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Chisos No. 2 Cowboy Boots Review: Comfort, Durability & Fit

Last updated: March 7, 2025

By: Miles HenryFact Checked

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Have you ever slipped on a pair of cowboy boots that felt like they were made just for you? I recently had that experience with the Chisos No. 2 cowboy boots, I’m eager to share my experience. These aren’t just any boots; they represent a blend of traditional craftsmanship and modern comfort. Launched in November of 2019, Chisos set out to create a cowboy boot that honors the past while embracing the needs of today.

My goal is to give you an in-depth, personal look at the Chisos No. 2, covering everything from their unique design to how they perform in the real world. You’ll discover what sets these boots apart in comfort, durability, and style, and why they might be a must-have. Plus, you’ll see why buying a pair of Chisos boots does some good for Texas as a portion of the proceeds goes toward preserving the state’s natural spaces.

Picture of my Chisos cowboy boots.
My new Chisos No. 2 boots in brushed brown, a perfect blend of style and Texas heritage.

Chisos Cowboy Boots: A Commitment to Quality and Comfort.

Chisos is a company that embodies a deep love for Texas and a commitment to doing things right. The company’s motto is “Do Right, Love Texas.” Founder Will Roman, a lifelong cowboy boot enthusiast, sought to create boots that prioritized both comfort and quality.

After experiencing back pain from traditional boots, he began deconstructing them to understand their construction. He discovered that many had minimal material between the foot and the ground, leading to discomfort. This insight inspired him to design boots from the inside out, emphasizing comfort and support.

Roman’s dedication to quality led him to spend months in León, Mexico, learning the bootmaking process and collaborating with a small, family-run workshop. This hands-on approach ensures that Chisos boots are not only comfortable but also crafted with exceptional attention to detail.

Close-up of Chisos No. 2 boot shaft stitching, inspired by petroglyphs from Big Bend National Park
Intricate stitching on the shaft of the Chisos No. 2, inspired by petroglyphs from Big Bend National Park, a nod to Texas history.

Design and Aesthetics of Chisos No. 2 Cowboy Boots

The Chisos No. 2 has a distinctive look that sets it apart from other cowboy boots. The most notable feature is its refined square toe, which offers a modern twist on a classic design…. The shaft is made from high-quality leather and features unique stitching inspired by images carved into rocks found in Big Bend National Park.

This stitching is done by embroidery machines from the 1940s, giving it a vintage feel. The boots I own come in a brushed brown color, but they are also available in a roughout finish…. The stacked leather heel features a distinctive red stripe, a signature detail of Chisos boots. The pull tabs also have a unique look. These elements combine to create a boot that is both rugged and refined.

Close-up of the Chisos No. 2 stacked leather heel, showing the signature red stripe
The stacked leather heel of the Chisos No. 2, featuring a signature red stripe, a detail that sets it apart.

Comfort and Fit of Chisos No. 2 Cowboy Boots

The founder of Chisos deconstructed competitor’s boots and discovered that they often had very little material between the foot and the ground, leading to discomfort. He designed Chisos boots from the inside out, emphasizing comfort and support

Comfort

When it comes to comfort, the Chisos No. 2 boots are in a league of their own. The key to their comfort is the unique insole, which features an 11mm gel insert covered with premium leather. This insole provides exceptional cushioning and arch support, making these boots feel more like sneakers than traditional cowboy boots.

The interior lining is made from premium red leather, which is soft and comfortable against the skin…. The interior seams are similar to those found in a Tacovas. I was surprised at how quickly these boots felt broken in; they were comfortable from the moment I put them on. The toe box is also roomy, which prevents your toes from feeling cramped.

Fit

Chisos cowboy boots are designed to fit true to size according to U.S. shoe standards. So it’s best to order the size you wear most often, boots generally match the same size as other leather footwear or are a half size smaller than athletic shoes. If you normally waver between two sizes, I suggest you order the smaller size.

