Cowboy Boots?

audiobliss

I'm in need of some new boots. My current pair of Timberland hiking boots are falling apart. I really like the look of a lot of cowboy boots, so I'm definitely looking into them. I'm not entirely sure yet if I'm going to like just pulling them on and having them hanging on to me instead of me lacing them onto my feet. If I decide to go with them, I'll just have to wait and see how I like that transition. I'm also not sure how high I'd want the boot to come up. It's been a LONG time since I've worn a boot such as these, so I can't say from personal experience, but I imagine the higher the boot comes up, the more it'd interfere with movement.

Ok, so, I'm looking for a fairly decent, durable, comfortable boot to wear for everyday wear. So far I've been looking exclusively at Justin's boots since I've heard so many good things about them and they're so readily available.

I really don't know what I'm supposed to be looking for. So far my search has been based solely on appearance. I'm not even sure what I'm looking for there, either. Here are a few I've found that I like the looks of:







The former two boots are what I've always referred to as 'cowboy boots', but it's come to my attention that the latter is properly categorized as a 'cowboy boot', too. So, then, what terms differentiate the two? Is one inherently more comfortable than the other? I prefer the Western style of the first two, but this is going to be for everyday wear, so comfort is key.

I guess I'm just looking for any hints you may have in searching for a pair of boots. What brands, what materials, what styles, what features to look for, what's a good price range (closer to $100 is nice, but anywhere under $200 is plausible at the moment), etc.

I'd appreciate any input!

thsmith

I always liked Ropers by Justin.

http://www.cavenders.com/product.asp?cat=1&dept_id=514&pf_id=JUS03170

66chevyIISS

How about some UGGS? lol

BottomFeeder

The third boot is really a work boot - notice the thicker, lugged sole. They'd be better on ice & slop but, at least in my opinion, don't have the classic cowboy boot look at all.

Just depends on what y'all are shootin' fer!

By the way, can you give me a link to the first two pair? I've been looking for a new pair myself and haven't been able to find any that I like around here! Thanks!

audiobliss

BottomFeeder wrote: »

The third boot is really a work boot - notice the thicker, lugged sole. They'd be better on ice & slop but, at least in my opinion, don't have the classic cowboy boot look at all.

Just depends on what y'all are shootin' fer!

Yeah, I would've called the third one a workbook, too, but heard it's classified as a 'cowboy boot', too. Maybe not?

I definitely prefer the style of the first two. I guess my main question is, can western style cowboy boots be comfortable for all day wear, and what are good brands to look at?

I think a trip to store to try some on would be good...

audiobliss

BottomFeeder wrote: »

By the way, can you give me a link to the first two pair? I've been looking for a new pair myself and haven't been able to find any that I like around here! Thanks!

I found those just by browsing Justin's website.

Here's the first boot: http://www.justinboots.com/boots/Justin_Jel.html?424fccf8=2704

the second boot: http://www.justinboots.com/boots/western.html?424fccf8=2421

and a few other similar pairs I picked out:
http://www.justinboots.com/boots/western.html?424fccf8=2417
http://www.justinboots.com/boots/western.html?424fccf8=2503
http://www.justinboots.com/boots/western.html?424fccf8=2252

audiobliss

thsmith wrote: »

I always liked Ropers by Justin.

http://www.cavenders.com/product.asp?cat=1&dept_id=514&pf_id=JUS03170

Thanks for the link; that looks like a great site. I had forgotten about them, but I've heard a lot of great things about Ariats, too!

mrbigbluelight

audiobliss wrote: »

I'd appreciate any input!

I believe these could be considered "Country", if not outright "Cowboy".

From Zappos ( http://zapp.me/z7484034 )

