The 8 Best Cowboy Boots, According to Southerners and Stylists

Mar. 15, 2025

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Whether you’re in yourTaylor SwiftFearlessera or jumping onBeyoncé’sCowboy Carterbandwagon (horse?), finding the perfect pair of cowboy boots is a feat. The nostalgic aesthetic of the Wild West tends to come in and out of mainstream fashion, but the comfort, durability, and undeniable style of these boots are timeless.

Experts Say

This isn’t our first rodeo: We’re here to give you the low-down on our tried-and-true favorites, along with a few recommendations from stylists and boot designers. Keep reading to score the perfect pair of cowboy boots that make a statement.

Best Budget:Arromic Cowgirl Boots at Amazon$60Jump to Review

Best Budget:Arromic Cowgirl Boots at Amazon$60

Best Budget:

Best Classic:Tecovas The Annie at Tecovas.comJump to Review

Best Classic:Tecovas The Annie at Tecovas.com

Best Classic:

Best Sparkly:

SALE

Best Sparkly (Cheaper):Sovanyou Rhinestone Cowboy Boots at Amazon$90Jump to Review

Best Sparkly (Cheaper):Sovanyou Rhinestone Cowboy Boots at Amazon$90

Best Sparkly (Cheaper):

Best Metallic:Billini Deacon Boots at Us-billini.comJump to Review

Best Metallic:Billini Deacon Boots at Us-billini.com

Best Metallic:

Best Ankle:Aldo Omaha Western Boot at Aldoshoes.comJump to Review

Best Ankle:Aldo Omaha Western Boot at Aldoshoes.com

Best Ankle:

Best with Fringe:SALESheSole Fringe Western Boots at Amazon$90$68Jump to Review

Best with Fringe:SALESheSole Fringe Western Boots at Amazon$90$68

Best with Fringe:

Best High Heel:Schutz Maryana Block Boot at Amazon$258Jump to Review

Best High Heel:Schutz Maryana Block Boot at Amazon$258

Best High Heel:

Bellocqimages/Bauer-Griffin/GCBest BudgetArromic Cowgirl BootsPHOTO: Amazon$60 at AmazonIf you’re a sworn city-dweller who doesn’t need cowboy boots for utility (or just want to try this trend without spending too much cash), then you’ll want to add these budget-friendly boots to your Amazon cart. Their fashionable knee-high silhouette and delicate stitching look strikingly similar to a style thatKendall Jenner has stepped out in— but at a more digestible price.The pointed-toe design dresses up what’s typically a casual look, whether for a swanky dinner or a night out. However, we wouldn’t recommend these for actual outdoor work due to the polyurethane material, which can get pretty hot on warm days. These are for looks only — but who said that’s a bad thing?Material:Polyurethane, rubber |Sizes:5-12 |Colors:9 |Heel Height:2.36 inches |Shaft Height:11.81–13.46 inches (depending on foot size) |Toe Shape:Pointed

Bellocqimages/Bauer-Griffin/GC

Kendall Jenner

Best BudgetArromic Cowgirl BootsPHOTO: Amazon$60 at Amazon

Best BudgetArromic Cowgirl Boots

Best Budget

Arromic Cowgirl Boots

PHOTO: Amazon

Amazon Arromic Cowgirl Boots

$60 at Amazon

If you’re a sworn city-dweller who doesn’t need cowboy boots for utility (or just want to try this trend without spending too much cash), then you’ll want to add these budget-friendly boots to your Amazon cart. Their fashionable knee-high silhouette and delicate stitching look strikingly similar to a style thatKendall Jenner has stepped out in— but at a more digestible price.

The pointed-toe design dresses up what’s typically a casual look, whether for a swanky dinner or a night out. However, we wouldn’t recommend these for actual outdoor work due to the polyurethane material, which can get pretty hot on warm days. These are for looks only — but who said that’s a bad thing?

Best ClassicTecovas The AnniePHOTO: TecovasView on Tecovas.com

Best ClassicTecovas The Annie

Best Classic

Tecovas The Annie

PHOTO: Tecovas

Tecovas The Annie

View on Tecovas.com

The Annie boot from Tecovas is beloved for reasons beyond its classic yet stylish design (though it’s a total perk) — its comfort is almost unparalleled, according to our editors.

With a 14-inch shaft and a snip-toe design, this traditional-looking cowboy boot has deep, scalloped edges and artfully stitched leather. The boot comes in several colors, both earthy and bright, but what steals the show is its Goodyear-welted sole, which Tecovas’s Senior Footwear DesignerElizabeth Ruizlikens to theinsole of a Birkenstock. “The more that you wear it, the more comfortable it gets, because it forms to your foot,” says Ruiz. “If it’s Goodyear welted, it’s going to have that cork filler and it’s just going to be so comfy.” Our one note:Go a half size down;this pair tends to run big.

