I have just finished an article about cowboy boots for woman and I thought it was a good time to do an update on cowboy boots for men. What is odd about this is the name itself. For when I google I cowboy boots it manly targets us woman. But I recalled a few seasons back where I encountered a cowboy inspirational collection. So the question we all need to ask ourselves is cowboy a boot let alone a fashion you would go out and choose to wear? I don’t even know who in Europe choose to embrace this type of look. For us woman cowboy boots are amazing to wear and very versatile. I am not sure why I am attempting to talk about it, but curiosity always gets the best of me.
The History
The Western-style riding boot is somewhere between folk art, pop culture, and functional clothing. My recollection of them being well known is through famous actors and presidents. The harsh reality if most men, will go through life without ever having tried a cowboy boot on. This article is about having ago. You don’t have to be a cowboy to wear and appreciate western boots let alone movies. Let’s face it have a look at the boater shoes which aren’t exclusively for private yacht owners. The same mindset is for the well-dressed man who can be comfortable taking the cowboy boot out of the Southwest and into America’s most fashionable cities or the streets of Europe or the world for that matter.
In the video listen to how the models react when I ask if they would embrace the Western Style cowboy boot.
Why Wear Cowboy Boots?
I think it is fair to say unless you are in Mexico or the southern states of the USA or at an event that is suited to wear cowboy boots, then it is a tough call. But hey there is always Les Vegas right. I am not dissuading at all but I just can’t see this collection booming anytime soon. It is clear that wearing these boots are well suited for guys having there jeans worn over the boot. So all you see is the idea of a cowboy boot. Such a shame when you look at the designs alone. For guys crocodile leather or snake leather is truly the only way to go. If you’re going all out then you might as well go nuts. I hang about in Spain a lot and there are always super cool looking cowboy boots to be had.
Cuadra a Mexican brand certainly captures the eye of what I might say the everyday bloke may buy into. But then if you look at the history of cowboy boots. You could not get anymore manly than them.
Now the place to go to get a variety of cowboys boots in the USA is a shop called Cavenders. It is certainly a good start to understand the cowboy fashion. The price varies on your budget. The expertise is there in a store that is not intimidating at all.
Good Boots
Also another brand is Good boots take you to good places is their moto. I guess for us Europeans to find guys wearing cowboy boots is not that common, in Spain us ladies wear them all the time. The stigma of guys wearing boot is one that I am not sure of here. I mean look at the image of a cowboy he is certainly very manly and macho. At a distance, it looks like a quality leather shoe. Up close, the distinct advantages start to show that cowboy boots are not a fashion statement, it is more about the man and his personal style.
Four Reasons To Wear Cowboy Boots
- Shorter men have extra reason to love cowboy boots, the heel adds anywhere from a half-inch to nearly two inches of height. Taller men will definitely want a lower-slung “walking heel” style, but particularly short men can sneak another inch or so in by wearing full “cowboy heels.”
- A plain cowboy boot is a rare thing. There are styles out there for every taste imaginable, and the portion of the boot visible beneath your trouser cuffs can feature everything from leather tooling to contrast-colored stitching and bright vegetable dyes.
- Once you get outside of Texas and the Southwest, you’re unlikely to find yourself in a room with another guy wearing Western boots. If nothing more it shows you have big balls to wear them.
- Western boots come from a long tradition, both historical and fictional, of American independence and manhood. What does your boots state about who you are as a man in 2015.
Three Heel Rules To Kick You Into Your Cowboy Boots
- Cuban heel. A boot that doesn’t have an angled, underslung heel of at least 1/2″ or more isn’t really a cowboy boot. Lower heels will be more comfortable to walk in (and are in fact called “walking heels”), while taller heels are more useful for holding your feet in the stirrups when you ride, and give shorter men a bit of an extra boost. Expect heel length to be up to 2 inches, although 1 to 1.5 is normal.
- High shaft. The tops of the boots should be up to at least mid-calf. The tops are usually shaped with decorative cut-outs, but can end in a plain, round opening. A classic Western boot usually has a 10- to 14-inch shaft.
- No laces. Cowboy boots are pulled on and off. They usually have small leather loops (“bootstraps”) to assist with this, but should not have laces. This also comes from the practical origins; laces could catch on a stirrup when a cowboy fell from his horse or keep him from kicking free if the boot caught, causing him to be dragged and potentially trampled.
