Last Updated on February 9, 2022
Shopping for new cowboy boots can be a literal pain. Sometimes it takes a while to break in boots properly, and by then it’s too late to make a return. We’ve compiled a list of the most comfortable cowboy boots for men to help make boot shopping a little easier.
That being said, what constitutes a true cowboy boot? With so many advancements in technical apparel and podiatry, boots have changed a great deal over the years. Although cowboy boots are traditionally made of an upper leather and leather sole, we have included some with modern adjustments due to growing popularity. Feel free to scroll by the rubber soles, but the comfort ratings are through the roof!
Shopping for The Most Comfortable Cowboy Boots For Men
Primary Use
Not all boots are meant for riding. The popular cowboy boot “look” has grown in popularity as many steel toe and other work boots have a cowboy boot design. For our purpose, we are looking at general comfort when you’re on your feet (walking or working), as well as stability and flexion in the saddle. Traditionally, cowboy boots will have a longer heel of approximately 1.5”-2”, and a durable toe box to withstand any possible injuries/missteps from livestock.
Upper Material
Although a leather upper is the industry standard, there are multiple types of leather on the market. Most exotic leathers will only be found on the lower, but some boots use exotics for the entire product, including the shaft. Traditional boots utilize cowhide, but exotics include ostrich, snake, elephant, alligator, and even goat leathers. Leathers can be treated for water resistance, but the toughest leather we’ve seen comes from kangaroo hide. Alligator, for example, lacks stretch but offers extreme durability. Most of the following boots will be standard cowhide, but for a price increase, exotic leathers offer suppleness and durability.
Sole
Traditionally, cowboy boot outer soles were made of leather, similar to dress shoes. However, new materials are rising in demand. Are you a traditionalist, or do you have an appreciation for the added stability and traction of rubber? We went ahead and included both on our list while keeping a mostly traditional look.
Price
While we chose to keep our prices moderate, superb quality custom cowboy boots can cost thousands. Here we will look at mid-priced boots (some a little over, some under) available without the wait and price tag of a custom design. Like any other shoe, detail work and materials used dictate the price of cowboy boots.
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Top 9 Picks For The Most Comfortable Men’s Cowboy Boots
1. Tony Lama Men’s Square Toe Jasper Boots
Simplicity and comfort in and out of the saddle:
These boots encompass the classic Tony Lama look with a modern twist for extreme comfort. It has a 13″ shaft with vibrant contrasting stitching, and a roomy square toe box. The heel is 1.75″, making it a great choice if you spend time on your feet.
Pros:
- Comfort package insole
- Classic heritage Tony Lama look
- Durable double stitching
Cons:
- Decreased traction
2. Boulet Men’s Saddle Rider Boots
A durable modern twist with a classic look:
This boot looks classic inside and out, but uses a subtle 1″ Stockman heel and a rubber outsole designed to look like leather. This is a great option for folks on their feet. It has a 13″ pull-on shaft and double stitched welt, making it extremely durable. It’s made of premium full-grain leather with a leather sole.
Pros:
- Mimics traditional riding cowboy boots
- Mostly leather
- Durable
Cons:
- Heavier compared to other walking boots
- Lower heel height for riding
3. Twisted X Men’s Buckaroo Boot
Twisted X footwear delivers a trendy and practical boot:
Another home-run from Twisted X! This full-grain leather boot has a higher 16″ shaft that looks sharp in the saddle, reinforced pull tabs, and a double stitched welt. It features an NWS toe and comes in two widths. The molded rubber outsole makes this a popular design for moisture resistance and gives a little more traction in and out of the saddle without compromising a classic look. Twisted X is consistently”stepping up” their boot game!
Pros:
- Stylish and popular design
- Higher shaft
- Lower heel height for walking comfort
Cons:
- Outsole is rubber
- Doesn’t work with wide calves
4. Durango Men’s Rebel DB5444 Western Boot
Extreme comfort and a huge color selection:
The Durango Rebel is loved by both cowboys and non-riders alike. With 9 color options, you’re sure to find the perfect match. It has a decent heel of 1.5″ with a prominent spur rest. The high-tech comfort does take away from traditional boot features, such as the mesh lining (great in hot environments) and the flexible insole. This is a great choice for riders that tend to get foot cramps or lower leg aches in the saddle.
Pros:
- Rolled shank area
- Durable
- Breathable
- Great for riding or excessive walking
Cons:
- Rubber outsole
- Shorter shaft (12”)
5. Lucchese Classics Men’s Malcolm Giant Alligator Riding Boot
A taste of luxury without the custom price tag:
Lucchese is known to deliver high-end products, and offer unique leather selections. The Malcolm alligator boot is one of their most comfortable designs, featuring an all-leather sole. This boot has a 1.25″ heel, but only a 12″ shaft. The variation in alligator skin makes each pair unique. As far as durability, alligator skin can last several decades with proper care. However, alligator tends to have less stretch than other leathers, so break-in may feel like a different process.
Pros:
- Accommodates wide calves
- Luxury feel and look
- Durable
Cons:
- Expensive
- Shorter shaft
6. Ariat Men’s Turnback Western Cowboy Boot
Multi-purpose boot with a moderate price tag:
These can be dressed up or down, used in the saddle, or in any setting. This 100% leather boot boasts a 13.5″ shaft and a nice size heel at 1.75″. Premium full-grain leather is used on the upper and foot area, and the boot uses a hardy Goodyear leather welt. The stabilizing technology makes this a great pick for someone working on their feet that needs a little support, or long hours logged in the saddle.
