summer with shorts. While wearing cowboy boots with athletic shorts or board shorts is convenient for chores or working outdoors, fashion-forward men are better off pairing their cowboy boots with jeans. But fashion aside, go for it if it speaks to you and feels right! Always wear socks with cowboy boots to keep your feet comfortable and dry, even in the summertime!

Whether you’re styling an outfit to wear with your work boots, riding boots, or everyday boots, there’s no limit to the options for summer cowboy boots outfits. With a wide collection of smart apparel and boots designed to beat the summer heat, you can browse Ariat products online to find more favorites for the season.

Questions about Cowboy Boots in the Summer

How to wear cowboy boots in the heat? 

Wearing cowboy boots in hot weather is about choosing lightweight and breathable materials. Opt for boots with cooling technologies like VentTEK™, which enhances airflow to keep your feet cool. Pair them with summer-friendly shorts, lightweight dresses, or breathable denim.

Can you wear suede cowboy boots in the summer? 

Yes, you can wear suede cowboy boots in the summer! Suede is stylish and versatile, but treating it with a water-resistant spray is essential to protect against unexpected summer showers or sweet tea spills. Pair them with casual summer outfits like a flowy dress or tailored shorts.

How do you wear boots in the summer without sweating?

To wear boots in the summer without sweating, start with the basics: light, breathable clothing. Think airy cotton shirts, linen pants, or summer dresses—anything that lets your body breathe. For your feet, invest in high-quality, moisture-wicking socks. They’re a game-changer, keeping your feet dry by drawing sweat away from your skin. Avoid thick, heavy socks, and choose ones specifically designed for warm weather. If you plan on wearing cowboy boots for extended periods, ensure they fit well and aren’t too snug. A little room allows for better airflow and prevents overheating.