I found that because of the way Chisos designs their boots, their D width provides a more generous fit than a standard D width from other brands. If you who typically wear a “B” width, you might find that the generous “D” width of Chisos boots fits well, as the extra room doesn’t make the boot too loose but rather provides a comfortable fit. Some users with wider feet might consider sizing up or opting for the EE width.

I recommend that you order your true size measured on a Brannock device the standard tool for foot measurement; which is likely a half size smaller than your sneaker size. To learn more about comfortabel cowboy boots check out my article, Guide of the Most Comfortable Cowboy Boots.

Pro Tip: Chisos, like many high-quality leather boots, require a break-in period. During this time, the leather will conform to the your foot shape, enhancing comfort. Be patient during this time and your cowboy boots will fit as comfortable as a glove. Learn more about how cowboy boots should fit.

Chisos No. 2 sole showing Goodyear welt construction and lemonwood pegs
The Goodyear welt construction and lemonwood pegs of the Chisos No. 2 provide a durable, long-lasting construction.

Durability and Construction of Chisos No. 2 Cowboy Boots

The durability of the Chisos No. 2 is just as impressive as their comfort. The leather is sourced from retired dairy cows, making it thick, soft, and incredibly durable…. The boots are made with a three-quarter single stitch Goodyear welt construction, which means that the soles can be replaced, extending the life of the boots….

The soles are secured with a generous number of lemonwood pegs, adding another layer of robustness…. The stitching is expertly done with no mistitches or loose threads. Chisos uses a hand-channel-welt where the thick leather is peeled back and the welt is sewn to it, creating a solid, integrated construction that won’t fail.

This also allows for the boots to be resoled multiple times. All of these factors contribute to the overall durability and longevity of these boots. Between the insole and outsole is an 18-gauge steel shank providing excellent rigidity and support. The shank is now formed to the last itself to prevent squeaking.

Performance and Practical Use of Chisos No. 2 Cowboy Boots

I’ve worn my Chisos No. 2 boots in a variety of settings, from running errands to doing some light work around the yard. They are incredibly comfortable for walking, thanks to the supportive insole. The ankle support is also incredible, which can help you recover quickly if you step on an uneven surface.

These boots are versatile enough for both casual and more rugged activities…. I’ve also found that the boots felt great when sorting items on a hard floor at a thrift store, where I did not experience any foot pain.

Close-up of the Chisos No. 2 removable gel insole and the red leather lining
The interior of the Chisos No. 2 boot showcases the red leather lining and the removable gel insole.

Pros and Cons of Chisos No. 2 Cowboy Boots

Here’s a quick rundown of the pros and cons:

Pros:

  • Extreme comfort due to the gel insole and leather lining.
  • High-quality craftsmanship with attention to detail.
  • Excellent arch support, making them comfortable for all-day wear.
  • Resoleable construction thanks to the Goodyear welt.
  • Quick break-in period, feeling comfortable right out of the box.
  • A portion of sales goes toward preserving Texas natural spaces.
  • Ethical leather sourcing from retired dairy cows.

Cons:

  • The boots are on the more expensive side for cowhide boots.
  • There is a limited number of color and toe options.
  • Leather soles can be slippery initially, though the grip improves with wear.
    • Solution: Scuff the soles on rough surfaces or apply rubber sole protectors to increase traction during the break-in period.
  • The red dye in the interior can stain socks, especially during initial wears.
    • Solution: I found that wearing dark-colored socks initially prevented noticeable staining.

Customer Reviews and Feedback on Chisos No. 2 Cowboy Boots

Other Chisos owners seem to agree with my assessment. Here are a few reviews and insights that I found:

  • One customer said they preferred these boots over Dan Post Caimans.
  • Another customer noted the “simple and nice” look of the boots.
  • One reviewer stated that the gel insole is amazing.
  • A customer noted that the customer service is second to none and that they received a handwritten note thanking them for their military service….
  • A Reddit user shared, “These Chisos boots are superb cowboy boots. Just wore my #1s in magic black today. Best boots for the money”.
  • Jeremiah Craig, a YouTuber who has reviewed Chisos boots, noted that “These boots felt supple right out of the box and only got softer with time” after wearing the boots for three years….
  • One reviewer pointed out that the claim of them being the most comfortable boots is subjective; he also noted that they don’t provide much in the way of arch support and that he is waiting to swap out the insoles.
  • These reviews echo my own experiences, I actually had a call from the company asking me if I liked my new boots.

