When it comes to fitting cowboy boots it's important to keep in mind a few things to ensure you have the proper fit. Not all boots may fit the same. We've compiled this boot fitting guide with key information to keep in mind when trying on your next pair of cowboy boots.
Cowboy Boot Fitting Tips
You may need to size down. Cowboy boots tend to fit larger than regular shoes and sandals, so you may need to go down a half size and in some cases one full size. A lot will depend on how you use the boot and how tight you require them to be for the sake of both utility and comfort.
Socks are important. Make sure you are wearing boot socks, or the same socks you plan to wear regularly. Socks, even thin ones, can add up to half a size to your feet.
Your feet are (probably) different sizes. Make sure you always try on both boots, and fit to the larger foot, even if it means going up in size. You can always add an insole or thicker socks to the smaller foot.
Consider your jeans. Not everyone considers how the boot will look under your jeans. We generally recommend boot cut jeans (it's called that for a reason!) which will fit looser, and help ensure you don't see the outline of the boot cuff from under the fabric.
These are just guidelines. Everyone’s feet and needs are different. Always choose what feels most comfortable to you.
Trying On Cowboy Boots
Start by sitting down — new boots should be quite snug and will be easier to pull on if you’re sitting
Put the boot in front of you — keeping your heel on the ground, put your foot in the shaft and using your body weight, push your foot down and into the foot of the boot, while pulling up on the boot with the pull tabs/holes. You should hear a ‘thump’ as your foot slides in.
Take a walk around — once both boots are fully on, take a short walk on a smooth surface and evaluate the fit. Look to see if it's a perfect fit.
Perfect Cowboy Boot Fit
When looking to see if your cowboy boot is a good fit, there are three key areas to look for: Comfort, Fit and Heel Lift.
The Instep/Vamp: should be snug, but not uncomfortably tight. Adjust to a wider or narrower fit if the instep feels too tight or too loose, respectively. Ideally, the boot will fit snugger over the top of your foot than a regular pair of shoes will. As you wear the boots, the leather will soften and form to your foot.
The Ball: This is where your foot (and the boot), will bend, and it should be at the widest point of the boot. If the ball of your foot is too far forward, your toes will be uncomfortably pushed into the toe box. Your foot should comfortably follow the arch of the boot.
The Heel: This is the only part of the boot that should not feel snug. Your heel should slip roughly ¼”- ½”. If your heel doesn’t move at all, the boots may be too snug and will not be comfortable in the long run. As you wear your boots, the leather will soften and heel slippage will decrease. The more you wear your boots, the more comfortable they will be!
The Toe Box: Your toes should be able to move reasonably freely within the boot. This area of the boot will not stretch, so it’s important your toes are comfortable immediately. If your toes feel crowded, try sizing up.
The Width: Cowboy boots use a lettering system to denote various widths. Not all boots will be available in every width. If a boot isn’t available in your regular width, you may need to size up or down a half size to accommodate for this.
Women's: "B" is average, while "C" is wide, and "A" is narrow. Ladies boots are most commonly available in "B" width.
Men’s: "D" or "M" is average, while "EE" is wide, and "B" is narrow. Men's boots are most commonly available in "EE" width.
Please note that these are standard recommendations and ideal fits for advisory purposes only. If possible, we recommend a personalized boot fitting session. Please visit one of our locations for more information about this service.
Now that you are all set, browse online for the perfect pair of boots and visit your local Lammle's Western Wear store to help you today.
