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Cowboy Boot Fit Guide

 

Ride ‘Em Cowboy!

Cowboy boots are timeless, functional and highly reliable. Get yourself the perfect fit, and you have the ideal boot for walking on the farm, horse riding and dancing, too.

 

Cowboy Boots and Western Boots Fit Guide

 

Tips to Tricks to Finding the Right Cowboy Boots for Your Feet

Below you will find several tips and tricks to buying the perfect cowboy boots for your feet. Each tip will help you make sure the cowboy boots you’re trying on will be good to you and your feet for the long term. While each tip should be considered when trying on your new cowboy boots, in the end, what matters most is how they feel. There is no exact formula for trying on cowboy boots. Ultimately, your feet will let you know almost whether the cowboy boots you just slipped on are right for them.

When cowboy boots are fitted properly, your feet should feel good. All cowboy boots fit differently

Differences in brand, leather, and style, all can affect the way a boot fits. For example, a cowboy boot from Tony Lama in size 9 will fit differently than a Justin in the same size. This is also true when trying different styles, a Justin Roper will fit differently than a Justin “Pointy Toe” style cowboy boot.

 

Getting Started:

 

Socks Matter:

One of the most over looked aspects of trying on new cowboy boots is the socks that are worn when you try them on. When determining whether a cowboy boot fits, take an assessment as to the thickness of the socks you normally wear and if possible try on the boots with socks in the correct thickness. If this is not possible please allow for the socks’ thickness in the fitting process. Also if this will be your first pair of cowboy boots, you may want to buy boot socks or calf high athletic socks.

Trying On:

Normally it is easiest to sit down and try on a cowboy boot while seated. However sometimes certain brands are made to fit snuggly around the arch for better support and it may be necessary to stand while trying on. Note: when you pull on the cowboy boots you should hear a soft “pop” when your foot drops into the boot.

 

How to Fit Your Cowboy Boots

 

The fit of your cowboy boot is the most important piece of your boot selection process. There is nothing worse than riding all day in a pair of boots that are uncomfortable or hurt. Follow our helpful guidelines below to find the right fit:

  • If a specified sizing chart is provided by the manufacturer, measure the length of both feet from heel to toe and compare. Consider the socks you would be wearing with your boots.
  • Choose your typical size, unless otherwise suggested. Some manufacturers can size their boots small or large. Your boots should be snug but not so tight that they cause discomfort.
  • Move your toes to ensure they have room and are comfortable.
  • Pinch the leather directly above the instep—there should be some room to pinch if the boots fit. If there is no leather to pinch, the boot may be too small, and the next half or full size up might work better.
  • With each step, there should be a slight heel slip. A quarter to half an inch of heel space is normal.

Finding the Ball of the Foot:

After the instep, you should consider the ball of the cowboy boots. It is the widest part of the boots where the ball of your foot is. Hence, this area usually bends when you are taking a step.

If you want to ensure the boot fits, you can match the ball of your foot to the widest part of the boots. When it matches, it is most likely that the cowboy boots can fit you.

However, this is only one way to determine the proper fit. It is still important to try the boots on and see if it is comfortable to wear. You should also make sure that the shoes are flexible enough to allow your feet to bend.

Toe Room:

The last part of the cowboy boots you should look into is the toe box. It is the area of the shoes that cover the toes and the front part of your foot. The toe box is often hard and stiff due to the leather material. Hence, the toe-press method to determine the fit of the boots will not work effectively. It can actually damage the toe box if you use too much pressure.

Instead, try fitting cowboy boots on in-store. If your toe touches the boot or you feel uncomfortable, opt for a larger or wider pair. You might also want to consider the toe style of the boots because not all types are appropriate for the length of your toes.

For instance, square-toed leather boots can feel cramped and uncomfortable to those with long toes. Meanwhile, pointed-toe leather boots can cause friction on the edges. Hence, they might not be ideal for those with wide feet and toes that are spread out.

But when deciding, all you need to remember is that if you feel the slightest inconvenience on your toes, simply get a different pair.

Width:

To determine if the width you have is correct, you will need to look straight down at your foot while standing. The boot should be a little snug, but you should be able to see the stitching on the outsole of the cowboy boot on either side. If you do not, you may need a wider width. Selecting the width is very important in getting the right cowboy boots for your feet. If you do not select the correct width, the leather may become too loose and cause the boot to feel sloppy or if the boot is too snug it may cause discomfort and also weaken the leather causing it to come unstitched or become worn down by the outsole.

Arches:

Also, make sure that the boot shank and the arch of your foot have matching curves, this means that the arch is hitting your foot where it feels comfortable. Some people have higher or lower arches or no arches at all, so what might feel comfortable to one person may not be to another person. Keep in mind that if something is causing discomfort now, the chances are that it will not go away. So, if the boots do not feel right, they might not be the boots for you.