In this video a Chisos boot is cut open and examined.

YouTube video
In this video, a Chisos boot is cut open and examined, revealing its construction and quality.

Value and Pricing of Chisos No. 2 Cowboy Boots

The Chisos No. 2 boots are priced at $595, positioning them in the higher range for cowhide boots. However, considering their exceptional comfort, durability, unique design, and ethical commitments, they represent a worthwhile long-term investment. The company offers financing options, making them more accessible to a broader range of buyers.

In comparison, I also own a pair of Lucchese cowboy boots, which I paid a bit more for. While both are comfortable, I find myself wearing my Chisos more often, because I like the style better. It’s worth noting that Lucchese boots can vary significantly in price, with some models reaching over $1,000.

In summary, while the Chisos No. 2 boots come at a premium price, their quality and design make them a valuable addition to any boot enthusiast’s collection. Find the best places to buy cowboy boots online.

FAQs about Chisos No. 2 Cowboy Boots

Here are some common questions and answers about the Chisos No. 2 boots:

What makes the Chisos No. 2 cowboy boots unique?

The Chisos No. 2 boots stand out due to their distinctive design elements, including unique stitching inspired by petroglyphs found in Big Bend National Park. Additionally, Chisos is committed to ethical leather sourcing, utilizing hides from retired dairy cows, and a portion of sales supports the preservation of Texas natural spaces.

How do the Chisos No. 2 boots fit?

Chisos boots fit true to size according to U.S. shoe standards. It’s recommended to order the size you wear most often. The D width offers a generous fit, which may be suitable for those who typically wear a B width. For individuals with wider feet, considering the EE width or sizing up might be advisable.

Are the boots comfortable for extended wear?

Yes, the Chisos No. 2 boots are designed for all-day comfort. They feature a removable gel insole covered with premium leather, providing excellent cushioning and arch support. The interior is lined with soft leather, and the roomy toe box ensures toes aren’t cramped, contributing to overall comfort during prolonged use.

Can Chisos boots be resoled?

Absolutely. The Chisos No. 2 cowboy boots are constructed using Goodyear welt construction, which allows for the soles to be replaced when worn out. This design not only enhances the boots’ durability but also extends their lifespan, making them a long-term investment.

How should I care for my Chisos No. 2 boots?

To maintain the quality and appearance of your boots, it’s recommended to condition the leather about once every three months. Store them in a cool, dry place and allow them to rest between heavy uses to let the interior dry properly. For the leather soles, consider having a cobbler apply a rubber sole saver upon receipt to extend their life. Learn more in my article, Cowboy Boot Care: Tips to Keep Your Boots Lasting Longer

Me wearing my Chisos No. 2 cowboy boots with wrangler jeans.
The Chisos No. 2 boots are versatile enough for a variety of settings.

Final Thoughts on My Chisos No. 2 Cowboy Boots Review and Recommendations

The Chisos No. 2 boots are more than just a pair of cowboy boots; they are a carefully crafted, comfortable, and durable piece of footwear that you will be able to wear for years. If you’re looking for a pair of boots that combine style, comfort, quality, and ethical production, the Chisos No. 2 is an excellent choice.

I highly recommend them to anyone who appreciates fine craftsmanship and values comfort. If you have any thoughts or experiences with these boots, please share them in the comments. You can also learn more about Chisos boots at their website.

If you’re interested in experiencing the blend of tradition and comfort that Chisos No. 2 cowboy boots offer, visit their official website to explore more.

Miles Henry

About the Author: Miles Henry

Miles Henry is a lifelong horseman with over 25 years of experience owning and training Thoroughbred racehorses. He shares expert insights from his personal experiences growing up with horses, including Quarter Horses and Appaloosas, and currently owns seven Thoroughbreds in training.

Learn more about Miles Henry