“This is not only a show-stopping boot, but since it’s Tecovas, you know it’s the real deal. Whether you wear these Annie boots to a Taylor Swift concert in the city or while doing morning chores around the farm, they will undoubtedly rise to the occasion.” —Erin Johnson, associate editorial shopping director

Best Sparkly

Amazon Blue by Betsey Johnson Dalas Boots

$249$191 at Amazon$249 at Nordstrom$249$145 at Zappos

The entirety of its synthetic leather surface is covered in rhinestones of varying sizes to throw the light in every direction; another option fit for concerts, festivals, and even weddings, if you forego the traditional white. With a padded footbed, you’ll be comfortably dancing all through the night (and shining every step of the way).

Best Sparkly (Cheaper)Sovanyou Rhinestone Cowboy BootsPHOTO: Amazon$90 at Amazon

Best Sparkly (Cheaper)Sovanyou Rhinestone Cowboy Boots

Best Sparkly (Cheaper)

Sovanyou Rhinestone Cowboy Boots

Amazon Sovanyou Rhinestone Cowboy Boots

$90 at Amazon

Want to be a crystallized cowgirl but don’t want to drop more than $200 on an encrusted pair? We understand, which is why we found this budget-friendly version on Amazon — a nearly knee-high boot with a stacked heel and countless rhinestones decorating the synthetic upper.

Best MetallicBillini Deacon BootsPHOTO: BilliniView on Us-billini.comAfter the fashionable phenomenon of Beyonce’s futuristic Renaissance tour, it’s no surprise that metallic Western wear is on the rise — leading us to this silver pair from Billini that instantly elevates any outfit. It has a faux crocodile upper and mid block heel to make dancing and walking a breeze. You can also buy thisless expensive version at Amazonif you don’t want to spend too much on a trend.Material:Synthetic leather |Sizes:5-10 |Colors:10 |Heel Height:2.55 inches |Shaft Height:9 inches |Toe Shape:Pointed

Best MetallicBillini Deacon BootsPHOTO: BilliniView on Us-billini.com

Best MetallicBillini Deacon Boots

Best Metallic

Billini Deacon Boots

PHOTO: Billini

Billini Deacon Boots

View on Us-billini.com

After the fashionable phenomenon of Beyonce’s futuristic Renaissance tour, it’s no surprise that metallic Western wear is on the rise — leading us to this silver pair from Billini that instantly elevates any outfit. It has a faux crocodile upper and mid block heel to make dancing and walking a breeze. You can also buy thisless expensive version at Amazonif you don’t want to spend too much on a trend.

Best AnkleAldo Omaha Western BootPHOTO: AldoView on Aldoshoes.com

Best AnkleAldo Omaha Western Boot

Best Ankle

Aldo Omaha Western Boot

PHOTO: Aldo

Aldo Omaha Western Boot

View on Aldoshoes.com

If you prefer a shorter boot over a knee-high silhouette, this short-shafted pair from Aldo is a great choice. Its studded pointed toe, comfortable block heel, and intricate topstitch details put a modern twist on classic country, all with supreme comfort thanks to the brand’s “Pillow Walk” insole. Style these boots with jeans, dresses, and maxi skirts for a consistently cute and comfortable outfit.

“These short cowboy booties offer a subtle walk on the wild (wild west) side. Best of all, they feature Aldo’s signature padding for an extra-comfortable fit.”—Claire Harmeyer, former senior shopping writer

Best with FringeSheSole Fringe Western BootsPHOTO: Amazon$90$68 at AmazonDiving headfirst into the Western aesthetic? You’ll want these fringey boots on your radar. Complete with a studded shaft and cascading strips of faux suede fringe, these boots embody the spirit of the Wild West. The long fringe strips add a bit of movement that feels perfect for a concert or night of dancing. Grab them in this tan hue or opt for the black shade to complete your wild, wild wardrobe.Material:Synthetic suede |Sizes:6-11 |Colors:2 |Heel Height:1.77 inches |Shaft Height:13.4 inches |Toe Shape:Pointed

Best with FringeSheSole Fringe Western BootsPHOTO: Amazon$90$68 at Amazon

Best with FringeSheSole Fringe Western Boots

Best with Fringe

SheSole Fringe Western Boots

Amazon SheSole Fringe Western Boots

$90$68 at Amazon

Diving headfirst into the Western aesthetic? You’ll want these fringey boots on your radar. Complete with a studded shaft and cascading strips of faux suede fringe, these boots embody the spirit of the Wild West. The long fringe strips add a bit of movement that feels perfect for a concert or night of dancing. Grab them in this tan hue or opt for the black shade to complete your wild, wild wardrobe.

