The 8 Best Cowboy Boot Brands You Should Know

For most of us, cowboy boots represent more of a lifestyle than anything else. We envision the lone ranger, trekking across the open plains, or the legendary John Wayne, always at the ready to stand tall and defend the honor of others against nefarious criminals. We hear the iconic rattling of spurs against the leather and can visualize the saloon doors swinging open when a group of bandits rolls into town. Clearly, there’s a level of nostalgia involved here, thanks in part to the popularity of the cowboy lifestyle initiated during the ‘30s and ‘40s.

And while the exact origin of the cowboy boot is still debated today, it’s worth noting that several styles of cowboy boots are modeled after European Wellington boots and Hessian boots – thanks to the immigration influx during the 19th century. From here, bootmakers would make more affordable versions of the simple silhouette for regional rancher workers who – surprise, surprise – would later become synonymous with the American cowboy. Needless to say, the iconic cowboy boot silhouette is still held in high regard ever to this day. And, if you can find the right pair, some are still handmade the old-fashioned way by trusted brands. We’ve included several such labels in our best cowboy boots brands guide, so feel free to take a gander for yourself – and see if you can’t embrace your inner “Duke” in the process.

What to look for

Material: The best cowboy boots are made of cowhide leather as it’s very durable and hard to damage. There are options with different leathers like snake, elk, and alligator, as well as custom stitching (with exotic leathers and intricate stitching more common in premium options).

Fit: Similar to work boots and the like, it takes some time to break in your cowboy boots. There should be a little room at the front toe, and the footbed will eventually form to your feet (thick boot or hiking socks can make this process less painful).

Style: There are two main boot styles: the western boot and the roper boot. The Western, or classic (or cowboy), style has a tall shaft and an angled heel. Roper boots have a shorter shaft and a low heel.

How to break in cowboy boots

There are multiple options when it comes to breaking in your cowboy, like using a boot stretcher, steaming and shaping them by hand, or just wearing them naturally. Keep in mind, that it’s normal for your boots to be a bit uncomfortable at first, and it can take anywhere from a few days, a week, or a month (depending on how often you wear them) to fully break in.

How to maintain cowboy boots

Taking care of quality leather is already important, and if you’re going to be using your cowboy boots at a place like a ranch or at the rodeo, they’ll likely be getting pretty dirty too. To keep them looking their best, regular maintenance with a brush or cloth and leather conditioner is advised (once a week for cleaning dirt and once every couple of months for leather conditioning is a good ballpark).

How to style cowboy boots

These classic Western staples have been a part of many style evolutions over the years. While they’re still great with a classic ranch-style outfit (jeans, flannel, work jacket, etc.), they can be elevated with garments like chinos and dress shirts. But whether you’re at the rodeo or Rodeo Drive, feeling confident and having the right pair of boots for your style will be the most important thing.

Why are cowboy boots so popular right now?

With the recent rise of old-school fashion revivals like the ’80s style and Y2K, cowboy boots have also found themselves in the mix. As younger generations look to the past for style inspiration, cowboy boots (especially on the West Coast) have become popular choices due to their iconic silhouettes and the rising interest in timeless Americana. Also, as brands started making more options for women, more people are able to see what these boots are all about.

Ariat

The Most Choices: Inspired by the horse Secretariat, this California-based company joined the utility of athletic footwear with classic cowboy boots, working with biomechanical research groups to create functional and forward-thinking products built to last. The label is also the official sponsor of Professional Bull Riders and has expanded its output to include other styles of boots and clothing over the years. These boots are made in a 150-step process to ensure that every pair fits right and lasts long.

Editor’s Pick: Sport Outdoor Western Boot

This full-grain leather boot has that classic cowboy style with Ariat’s legendary support. It features a lightweight EVA insole that will easily mold to your feet and, a rugged Duratread outsole that’ll last a long time. Additionally, there’s a stylish stitch pattern with a deer embroidered on the front.

Justin Boots

The Best Affordable Boots: This Texas-based American heritage brand began in 1879 and was among the first to incorporate unique stitching into its designs. The label’s boots are handcrafted in El Paso, Texas, with an over 200-step process that ensures durability and quality. After 140 years in the business, Justin Boots still provides the perfect example of classic American cowboy boots, and with reasonable prices to boot.

Editor’s Pick: Octane 11″ Western Boot

The Octane boot was designed with a large platform, a wide square toe, and ventilation in mind to provide a cool and comfortable experience. The removable orthotic footbed adds to this comfort, while the slip-resistant outsole provides needed traction and support. Additionally, these boots can protect you from electrical hazards as they’ve been tested to handle up to 18,000 volts.

