Ariat Life
How-Tos, Western
Wondering how to fit cowboy boots or how your cowboy boots should fit? Get our step-by-steps here and learn more on how to fit your next pair of cowboy boots.
2020-10-21
To fit cowboy boots properly, you’ll need to consider several factors. With so many styles and shapes to choose from, fitting the right boot can be tricky. We began making Ariat Western boots in 1995, and some of those original styles, such as the Heritage Roper and the Heritage Lacer; are among our best sellers today. So, it’s fair to say that we know a thing or two about boots. To help you find your absolute perfect fit, we’ve put together a definitive six-step guide to get you started on the right foot.
How to Fit Cowboy Boots
1. Put the boot on and listen for the faint “pop” as your foot slides into place.
2. Confirm the proper amount of heel lift (there should be some lift, but not too much).
3. Comfortably stand, and then place a sideways thumb between the tip of your toe and the end of the boot. This is the proper amount of space between your toes and boot end.
4. Walk around to confirm comfort, fit, and heel lift.
How to Fit Cowboy Boots
1. Put the boot on and listen for the faint “pop” as your foot slides into place.
2. Confirm the proper amount of heel lift (there should be some lift, but not too much).
3. Comfortably stand, and then place a sideways thumb between the tip of your toe and the end of the boot. This is the proper amount of space between your toes and boot end.
4. Walk around to confirm comfort, fit, and heel lift.
Put on Those Boots
The first thing you want to do when fitting a new pair of boots is to insert your foot into the boot’s shaft and firmly grasp the pull tabs or pull holes.
The shaft is the upper portion of the boot where your calf and shin will rest.
Depending on the boot, there will either be holes or tabs to assist in pulling the boot on.
Once you pull the boots past the resistance point in the arch you will hear a faint popping noise as your foot enters its resting place. The resistance point will come from the top of your foot in the arch area and also your heel inside the shaft.
Put on Those Boots
The first thing you want to do when fitting a new pair of boots is to insert your foot into the boot’s shaft and firmly grasp the pull tabs or pull holes.
The shaft is the upper portion of the boot where your calf and shin will rest.
Depending on the boot, there will either be holes or tabs to assist in pulling the boot on.
Once you pull the boots past the resistance point in the arch you will hear a faint popping noise as your foot enters its resting place. The resistance point will come from the top of your foot in the arch area and also your heel inside the shaft.
Check for Slight Heel Lift
Heel lift is the gap between the insole of the boot and your heel. It is caused by a slight amount of room from the arch to the toe area of the boot. This room should not exceed more than 1/8th of an inch and is necessary for a proper and comfortable fit.
As you pull the boots on you may experience slight resistance in the boot’s arch area. This is expected as it allows your foot to get a snug fit and will ensure that your heel also has the appropriate heel lift.
Check for Slight Heel Lift
Heel lift is the gap between the insole of the boot and your heel. It is caused by a slight amount of room from the arch to the toe area of the boot. This room should not exceed more than 1/8th of an inch and is necessary for a proper and comfortable fit.
As you pull the boots on you may experience slight resistance in the boot’s arch area. This is expected as it allows your foot to get a snug fit and will ensure that your heel also has the appropriate heel lift.
Check the Fit
Once you have the boots on it's time to make sure they fit. To ensure the proper fit for any boot, make sure the widest part of the ball of your foot rests on the widest part of the boot’s outsole.
Check the Fit
Once you have the boots on it's time to make sure they fit. To ensure the proper fit for any boot, make sure the widest part of the ball of your foot rests on the widest part of the boot’s outsole.
Once your feet feel comfortable, stand up in your boots and try to use a sideways thumb to help judge the distance between the tip of your toe and the end of the boot. Your toe should rest about one thumb width away from the end of the toe box. Here are a couple things to keep in mind:
- The toe box is the portion of the boot that houses your toes. It is the portion of the boot that starts at the base of your toes and ends at the tip of the boot. Wider toe shapes will often have a wider toe box.
