Western Apparel, Past & Present

By: xdavid

Cowboy boots are the perfect example of how function can develop into fashion and remain fashionable for years to come. Of course, the original function for which the item was designed still being applicable, such as in the case of cowboy boots, is quite helpful, and perhaps even necessary. But let's back up a little.

It is the 1860s and the cattle drives are beginning. The men working them are, at this point, wearing boots that are modeled after (or actually are) military riding boots. These boots are not suited for the long trail rides on horseback and the hazards that one comes across in this new and rather wild territory. Legend has it that it was actually a single man who commissioned a pair of boots that became the model for cowboy boots. These boots had several different aspects that made them better for the work that needed to be done.

Among these differences were:

* A tall, stiff leather shaft on the boot. This protected the ankle and leg from a variety of things- irritation from the stirrups, snakes, briars, barbed wire, even from getting wet while crossing rivers.
* A design that meant the boot could be pulled on and off. This was less for convenience and more for safety- if a cowboy's horse panicked or threw him and his boot became tangled in the stirrup, he could pull his foot free from the boot and get out of harm's way.
* A stacked heel that was angled to give the rider more control in the saddle, also making it easier for cowboys to keep their feet in the stirrups.
* A pointed toe that made sliding their feet into and out of stirrups easier.

Later, when the rodeo circuit became a way of life- certainly a branching out from the usual cowboy occupations- roper boots appeared. In general, these boots have a shorter shaft (far fewer dangers in a rodeo than on the trail) and they also have a different shaped heel, better for running, which can certainly be a very valuable and necessary skill for rodeo riders and ropers.

The fact that the wild wild west captured the imaginations of several generations and still speak to us of a time when life was simple, yet no less difficult. It speaks of a time when we, as a country, did not yet know our own boundaries, and were full of the excitement that comes with exploration. That fantasy continues to capture us today, which is why you'll see western wear and cowboy boots all over the country and not just where they are needed.

Written by Mel Bryson. Brand name cowboy boots and western wear at The Boot Store online store for western apparel. Ariat boots, Justin boots more at western-wear-store.com