Instep:

The instep refers to the upper section of your foot that is located between your ankle and toes. It is a significant factor in determining if the cowboy boots have a comfortable fit or not. That is because these types of boots lack laces and side zippers. Hence, it is essential to get the right fit of the instep area.

When trying out cowboy boots for the first time, it is normal to feel some heel slippage. This heel slip will go away over time when the leather loosens and softens up. Just make sure that the slippage should not exceed half an inch. If it does, that simply means your cowboy boots are too big.

At the same time, the instep should not be too tight that it already cuts the circulation of air to your foot. You will know if is too tight if you feel pain and discomfort after wearing your chosen pair of cowboy boots for a few hours. In this case, it is best to invest in a pair of wider cowboy boots. Consider E, EE, or even an extra wide EEE if you have broader feet.

Heel Slippage:

While it may feel funny that your heel slips in the back of the boot, a little heel slippage is normal. Usually about a quarter to a half of an inch is fine. The reason for this slippage is, since the boots have not been worn, the outsole of the boot is still stiff and needs to be “broken in”. After the boots have been worn and the outsole of the boot has been flexed a few times, heel slippage should stop and give you a comfortable wearing boot.

  • Tony Lama boots fit true to size.
  • Frye boots tend to fit narrow, but will stretch with wear.
  • Durango boots fit true to size.
  • Lucchese boots tend to fit narrow around the in-step. Suggested size is true to size or ½ larger if concerned about width.
  • Old Gringo boots fit true to size and suggested size is the same size as your shoe size. If you are in between sizes, go with the smaller size. The leather will stretch with wear.
  • Dan Post boots fit true to size.
  • Dingo boots fit true to size.
  • Laredo boots fit true to size.
  • Roper boots fit true to size.

 

Lace Up Boots

 

Lace Up Boots: allow more self adjustment for height of instep and are helpful in adjusting for swelling of feet for those consumers whose feet swell during the day. Remember, the older we get, the more our feet tend to swell. Laces also allow for extra tightening during times of ankle stress or for the additional support needed in stressful situations. However, you should still fit your lacer as described

 

Measure Your Boot Size

 

How can you order boots online? Don't you have to try them on for fit?

With informative conversion charts listed below, you don't have to worry about shopping for boots online. To help you get an accurate fit, you can use an ordinary ruler to measure your foot in inches.  Make sure you are standing, wearing the socks or stockings you will wear with your new boots.

Then convert the measurement to your boot size using the following charts:

 

Men's Size Conversions
US
6
6.5
7
7.5
8
8.5
9
9.5
10
10.5
11
11.5
12
13
14
15
16 		Inches
9.25"
9.5"
9.625"
9.75"
9.9375"
10.125"
10.25"
10.4375"
10.5625"
10.75"
10.9375"
11.125"
11.25"
11.5625"
11/875"
12.1875"
12.5" 		Euro
39
39.5
40
40.5
41
42
42.5
43
44
44.5
45
45.5
46
47
48
49
50

 

Women's Size Conversions
US
4
4.5
5
5.5
6
6.5
7
7.5
8
8.5
9
9.5
10
10.5
11
11.5
12 		Inches
8.1875"
8.375"
8.5"
8.75"
8.875"
9.0625"
9.25"
9.375"
9.5"
9.6875"
9.875"
10"
10.1875"
10.3125"
10.5"
10.6875"
10.875" 		Euro
34.5
35
35.5
36
36
36.5
37
37.5
38
38.5
39
39.5
40
41
42
42.5
43

 

Children’s Size Conversions
US

0.5
1
1.5
2
2.5
3
3.5
4
4.5
5 		Euro

16
16
17
17
18
18
19
19
20
20 		UK

0
0.5
1
1
1.5
2
2.5
3
3.5
4 		Inches

3.25"
3.5"
3.625"
3.75"
4"
4.125"
4.25"
4.5"
4.625"
4.75" 		CM

8.3
8.9
9.2
9.5
10.2
10.5
10.8
11.4
11.7
12.1 		Approx. Age



Infant
(0 - 12 months)
5.5
6
6.5
7
7.5
8
8.5
9
9.5
10
10.5
11
11.5
12 		21
22
22
23
23
24
25
25
26
27
27
28
29
30 		4.5
5
5.5
6
6.5
7
7.5
8
8.5
9
9.5
10
10.5
11 		5"
5.125"
5.25"
5.5"
5.625"
5.75"
6"
6.125"
6.25"
6.5"
6.625"
6.75"
7"
7.125" 		12.7
13
13.3
14
14.3
14.6
15.2
15.6
15.9
16.5
16.8
17.1
17.8
18.1 		Children
(1 - 5 years)
18 months