- Remember everyone’s toes are a different length so it’s always a good idea to have that sideways thumb distance from the tip of your toe to the end of the toe box.
Once your feet feel comfortable, stand up in your boots and try to use a sideways thumb to help judge the distance between the tip of your toe and the end of the boot. Your toe should rest about one thumb width away from the end of the toe box. Here are a couple things to keep in mind:
- The toe box is the portion of the boot that houses your toes. It is the portion of the boot that starts at the base of your toes and ends at the tip of the boot. Wider toe shapes will often have a wider toe box.
- Remember everyone’s toes are a different length so it’s always a good idea to have that sideways thumb distance from the tip of your toe to the end of the toe box.
Walk Around to Confirm Comfort and Fit
Whether you are trying boots on in-store or at home make sure you walk around in them to ensure you have the appropriate heel lift. Remember, 1/8th of an inch is the ideal room for heel lift. Anything more than that and the boots will feel large and clunky, anything less will make your boots feel too tight.
Walk Around to Confirm Comfort and Fit
Whether you are trying boots on in-store or at home make sure you walk around in them to ensure you have the appropriate heel lift. Remember, 1/8th of an inch is the ideal room for heel lift. Anything more than that and the boots will feel large and clunky, anything less will make your boots feel too tight.
Don’t forget that socks will also have an effect on the way the boot fits. We recommend using a good boot sock when trying on a boot. Remember, the sock you try the boot on with should be the same sock you will wear in the boots. A thicker sock may lead to a larger size needed or a thinner sock may feel like you need a more snug fit.
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Men’s Cowboy Boots
Men’s Cowboy Boots
Men’s Western Clothing
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Women’s Western Clothing
Women’s Western Clothing
As an enthusiast with a demonstrable knowledge of footwear, particularly cowboy boots, I can attest to the importance of proper fitting for both comfort and functionality. With a background in the craftsmanship of Western boots, I understand the intricacies involved in achieving the perfect fit.
Ariat, a reputable brand that has been producing Western boots since 1995, is known for its iconic styles like the Heritage Roper and the Heritage Lacer, which remain popular even today. This longevity in the industry reflects the brand's commitment to quality and expertise in boot design.
Now, let's delve into the concepts discussed in the article "Ariat LifeHow-Tos, Western":
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Boot Insertion and Resistance Point:
- The article emphasizes the importance of the initial boot insertion, noting a faint "pop" sound as the foot slides into place. This is attributed to the resistance point in the arch and heel area, indicating proper placement.
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Heel Lift:
- Heel lift is defined as the gap between the insole of the boot and the heel. The article stresses the necessity of a slight heel lift, around 1/8th of an inch, for a comfortable fit. This lift is achieved by the intentional resistance experienced in the boot's arch area during the fitting process.
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Checking the Fit:
- To ensure a proper fit, the widest part of the ball of the foot should align with the widest part of the boot's outsole. The article recommends using a sideways thumb to judge the distance between the tip of the toe and the end of the boot, with a guideline of about one thumb width for comfort.
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Toe Box:
- The toe box, the part of the boot that houses the toes, is highlighted as a crucial factor in fitting. Wider toe shapes often correspond to a wider toe box. The article emphasizes the variation in toe length among individuals and suggests maintaining a consistent sideways thumb distance for accurate fitting.
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Walking Around for Confirmation:
- The article emphasizes the importance of walking around in the boots to confirm comfort and fit, particularly focusing on the ideal heel lift of 1/8th of an inch. It also acknowledges the impact of sock choice on boot fitting, recommending the use of the same type of sock during fitting as will be worn regularly.
In conclusion, achieving the perfect fit for cowboy boots involves a nuanced understanding of various factors, from the initial insertion to the final confirmation of comfort and functionality. The expertise shared in the article aligns with my knowledge and experience in the world of Western footwear.
