Even though cowboy boots can get wet, it is still vital to take care of them so they don’t wear out too quickly or get damaged. Depending on the material, here are several different ways to care for your cowboy boots:
Waterproofing sprays or waxes can be applied to leather cowboy boots to protect them from becoming ruined in the rain. If your boots get wet, simply wipe them down with a dry cloth and let them dry naturally, out of the heat and sunlight. Leather conditioners can be used regularly to keep the material supple.
Suede cowboy boots require more tender loving care than their leather counterparts. You should treat them with a suede protection spray to make them water-resistant before you wear them in the rain. Suede boots should be blotted with a dry cloth and then air dried in a cool, dry place out of direct heat and sunshine if they get wet. When the suede is dry, a suede brush can be used to bring back the nap.
Snakeskin, ostrich, and alligator cowboy boots are just a few examples of exotic skins that need special attention. Before wearing them in rainy situations, add a reptile skin conditioner or wax to protect them from water damage. If they become wet, just dry them off by placing them in a cool, dry place out of the sun. Reptiles can benefit from frequent applications of a skin conditioner to keep their sheen intact.
Beginning in the mid-1800s, when cowboys needed durable footwear for protection while riding horses and working on ranches, the cowboy boot has a long and storied history in the United States. Over time, cowboy boots came to include pointy toes and high heels that aided riders’ stability in the stirrups. Cowboy boots are still widely worn today, both for work and for play.
The history of cowboy boot manufacturers is interesting because it typically mirrors the history and customs of the American West. Some of the most recognizable names in cowboy boots have been around for decades, earning a reputation for making durable, fashionable footwear.
Some iconic cowboy boot manufacturers and their stories are detailed here:
Established in Texas in 1879 by H.J. “Big Daddy” Justin, Justin Boots have grown to become a household name in the world of cowboy boots. Using only high-grade materials and employing skilled workers, Justin has managed to stay in business for almost 140 years.
Boots by Tony Lama, a third-generation bootmaker who started the company in 1911, are renowned for their cutting-edge styles and exotic materials. Currently, Justin Brands owns Tony Lama Boots and keeps on the tradition of making fine cowboy footwear.
Lucchese Boots, founded in 1883 by Italian immigrant Salvatore Lucchese in San Antonio, Texas, are known for their high quality, durable construction, and fashionable designs. Traditional methods of making Lucchese Boots are still in use today.
Dan Post Boots, established in the 1960s, is a leader in the industry thanks to its commitment to premium materials and cutting-edge styles. Rodeo cowboys and other fans of the western lifestyle are the brand’s primary consumers.
When compared to the other cowboy boot manufacturers on this list, Ariat Boots is a relative newcomer, having been established in 1993. Yet, it has gained a devoted following among motorcyclists and outdoor enthusiasts by updating the classic cowboy boot design with cutting-edge technology and materials.
There are situations in which cowboy boots, especially old or uncommon models from well-known makers, can be deemed collectible. While some boot collectors specialize in a particular brand or design, others seek out items with significant cultural or historical importance.