Cowboy Boots: Do they Fit True to Size?

Last updated: November 15, 2023

By: Miles HenryFact Checked

Last week, I managed to order the perfect pair of cowboy boots online. UPS delivered them while my friend was visiting, and he couldn’t believe how well they fit. He said I got lucky because cowboy boots typically don’t run true to size. I wasn’t lucky; I checked with the bootmaker before I ordered.

In general, cowboy boots fit true to size. But, it is vital to be aware that there is no standard sizing for cowboy boots. This means that different brands and manufacturers may have slightly different sizing. Additionally, the style of cowboy boots can also affect the fit.

If you’re in the market for a new pair of cowboy boots, you may be wondering if they run true to size. In this blog post, we’ll discuss how cowboy boot fit varies from brand to brand and what you can do to make sure you get a perfect fit!

How your cowboy boots should fit

If you’re into western wear, you know that cowboy boots are a must-have. And if you invest in a good pair of cowboy boots, it’s essential to ensure they fit correctly. A boot that’s too tight can be uncomfortable and cause blisters, while a boot that’s too loose can make walking challenging.

So, how do you make sure your boots fit just right? Cowboy boots should fit snugly around your foot without being too tight. You should be able to wiggle your toes inside the boot, but the boot should not slip off easily.

If you are unsure about what size to purchase, it is always best to err on the side of buying a slightly larger size. This way, you can add an insole or a thick sock to make the boot fit more snugly.

When it comes to actually trying on cowboy boots, you should keep a few things in mind. First, you should always try on both boots. It is essential to make sure that they both fit comfortably and snugly. Once you have the boots on, walk around for a few minutes to ensure they are comfortable.

Your heel should slip slightly when you walk, and your toes should not feel cramped. If you are unsure about the fit of a particular boot, ask a sales associate for help. They will be able to provide guidance and ensure that you find the perfect pair of cowboy boots!

Now that you know a little bit more about how cowboy boots should fit, go out and start shopping for your perfect pair. You’ll surely find the perfect style, size, and fit. Remember to take your time, research, and, most importantly, have fun.

Do Cowboy Boots Run True to Size

If you’re in the market for a new pair of cowboy boots, you must know what size to order. However, many of the best cowboy boot brands run true-to-size. For example, I wear men’s 9 1/2 in tennis and dress shoes, corresponding to my boot size in Ariat and Tecovas.

But some cowboy boot brands tend to run a little bit small, so it’s best to order a size larger than you would typically wear, which is valid for Justin’s. There are many cowboy shoes on the market. There are several variations between brands and styles. It is always important to know which size fits your feet perfectly.

Boot manufacturers may have slight variations in their sizes, but you can usually order the exact size you wear in standard shoes. If you’re unsure which size to get, it’s best to consult a professional at a Western wear store. They can help you find the perfect fit and ensure you get the most out of your new cowboy boots.

Do Cowboy Boots Run Big or Small

To size up or not depends on the boot brand. For example, Justin boots, size up a half size if you plan to wear them with thick socks. With Ariat boots, order your actual size unless you have extremely wide feet, then you may want to try a pair that’s a half size larger.

However, Lucchesi boots run big. I typically order a full size smaller in Lucchesi than other footwear. For example, the boots pictured below are 8.5E, and my Tecovas and Ariats are 9.5D.

Tecovas cowboy boots seem to fit true to size for the most part. However, if you are in between sizes or have wide feet, it is recommended that you size up.

When trying on a new pair of cowboy boots, always go with the larger size if you’re unsure. You can always add an extra insole or wear a thicker sock to make them fit snugger if needed. But, it’s much harder to make a boot bigger once it’s been worn and stretched out.`

If your cowboy boots feel too tight, there are a few things you can do to help stretch them out so they’re more comfortable:

-Wear them around the house as much as possible until they start to feel better

-Use a boot stretcher

-Use steam to make the leather more pliable

-Use shoe stretching spray

-Take them to a cobbler or shoe repair person and have them professionally stretched out.

Foot type plays a vital role when you consider cowboy boots. Some problems aren’t the size but your foot arch or width. In these situations, you may be able to address the problem using an insole, or you can use our break-in tips or tricks to make your cowboy shoes a perfect fit. However, the ideal cowboy boots must fit snugly.  

Should I Size Up in Cowboy Boots?   

The basic principle of cowboy Boots is the guarantee of comfort. To select an ideal model, consider correct numbering, beak type (according to your feet), and barrel size.

Besides, you must know that cowboy boots are usually larger than standard shoes. Therefore, I recommend a size down for a snug-fit feel, but it all depends on personal choice and the purpose of the boots.

Upsizing is only recommended after you’ve worn your original cowboy boots long enough to break in good, and they are still uncomfortable. In this case, order your next pair a half size up. As mentioned above, I size down in Lucchese boots, not up, so it depends on the boot brand.

How Tight Should Cowboy Boots Fit at First?

When you first get your cowboy boots, they should feel snug but not too tight. You want them to be comfortable immediately, but you also don’t want them to be so loose that they’re constantly slipping off your feet. If you’re unsure about the fit, always err on the side of a little too tight – you can always stretch your cowboy boots later if needed.

Cowboy boots are meant to fit snugly but not so tight that you’re uncomfortable. At first, a cowboy boot may feel slightly tight. In this case, give it a proper break-in time and wear it several times with gaps so your feet get accustomed to it. The vamp of cowboy boots mainly determines the fitting. It shouldn’t be loose or tight but should adjust the feet comfortably.

