Whether you wear them for fashion or function, cowboy boots are an undoubted wardrobe staple. This footwear essential can outlive most other shoes and typically use durable, long wearing materials that look even better with time. They're also highly versatile, taking its wearer from work to a night out just like that.
The only problem? Cowboy boots can get crazy uncomfortable. Fortunately though, they're not all designed that way. And in this guide, we're talking about the most comfortable cowboy boots on the scene and how to choose a pair of boots that's right for you.
How to Choose the Most Comfortable Cowboy Boots
Comfort is often a subjective experience, because every foot is different. So what might qualify as comfortable cowboy boots for someone else might not feel the same way for you. Thus when it comes to comfort, making the right choice heavily depends on how well you understand your own feet and boot anatomy.
So what makes cowboy boots comfortable? To give you a better understanding of how to choose the most comfortable cowboy boots for your old dogs, here are a few major considerations to take into account:
Insole Specifics
The boot insole refers to the material that lines the inside of the shoes which your sole steps on. Cushy insoles relieve pressure on the sole and bony prominences of the foot like the heel and ball. They may even reduce impact on the ankles, joints, and hips while walking. A responsive pair of insoles can preserve the momentum of your step and extend your walking endurance.
More than just being soft and responsive, insoles also need to provide sufficient arch support. That's why it's so important to know whether you have high arches or flat feet since these conditions may require special insoles to prevent discomfort.
If the built-in insoles don't feel comfortable for you, then you can consider buying after-market insoles that match your foot anatomy.
Upper Material
The uppers pertain to the actual boot material. Usually fashioned from firm, structured leather, cowboy boots' uppers may feel stiff at first. On the upside, a boot that uses quality leather can be broken in over just a few uses, making them more comfortable.
It's important to invest in cowboy boots that use premium leather because this will determine how long they'll last in your possession. And although you might feel inclined to choose cowboy boots with soft, comfortable, pliable uppers right out of the box, it pays to consider how long that material might hold up against wear and tear.
To maintain leather boots we recommend purchasing a high quality saddle soap.
Toe Box Structure
Some people tend to think that the shape of the boot toe box has more to do with preference than comfort. But that's not actually the case. Cowboy boots can have a pointed toe, a square toe, or a round toe, and these options provide much more than just style.
For instance, people with bunions might feel most comfortable wearing cowboy boots with a wide, round or square toe box. On the other hand, people with slim feet might feel that a narrow, pointy toe box works better to keep their foot in proper place.
Size
Sizing a cowboy boot can get tricky. According to experts, the right cowboy boots should fit snugly - not too tight nor too loose. This usually has much to do with the fit of the instep. Also called the 'vamp', the instep represents the part of the uppers that sit right above the bridge of your feet. When the instep is too loose, it can cause the heel to move excessively.
It's also important to remember that cowboy boots tend to loosen with time. As you wear your boots, the upper materials become softer and more forgiving and comfortable. This break-in process can make snug boots feel much more relaxed. So it pays to consider how wear might affect fit over the long haul.
Breathability
The most common comfort issue that people have with cowboy boots is that they can get pretty hot. Boot leather is notorious for its poor ventilation. So if you've got a set of sweaty feet, then breathability should sit at the top of your list of comfortable boot selection criteria.
Since most boots use leather, there's only so much that brands can do to counteract ventilation issues. On the other hand, boots that use more pliable, flexible, comfortable leather allow better breathability. Combined with a moisture wicking lining, these boots offer to minimize sweat production and keep your feet cool even after a whole day of wear.
Outsole
Yes, even the outsole contributes to the comfort experience. When the material supporting the underside of the cowboy boots is too stiff, it can limit a lot of the natural flexion that your foot needs to do when walking. This can lead you to unconsciously compensate and change your natural gait, which may lead to all sorts of pain down the line.
The outsole should at least offer some pliability and bend, as well as good traction so as to maintain proper toe movement and prevent strain and pressure on your joints. A rubber outsole often helps maximize flexibility so you can still walk as you would without the lugs working against you.
It's also important to consider any anti-slip features the sole offers. Cowboy boots that use rugged, textured outsoles provide more traction. This lets you maintain a proper heel-toe step dynamic during wear and use. Non-slip outsoles also let you walk with confidence on a horse ranch where it's more than possible to step on something slippery.