Best High HeelSchutz Maryana Block BootPHOTO: Schutz$258 at Amazon$258 at NordstromView on Schutz-shoes.comIf you’re not fully on the cowboy boot bandwagon but still want to rock a Western style, this scalloped block heel is the perfect go-between. Crocodile leather and a statement heel make this boot a great option for the fall and winter, and we appreciate its elevated cowboy silhouette, which can kick any outfit up a notch while still keeping its Southern roots.Material:Crocodile-embossed leather |Sizes:5-11 |Colors:5 |Heel Height:3.3 inches |Shaft Height:13.6 inches |Toe Shape:Round

Best High HeelSchutz Maryana Block BootPHOTO: Schutz$258 at Amazon$258 at NordstromView on Schutz-shoes.com

Best High HeelSchutz Maryana Block Boot

Best High Heel

Schutz Maryana Block Boot

PHOTO: Schutz

Schutz Maryana Block Boot

$258 at Amazon$258 at NordstromView on Schutz-shoes.com

If you’re not fully on the cowboy boot bandwagon but still want to rock a Western style, this scalloped block heel is the perfect go-between. Crocodile leather and a statement heel make this boot a great option for the fall and winter, and we appreciate its elevated cowboy silhouette, which can kick any outfit up a notch while still keeping its Southern roots.

What to Know About Cowboy Boots

Shaft Height

“The shaft height is basically the tube of the boot,” Ruiz explains. This section usually has a scalloped edge and pull straps on each side. “The classic shaft height is 11 to 12 inches — that’s your traditional look,” she adds.

You’ll typically find this height on a boot suited for the field, or any traditional cowboy boot. However, 14-inch shafts are typically the “sweet spot” for a fashion boot, Ruiz later adds. This length usually hits around the calf.

However, if you’re looking for something with a bit more height (think a knee-high boot), you’ll want a 17-inch shaft.

Heel Height

In general, cowboy boots are on the lower end of the scale when it comes to heel heights — but according to footwear designers, these kinds of boundaries aren’t as solid as they once were. “I think in this day and age, anything goes in a cowboy boot,” Ruiz says.

While 3 inches is considered tall for a cowboy boot, you can find versions with an even steeper heel (like theSchutz Maryana Block Boot), and they can be as low as an inch (great for everyday wear).

Material

The material of your cowboy boots is arguably one of the most important factors to consider as you pick out your rodeo-ready pair. While genuine leather is the most common (and preferred among real cowgirls), there are other options available depending on your budget and personal preferences.

“You’ve got to look out for quality leathers — make sure that the construction is built welted and that the lining is leather,” says Ruiz, in a nod to Goodyear-welted shoes.

When it comes to faux leather, Ruiz recommends proceeding with caution. Faux, or “vegan,” leathers can be made from plastic blends such as polyurethane, which may result in excess sweating. “The benefits of wearing a leather boot are that it’s breathable and you’re not going to feel super hot in them,” she adds. So if you’re headed to an outdoor concert venue in the summer, you may want to opt for a genuine leather pair.

Colors

When it comes to the colors of your cowboy boots, the world is your oyster — but our experts have some tips for the fashion and function sides of things. Cuttrell prefers a classic color palette in order to get the most use out of them.

“There is always something so special about a timeless cowboy boot that ages well and carries you through year after year,” she says. “I would personally lean towards black and brown for a great closet staple.”

Cuttrell understands the importance of a neutral go-to shoe, butElizabeth Poett, a seventh-generation cattle rancher and host of the Magnolia Network showRanch to Table, wants you to remember to embrace your colorful side, too.

Experts Say“It’s always a good idea to have a solid, deep brown that will go with everything, but I also love to have some fun colors that I can mix and match with my outfits throughout the years.”—Elizabeth Poett

“It’s always a good idea to have a solid, deep brown that will go with everything, but I also love to have some fun colors that I can mix and match with my outfits throughout the years.”—Elizabeth Poett

Alyssa Brasciais a shopping writer for PEOPLE specializing in fashion and beauty. She has also written shopping stories for other Dotdash Meredith brands such as InStyle, Shape, and Southern Living. For this article, she researched the most popular styles, silhouettes, and fabrics of cowboy boots in 2024, while also tapping experts across several areas of the industry to contribute their insights on the topic. Our contributors include experts Mimi Cuttrell, Elizabeth Ruiz, and Elizabeth Poett, along with tested insights from our own editors, as well.

Our Expert Panel

source: people.com

The 8 Best Cowboy Boots, According to Southerners and Stylists

In This Article

Experts Say

Best Budget

Arromic Cowgirl Boots

Best Classic

Tecovas The Annie

Best Sparkly

Best Sparkly (Cheaper)

Sovanyou Rhinestone Cowboy Boots

Best Metallic

Billini Deacon Boots

Best Ankle

Aldo Omaha Western Boot

Best with Fringe

SheSole Fringe Western Boots

Best High Heel

Schutz Maryana Block Boot

What to Know About Cowboy Boots

Shaft Height

Heel Height

Material

Colors

Our Expert Panel

Other Posts