History of Leather Boots
From function to fashion, leather boots are used in a variety of ways and exist in an assortment of styles. Beginning as simple foot coverings in ancient Mesopotamia, leather boots have evolved into intricately designed fashion pieces. The value of leather boots is not limited to aesthetics; they also provide protection against harsh temperatures and dangerous landscapes. Does this Spark an idea?
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History
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Leather boots have a 5,000-year history. The first leather foot coverings were stuffed with straw and served as protection against the rough terrain and severe climate of the Bronze Age. The ancient Mesopotamians, starting in 3000 B.C., were the first innovators of laced-up leather boots; their boots were calf-high and made from goat leather. In 1616, leather boots began to be used for everyday and high fashion wear.
Function
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Initially, leather boots were used to protect the feet and legs of military personnel and horseback riders. When different styles of leather boots began to appear, simple functionality began to give way to elegant design.
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Size
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Leather boots are cut in differing lengths that range from the ankle to mid-thigh. Boots for men are usually flat or have a one-inch heel; the heels on women's leather boots are made as high as five inches.
Types
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The varying types of leather boots include: thigh-highs, gusset, half boots, Hessian, Wellington, short ankle, cowboy and the biker's.
Thigh-high boots were the predominant style of the 16th and 17th centuries; they were fastened with laces and protected the knees and lower legs of horseback riders and soldiers. Gusset boots were elasticized and provided faster wear and removal than boots fastened with laces, hooks or buttons. Half boots can either be elasticized or laced, and only come up to the knee. Hessian boots, also called Souvaroffs, are a man's knee-high boot that has a V shape cut in the front; these boots were introduced into England from Germany and were popular in the 19th century, until they were replaced by the Wellington style. Wellington boots, named after the Duke of Wellington, who defeated Napoleon, are characterized by their form-fitting design, waterproof nature and thick soles; they replaced the Hessian style since they were easier to wear underneath trousers. Short ankle boots became popular in the early 20th century, are usually elasticized or fastened with a zipper, and only come up to the ankle. Cowboy boots have a higher heel, rise to the mid-calf, are usually for men, and are often ornately designed or two toned. Biker's boots provide traction and protection against motorcycle engine heat.
Geography
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Leather boots originated in ancient Mesopotamia but are found worldwide. Designs for the various types of leather boots come from countries such as Italy, Germany, England, France and the United States.
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