Shaft Height
The shaft is the entire part of the uppers that extends from your ankles upwards to your calves. Depending on your preferences and your needs, you may have to carefully consider how high the shaft of your boots should be.
Although a taller shaft may help protect your shins from potential injury especially if you plan to use your boots as work boots, it can also limit a lot of your movement and trap a lot of heat. But again, choosing boots with relatively softer leather material (or at least leather that promises to soften over time) should help mitigate those potential issues.
Heel Height
A pair of cowboy boots can transition from ranch to recreation, but the heel will have a lot to do with how far you can extend that versatility. If you plan to wear your boots mainly for riding a horse, a riding heel offers better shape and performance.
Some heels are designed for walking, and offer a comfortable step for long hours of standing and navigating a ranch. Others, especially those for women, may use a fashion heel that might not deliver the same comfortable experience that other boots do.
The 8 Best Cowboy Boots for Comfort
Now that we know what makes cowboy boots comfortable, it's time to find the perfect pair of comfortable cowboy boots. We scoured the market in search of the most comfortable cowboy boots on the scene. These vetted choices didn't only satisfy our criteria, but also out-shined other boot choices with their versatile performance and durable designs.
Whether you're looking for comfortable cowboy boots for riding your horse and working on the ranch, or if you were in search of a boot you can wear to a night of drinks and parties, here are the best cowboy boots for your money's worth.
Men's Boots
1. Ariat Hybrid Rancher Western Boots
The square toe western boots for men from Ariat has earned noteworthy popularity among ranchers looking for reliable work boots. The cowboy boots features full grain leather material for its uppers which have been carefully molded to conform to the standard anatomy of a man's foot.
Underneath, the Ariat men's boots boast an oil and slip-resistant outsole that maximizes traction so you can step and walk with utmost confidence on virtually any surface. Inside, the boots for men boast what the brand calls 4LR technology that aims to cushion each step for maximum comfort.
Although soft and pliable, the toe on these Ariat boots features ASTM rating that provides maximum protection against falling objects and accidental stepping. And to help make sure your feet feel comfortable for the duration of wear, the boots incorporate an interior mesh lining that works to control moisture and ventilation.
Combining fashion and function, these men's boots from Canyon Trails comes in both brown and black, and features beautiful embroidery on the shaft and instep. The gorgeous boots tout a clean round toe outline and a calf-high shaft that protects most of the leg during ranch work.
But more than just being a set of reliable boots for men, this men's boot from Canyon Trails also wonderfully transitions to more casual applications. Using thick, non-skid rubber sole material from toe to heel, the western boots let you run, dance, and jump without having to worry about losing your balance or style.
Pliable, fashionable, and comfortable, these eye-catching cowboy boots work best for cowboys hoping to transition seamlessly from ranch to nightlife without having to worry about aching feet at the end of the day.
Soft and flexible right out of the box, the Ariat Men's Rambler Wester Boots for Men offer maximum comfort with its limber leather. According to the brand, this western pair from Ariat comes bare bones and broken in, offering flexion and pliability that moves with your feet with close to zero resistance.
The outsole uses the brands durable Duratread Outsole material that combines a proprietary blend of different rubbers. The result is a rubber sole that easily moves and flexes to match your foot, so you can wear the boot, walk, and run with the most natural stride.
At a glance, the Ariat western boots definitely don't look like much. But these reliable, trustworthy, long lasting boots promise to stand the test of time. Ideal for hardworking ranchers, the Ariat Mens' Rambler Western Boot provides soft, cushy comfort from the moment you break them out of the box.
These 10-inch men's boots from Wolverine don't joke around about softness. The pliable upper material and cushioned insole come together to provide maximum comfort for around the barn. With each step, the comfortable boots flex and move to accommodate your feet. This makes them comfortable enough for riding and working around the ranch.
Complete with Goodyear Welt technology, these durable comfortable boots max out on rugged performance that keeps them in perfect working condition even in the face of robust, daily use and wear.
These western boots uses an Ortholite removable insole that provides excellent arch support to prevent injury and even plantar fasciitis. Underneath all of that, the Wolverine Men's Rancher is supported by a slip resistant rubber sole that secures your safety as you trudge around your muddy, slippery farm or ranch.