<div style="display:block; margin:10px; padding:0; width:136px; border:6px solid #787ca9; background-color:#f1f2ff; font:normal 11px/normal verdana, helvetica; text-align:center;"><p style="margin:10px 0; padding:0; font-weight:bold;">I Like:</p><a href="http://www.zappos.com/n/p/p/7484034/c/3.html&quot; title="Lil Kick Azz by Naughty Monkey"><img src="http://www.zappos.com/images/748/7484034/9994-781776-t.jpg&quot; alt="Lil Kick Azz by Naughty Monkey at Zappos.com" style="width:136px; height:102px; padding:0; border:none; border-top:1px solid #787ca9; border-bottom:1px solid #787ca9;" /></a><a href="http://www.zappos.com/n/p/p/7484034/c/3.html&quot; title="Lil Kick Azz by Naughty Monkey at Zappos.com" style="margin:10px 0 0; padding:0; display:block; font-weight:bold; color:#3636dd;">Lil Kick Azz</a>
by <a href="http://www.zappos.com/n/br/b/910/Naughty Monkey.html" title="Naughty Monkey Boutique at Zappos.com" style="padding:0; color:#3636dd;">Naughty Monkey</a><a style="display:block;" href="http://www.zappos.com&quot; title="Zappos.com - Powered by Service"><img src="http://www.zappos.com/img/product-badge-logo.gif&quot; alt="Zappos.com - Powered by Service" style="margin:10px 0; padding:0; border:none; width:88px; height:43px;" /></a></div>


Okay, I apologize; no input would have been better than this input.

Those first two boots look good, btw.

pearsall001

It just ain't right not showing us a picture of your horse!

swegyptian

How olf are your timerbland boots, and how much did you wear them?

audiobliss

swegyptian wrote: »

How olf are your timerbland boots, and how much did you wear them?

I've kind of worn them in cycles, off and on. Here for maybe the last year and a half I've almost worn them daily. But I'm sure I've had them for 3 - 5 years.

BottomFeeder

Thanks for sharing the links. I've owed m'sef a new pair of boots for a long time. I'm finally retiring my Justins - which I've worn for almost 30 years.

Yeah, it's time.

audiobliss

BottomFeeder wrote: »

Thanks for sharing the links. I've owed m'sef a new pair of boots for a long time. I'm finally retiring my Justins - which I've worn for almost 30 years.

Yeah, it's time.

30 years?? That's some good use you've gotten out of them! Were they of the western style I'm looking at? Were they comfortable for everyday wear?

Face

I found that Timberlands only last a year or so.

The last pair of Doc Martins have lasted me about 2 years and look like they can go another 2+.

audiobliss

I've been looking at these western boots a good bit more, and I seem to really like some Ariats. In particular the following:


http://www.sheplers.com/mens/100_200/030042.html

I know I can't decide on anything just by looking online, but I really like the looks of that boot. There are two stores just down the street I just discovered that sell western boots, so I'm going to go out there Saturday and try some on. I can't wait!

I-SIG

I don't wear $h!tkickers, but it would seem to me that expecting a cowboy-style boot to replace a hiking-style boot, might be asking the cowboy boot to do something it's not designed to do, especially with slick soles. Not trying to discourage you, but it seems like to very different directions to be going.

Wes

Ricardo

Your feet will smell worse than they do now with those boots.

George Grand

Git along little doggie, and find a real pair of shoes.

shack

Years ago I had a nice pair of cowboy boots. They hurt my feet like hell. NEVER AGAIN! I'll take my Timberlands or Bass any day of the week over a cowboy boot.

Besides...being as close to Nashville as I am, I've seen enough stupid looking cowboy country singer wannnabees in cowboy boots to last a lifetime. :rolleyes:

Early B.

Do NOT buy shoes on-line, especially boots. You need to see 'em, feel 'em, and try them on.

IMO, cowboy boots are for show. For everyday wear, get another pair of Tims.

cfrizz

I agree with the others. Hiking to cowboy? will you be able to deal with the change in the size of the heel? Not to mention the LACK of traction!!!

I am in desparate need of boots that have non slip grips & reasonable heel size!

bobman1235

Aside from what I would consider an absolutely ridiculous style choice, are there some benefits of cowboy style boots? Or is it purely a fashion choice? I feel like I'd be sacrificing a LOT of function and mobility for the sake of looking cool, and ... well that's something usually relegated to the female of the species, is it not?

I wear some form of hiking boot or shoe nearly all year round, pretty much solely for function; I can't imagine cowboy boots being functional in any way (aside from traditionally, for cowboys for some reason).

apc

Been years since I had a pair of cowboy boots, but the Tony Lama's I had were the most comfortable things I've ever worn. The best analogy I can offer is a pair of gloves. Did not require breaking in as some leathers do, but molded to my feet and provided much needed arch support for me.