Pros:
- Nice color selection
- 100% leather
- Ample sized shaft and heel
- Torque stability technology for riding use
Cons:
- Expensive
- Narrower square toe box than other Ariat boots
7. Dan Post Men’s Milwaukee 13″ Boot
Comfort and performance delivered at an economical price point:
Typically, most economical leather boots will have some comfort or fit complaints, but Dan Post delivered with the Milwaukee 100% leather boot! It features several color options and a 13″ shaft, leather sole, and nice heel length of 1.5″. Although the boot opening is wider than similar boots, this is not a great option for wider calves or wide feet given the narrow-rounded toe box. The removable orthotic soles give an extra layer of comfort when on your feet. This simple yet classic design is perfect for someone on a budget but unwilling to compromise quality and comfort.
Pros:
- Removeable SoftStrike cushioning
- All leather
Cons:
- Fewer fit options
- Narrower toe box
- Less detail
8. Justin Boots Men’s Bent Rail 13″ Boot
Justin adds modern comfort to a timeless classic:
Available in three color options, this is a home-run boot for someone that demands comfort both in and out of the saddle but doesn’t want to break the bank. A 100% leather boot with a plentiful 1.75″ heel, the Bent Rail boot also uses the J-Flex comfort system. It has a durable double-stitched welt and can accommodate larger calves with a 15″ opening. Justin is known for making quality boots backed by a manufacturer guarantee, in price ranges to fit all budgets. These boots cover all the bases at an affordable price, and you’re sure to get years’ worth of wear time!
Pros:
- Very comfortable and lightweight
- Classic look
- Made in the USA
- Adequate heel length
Cons:
- Decreased traction
9. Ariat Men’s Heritage Roughstock Western Boot
All-day comfort with a western edge:
It’s no surprise Ariat made the list more than once! A far from cry from “traditional”, we had to include the Roughstock boot on our list due to its unbeatable all-day comfort. Although a limited color selection, these boots have ATS technology for stability and wearability. It has a shorter shaft at 12″, but boasts a full-grain leather upper and foot. This model comes in a square toe pull-on design and is great for someone working on their feet for long hours. Despite the non-steel toe box, these have become a popular work boot for those on the job.
Pros:
- Extreme comfort
- Durable
Cons:
- Heavy for riding
- Rubber sole
- Lacks traditional appeal
Final Thoughts
Although comfort and technology have come a long way, there is still an appreciation for the art and durability of traditional cowboy boots. Even those opting for something less classic, such as the Twisted X Buckaroos, there is a great boot option to meet everyone’s needs. These are our top picks for the total comfort package- whether walking all day or riding fences from sun up to sundown. What’re the most comfortable non-custom boots you’ve ever owned?
Have friends with horses or someone in the market for western wear? Be sure to share this article before they buy their next boots.
What is the most comfortable material for cowboy boots?
Calfskin is one of the most comfortable materials used for making cowboy boots. Calfskin leather has a nice sheen to it which allows for a more polished look. This leather is also very soft and allows your feet to breath, which is very important in a boot. Also, calfskin leather is known for its durability. Calfskin is very hardy, which makes it able to withstand a lot of wear and tear.
Calfskin is not the only leather that is commonly used for making cowboy boots. Other leathers like suede, nubuck, and even ostrich skin are used as well. In fact, ostrich skin is very popular among cowboys and vaqueros because it is a very light weight leather that is much softer than other types of leather.
Why are cowboy boots pointed toes?
One of the most important functions of the pointed toe is that it makes it easier to put your feet into the stirrups, while riding a horse. Because the point of the toe is angled, and not perpendicular to the sole, the boot can be slipped easily into the stirrups and the rider’s heels locked in place. The angled shape also helps to prevent the boot from slipping out of the stirrup when you are moving. A pointed toe also creates more stability for the rider, as there is less area for the boot to slip on.
What is the oldest cowboy boot company?
The Olathe Boot Company was started in 1875 by a man named George Kopp, who created the first pair of cowboy boots in Kansas. They were called the Kopp-Bryant, which were made from leather with a thick sole and a high heel. The style was so popular that in 1878, Kopp opened his own shop on Main Street in Olathe, Kansas. Today, there are about 100 companies making boots for people all over the world.
How did the Olathe Boot Company become famous? In the late 19th century, cowboy boots became very popular in America. In fact, President Theodore Roosevelt wore boots at the White House, and they became very fashionable. Because of this, the Olathe Boot Company became known as one of the most famous boot companies in the country.
Which Ariat boots are most comfortable?
Ariat’s Vibe Boot offers everything you want in a comfortable and durable work boot. This boot has a low profile, slip-resistant outsole and a plush interior lining to keep your foot warm. With a steel shank, you can count on this boot for all-day comfort. If you’re looking for a durable boot that’s easy to break in, check out Ariat’s Bamboo Boot. It features a soft suede lining and a cushioned collar for all-day comfort. The full grain leather upper is easy to clean and a non-skid rubber sole gives traction where it counts.
What boots do rodeo cowboys wear?
The Roper boots. These boots are made to withstand the rigors of a rodeo or working on a ranch. The boots can be bought in various styles and sizes. The most popular boots for rodeo cowboys are those with a round toe and a short, square heel.
There are two types of Roper boots: the classic and the “shin guard” Roper boots. The Classic Roper is a simple, traditional boot that has been used for decades. It is made from leather or rubber and is usually available in brown, tan, or black. The classic Roper boot does not have any type of support for the foot or leg. The “shin guard” Roper is a more recent design that was introduced to help protect the foot from damage.
Equestrian, Marine Corps vet, and Morgan horse enthusiast.