Looking to add a stylish kick to your wardrobe but not sure where to start? Consider cowboy boots. Originally crafted for the rugged Wild West in the 1800s, these boots were all about riding and providing protection with their tough leather. But fast forward to today, and they’ve galloped their way into the world of fashion, with a wide range of designs and styles to choose from.
As cowboy boots have saddled up to become a fashion statement, there’s a whole corral of brands vying for your attention. Wondering which ones are worth lassoing? We’ve rounded up the top 15 cowboy boot brands in the market to help you put your best foot forward.
What We’re Looking For
Nobody wants to throw cash down the drain on boots that fall apart after one wear, right? That’s why we’ve got you covered, considering some essential stuff when putting this list together:
- Purpose: Cowboy boots started as riding gear, but now they’re fashion icons too. We made sure to sort through brands that know how to do both.
- Quality Material: A boot’s as good as its leather. That’s why we made sure all the brands here use top-quality leather – it’s the key to keeping your boots kicking for years.
- Construction: Boots are more than just leather – there’s the sole, the foot part, the heel, and that toe shape. We’ve only picked brands that get these basics right, so you’ll have the protection you need.
- Price: We’ve got something for everyone – from top-of-the-line brands to the more budget-friendly ones. Your perfect cowboy boots don’t have to break the bank.
Our Selection
Picking the right cowboy boots can be a real rodeo, thanks to all the brands out there. But fear not, we’ve done the legwork (or should we say boot work) for you. We laced up, tried on a bunch, and had a blast doing it. So, if you’re on the hunt for some genuine cowboy flair, let’s rustle up the right boots for you.
How We Tested
- The boots were taken for a spin to see how they’d hold up.
- We made sure they felt just perfect – snug but not too tight, a real comfy fit.
- We took a good look to make sure they weren’t too tall or wobbly, they had to be just right.
Why Trust Us
- We reached out to cowboy boot fans and experts to gather their insights, which helped us put together this list.
- We left no stone unturned, considering a whole bunch of key factors that matter when you’re in the market for a new pair of boots. Your satisfaction and comfort are at the heart of what we do.
Our Experts
- Luc Wiesman (Our expert curator) – His attention to detail played a vital role in crafting this list. When it comes to cowboy boots, Luc knows the ropes.
- Finlay Mead (Resident Cowboy) – With plenty of experience and a real passion for quality, Finlay’s your go-to guru for all things Western footwear.
Frye Boots
1/15
Starting out as a humble shoe shop, Frye has since evolved with over 150 years of experience, making it one of the oldest and most respected cowboy boot brands out there. Crafted from premium leather and boasting impeccable workmanship, Frye boots are built to go the distance – they can withstand years of wear and tear. They’re not just tough, they’re thoughtfully designed with flexible soles, cushy insoles, and balanced heels.
But these boots aren’t just about durability, they’re style icons in their own right. Offering timeless elegance and unmatched comfort, Frye’s lineup caters to both men and women, featuring everything from everyday riding boots to trendy fashion favourites. No matter your style or needs, there’s a pair of Frye boots to fit your feet.
Tecovas Boots
2/15
Even though they’ve only been around for a short while, Tecovas climbed the cowboy boot ranks and are now considered one of the best brands. This brand has a more modern approach when it comes to boot designs. Their focus? Making boots that don’t just look great but also feel amazing to wear.
Crafted from some mighty fine leather, Tecovas boots offer a snug and comfy fit that’s built to withstand time’s test. These boots can even hold their own against a bit of rain, so your feet won’t be left swimming. Whether you prefer to shop in stores or online, Tecovas provides both options. They’re the go-to brand for those who appreciate a touch of modern style in their cowboy boots. But if you’re all about that classic Western look, Tecovas might not be your cup of tea.
Tony Lama Boots
3/15
These boots are designed to fit like a dream, with a balance of snugness and space that’ll have you walking on clouds. Whether you’re wandering around town or dancing the night away, Tony Lama’s got you covered in pure comfort.
