The Best Cowgirl Boots for Country Life

Living on a ranch makes you realize just how important boots are. I have never considered myself to be a “shoe-girl”, as in a girl with different shoes for all occasions.  This all changed as soon as I moved to the ranch. All of a sudden, I realized just how many different types of boots I ‘needed’. Boots for summer, winter, work, play, comfort…and the list goes on. I suddenly realized that boots were quickly becoming my new ‘thing’.  How could they not be?! In my current logic, boots are the most versatile shoe out there, even surpassing my beloved California girl flip-flop, shhhh don’t tell anyone! Owning just one pair of boots for all of the chores on the ranch and to wear out just won’t cut it! Many of my girlfriends have been asking  what my favorite boots are so, to be helpful, the girls and I created this list of our top 7 favorite boots you should have in your closet!

First though, a little background on the history on boots! We are not sure where the traditional cowboy boot was created, but we know that it was created sometime after the American Civil War, when men wanted to have a different option when riding horses and working on their ranches. Due to tall brush, snakes and fencing, they needed tall uppers to protect their legs. The toes were traditionally pointed to make them easier to put into saddle stirrups, and the heel was created to ensure their feet wouldn’t slip out during long rides. Eventually this new design caught on, and now many of us wear cowgirl boots not only for practical reasons, but often for fashion.

I have created a list of my favorite boots, not all are traditional “cowgirl” boots, but they all have a place on the ranch and in that little spot in our hearts specifically made for loving boots.

Best Workbooks: Ariat Heritage Roper’s 

My go to workboot! These babies have kept up with me in everything from the pouring rain and mud when I was planting trees, to cleaning out my goat pens, to countless days fixing fence in our pastures. With their trademark and exclusive ATS (Advanced Torque Stability) Technology, I can be on my feet all day without worrying about pain and can even run in them, which I’ve had to do when chasing my daughters from time to time! These are also great for riding, with their full grain leather uppers and roper toe. It’s no wonder its a favorite amongst the cowgirls in my life!

Best Party Boots: Macie Bean Honey Bunch Cowboy Boots Floral 

These boots spread happiness just by looking at them. I am not sure if I have ever thought about that with any other shoe! My husband bought these for me a few Christmases ago, hiding them in his locker at work so I wouldn’t discover them. I had dreamed about these for longer than I care to admit. They are just so pretty, they go with any color you want to pair them with, and always get compliments. These are my “party” boots; I wear them whenever I know I will be having a good time, and they have never done me wrong! Oh and they are completely comfortable during a two-step around a honky tonk! These also come in kids sizes, so you and your mini-me can match!

 

Best Boots for a Cause: Boot Campaign’s Tac Force 8” Women’s Tan Tactical Boot with Zipper 

I am the proud wife and sister of United States Marines. As a matter of fact, I am the proud daughter, granddaughter, daughter-in-law, etc of military veterans. It is in my blood and a large piece of who I am. Because of this, I am incredibly appreciative of the five kick-ass ladies who started the Boot Campaign, https://shop.bootcampaign.org, a non-profit organization whose mission is to provide life improving services to active duty military members, veterans, and their families from every generation.

Although these are not traditional cowboy boots, these are the most important boots on my list.  It doesn’t matter which pair you purchase, or if you choose to just donate, please consider supporting them. If the fabulous Dolly Parton did, so can you!

 

Duck Boots:  Sperry Women’s Saltwater Duck Boot in Linen

Growing up, my mom always made sure we had a pair of duck boots for the winter. I loved being outside and playing in the snow and rain. When I wore them, my feet always stayed dry and cozy, which made me love throwing them on. When I got older, I wanted to find a cooler looking boot and traded my duck boots in for different brands and styles. To this day, I still haven’t found a winter boot that keeps my feet as cozy and dry when I am running errands in the rain. I like the Sperry brand, due to its variety of colored soles and range of options in upper fabrics, such as leather, linen and micro fleece. They even have kids sizes for when you want to match your mini-me!

 

Rainboots: Joules Rain Boots in print

Sometimes a girl needs a pair of boots to carry her through all the muck and mud life throws at us. The beauty of the Joules’ Rain Boot, is that at approximately $50, give or take, they won’t break the bank.  With a wide variety of designs, they can even be dressed up for those rainy errands in town. Built with waterproof rubber that goes up to your knee and extra traction, you can wear them while cleaning out the pig stye, making those piggies green with boot envy,

Everyday Boots: Ariat Darlin’ Boots

Yep, a second set of Ariat’s snuck into my list! Perhaps due to them being my family’s go to boot company growing up and the fact that they fit my huge size 10 feet perfectly. Either way, sticking with Ariat has never done me wrong! This particular boot is my favorite go-to pair for throwing on each day. For casual wear or when you are feeling like miss fancy pants, they can be worn with anything, even daisy dukes if you are so inclined!

 

Cozy Boot: Classic Ugg

I would be remiss if I did not include my favorite comfy cozy boot, The UGG. Everyone knows about UGGs and if you’ve ever had a pair, you know there is much to love. I received my first pair in high school, and wore them to college where, at the time, they were not in-style.  Santa Barbara, California is not known for its harsh winters! I never thought about wearing them for fashion, but rather as simple way to keep my freezing feet warm. To my happy surprise, they became en vogue during my college years, and my go-to comfort boot started venturing out around town. Since then, UGG has come out with a huge range of styles and colors. From slippers to full knee high boots, you can’t go wrong when it comes to keeping your feet warm and happy.