Nothing says western like a great pair of cowboy boots! No outfit is complete without the attitude and unmistakable swagger fine boots give your vibe. While trends come and go, classic western elegance never goes out of style. From tall tops to shorties, snip toe to square, and creative stitching to intricate inlays, it’s the artistry that makes the cowboy boot an iconic piece that captures the spirit of Western heritage.
Aficionados of cowboy and cowgirl style often collect a wardrobe of boot options to suit daily needs and a variety of style options. Creating outfits based around boots allows western enthusiasts to build a look that shows off timeless wearable art.
Cowboy boots are an investment that can last a lifetime, even becoming an heirloom passed down to future generations if properly maintained. Signs of a quality boot include leather soles that can be re-soled and re-heeled to increase longevity, wood pegged insteps to maintain shape, and leather lining.
There’s a vast selection of styles and price points available, depending on budget and style, ranging from stock styles to custom options that allow boot collectors to show off their unique creative vision.
Whether you’re just starting a boot collection or expanding your Western wardrobe, we’ve curated our favorites to help guide your foray into footwear.
For the Ladies
Macie Bean
As the fifth brand established under the legendary Rios of Mercedes boot company, Macie Bean builds on 150 years of tradition and uncompromised quality. The Macie Bean aesthetic includes a montage of embroidered florals and southwestern feel, with traditional and modern influence mixed with bohemian flare. Both horse-loving cowgirls and the Western-savvy fashionista will find something they love!
Fraulein Boots
A small batch, woman owned boot company, Fraulein Boots was formed by two sisters who wanted to build boots like they used to be made—comfortable, nostalgic, and stylish. These retro themed boots can be worn with jeans, shorts, or summer dresses at festivals, farmers markets, or boot scootin’ to old school country music.
Durango Boots
Durango Boots offers options for cowgirls heading into the arena or hitting the dance floor. Durango’s Crush line offers a narrow toe profile with classic cowgirl vibes, while their square toe Arena Pro collection adds style and color to a traditional riding boot.
Tecovas
Sometimes you just need a short boot with easy access. Tecovas has you covered with urban friendly options for those just dipping their toes into Western fashion or looking for a city wardrobe boot.
Fenoglio
Want to show off those tall tops? Made in Nocona, Texas, Fenoglio Boots created this store-exclusive style in robin’s egg blue with white scroll and leaf inlay on a 13-inch shaft.
Planet Cowboy
Planet Cowboy has big city roots and Nashville flair. If you want to stand out, check out this Psychedelic collection in original yellow or green.
The Cowboy Boot for a Cowboy
Durango Boots
Durango Boots offers options for men, including the square toe Arena Pro line that allows all-day comfort with extra room in the toe box.
Fenoglio
For the dapper cowboy who’s comfortable in a suit, Fenoglio and South Texas Tack teamed up to design a luxurious black cherry full quill ostrich boot.
Tecovas
Tecovas offers a variety of options for men, including those who are new to wearing cowboy boots. Styles with a short zipper pair well with dressier apparel or jeans for urban outings.
Planet Cowboy
For the musically inclined man who’s not afraid to embrace a rocker vibe, Planet Cowboy’s Classic Cowboy is available in a variety of leathers.
Horse Power
Horse Power’s Top Hand collection is made for the western lifestyle. Whether you ride regularly or want to embrace your inner cowboy, you won’t want to pass up these boots.
This article about cowboy boot styles appeared in the Winter 2022 issue of Western Life Today magazine. Click here to subscribe!