When you set out to purchase a pair of cowboy boots, you will find your head spinning due to the availability of an extensive array of such boots of different styles.

You will get to see all kinds of styles–pointed to square toes; tall, medium, or shorter uppers; rubber or leather soles–that will put you in confusion in choosing a pair. But, you will eventually find a perfect pair of boots for you.

You have to consider how you will use the boot, the toe styles you like, and the comfortability to find the right pair of cowboy boots.

Before you buy a pair of boots, consider the following factors:

Toes

Cowboy boots come in various toes–pointed, square, and rounded. And you cannot wear any kind of them. Therefore, pick up the one that fits your feet the best.

Heels

Usually, cowboy boot heels come within 1 ½ to 1 5/8 of an inch. The heels of cowboy boots’ primary purpose are to secure the foot behind a riding stirrup and enable a horse rider to maneuver on a horse’s back. Boot manufacturers design many kinds of heel height, so select a heel that is neither too tall nor too short. 

Size 

Although it is not a hard and fast rule, you can try it out. Usually, your cowboy boots’ ideal size is one size below your dress shoes. But do not fail to choose a pair of cowboy boots that fit your feet firmly and without discomfort.

Shaft Height

Your selection of the shaft height depends on the cowboy boot’s style you are looking to purchase. Boots with short shafts are trendy, but it is the 12-inch shaft that stands out when it comes to popularity. 

Leather

The leather is an important consideration. While choosing the leather, you have two options–exotic and non-exotic.

In the exotic leathers, the most popular ostrich has the subgroups: full quill with pins, a smooth ostrich with no pins, ostrich leg, and ostrich neck.

And non-exotic leathers comprise cowhide, calf, goat, bison, bull, and pig.

Soles

There can be two types of soles for you to choose from–rubber or leather. And both have merits.

Rubber soles are durable and comfortable and can give you protection against electrical shocks during rain.

Leather soles can mold to your feet. Such soles might be slippery at first, but things will become fine after some usage.

Stitching

Cowboy boots came with traditional stitching in the late 1800s. And the stitching helped the boots to keep the shafts upright.

But, today, you can see stitchings with a variety of designs.

Comfort

It is needless to say that the pair of cowboy boots you purchase has to be comfortable. Choose a boot with comfortable lining, a cushioned footbed, and cushioned insoles. Ensure that the boot will remain stable while you work putting it on your feet.

Other things to consider, such as gel footbeds, and easy-on pull tabs, while selecting a pair of cowboy boots.

Know: Why are elevator shoes becoming popular

But, finding a boot that fits your feet perfectly is not easy as it seems to be. There are many things to know. Refer to the infographic in this post to know all about buying the right pair of cowboy boots.