What Happens if Cowboy Boots Are Too Big?

If your cowboy boots are too big, they’ll be very loose and sloppy-looking on your feet. They may even start to slip off while you’re wearing them. This can be extremely dangerous, especially if you’re doing any activity where you could trip or fall.

How Do You Know If Cowboy Boots Are Too Small?

The best way to tell if cowboy boots are too small is by trying them on. If they’re too tight, you’ll probably feel it right away. The boots will feel constricting and uncomfortable, and you may even have trouble walking in them.

If they’re just a little bit too tight, you can try wearing thinner socks or using a boot stretcher to help loosen them up. When trying on cowboy boots, your feet should feel comfortable and supported.

To know if cowboy boots are too small, try to wiggle your toe or heels. If you can’t move them, the boots are too small. Also, the instep should not cause friction, and there shouldn’t be any feeling of squeezed toes.

That said, you should still be able to move your feet and ankles with no problems or pain. Also, to ensure the boots aren’t too small, your toes should not press against the front.

How Much Toe Room Should I Have in Cowboy Boots?

Ideally, it would be best to have about a thumb’s worth of space between the end of your toe and the end of the boot. This will give you enough room to wiggle your toes without feeling cramped, but it won’t be so much space that your foot slides around inside the boot.

The ideal “toe box” in cowboy boots will give you ample room to move your toe without causing friction. However, in a cowboy boot, a thumb’s width is considered the perfect room for a toe with no or at least minimum scutter feelings.  

Should I Be Able to Wiggle My Toes in Cowboy Boots?

While you don’t want a ton of space between your toes and the end of the boot, you also don’t want your toes to feel cramped. You should be able to wiggle your toes comfortably inside the boot. If you can’t, the boot is likely too small for you.

To be able to wiggle your toe in the toe box of cowboy boots is a determinable factor about snug fitting; the main feature of cowboy boots besides comfort is also a sign that the boots have ample toe room, i.e., about half an inch. If you can’t wiggle your toes, even after a proper break-in period, it’s a sign that you need to size up your cowboy boots.  

Why Can’t I Get My Foot into Cowboy Boots?

If you’re having trouble getting your foot into a cowboy boot, it’s likely because the boot is too small for you. Don’t force your foot into the boot – this can damage the boot and hurt your foot. If the boot is too small, try a different size or style of cowboy boots.

When purchasing cowboy boots, style and design can tempt you, making you neglect the correct size. If you cannot get your foot into cowboy boots, reasons may vary, but mostly it is due to the misalignment of your foot type and the barrel and vamp of cowboy boots.

Improper break-in procedures and time can be another reason. You must consider trying some hacks and tips to wear cowboy boots easily. However, inserting your foot at the right angle and understanding the composition (different parts of the boots) of cowboy boots can make it easy to get your foot into them.  

What if My Cowboy Boots are Too Big?

If your cowboy boots are too big, try wearing thicker socks to fill up some extra space. You can also use an insole or heel pad to make the boot feel snugger on your foot. If neither of these solutions works, you may need to return the boots and get a different size or style.

What Do the Numbers Inside Cowboy Boots Mean?

Boot manufacturers often place a group of numbers inside the boot’s shaft. I’ve often been curious about these numbers and wonder if they are significant.

The group of numbers inside the shaft is the boot’s serial number, model, size, and batch number, and it typically indicates the country where the boots were manufactured. However, the number systems are not standard; some makers may use fewer numbers than others. Ariat boots have the most information listed, while Lucchese has the least.

How Do You Read a Cowboy Boot Size?

Use the size chart as a reference guide. On the size chart, there are different scales associated with the width and the length. For example, AAA, AA, and A are for the narrowest to narrow, and EEE, EE, E are for the widest to wide. There are B, C, and D between these two extremities, which refer to medium sizes.    

What Do b and c Mean in Cowboy Boots?

B and C are the letters usually used for the size specification in women’s cowboy boots. The letter B is referred to as medium narrow for cowboy boots, and C is associated with a regular narrow width. Regardless of gender, these letters are used for medium widths.  

How Do You Know What Size Cowboy Boots to Get?

Don’t get confused with the notion that your cowboy boots are of the same size as your everyday shoes due to the foot type, boot style, foot and boot structure, and manufacturing details.

Most manufacturers generally seek to standardize their models’ shapes with a generic size scale. However, contacting the bootmaker or reading customer reviews is best if you’re unsure what size to order.

How Much Do Cowboy Boots Increase Height?

Cowboy boots increase the wearer’s height by 1 to 2.5 inches. The increase in height with cowboy boots depends on what kind of heel they have-whether short or tall. Cowboy boots will always give you that cool, laid-back look. With different styles and designs available, finding the right fit for your personal style is easy.

Conclusion

Cowboy boots are a unique item of clothing. They have a specific fit that is different than other types of shoes. To buy a pair of cowboy boots, you must understand how they should fit and what size to purchase.

Different brands have different sizing charts, so knowing how to measure your feet before buying a pair is essential. If you research and find the right size for your feet, you can enjoy wearing these stylish boots for years.

We’ve provided some tips on how to find the correct size cowboy boots so you can look stylish and feel comfortable all at the same time. So, put on your best pair of jeans and get ready to shop for cowboy boots.

Below is a helpful YouTube video showing how to choose the correct size cowboy boots.

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