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Cowboy boot styles range from dress boots, which can be made from exotic materials like ostrich or caiman alligator, to work boots designed to take a beating. You don’t have to be a cattle rancher or a James Dean type to pull off a pair of cowboy boots. There are many different styles, shapes, sizes, and materials for all personalities and occasions.
What Are the Different Cowboy Boot Styles?
Traditionally, cowboy boots were made for riding horses, with a tall shaft that goes up to your calf; a narrow, pointed toe that makes it easier to get your boots through the stirrups; and a higher heel to keep your feet in place while riding.
Ropers are an offshoot of traditional Western boots, originally made for roping cattle. The heel is lower; and the shaft is shorter, stopping below your calf, making them easier and more comfortable to wear when walking long distances or running.
Work cowboy boots draw inspiration from standard work boots. They have a thick, grippy rubber sole to provide traction and protection on uneven, hard surfaces like a construction site. The toe is wider and more rounded and sometimes reinforced with steel.
Short men's cowboy boots and women's cowgirl booties are just what they sound like shorter versions of the traditional style. With short boots, the shaft typically rests just above your ankle. They’re easier to put on and take off, more comfortable in warmer weather, and tend to be more fashion-forward.
Exotic cowboy boots are named for the rare or uncommon materials they’re made from. Exotic Western boots can be made from materials such as crocodile leather or fish skin leather and are most commonly worn for formal occasions.
Grand Ole Opry, here we come. Dress cowboy boots usually feature intricate stitch work and embroidery or are made from higher quality materials than traditional boots. Some dress boots are distressed for a pre-worn look; others are stained to form a patina, a non-uniform stain that makes leather look aged.
What Toe Shapes Are Western Boots Available In?
Round toe - More popular in casual fits, ropers, and work cowboy/cowgirl boots; rounded toe shapes leave more room for your toes. Square toe - Similar to round toe shapes, square toes have more space in the front and are comfortable for both walking and riding. Wide square toe - Just like square, but with a broader toe end for people with wide feet. Snip toe - Snip shapes are a sharp point, usually found in dress boots. Cutter toe - Cutter toe boots are narrower than square toe boots but wider than regular. It’s a good option if you want the look of a regular toe but have wider feet.
When to Wear Your Cowboy Boots
Since Western boots come in a variety of styles, fits, and colors, there’s a cowboy boot style for any occasion. They can be worn for work or to complement your street style. Western boots can even be worn to weddings.
What cowboy boot style should I wear with casual clothes?
For weekends and more casual evenings, ropers and short cowboy boots should be your go-to Western boot. They’re understated, comfortable to walk in and pair well with pretty much any outfit. Try dark jeans with dark brown ropers for a classic look or match dark slacks with tan boots for some modern contrast.