Beyoncé’s in Her 'Cowboy Carter' Era — Join Her with the Best Cowboy Boots to Buy This Season
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You can’t go wrong with a good ol' pair of Tecovas
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Whether you’re in your Fearless era or you're jumping on the Western bandwagon after the release of Beyoncé's Cowboy Carter, you’ve probably been on the hunt for that perfect pair of cowboy boots for quite some time. The nostalgic aesthetic of the wild, wild West tends to come in and out of mainstream fashion, but what stays is the comfort, durability, and undeniable style that these boots are known for.
“I love a traditional cowboy boot that has a vintage and earthy feel to it,” says Mimi Cuttrell, renowned celebrity stylist and DSW Style Authority. “Even though it is brand new, it feels like it has some history."
We’ve seen celebrities from Dua Lipa to Kendall Jenner rocking this rugged style for years now, making us inch our arrows closer and closer to that checkout button every time a perfectly styled celeb pops up on our feeds in Westernwear. So between Beyonce’s down-South style and Taylor Swift’s Eras tour continuing to inspire crowds full of bedazzled cowboy boots, we feel pretty confident that this look is here to stay.
Thanks to a new country resurgence and off-duty model looks we can’t get enough of, we’ve been slipping into our cowboy boots all year long — and we’re here to give you our tried and true favorites, along with a few that we’ve gathered from our research.
Keep reading to score that perfect pair of cowboy boots that’ll be sure to let everyone know that this isn’t your first rodeo.
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Best Budget: Arromic Cowgirl Boots
If you’re a sworn city-dweller who is shocking yourself with a newfound love for Western style (or just want to try this trend without spending too much cash), then you’ll definitely want to experiment with these budget-friendly boots on Amazon. Featuring a fashionable knee-high silhouette and delicate stitching across the black exterior, these Western boots feel strikingly similar to the style that Kendall Jenner is known to step out in — just at a much more digestible price.
We loved this pair’s pointed-toe design, which elevates the look and makes it perfect for a night out. However, a night out may be all you’ll want to try in these, because this pair’s polyurethane (a.k.a. plastic) material is going to be hot on warm days and keep these boots from acting like ranching boots. These are for looks only — but who said that’s a bad thing?
Material: Polyurethane, rubber | Sizes: 5-12 | Colors: 9 | Heel height: 2.36 inches | Shaft height: 11.81-13.46 inches (depending on foot size) | Toe shape: Pointed
Best Knee-High: Berness Arizona Cowboy Boot
When Mimi Cuttrell recommends a piece for your wardrobe, you listen. So when she singled out a pitch-black knee-high boot as a wardrobe staple, we knew we’d be adding a pair straight into our carts. “My favorite pair right now is definitely the Crown Vintage ‘Sila’ Western Boot,” Cuttrell tells PEOPLE. “It’s the perfect cowboy boot to have in your wardrobe this fall.” However, when this increasingly popular style took a dip in inventory, we found this Berness lookalike that hit all of Cuttrell's criteria.
From its 13-inch shaft (nearly calf-height) to its detailed embroidery and padded footbed, this shoe is equal parts style and comfort — and exactly what your wardrobe needs this season. She recommends pairing this style with a “chic and simple long dress to let the boots have their moment.” We’re taking serious notes right now.
Material: Synthetic leather | Sizes: 5-11, medium width | Colors: 1 | Heel height: 3 inches | Shaft height: 13 inches | Toe shape: Pointed
Most Comfortable: Durango Crush 13-Inch Narrow Boot
Ever thought a boot could be more comfortable than half of your sneakers? Well, that’s what shopping writer Alyssa Brascia swears when it comes to Durango boots. “I genuinely have reached for Durangos over my sneakers when I knew I had a long day of walking in New York City ahead of me, but still wanted to look cute,” Brascia says. “They’re just more comfortable and stylish — how could I not?”
This incredible comfort can be credited to the shoe’s patented Sole Comfort footbed, a microfiber insole with a cushioned base that softens every step, pivot, and dance all day and night. Plus, its intricate flower embroidery is certainly eye-catching — you can easily dress these up or down thanks to its floral facade. With full-grain leather and a durable rubber outsole, these are sure to go the distance (and look cute while doing so).