I'd buy another pair in a heartbeat and may, now that I think about it.

audiobliss

All these recently emerging concerns about functionality, comfort, and practicality are totally legitimate. And if you reread my first few posts, you'll see that I voiced much of the same concerns.

The thought of going with 'cowboy boots' is basically solely inspired by looks. I really like the way they look. I'm NOT willing to TOTALLY sacrifice functionality for it. But I also can't say that they're going to be uncomfortable and impractical without first going to try them on and see what I think about them.

And to all of those who seem to have this idea of cowboy boots being hard, stiff, tight, uncomfortable, and totally impractical seemingly without ever having worn a pair - look at this boot:

Does that look hard and stiff? I'm sure it's not as soft and pliable as some shoes, but especially after break-in, that should be soft and pliable, and conformed to your foot.

That's a pretty well-cushioned looking insole, too.

And the sole is rubber to provide traction, not some slick leather.

Basically, I'm wanting a new boot, love the look of cowboy boots, and from what I can see of them and have heard of them from people I know who wear them, they can be very comfortable shoes to wear. They're just different. And if I get some, I'm expecting to have to get used to them. But who knows...maybe when I go try them on this weekend I'll hate the fit. I'll be disappointed, 'cause I'd love to have some cowboy boots, but oh well. If I don't like the way they feel, they're out. Don't worry, I'm not going to write off comfort and functionality for fashion.

Polkitup2

Check out Zappos, you can try them out and free returns. They also will price match anyone.

http://zeta.zappos.com/search/brand/709/filter/categoryFacet/%22Boots%22/expandedGender/%22Mens%22

audiobliss

Polkitup2 wrote: »

Check out Zappos, you can try them out and free returns. They also will price match anyone.

http://zeta.zappos.com/search/brand/709/filter/categoryFacet/%22Boots%22/expandedGender/%22Mens%22

Thanks for the link! They have some nice looking choices.

cfrizz

Thank you for this link!

Polkitup2 wrote: »

Check out Zappos, you can try them out and free returns. They also will price match anyone.

http://zeta.zappos.com/search/brand/709/filter/categoryFacet/%22Boots%22/expandedGender/%22Mens%22

shack

Polkitup2 wrote: »

Check out Zappos, you can try them out and free returns. They also will price match anyone.

http://zeta.zappos.com/search/brand/709/filter/categoryFacet/%22Boots%22/expandedGender/%22Mens%22

I'll vouch for Zappos as well. Already this year for Christmas I've purchased a The Sak purse for my wife, and a pair of UGG boots for each of my girls from them. Great company.

Early B.

audiobliss wrote: »

Basically, I'm wanting a new boot, love the look of cowboy boots, and from what I can see of them and have heard of them from people I know who wear them, they can be very comfortable shoes to wear. They're just different. And if I get some, I'm expecting to have to get used to them. But who knows...maybe when I go try them on this weekend I'll hate the fit. I'll be disappointed, 'cause I'd love to have some cowboy boots, but oh well. If I don't like the way they feel, they're out. Don't worry, I'm not going to write off comfort and functionality for fashion.

I've had a pair of the same cowboy boots for almost 20 years and they are quite comfortable for fashion purposes. But the first two sentences in your original thread is what drew the comments regarding comfort. My Tims are among the most comfortable shoes I've ever owned. It's like wearing a nice pair of old school Adidas tennis shoes.

audiobliss

Early B. wrote: »

I've had a pair of the same cowboy boots for almost 20 years and they are quite comfortable for fashion purposes. But the first two sentences in your original thread is what drew the comments regarding comfort. My Tims are among the most comfortable shoes I've ever owned. It's like wearing a nice pair of old school Adidas tennis shoes.

Ahh, I gotcha. Can't say as I can relate to the old school Adidas tennis shoes, though.

Early B.

audiobliss wrote: »

Ahh, I gotcha. Can't say as I can relate to the old school Adidas tennis shoes, though.

Circa 1970's, dude, during the decline of the ABA. This was long before sneakers had all the techno crap in them like they do for today's wussies. Put Shaq in some Chuck Taylors and he'd scream like a girl. Back then, we were hard core. Sneakers made of canvas were "da bomb" as the young people say. We only had one pair and we didn't get a new pair until we wore a hole in the bottom of them.

Ahhh, those were good times.