24 months


3 years


4 years

5 years
12.5
13
13.5
1
1.5
2
2.5
3
3.5
4
4.5
5
5.5
6
6.5
7 		30
31
31
32
33
33
34
34
35
36
36
37
37
38
38
39 		11.5
12
12.5
13
14
1
1.5
2
2.5
3
3.5
4
4.5
5
5.5
6 		7.25"
7.5"
7.625"
7.75"
8"
8.125"
8.25"
8.5"
8.625"
8.75"
9"
9.125"
9.25"
9.5"
9.625"
9.75" 		18.4
19.1
19.4
19.7
20.3
20.6
21
21.6
21.9
22.2
22.9
23.2
23.5
24.1
24.4
24.8 		Youth
(6 - 10 years)

6 years



7 years


8 years


9 years

10 years

 

You can only approximate your true boot size using a ruler or Brannock Device ®.

Please keep in mind that manufacturers use different lasts to construct their boots and sizing may vary accordingly.

 

Boot General Widths

 

Over 90% of the population is a normal width. If you are not sure of your width, chances are you wear a normal width. If a size is listed with just a number, this means the size is only available in a normal width. Below are some common notations that indicate a width measurement. We get these notations directly from the manufacturer of the footwear.

 

Men Widths
D or M Men's Normal or Regular Width
EW, EE, W Men's Wide Width
EEE, EEEE Men's Extra Wide Width
B Men's Narrow Width

Women's Widths
B or M Women's Normal Width
C or W Women's Wide Width
A Women's Narrow Width

 

Pro Tips

 

  • When trying on new cowboy boots, know that your socks can add half an inch to your foot size. It’s important that you use your boot socks, as they’re custom-designed to reduce slipping and are more comfortable around the calf. They absorb moisture too.
  • If your foot size falls between two boot sizes, go for the larger size.
  • For those with narrow feet that can’t find narrow boots, go for a half size smaller than your normal size.
  • If you have wider feet but can’t find wider boots, pick half a size larger than your regular size.
  • Anybody with feet of different sizes should consider going for boots that fit the larger foot. Make sure you try on both boots.
  • Feet tend to swell during the day. Therefore, it’s best to try on boots in the afternoon.
  • The popping sound heard when you’re putting the boots on for the first time is a good indication they will fit.
  • If you use insoles or orthotics, be sure to bring them along when you’re trying on new boots.

 

Breaking in Your Boots

 

If you’ve consulted the Fit Guide and selected boots that are properly sized to your foot, they won’t require a great deal of effort to break-in. Be patient and allow the boot time to naturally form to the shape of your foot.

As for stretch, the amount will depend on the leather the boot is made of.

Soft leathers, such as goat or cowhide, will have more elasticity than an exotic such as alligator or lizard.

Exotic boots, like alligator or ostrich, should be fitted with little to no additional stretching needed.

 

Caring for Your Boots

 

Western cowboy boots come in a variety of materials, with the majority being leather. Always follow the manufacturer's care instructions, or at least research the proper care techniques for your boots before using any treatment products. As a general rule of thumb for leather cowboy boots, regular cleaning and conditioning should occur every three to six months of normal wear. Leather conditioners will not alter the color of your boots, even though they may appear darker when first applied. Leather oils, however, will darken your boot leather. A pair of boots can last years when properly taken care of!

exotic leather: caiman, elephant, hippo, lizard, ostrich, python

  • clean / Brush off dirt or dust with a damp cloth or soft brush.
  • condition / Apply an exotic leather conditioner to your boots in several thin layers.
  • polish / Apply a neutral or matching cream based polish, buff with a soft cloth.
  • protect / Apply a non-silicone water and stain protector.
  • notes on snakeskin
    • Do not use polish on rattlesnake.
    • On snakeskin boots, be sure to go with the grain of the scales when cleaning, conditioning and protecting.

smooth leather

  • clean / Brush off dirt or dust with a damp cloth or soft brush.
  • condition / Apply a leather conditioner.
  • polish / Apply a neutral or matching cream based polish, buff with a soft cloth.
  • do not protect

suede / stonewashed leather

  • before wearing / Treat new boots with a non-silicone water and stain protector.
  • clean / Brush dirt and dust off with a damp cloth or soft brush.
  • do not polish
  • protect / Apply a non-silicone water and stain protector.
  • notes on suede
    • Be sure to store suede boots in a way that they can breathe. Keep them away from light and damp environments.
    • If your suede boots get wet, soak up excess moisture with a clean towel, then allow the suede to dry naturally. While boot trees can expedite drying, never use a heat source to speed up the process.
    • Use a nail file or a wire bristle brush to remove dry mud and scuff marks. Be gentle, using delicate strokes

Regarding cedar boot trees

  • Daily use of a cedar boot tree will help maintain the boots’ original shape and prevent them from curling. Additionally, feet typically perspire an eighth of a cup of moisture every day. Left unchecked, the moisture is permanently absorbed into the boot lining, decreasing the life of the boots. By placing your boots on a tree every night, moisture is absorbed into the tree and the cedar aroma naturally deodorizes any odors.