From classic cowboy to contemporary chic, there’s a Tony Lama boot for every occasion. No matter what your fashion taste, you’ll find a pair that screams ‘you.’ With a variety of colours and designs, there’s definitely something that merges with your unique style. These boots feature stacked heels and slip-resistant outsoles for added stability and traction on slippery surfaces, making them as functional as they are stylish. So, if you’re after a pair that’s built to last, offers unmatched comfort, and comes with a sleek finish, Tony Lama is the brand to check out.
Lucchese Boots
4/15
Established in 1883, Lucchese is among the granddaddies of cowboy boot brands. With a reputation that’s seen the likes of celebrities, athletes, and even presidents donning their boots, you can’t deny they’ve got some serious street (or should I say trail?) cred. But it’s not just about style – these boots are built to weather the wildest rides.
Lucchese boots are a cut above the rest. They don’t skimp on quality, using top-tier materials and the age-old hand-stitched technique. These boots are a true work of art, polished off with a generous dose of wax and oil for that handsome finish. The interior is thoughtfully designed to cradle your feet in comfort while keeping those blisters at bay. While Lucchese’s boots do tend to lean towards a more traditional approach, the quality and craftsmanship shine through – making them a bit of an investment but totally worth it.
Ariat Boots
5/15
Founded in the early ’90s by Beth Cross and Pam Parker, these boots marry the technology of athletic footwear with the timeless charm of cowboy boots. This fresh approach resulted in exceptional designs like the Midtown Rambler, which beautifully merges traditional Western aesthetics with contemporary elements.
One of Ariat‘s most sought-after boots is the WorkHog, a versatile work boot designed to tackle a wide range of demanding tasks. It’s available in various configurations, including steel toes for safety, waterproofing for wet conditions, and composite toes for specific job requirements. So, if you’re on the lookout for cowboy boots that flawlessly blend fashion, sturdiness, and innovation, Ariat deserves a place on your radar. They’ve successfully injected modern technology into the time-honoured cowboy boot style, making it a unique and practical footwear choice.
Alvies Boots
6/15
Founded by Alvie Faulkenbery in 2014, this brand is quickly gaining recognition. Alvies stands out for its wide range of cowboy boots, catering to various occasions and fashion preferences. You’ll discover classic cowboy boots, rugged work boots, sophisticated dress boots, and casual everyday options in their collection.
One of Alvies’ key strengths lies in its solid construction. These boots are built to last, with securely stitched soles and a water-resistant oil finish, making them adaptable to changing weather conditions. Moreover, Alvies boots are lightweight and flexible, ensuring that you can comfortably stroll long distances without any discomfort or blister issues. For those in search of modern, stylish cowboy boots that offer durability and versatility, Alvies is a brand well worth considering.
Dan Post Boots
7/15
Dan Post is one of the go-to brands for cowboy boots, and they’ve been at it since 1960, earning their stripes as a reliable choice for boot lovers. These boots bring the classic Western vibe but also add a touch of modern coolness to your look. They’ve got that magical combo of style and comfort that’s hard to resist.
Handcrafted with top-grade leather and durable rubber soles, these boots are built to withstand whatever life throws your way. Their plush, flexible interior lining cradles your feet in comfort, and the arch support is pretty decent. You might expect this level of quality to come with a hefty price tag, but not with Dan Post Boots. They offer incredible value without putting a dent in your wallet, making them a practical and stylish option.
Rhodes Fortune Boots
8/15
Launched in 2016 as a subsidiary of Dan Post, Rhodes Fortune was created to offer trendier boots with a modern twist, catering to the style preferences of the younger demographic. Perfect for those seeking a more stylish and modernized Western look.
Just like its parent company Dan Post, Rhodes Fortune places a strong emphasis on using high-quality materials. This ensures their boots are not only stylish but also durable and comfortable. With the modern touch they bring to their designs, these boots are versatile and suitable for various occasions. So, if you want cowboy boots that blend traditional quality with a contemporary edge, Rhodes Fortune has got you covered.
