With Mark Recchi, 40+ Year Footwear Developer and Vice President of Product and Development at Durango®
When it comes to cowboy boots, finding the perfect fit is crucial for your all-day comfort. With over 40 years experience in the footwear industry, I've witnesses the necessity of a well-fitted pair of boots as well as the potential for variation in fits. In this guide, I listed how cowboy boots should fit, sharing insights that have been tested by thousands of wear tests.
YOU SHOULD FEEL A SLIGHT POP AS YOUR HEEL PUSHES DOWNINITIAL FEEL
When pulling on a western boot, as your foot makes the turn into the foot portion of the boot, you should have a little resistance and need to pull slightly. You should then feel a slight pop as your heel pushes down past the heel counter into place.
When trying on a pair, make sure you are wearing socks that you would normally wear to account for fit. Keep in mind that feet tend to swell during the day, so it's advisable to try on boots later in the day to find the most comfortabe fit.
THE BALL OF YOUR FOOT SHOULD REST AT THE WIDEST PART OF THE BOOT'S FOREPARTFOOT PLACEMENT
If the boot fits well, your heel should be held to the back of the boot and the ball of your foot should rest at the widest part of the boot's forepart. Some degree of heel slippage is normal in cowboy boots, but it shouldn't be excessive. A slight amount ensures a comfortable fit without compromising stability. If the slippage is bothersome, consider trying a different size or, if applicable, adjusting the boot's laces.
The width of the boot should feel snug around your instep and ball of foot. However, it should not be uncomfortably tight. Achieving the right balance ensures a secure fit without sacrificing comfort during long hours of wear.
AIM FOR 1/2" - 1" OF SPACE BETWENN YOUR LONGEST TOE AND THE BOOT'S TIPTOE TYPE CONSIDERATIONS
Cowboy boots come in various toe shapes, from narrower R-toes to wider Square Toes. Regardless of the shape, your toes should not extend all the way to the tip of the boot. Aim for about 1/2" - 1" of space between your longest toe and the boot's tip. This space is crucial for preventing discomfort and allows natural movement. Generally, R-toes or Snip Toes may feel slightly more snugg than wider Square or Round Toes. It's essential to strike a balance - not too tight, but with enough support to avoid excessive movement.
THE DURANGO® DIFFERENCE
We've innovated boot fitting essentials in our product to help everyone find their perfect fit.
WIDE CALF BOOTS
EASY ON AND OFF
EXTENDED SIZES
For those who require more wiggle room, we offer extended sizes in our top selling boots. Find smaller size 6 - 7 sizes to bigger 12 - 15 sizes.
DURANGO® SIZE GUIDE
Remember, a well-fitted pair of cowboy boots is crucial to your day-to-day comfort. Need a place to start? Use is our sizing guide. Durango® boots fit true to size.