Women's Boots
This women's cowboy boot from Justin Boots comes in 10 different colorways and designs, with the quality leather uppers showcasing beautiful embroidery for added style. Made from 100 leather, these comfortable Justin boots promise to survive years of intensive, rugged use on the farm.
But more than its durable, fashionable exterior, this women's cowboy boot from Justin features a J Flex insole technology that delivers a relaxed fit and intuitive responsiveness that doesn't restrict your feet. Coupled with the Justin brand's J Flex outsole, this cowboy boot proves comfortable enough to wear for a whole day at the ranch and beyond.
With a shaft that extends 13 inches upwards your calf, this Justin cowboy boot provides maximum leg coverage and protection. And to make sure people with wide feet get the same comfort, these boots from Justin use a roomy square toe silhouette.
The Ariat Fatbaby Western Boot is a low cowboy boot for women with 8-inch shafts. This allows wearers to feel a little less restricted, and fits much better on people with larger calves. Designed as an all-purpose boot, this women's design takes you from walking, to horse riding, to dancing and beyond.
Built to last, the rugged pair of cowboy boots from Ariat uses the brands signature 4LR technology that delivers cushy, responsive comfort with each step. The Duratread Outsole on the other hand, protects your feet from possible hazards using ultra thick rubber outsole material that doesn't compromise pliability.
With long lasting genuine leather, a cushioned insole, moisture-controling lining similar to Roper's ATS technology, and four different style options to choose from, this pair of women's cowboy boots gives a woman everything she needs for a day of work and an evening of fun filled excitement.
Fashioned out of the highest quality synthetic leather materials, the Roper Women's Riley Western Riding Boots for women deliver supreme flexibility. The boot uses durable material that shifts and bends to match your movement, so you feel virtually zero restriction as you navigate your ranch.
Up front, the boot for women boasts a beautiful point toe silhouette that adds feminine appeal to these women's boots. Inside, the boots come equipped with a cushion insole that provides support and comfort for all day wear. They also boast the brand's ATS Technology that uses a moisture-wicking and heat dissipating lining to keep your dogs cool.
Although it isn't made from genuine leather, this cowboy boot from Roper doesn't skimp on durability. Delivering the same lasting performance you would expect out of cowboy boots that use quality 100 leather, this pair of boots doesn't disappoint when it comes to longevity.
Maybe they weren't made for working with horses around the ranch, but these Dan Post cowboy boots for women were definitely made for walking. For wearers particularly invested in style, these thigh high cowboy boots feature beautiful floral stitches and designs that are guaranteed to make you the center of attention.
The boot showcases beautiful dusty blue 100 leather uppers that incorporate delicate floral embroidery details. Feminine and sleek, the cowboy boots also use a gorgeous slim silhouette, a pointed toe design, and an elevated riding heel shape that appeals to women looking for a boot that doesn't look too butch or rugged.
Complete with a zippered entry, these cowboy boots for women provide a comfortable ride with lined interiors, a cushion insole for support, and soft, pliable upper materials that don't obstruct your natural movement.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are cowboy boots comfortable for work?
They definitely can become comfortable work footwear if you buy a quality pair. Most cowboys actually use cowboy boots for extended hours of ranch work. See some more great options in our articles covering the best barn boots for mucking stalls and the best paddock boots.
What kind of cowboy boots do real cowboys wear?
Typically, real cowboy boots have a medium to high heel, and high shafts that measure 10 inches or more. These provide the right features for when you ride a horse.
Are cowboy boots good for your feet?
Well, they're good for protecting your feet during ranch-related tasks. If you're worried about aches and potential injury, it pays to invest in good boots and a pair of insoles that match your feet.
How do you make cowboy boots more comfortable?
Wear them! Just like any other shoe, a cowboy boot might feel stiff and unforgiving out of the box. But as they get accustomed to your feet with constant wear, they're bound to feel like a second skin.
If the Boot Fits, Wear It
Taking you from the ranch to a night out on the town, these bets take the cake as the top eight most comfortable cowboy boots on the scene. They each deliver unprecedented comfort without sacrificing style. And because they can last for years (or even decades) down the line, you can trust that any boot you buy from our list will turn out to be a wardrobe investment.
