Collector’s Corner — Cowboy Boots

Cowboy boots have a rich history that dates back to the 1800s in the American West. The first cowboy boots were simple, practical boots made of leather and were adaptations of the English style boots already in use at the time by the military and many others worldwide. Originally designed for horseback riding, cowboy boots became a necessary tool to wear while working on ranches. With time, they evolved and became more decorative and stylish, with Western boot makers using exotic leathers as well as colorful stitching and intricate designs as demand increased.

During the early part of the 1900s, cowboy boots gained popularity outside of the ranching and rodeo communities. Cowboy boots became a symbol of Western culture and were not just worn by cowboys, but by anyone who wanted to embody the rugged, independent spirit of the West. In many places, cowboy boots had become a fashion statement, with different styles and decorations reflecting different regions and cultures.

Consequently, cowboy boots have become highly collectible over the years, with many enthusiasts and collectors seeking out vintage and rare pairs for their historical significance and/or the craftsmanship involved in their production. Vintage cowboy boots from the 19th and early 20th centuries are particularly sought after by collectors, as they represent a piece of American history. Some collectors also focus on collecting boots from specific makers, such as Lucchese, Tony Lama, Hyer, Rios of Mercedes, Acme, or Justin — often seeking out rare or unusual designs produced by certain makers. Others may collect boots that represent a particular era or style, such as flamboyant boots with fancy stitching and inlays or boots made pre-1900.

The value of a particular pair of cowboy boots depends on a variety of factors, including the age, brand, style, historical significance and condition. Vintage boots from well-known makers can fetch high prices at auction or in specialty shops, while boots that feature intricate stitching, exotic materials, or unique details are also desirable. Boots that were worn by famous cowboys or movie stars can be highly collectible and condition is an extremely important factor. For example, a pair of boots from the 1800s, that have been well-preserved and cared for should bring a much higher price than those that are heavily worn or damaged.

Cowboy boots have been a symbol of the American West for over a century, and there are many different types of boots that have become desirable to collectors. Some of the most sought-after cowboy boots include:

Authentic boots: Cowboy boots from the late 1800s through early 1900s in good condition are some of the hardest to find and are highly sought after by collectors.

Custom boots: Many collectors seek out boots that were made by famous boot makers or custom-made for clients. These boots often feature intricate designs.

Exotic boots: Cowboy boots made from exotic skins like alligator, crocodile, ostrich, and snake are highly prized. These boots were generally more expensive than boots made from traditional cowhide and continue to fetch a premium when sold to collectors.

Limited edition boots: Some boot makers create limited edition boots that are only produced in small quantities, or perhaps the maker was only in business for a limited amount of time, making these boots more rare and collectible as time passes.

Movie boots: Cowboy boots worn by famous actors in Western movies have become highly collectible. For example, a pair of boots worn by John Wayne in one of his movies would be of particular interest to collectors.

Rodeo boots: Boots worn by famous rodeo cowboys are also highly collectible. These boots often feature unique designs and are usually made from high-quality materials to withstand the rigors of competition.

Overall the collectibility of cowboy boots has grown over the years because they represent a fascinating and enduring symbol of a uniquely American culture — also the development of the American West. As such, they are prized not only for their aesthetic value but also for their historical importance. Today, cowboy boots remain a popular footwear for both practical and fashionable purposes. Not only are they still worn by ranchers and rodeo performers, but also by people who simply appreciate their unique style and history. They remain a symbol of the spirit of the frontier that is recognized as being uniquely American, no matter where you are at in the world.

Jim Olson © 2023