How to Break in New Cowboy Boots

A good pair of broken-in cowboy boots shows off your individuality.

Cowboy boots evolved over the years from utilitarian boots for cowboys and ranchers to fashion boots for women and men. The boots are designed with leather and other materials to withstand intense weather conditions and abuse, making them both ultra-sturdy and uncomfortable when brand new.

Difficulty:

Moderate

Instructions

1. Wear your boots with thick socks while working around the house. The pressure from normal wear will help stretch the leather.

2. Wipe the inside and outside of your boots with a damp cloth to help soften the leather and mold the boot to your foot.

3. Fill your boots with water or submerge them in a tub of water for several minutes and wear them until they dry. Be careful that your boots do not over-dry; this can damage the leather.

Tips & Warnings

• Buy cowboy boots that fit snugly, especially around your instep. The leather on cowboy boots relaxes over time, so you do not want to buy them too large.

• Try on cowboy boots in the afternoon. Your feet are the largest during this time of day.

• You will likely form blisters while breaking in your boots. The blisters will stop after you get used to the boots.

References

• Paul Lynch; Riding in the USA; Paul Lynch; April 2006

Resources

• Big Sky Fishing: Cowboy Boots Fitting & Care