Material Specific Product Care

  • Cordura Boots: Use a soft brush to remove dirt and cleaned with mild soap and warm water. When dry, apply a coat of water repellent. This will help to maintain the color and camo pattern.
  • Leather Boots: Use a soft brush to remove dirt; polish may be applied to cover scuffs. Use a good leather conditioner or a very light coat of oil to keep your leather from drying and cracking.
  • Duty Shoes and Boots: Use black paste polish and a good leather conditioner about 3 times a year.
  • Suede Shoes and Boots: First remove the dirt with the help of small suede brush. Apply some suede protector and clean it with a specialized cleaner.
  • Patent Leather Shoes and Boots: Clean it with a soft, damp cloth using diluted detergent. Add petroleum jelly to give it a shine. In the end buff it properly to remove the excess petroleum jelly.
  • Hand Sewn Shoes and Boots: Remove loose dirt with a soft brush. Use a paste polish to cover scuffs. Apply a water repellent spray and a good leather conditioner about two times a year.
  • Insoles and Foot beds: Remove foot beds from footwear after use. This allows perspiration to evaporate.

Other Tips

  • Footwear should be allowed to dry naturally before they are stored and should not be stored near any heat source.
  • Footwear should be stored at temperatures not exceeding 86 degrees F. and in normal humidity (below 70%)
  • Use edge dressing to make outsoles and heels look like new.
  • Let boots dry at room temperature after you clean them.
  • Do not store boots in cold or damp places as boots can mildew.
  • USE BOOT TREES to maintain boots’ shape

 

FAQ's

 

Here are answers to some common questions about cowboy boots. 

How To Tell If Cowboy Boots Fit Right?

If the heel doesn’t sleep more than half an inch, it feels comfortable around the ankles, your toes have sufficient room to wiggle, and the instep just fits perfectly, then you’ve found the right boots for your feet.

Should You Buy Cowboy Boots a Size Bigger?

The best size cowboy boots to buy are the ones that fit your feet perfectly. Whether you size up or not depends on the width of your feet and the brand of boots.

Cowboy boots that are too big will be too uncomfortable to walk around in because they won’t be able to contain your feet. Plus, considering the boots loosen up after wearing them for a while, they are likely to get even bigger.

How Long Does It Take for Cowboy Boots to Break-In?

Depending on the stiffness of the leather and how often you wear the boot, it could take between one week to a month for the cowboy boots to break in. Use bandaids and blister pads to protect your heels during this period.

Is Water Bad for Cowboy Boots?

Cowboy boots are made from quality leather, so they are waterproof to an extent as long as they’re treated. However, don’t take this to mean that you shouldn’t care for your boots, especially in rainy weather. Keep your boots clean, well ventilated and dry if you want them to last.

Can Anyone Wear Cowboy Boots?

YES! Anyone can wear cowboy boots! You don’t have to know how to ride horses and you certainly don’t have to work on a ranch.

They are simply another type of footwear that brings your style to the next level.

Do I tuck my jeans into my boots?

No, don’t tuck-in your pants into your boots! Unless there is a need to keep the bottom of your jeans clean during work, then there is no reason to tuck them in.  

What pants do I wear with my boots?

Bootcut jeans or cowboy-cut jeans are most commonly worn with cowboy boots. You can also wear work pants, like Dickies, chinos, and even in some cases more formal trousers. 

For jeans, you ideally want to buy them longer than other jeans because they will cover the shaft of your boot and rest and the top of your foot. For example, if you typically wear 32L jeans, you might want to try on pairs that are 34L to 36L. 

How much should I spend on my first pair of boots?

A good price point for your first pair of boots is $100-$300. I would be very wary about buying any cowboy boots under $100 dollars. It’s worth paying a bit more for higher-quality leather and craftsmanship that will last longer. 

 

They’re Not Just for Rodeos

 

Everyone can wear cowboy boots, they can work with so many outfits and are surging in popularity.

If you are still wary about buying your first pair of boots, then take this advice from the most famous cowboy of all, John Wayne:

“Courage is being scared to death, but saddling up anyway.”

Take some courage and go for those new shiny boots.

 

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Most recent revision June 30, 2025 08:08:33 PM

 

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