Material: Full-grain leather, rubber | Sizes: 6-11 | Colors: 1 | Heel height: 2.25 inches | Shaft height: 13 inches | Toe shape: Snip toe
Best Classic: Tecovas The Annie
“When I first saw these Tecovas Annie boots in person, I actually gasped,” says PEOPLE Senior Shopping Editor Erin Johnson. “There are several styles of this boot, but the tiny dainty flowers against the backdrop of roughed-up leather and suede is truly a work of art." The Annie boot from Tecovas is a customer- and editor-loved boot for reasons beyond its classic yet stylish design (though it’s a total perk), but its undeniable comfort, as well.
With a 14-inch shaft and a snip-toe design, this traditional-looking cowboy boot hits at around the upper calf with a deep, scalloped edge and artfully embroidered leather stitched with tonal thread. “This is not only a show-stopping boot, but since it’s Tecovas, you know it’s the real deal,” Johnson says. “Whether you wear these Annie boots to a Taylor Swift concert in the city or while doing morning chores around the farm, they will undoubtedly rise to the occasion.”
The boot comes in an array of seven earthy colors, but what steals the show is its Goodyear-welted sole, which Tecovas' Senior Footwear Designer Elizabeth Ruiz likens to the insole of a Birkenstock. “The more that you wear it, the more comfortable it gets, because it forms to your foot,” Ruiz says, explaining the similarities between the two. “If it's Goodyear welted, it's going to have that cork filler and it's just going to be so comfy.” Our one note: go a half size down, the site says this pair tends to run big.
Material: Genuine leather | Sizes: 5-12 | Colors: 7 | Heel height: 2 inches | Shaft height: 14 inches | Toe shape: Snip toe
Best Embellished: Blue by Betsey Johnson Dalas Boots
Or shall we say “bejeweled”? These Blue by Betsey Johnson boots feel like they’d be Swift-approved thanks to its entirely crystal-encrusted upper — which looks a lot like the Christian Louboutin cowboy boots the singer dons during her “Fearless” set on tour.
The entirety of its synthetic leather surface is covered in rhinestones of varying sizes to throw the light in every direction; another option fit for concerts, festivals, and even weddings, if you forego the traditional white. With a 2-inch stacked heel and padded footbed, you’ll be comfortably dancing all through the night (and shining every step of the way).
Material: Synthetic leather | Sizes: 6-10 | Colors: 1 | Heel height: 1.5 inches | Shaft height: 9.5 inches | Toe shape: Pointed
Best Embellished, But for Less: Olomisa Women's Cowboy Rhinestone Boots
Want to become a crystallized cowgirl but don’t want to drop $230 on the Betsey Johnson boots? We understand, which is why we found this more budget-friendly version on Amazon — a nearly knee-high shafted boot with a stacked heel and countless rhinestones decorating the synthetic upper.
Though it’s less than half the price of our favorite bedazzled style, its lower cost definitely is reflected in its insole, which is less padded than the Betsey version and may cause a bit of discomfort by the end of the night. We’d suggest you slip on padded socks before sliding into your shoes and heading out the door.
Material: Synthetic leather, rubber | Sizes: 5-12 | Colors: 3 | Heel height: 2.2 inches | Shaft height: 15.4 inches | Toe shape: Pointed
Best Metallic: Billini Deacon Boots
After the reign of Beyonce’s Renaissance and Taylor Swift’s Eras tours, it’s no surprise that metallic Westernwear is on the rise — and what better way to channel these leading ladies’ styles than with a pair of shiny boots?
This silver pair from Billini features an faux crocodile upper and mid block heel to make dancing and walking a breeze. You can even snag these boots in a shiny black version if you want a more "wearable" shade. But if a short bootie is more of your speed, we think the Ulira Boot is another great option when channeling cyborg cowboy.
Material: Synthetic leather | Sizes: 5-10 | Colors: 10 | Heel height: 2.55 inches | Shaft height: 9 inches | Toe shape: Pointed
Best Ankle: Aldo Valley Western Boot
“Want to try the Western trend, but not sure if tall cowboy boots are your thing? Enter: short cowboy booties that offer a subtle walk on the wild (wild, west) side,” says senior shopping writer Claire Harmeyer. “With a silver pointed toe, block heel, and intricate topstitch details, these cowboy boots put a modern twist on classic country. Best of all, they feature Aldo's ‘pillow walk’ padding for an extra comfortable fit.” Harmeyer’s worn them with jeans, sundresses, and maxi skirts, you name it — all blissfully comfortable, every time.