Old West Boots
9/15
I’ve got to hand it to Old West boots – their brand name just exudes that classic, rugged cowboy vibe that’s as timeless as the Western frontier itself. Their designs lean towards the traditional and classic style, staying true to the authentic cowboy boot heritage.
What makes this brand special is the way they craft their boots. Many of their offerings feature the Goodyear welt construction method, joining the upper and lower parts with a welt. In terms of durability, they might not be the most rugged boots out there, but with some proper care, they are set to be long-lasting companions. While they excel in delivering that timeless, classic cowboy boot look, don’t be fooled – their catalog offers a variety of options to satisfy that itch for the contemporary cowboy.
RRL Boots
10/15
Ralph Lauren’s Double RL, or simply RRL, brings a touch of luxury to Western-style fashion. These boots are all about looking good and feeling comfortable. They’re crafted using premium materials, from full-grain leather to exotic choices like crocodile skin – making them a stunning addition to your collection.
RRL’s boots are handmade by experts in the field, ensuring high quality. They use a sturdy Goodyear welt construction method that not only makes the boots durable but also keeps them going strong for years. With comfy rubber soles and breathable cork insoles, you can strut your stuff with ease. Just keep in mind that this luxury comes with a price tag to match. So, if you’re into Western-inspired fashion, RRL’s cowboy boots offer style and comfort in one badass, albeit pricey, package.
Stetson Boots
11/15
Strain, the iconic boot brand, is a name that rings through the ages. You see, Stetson boots are built to last, and they’re no strangers to rough and tumble conditions. Without getting into the nitty-gritty of stitching the upper to the sole, let’s just say these boots are tough cookies.
When it comes to grip, these boots have got you covered with Vibram rubber soles that can handle any terrain. Doesn’t matter whether you’re a cowboy or a cowgirl, and whether you’re heading out for a ride or just a quick trip to the store, Stetson has the perfect pair of boots to suit your style and keep you looking sharp.
Rios of Mercedes Boots
12/15
Rios of Mercedes is a true Texan gem that’s been kickin’ it since way back in 1853. These boots are created using traditional methods and a wide range of premium skins to choose from – Carpincho, elk, snake, cowhide, and more. These leathers extend to the inner soles, ensuring comfort and support all day long.
They’ve also got an awesome collection of cowboy hats that’ll put the perfect cherry on top of your Western look. Whether you’re all about the classic vibes or want something with a trendy twist, Rios of Mercedes has got you from head to toe.
Justin Boots
13/15
Justin Boots got its start way back in 1879. They’ve got something for every kind of boot-lover. If you’re on a budget, they’ve got factory-made boots that are easy on the wallet thanks to some nifty modern tech. But if you want a touch of that old-school charm and don’t mind splurging a bit, they’ve got hand-stitched options.
They’ve got this JFlex comfort system that’s like a spa day for your feet. It’s got an orthotic insole and a triple-density insole board that pampers your feet with cushioning and support.
Cavender's Boots
14/15
When we’re talking about boots, you can’t skip over Cavender‘s. They might not be breaking the bank, but let me tell ya, they’re as reliable as your favorite pair of jeans. These babies are made using the Goodyear welt method. They don’t mess around with the leather either, it’s quality stuff, built to last. And inside? Well, they’ve got your comfort covered, no doubt.
Now, style-wise, Cavender’s keeps things classic with that old-school Western boot look. We’re talkin’ pointed toes and heels for that extra swagger. Plus, they’ve got a whole bunch of colours and boots for every occasion, so you can step out your way, cowboy style.
Olsen Stelzer Boots
15/15
Now, they do lean on the pricier side, but they’re built to be tough and take a beating. The trade-off is in the durability – they’re built to last, thanks to premium leather.
As for their style, Olsen Stelzer boots offer a mix of classic and modern looks as well, and you can even tweak them to match your taste. So, while they might stretch your budget a bit, think of it as investing in boots that are in it for the long haul.