Slouched, thick-leatheredboots that are coated in dust as if they’ve seen more than a few milessignal that the wearer is a true cowboy.
While many of us wear our boots for fashion, cowboy boots were originally designed whollyfor their function. The boots of today with the plethora of different leathers, stitching, decoration and Swarovski crystals are a far cry from the days of old when cowboys wore their boots because they had to.
We know the boots were worn because of their function. But why did thisleather riding boot come to be known as the cowboy boot?
Legend has it that the original cowboy boot was worn by Genghis Khan. Even this great emperor had a stylish flair; he was known for wearing distinctive red boots with a wooden heel. High topped boots with low heels were perfect for riding, and the boots caught on. The first Duke of Wellington (Arthur Wellesley, who famously defeated Napoleon at Waterloo in 1815), wore a characteristic boot as well; the footwear we know today as the Wellington. The Wellington had a simple construction that only used four pieces, and as such it became the model for army supply boots during the Civil War.The cowboy era was ushered in shortly after the Civil War, and thus the evolution of the cowboy boot as we know it began.
A Cowboy’s Boot
Cowboys wore Wellingtons and other variations because the “tall tops of the boots protected your legs; the underslung heels kept your feet in the stirrups.” Each feature of a boot has a purpose.
Long Shaft:
The tall leather shaft exists for a variety of reasons. First, consider the lack of laces – the length of the shaft aids in holding the boot in place, while still allowing the boot to come off fairly easily. If a rider falls from his horse and his shoe gets caught – the lack of laces will allow the boot to pull off simply from the rider’s body weight. The tall construction of the shaft also helps keep water out.
“The thick leather around the ankle and lower calf protects against rubbing against the stirrup, and also fends off thorns, brambles, tall grass, and the occasional rattlesnake.”
Tall Heel:
The heel of cowboy boots is very distinctive; after all, rarelydo men wear heels. But in this instance it is required. Cowboys often ride young unpredictable horses, and the tall heel prevents the foot from sliding forward in the stirrup, providing a greater degree ofcontrol and stability.
Pointed Toe:
The shape of the toe is also important; it allows the rider to slip their foot easily into the stirrup.
The Roper:
This style of boot, with the short shaft, became necessary with the popularity of the modern rodeo. In the calf roping event, cowboys are required not only to ride and rope a calf, they must slide off their horse and run to tie it. Because of the need to run quickly, the shaft was shortened to make it more comfortable.
But, you might ask how the decorative and fashionable cowboy boots came about.
Humans love artistic, beautiful items. Many cowboys owned two pairs of boots – one for working, and one for town. Thus, more and more, the fashion boot became more common. Hollywood also helped this change come about.
“With actors such as Gene Autry and Roy Rogers, Hollywood made heroes out of cowboys and fashion icons out of cowboy boots…Filmmakers adapted the ideals of the era of the cowboy — the rugged individualism, strength, self-reliance and independence — and popularized the cowboy code of honor. The leading men playing those roles wore hand-tooled boots with star designs, embossing and inlays that added to the mystique.”
Whether you’re a working cowboy, or someone who is entranced by the rugged individualism, cowboy boots are for you. There are so many sizes and shapes, anyone can find the perfect pair and feel just like the cowboys of old.
“Every generation at some point discovers cowboy boots. They’re icons.”
Quotes from Cowboy Boots: The Art and Sole, by Jennifer June.
FAQs
A tall boot, hugging the calf, the cowboy boot was meant for protection and keeping the foot firmly anchored in the stirrups while riding.
Why are people wearing cowboy boots? ›
The tough vamp protects against cow or horse hooves, and for some styles, even snake bites. Cowboy boot soles, traditionally crafted of leather, protect against sharp stones and debris while you're walking and provide protection while using tools on the ranch.
What were cowboy boots originally made for? ›
Unsurprisingly, the first cowboy boots were made with only practicality in mind. Boots around this time were made from super-tough cowhide leather and had a high shaft to protect the cowboys' legs from brush, snakes, and everything else the harsh western landscape threw at them (sometimes literally!).
Why do cowboys have that thing on their boots? ›
A spur is a metal tool designed to be worn in pairs on the heels of riding boots for the purpose of directing a horse or other animal to move forward or laterally while riding. It is usually used to refine the riding aids (commands) and to back up the natural aids (the leg, seat, hands, and voice).
Why do guys wear cowboy boots? ›
Creates Individuality
If there is one thing that cowboy boots do well, it's helping individuals stand out. It doesn't matter if you're wearing them in town or at home; people will recognize you for your boots. Not everyone has a pair of cowboy boots, and not everyone can wear a pair.
What does it mean when a man wears cowboy boots? ›
Cowboy boots have long been a symbol of ruggedness, masculinity, and a certain sense of adventure. They are not just a fashion statement, but a way of life for many men.
Why are Western boots so comfortable? ›
The leather used for cowboy boots is usually so soft that it reduces pressure points and provides a snug fit. This also allows the foot to breathe, preventing sweat and moisture from building up inside the boot.
Do girls like guys in cowboy boots? ›
Some women might prefer men wearing cowboy boots because they find it to be a stylish and attractive look, while others might prefer men wearing regular shoes because they find it to be more comfortable and practical. Ultimately, it depends on the woman's individual preferences.
What cowboy boots do real cowboys wear? ›
If you were to ask most real-deal cowboys what boots they wear, it's likely a pair of Ariat boots. They're favored by folks who need a pair of boots that can handle some hard labor since they're built with comfortable insoles and durable lugged outsoles.
What were boots invented for? ›
Defined as footwear that covers the entire foot and part of the leg, boots offered more protection than shoes and were originally designed for work. They also represented status and wealth and were worn by emperors and kings when much of the population went barefoot.
Pointed: The pointed toe, also known as the J toe, is one of the most common toe styles you will find in western boots. It is a sharply pointed toe that is designed for comfort and practicality when horseback riding, as the pointed toe is easy to insert into a stirrup.
Why do cowboy boots have pointed toes? ›
Traditional cowboy boots have pointed toes because it makes them easier to put your feet into the stirrups while riding a horse. The narrow shape, slightly rounded tip, and angle around the ball of your foot help your boots slide effortlessly into the stirrups and lock your heel in place.
Do cowboys wear their pants inside or outside their boots? ›
As a general rule, men should almost always wear their jeans over their cowboy boots. Fellas, the only times you should opt for the boots-over-jeans look is when you're working outside, riding through the dirt, mud, or water, or taking part in some other rugged outdoor activity.
What do boots symbolize? ›
🏵Consider that Boots (to the knees) made of leather are a symbol of power & might, wealth & protection - boots have been worn for at least 3000 years by Kings, Conquerors, strong men throughout he Ages. Bare feet or sandals indicated poverty & weakness.
Do real cowboys wear boots? ›
Cowboy boots are a specific style of riding boot, historically worn by cowboys.
Do cowboy boots protect from snake bites? ›
Couple that with the coil spring they use to project themselves at you and you've got a pretty formidable opponent on your hands. Your cowboy boots will not protect you from a bite on the vamp (the top and side of the foot area), but the thick sole will protect the bottom of your feet.
What is the difference between cowboy and Western boots? ›
Cowboy boots typically feature a taller shaft, reaching mid-calf, while western boots have a shorter shaft that stops above the ankle. Furthermore, cowboy boots often boast a pointed toe, while western boots may sport a round or square toe.
How are you supposed to wear Western boots? ›
As a general rule of thumb, we recommend wearing medium to dark-wash jeans over your boots (not tucked in). The jeans should be fairly form-fitting in the upper legs but have enough space in the lower leg to accommodate the boot, without showing an outline.
