There was a day when you would go into a boot shop and could only find a few different kinds of boots. Now that is no longer the case. Now a days there are wide variety of boots to chose from, each with a specific purpose and look.

When most of us think of a cowboy boots we think of the boots that have a 1.5 inch heel and a 13 inch shaft. They also have stitching on the toe that is referred to as the toe bug. These boots are basic and simple and that is why they have been worn for decades.

A cousin of these boots is the dress boot, usually made with an exotic leather such as alligator, ostrich, lizard, or many others. They look just like the good old cowboy boot mentioned above, only with that expensive, exotic hide on it.

Another boot is the Roper Boot. This boot has a rounded toe, and a 1 inch heel. They also have a 11 inch shaft and are used most frequently by ropers, which is where they get their name.

The Stockman takes features from both the Basic Cowboy Boot and the Roper Boot. The heel is 1 inch to 11/8 inch tall, and it has a rounded toe. Also the shaft is about 11-12 inches tall. However, the Stockman has a welt on the sole that gives a different feel.

The Buckaroo has heels up to 3 inches, round toes, with pull holes, mule ears, or pull straps at the top of the shaft. These boots are usually taller, starting at 13 and going up to 18 inches tall. These are usually worn by those who need good leg protection and a good heel to ride in.

Roughstock boots are ade for riding bulls, broncs, and anything else that requires a tough boot. They can have round or squared toes and usually have a leather sole. The shaft is about 12 inches tall and they have a touch heel counter in order

Fashion boots ave their own rules. These boots have a many different features including as much bling as possible. In the western world bling is new and have be included on everything and cowboy boots are no exception. Bling, hair on the hides, camo, brass and silver dots are a few accessories that can be found on a pair of dress boots. They usually have a high and narrow heel from 3 to 4 inches tall and can come in any color or design imaginable.

Mules are a cousin to fashion boots with their colors and styles, only they have no shaft or heel. With jeans on, they like boots, so many women like to wear these for their comfort and looks. In general, a boot is a boot. With a closer look, however, boots can give you a closer look at how someone sees the world, and how they perceive the world sees them. Boots are a standard, especially cowboy boots.

Ride on, for a West is still out there to be won.

Tags: Horses