How to Order Custom-made Cowboy Boots

Not just for cowboys--or cowgirls--these boots are classy and timeless and, in some places, the ultimate fashion statement. Exquisitely comfortable and intricately tooled, custom boots are an investment that can run from $200 to $2,500 or more.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderate

Things You’ll Need:

• Bootmaker

1. Find a custom bootmaker. If you live in ranch country, seek out a local artisan. Go to a rodeo and ask the cowboys for a recommendation. If you live elsewhere, ask a Western-wear shop if it custom-orders boots, or shop online.
2. Choose the leather or skin. Cowhide is common, tough and cheap, but if you're willing to pony up a little more for dress boots and aren't squeamish, choose from the exotics--eel, ostrich, lizard, elk, shark, kangaroo, goat, deer, bison, python or alligator. Get a feel for the texture and ask about a particular material's durability. A range of color options are available.
3. Select a boot style and height. Western boots go all the way up the calf. Stockman, packers and work-style boots are a few inches shorter. Others come up a few inches above or hit right at the ankle.
4. Look at heels and soles. There are riding heels, walking heels and combinations. The standard height is 1 3/4 inches (4 1/2 cm), just right to hook around the bar of a stirrup. Soles are made from leather, thick crepe and rubber. What you plan to be kicking while wearing the boots will determine the type of heel height you need.
5. Specify a toe shape. Western boots have a very pointy toe. Ropers and work boots are more rounded. There are many other options including French toes and square-cut hog noses.
6. Indulge your wildest fantasies with decorative options. Bootmakers pride themselves on exquisite stitching, wingtips, inlay patterns, silver or gold toe and heel plates, and intricate custom designs. For the ultimate gift, have your sweetheart's name inlaid in green lizard.
7. Measure your feet according to the instructions provided by the bootmaker. Unlike shoes or boots that lace, a cowboy boot is held snug to the foot by the instep alone. Proper fit is critical: Make sure you take accurate measurements.
8. Get all design options, costs and the delivery date in writing. Ask what recourse you have if you're unhappy with the finished results. Most artisans proudly guarantee both the work and your satisfaction; many have repeat customers who come back again and again over the years.
9. Pull on your boots, kick up your heels and enjoy.

Tips & Warnings

• Cowboyoutfitters.com, Cowboybootsbygeorge.com, and Caboots.zoovy.com are some of the many bootmakers you can find online.
• If you're unsure about measuring your feet yourself, visit a local boot store and ask a salesperson to do it for you.
• A bootmaker can take a few months to over a year to finish a pair of boots.
• Scallops--the shape of the top of the boot--vary from a straight cut to a deep scallop cut, plus more decorative shapes.