Tecovas

The Best Overall: Although this is a relatively new company in this heritage-dominated space, Texas-based label Tecvoa’s has made a name for itself by honoring tried and true construction practices while providing options for both young and old customers. Each one of Tecova’s boots is hand-crafted by a team of artisans during a 200-step process.

Editor’s Pick: The Cartwright

The Cartwright is Tecova’s original cowboy boot, and it’s made to stand the test of time both aesthetically and physically. These Goodyear-welted boots have a stacked leather heel with a rubber end cap, and are available in calfskin, goat, and bovine leather options. Moreover, all of Tecova’s boots are hand-crafted in Leon, Mexico using the label’s 200-step process.

Tony Lama

The Best Mid-Range Boots: Anthony Lama came from a family of Italian immigrants and cut his teeth in early 20th-century New York working as a shoemaker’s apprentice. The label has a long history of quality and innovation, being the first to implement ostrich leather, and was later acquired by Justin Industries (owner of Justin Boots) in 1990.

Editor’s Pick: Nialey Hippo Roughout 11″ Round Toe Western Boot

These subtle boots are a great mid-range option, as they offer the classic style and durability you want from a pair of cowboy boots at a reasonable price. These full-welt boots are made with hippo roughout leather, making them strong and more water-resistant than other options. Moreover, the leather shaft has been burnished to create a contrasting texture, and the boot includes a round toe and a roper heel.

Lucchese

The Most Stylish Boots: Salvatore Lucchese was an Italian immigrant who got his start making boots for the US Army, prioritizing high-quality materials and construction, and innovation. The label went on to weave itself into Western culture, beloved by celebrities and notable figures (like Lyndon B. Johnson) to service members. This quality is invariably found in the label’s products today, along with a large selection of unique styles.

Editor’s Pick: Rudy

The Rudy is a stylish yet incredibly useful boot with a single-stitch welt and quality cowhide, all made in Texas. The detailed stitching pattern makes this a stylish choice – but it’s not all about looks, as the grooved outsole is both oil and slip-resistant, allowing you to walk confidently in rougher conditions. So you can feel comfortable and supported with these shoes whether it’s on horseback or out on the town.

The Frye Company

The Best for Western Style: Founded in 1863, John Frye began his company in Massachusetts, and it quickly became one of the biggest and most successful shoe manufacturers at the time. The label would go on to make custom boots for American icons like Bing Crosby and Gene Autry, and invented the harness boots in the ’60s. To this day, Frye’s boots are still Western icons with trusted durability.

Editor’s Pick: AUSTIN INSIDE ZIP

The Austin Inside Zip boot is oozing with classic Americana while also having a very modern look. These Goodyear-welted boots feature a full-grain leather upper, are lined with soft leather, and are easy to pull on and off. While these boots are definitely a more stylish pick, they’re not lacking in utility. Additionally, these boots are made in Mexico and feature antique brass.

Rios of Mercedes

The Best Premium Boots: For the last 160 years, Rios of Mercedes has had deep roots in the American West, specifically Texas. The team (with many longtime employees and family members) handcrafts each pair as an artist would with a sculpture. Because of this dedication, the label has amassed a devoted fanbase and the love of famous ranchers and musicians.

Editor’s Pick: R9025

These boots aren’t made with just any leather; they’re made with leather that’s been aniline tanned (one of the highest-quality options), making the color consistent out of the box and throughout its lifetime. They’re also single-stitch welted and feature a hybrid rubber/leather, which provides more durability and flexibility.

Ralph Lauren RRL

The Best Grail Boots: While Ralph Lauren isn’t exactly famous for cowboy boots, the label is certainly an American staple and has influenced (and continues to influence) style on the whole. But RRL (Double R), Ralph Lauren’s sub-label that started in the early ’90s, is better known for Western style as it’s inspired by classic Americana, releasing stylish vintage workwear and denim products.

Editor’s Pick: Plainview Suede Cowboy Boot

Named after Ralph Lauren’s ranch in Colorado, these shoes from RRL are inspired by the Old West and the rugged independence of the time. They’re handmade in the US with roughout suede (from the very same ranch), tanned in a historic tannery, and feature subtle yet artful stitching throughout. Adding to the history, these boots are also made on a last (mold for making shoes) from the 1940s.

The Chambray Shirts for Men Right Now

If you’re wearing your new boots in hot weather, then you’ll want a breathable shirt. That’s why you should check out our best chambray shirts guide.