Not too long ago, when someone went into a boot shop there were a very small selection of boots to choose from. However, now there are a large variety of boots available. Each one of these boots are different and have a certain look and purpose.

When most of us think of a cowboy boots we think of the boots that have a 1.5 inch heel and a 13 inch shaft. They also have stitching on the toe that is referred to as the toe bug. These boots are basic and simple and that is why they have been worn for decades.

Another boot that is closely related to the basic cowboy boot is the dress boot. These have the look and feel of the basic cowboy boot, except that expensive and exotic leathers are used to make the boot like alligator, ostrich, and lizard. The are made very similarly to the good old cowboy boot and have the same features except that they are made from exotic and expensive hides.

The Roper boot is used primarily by ropers, hence the name. These boots have a 1 inch heel, a rounded toe, and a shaft that is about 11 inches.

The Stockman takes features from both the Basic Cowboy Boot and the Roper Boot. The heel is 1 inch to 11/8 inch tall, and it has a rounded toe. Also the shaft is about 11-12 inches tall. However, the Stockman has a welt on the sole that gives a different feel.

The Buckaroo has large features than other boots. They have a large shaft that starts at es and can get up to 18 inches tall. In addition, at the top of the shaft they usually have mule, ears, pull holes, or, pull straps. The heel can be as tall as 3 inches and they have a rounded toe. Buckaroos are used by someone that needs a good heel to ride and a lot of leg protection.

Roughstock Boots have a rounded or square toe and have a taller shaft at at about 12 inches tall. They are made to be durable and have a tough heel counter. They have about a 2 inch heel and are made for anyone that rides bulls, broncs and anything else that requires a durable boot.

Fashion boots are in a class of their own. There are no rules these days for these boots, for they are as varied as the people on this planet. High, narrow heels are usually prominent, being 3-4 inches tall, but there are other styles that use designs and colors to set them apart from their competitors. In the western world, bling has come with hurricane force to stick to anything it can. Boots are no exception to this. Silver dots, brass dots, hair on hides, camo, and bling can be found almost anywhere.

Mules are a cousin to fashion boots with their colors and styles, only they have no shaft or heel. With jeans on, they like boots, so many women like to wear these for their comfort and looks. In general, a boot is a boot. With a closer look, however, boots can give you a closer look at how someone sees the world, and how they perceive the world sees them. Boots are a standard, especially cowboy boots.

Ride on, for a West is still out there to be won.