What To Wear With Your Cowboy Boots
Don’t choose to many pieces that make you look like you’re out on a film set for a western movie. Keep it simple there fore with your boots, wear a huge decorative belt buckle and make sure it is leather. Invest in a good leather belt and buckle. Choose a simple normal t-shirt with no nonsense slogans on it or an essential collar shirt.
Dark denim is a must and never tuck the jeans into the boots. Dress trousers can go with cowboy boots as well, and so can casual suits. Wearing jackets with your boots is like a hand to a glove. It look super urban and super cool. Up to you if you want to go double denim or a leather jacket, I’m for both. A long trench coat can look very smart as well.
Places To Strut Your Cowboy Boots
Expanding on the diverse and vibrant venues where cowboy boots not only fit in but stand out as a bold statement of style and personality:
Step Dancing – The Rhythmic Showcase: Whether it’s the fiery beats of salsa or the structured elegance of square dancing, cowboy boots are more than just footwear; they’re dance partners. Their sturdy construction and smooth soles make them perfect for gliding across the dance floor, allowing you to step, spin, and stomp with confidence and flair. Each movement becomes a testament to the versatility and spirit of the cowboy boot, turning a simple dance into a showcase of style and rhythm.
Bars – The Casual Conviviality: Picture this: you’re walking into your local bar, the sound of your cowboy boots clicking against the floor commands attention. They’re not just shoes; they’re conversation starters, imbued with stories and an air of nonchalant cool. In the dimly lit ambiance of a bar, cowboy boots add an element of rugged sophistication, making any outfit instantly more interesting and setting the tone for a night of relaxed camaraderie or unexpected adventures.
Casual Restaurants – The Understated Elegance: Here, cowboy boots trade the dusty trails for polished floors, proving that they can elevate a casual dining experience with their unique blend of comfort and style. Paired with the right ensemble, they can add an unexpected twist to your dinner attire, blending seamlessly with the laid-back yet sophisticated atmosphere of your favorite eatery.
Fairs and Festivals – The Heartbeat of Tradition: At county fairs, state festivals, or any gathering that celebrates community and tradition, cowboy boots are right at home. They resonate with the heartbeat of Americana, connecting wearers to a rich tapestry of culture and history. Walking through the fairgrounds, cowboy boots not only offer comfort but also pay homage to the spirit of the festivities, blending tradition with modern style.
Concerts – The Symphony of Styles: Be it the soul-stirring melodies of rock or the heartfelt tales of country music, cowboy boots carry the rhythm. They’re a staple at concerts, where music and fashion collide in a vibrant symphony. Here, cowboy boots are more than just attire; they’re a part of the experience, a nod to the genres’ roots, and a way to stand out in a crowd of fans.
Romantic Evenings – The Whisper of Intimacy: Cowboy boots on a romantic picnic under the stars or a serene sunset add a touch of whimsy and adventure to the occasion. They speak of a love for the road less traveled, of stories waiting to be told, making every step a part of your shared journey. In these moments, cowboy boots are not just footwear; they’re symbols of a bold, adventurous spirit.
Comedy Shows – The Playful Provocateur: Attending a comedy show in cowboy boots might just make you part of the act, especially if you’re brave enough to sit in the front row. They’re a playful choice, signaling a sense of humor and a readiness to engage, to be a part of the evening’s entertainment in more ways than one.
Equestrian Activities – The Authentic Experience: In the saddle or on the ground, cowboy boots are a nod to their origins. They’re not just practical; they’re a connection to the history of horsemanship, to the skill and grace of riding. Every equestrian activity becomes a chance to honor tradition while embracing the modern incarnation of the cowboy spirit.
The Theatre – The Dramatic Flair: Stepping into the theatre, cowboy boots carry with them an air of drama and personality. They’re an unexpected choice, one that sets you apart as an individual with a taste for the arts and a flair for the unconventional. In the plush surroundings of the theatre, cowboy boots are a statement of confidence, a defiance of the mundane.
Fashion Capitals – The Global Stage: In the fashion-forward streets of London, New York, Paris, Barcelona, Melbourne, and Japan, cowboy boots transcend their humble beginnings. They become a symbol of global style, a fusion of cultures and histories. Wearing cowboy boots in these cities is a declaration of individuality, a way to stand out in the world’s most stylish locales, proving that true style knows no boundaries.
Now slipping a pair on for the first time is so much fun and feels very strange to those guys who are used to wearing trainers and flip flops. For me if you are up for a fashion challenge then go for it and enjoy the ride. What is the worse that can happen to you?
