Cowboy boots got their start as early as 1630, when the first pair of
boots with high tops, pointed toes, and two-inch heels was designed.
Throughout the years, various styles of boots were designed for those who
rode horses, from the aristocracy to those in the military, but it wasn't
until the 1880s that the cowboy boot emerged as a distinct style.
Like today's models, early cowboy boots featured stovepipe tops, star and
horseshoe inlays, stitch patterns, and high heels.
Cowboy boot styles have changed over time, and various colors and
designs have been introduced. A person truly experienced with
cowboy boot history might actually be able to tell what region a cowboy
boot comes from, based on its style.
When first introduced there were four variations of the cowboy boot
— the Dress Wellington, Full Wellington, lace-up Packer, and
Hollywood style. When we think of cowboy boots today we think
of the Hollywood style, with the seam running up the back and carving
and stitching on the top panel.
Today, cowboy boots come in two major varieties — boots for work
and fashionable boots. Cowboys who spend long hours riding, roping,
and caring for cattle require cowhide leather boots that breathe well
and offer protection from snakes, bramble, barbed wire, or other
hazards. The heel on the cowboy boot prevents a rider's foot from
going through the stirrup.
Fashionable cowboy boots can be found in many other places than on the
ranch, in a variety of colors and styles. Cowboy boots are a fashion
statement today even among city dwellers as well as a fascinating subject
for Western art paintings. In addition to cowhide, these boots can
be made from exotic leathers and skins such as buffalo, elephant, or
ostrich as well as alligator, lizard, or snakeskin.
For a more economical and practical alternative, cowhide leather can be altered
to look like some of the more exotic materials.
This Texas boot maker and Western Wear retailer offers
Dan Post, Acme, and Dingo cowboy boots as well as boots made from
exotic leathers. www.CowtownBoots.com
Established in 1913, Langston's is a Western Wear retailer
located in Oklahoma. Their stores and website offer an extensive
range of quality cowboy boots and related Western apparel. www.Langstons.com
This venerable boot maker, now a Berkshire Hathaway company,
is dedicated to producing Western cowboy boots with quality materials,
style and workmanship. In 1879, H. J. Justin founded the Justin Boot
Company to produce high quality, comfortable boots. Originally
created as cowboy work boots, Justin boots are available today in a wide
range of styles and prices to suit a variety of tastes. Justin is noted
for introducing the popular Roper style boot and the tough Justin Workboot. www.JustinBoots.com
This boot maker features Western style leather boots with a
handcrafted fit. In 1887, Grover Cleveland was President of the USA,
the automobile was not yet invented, and Tony Lama was born to Italian
immigrant parents. Although there are no records of his early life,
we do know that Lama was orphaned at age 11. An uncle apprenticed
the young lad to a Syracuse, New York shoemaker, where he learned the boot
and leatherworking trades. www.TonyLama.com
Founded in 1883, Lucchese offers handmade boots that are
synonymous with quality, comfort and style. Owning a pair of Lucchese
boots says that you demand the best in materials, construction, and
craftsmanship. For those who appreciate the finer things in life, no
other Western boot brand compares to a Lucchese. www.Lucchese.com