How Should Cowboy Boots Fit
Practical and stylish — these two words best describe cowboy and cowgirl boots. Whether you’re working on a farm, riding horses, or driving tractors, attending a music festival, this type of footwear guarantees protection and support.
However, no matter how sturdy the soles and heels, how pointed the toes are, or how tall the shaft is, you won’t be able to embody tradition, comfort, and craftsmanship if you don’t get the right fit. If you’ve never worn cowboy boots before or are going for a new pair, this easy-to-follow guide will tell you how they should feel when worn.
Fitting Cowboy and Cowgirl Boots
These boots are meant for long hours of work and play. As such, if you buy the wrong fit, making the most of them will be impossible. Fortunately, it takes just five simple steps to determine if you should get that pair you’re eyeing.
Step 1: Put the Pair On
It’s never enough to just look at and touch cowboy boots. Since it will be your feet that will need their support, you must wear them.
Take a seat before slipping your foot into the tall upper portion called the shaft. Next, pull the boot up using the tabs or holes on both sides.
Usually, there will be resistance around your foot’s arch and heel against the shaft. If you have larger calves, you will feel extra resistance.
The goal is to pull the boost past this point until you hear a faint pop and your foot slides in place if you cannot, try another size.
Step 2: Feel the Heel Lift
When your foot settles on the insole or footbed, focus on the heel lift next. The gap between your heel and the boot’s insole should be at most 1/8th of an inch.
Keep in mind that your heel may lift slightly when walking, but it should not move too much. If the space is too big or too small, you will not have a secure foothold and might end up with blisters or pain.
Step 3: Assess the Fit
Should the heel lift feel right, move on to the widest parts of your foot and the boot. The ball of your foot should rest on the outsole’s widest part, not far back or beyond. You can move your foot slightly forward or backward to ensure it aligns with the right spot.
If there is too much space between your foot and the outsole, you will experience slippage and lack of control while walking. In contrast, you will feel cramped if there is not enough space. Keep trying other sizes until your foot is snug.
Step 4: Stand Up and Measure the Toe Box
Feet are slightly longer and wider when standing, so stand up for an accurate measurement. Then, place your thumb sideways across the top of the boot and gently press down.
The distance between the tip of your big toe and the end of the boot, which we call the toe box, should be one thumb width. If not, the boot is either too small or too large. Depending on your toes, you may need a pair with a wider or narrower toe box.
Step 5: Walk With the Pair On
Repeat the above steps with the other foot and walk around. Steps one to four may go smoothly, but the true test is how your feet feel when you walk or move while wearing the boots.
Take a few laps around the store or wherever you are trying on the pair, and pay attention to areas that might feel tight or loose. Is there enough stability without friction?
Remember, however, that the material, especially leather, will mold to your feet with time. If there is some tightness in the beginning, it is normal and will eventually stretch out after breaking in.
Before you finally decide to purchase the pair, consider the socks you wear while fitting, if any. Socks will add bulk and change the fit of the boots; stick with the type you usually use for your activities.
Cowgirl and Cowboy Boots Fit Checklists
How are cowboy boots supposed to fit? Let us simplify the fitting process.
- Put the boot on and pull until your foot reaches the footbed.
- Feel if your foot’s widest part rests on the boot’s widest part.
- Check the gap between your heel and the boot’s insole.
- Stand up and measure the distance between your big toe and the tip of the boot.
- Walk to feel if the boot fits comfortably.
What are the key measurements to tick off?
- 1/8th inch heel lift
- Snug fit around the ball of your foot
- A thumb’s width of space for toes
Shop Cowboy and Work Boots at Shoppers Supply
Are you ready to find the wide calf cowgirl boots for you? Shoppers Supply carries brands like Ariat, Justin Boots, Noble Outfitters, and more, bringing high-quality pairs in different styles and sizes for men and women.
Boots for wider valces? We have them. Waterproof cowboy boots store near me? We have these, too. Shop in our stores across Arizona today and strut your new boots that look great and fit just right!
FAQs
Should My Cowboy Boots Be Loose?
No, your boots should be secure, especially around the instep and arch, with just enough wiggle room for your toes.
Should My Cowgirl Boots Be a Bit Tight?
Your boots should feel snug in the right places, such as the arch and instep. The tightness when fitting will give a little as the material conforms to your foot over time.
Are Ariat Boots Small or Big?
Generally, Ariat boots are true to size. We recommend sizing down if you are in between sizes. At Shoppers Supply, you can check out the brand’s size chart to get a better idea of the right fit for you and ask an expert on how should cowboy boots fit you.
How Spacious Should the Tip of My Boots Be?
The tip of your boots should be a sideways thumb’s width away from your big toes.
Do Cowboy Boots Slip in the Heel?
A slight heel slip of about 1/8th an inch is normal with a new pair. As the material softens, especially leather, this slip should decrease.