Material: Leather, rubber | Sizes: 5-11 | Colors: 3 | Heel height: 2 inches | Shaft height: 6 inches | Toe shape: Pointed
Best with Fringe: SheSole Fringe Western Boots
Diving headfirst into the Western aesthetic? Then you’re going to want to have these fringey boots on your radar. Complete with a studded shaft and cascading strips of faux suede fringe, these boots perfectly evoke the spirit of the Wild West. Its long fringe strips add a performant bit of movement that’s sure to catch the eyes of everyone in the room (or crowd — we think these would be perfect for a concert). Grab them in this tan hue or opt for the black shade to best match your wild, wild wardrobe.
Material: Synthetic suede | Sizes: 6-11 | Colors: 2 | Heel height: 1.77 inches | Shaft height: 13.38 inches | Toe shape: Pointed
Best White: Steve Madden Hayward Cowboy Boots
As if made for the “coastal cowgirl” trend, these white boots are the perfect addition to anyone’s wardrobe — especially if they want a neutral, wear-anytime boot (though we particularly love these for spring and summer). Its shaft spans from around 14 to 15 inches depending on your shoe size, which brings it right under the calf. Plus, its 2-inch heel height gives you enough of a lift without being uncomfortable for all-day, everyday wear. Pair these embroidered boots with your favorite pair of denim jeans or a satin midi dress to make your boots look authentically you.
Material: Leather, synthetic rubber | Sizes: 5-11 | Colors: 2 | Heel height: 2 inches | Shaft height: 14.25-15.25 inches | Toe shape: Pointed
Best Black: Jeffrey Campbell Dagget Western Boot
If you want to channel cowgirl style in celeb fashion, then a black pair of Western boots is the way to go — and this pair from Jeffrey Campbell should be top of the list. Though it’s a fairly expensive pick, our writers and editors alike are fans of this trendy, pointed-toe style.
From its intricate, luxe stitching to its plethora of colors outside of black, there’s so much to love about this stylish boot. The shaft is on the traditional side with its 12-inch, calf-grazing length, but its 2.5-inch heel makes for the perfect fashion shoe without cramping your arches due to an uncomfortable height. (But if this is a little too pricey, we think the Arromic Cowgirl Boots are a super similar alternative.)
Material: Leather | Sizes: 5-11 | Colors: 9 | Heel height: 2.5 inches | Shaft height: 12 inches | Toe shape: Pointed
Best Red: Ariat Heritage R Toe StretchFit Western Boot
Fiery-red boots have become a staple in every fashionista’s wardrobe, and the Heritage boots from Ariat are here to bring to heat. This cowboy-approved boot is made for the field but fashionable enough to hit the streets, meaning you can really wear these anywhere and anywhere, all while being totally comfortable.
There are a ton of perks that come with this pair, like its removable, cushioned insole, Duratread sole for all-day wear, and StretchFit leather making it easier to pull on. This material also has the ability to expand and fit a range of calf sizes so your legs don’t feel squeezed when you slip into your boots. These red boots plus a black slip dress? A match made in heaven.
Material: Full-grain leather | Sizes: 5.5-11 | Colors: 5 | Heel height: 1.75 inches | Shaft height: 11.5 inches | Toe shape: Rounded
Best Investment Pair: Lucchese Cassidy Boot
Since cowboy boots can inch well into the thousands when they’re made ultra-well (and oftentimes custom), some would call the Cassidy boot from Lucchese a steal for the high-quality boot that it is. Constructed from the brand’s “Mad Dog” material, a high-tensile, wear-resistant leather purposefully distressed to allow the inevitable scratches and scuffs of time to blend in, this boot is made to go the distance with you — no matter if that’s spent in the great outdoors or under the disco lights.
With its high price comes a wide berth of customization, from the choice of the width of your shoe to the toe and heel sizes. If you’re confused about what size you’d be in this boot (after all, who knows their toe and heel width off the top of their head?) then you can refer to the brand’s size chart for a better idea.
Material: Mad Dog goat leather | Sizes: 6-11, B-C width | Colors: 2 | Heel height: 1.75 inches | Shaft height: 12 inches | Toe shape: Snip toe
Best Bridal: Ariat Pearl Western Boot
You’ve got your venue, your dress, and now all you need is that perfect pair of shoes. Brides going for the Western look, or anyone getting married on a scenic ranch, may want to consider a pair of glammed-up, white cowboy boots for their special day — and what better option than the Ariat Pearl Western boot?
This white, mid-calf boot is one of the most beautiful we’ve seen: featuring a smattering of gold-framed pearls that dance along the lines of delicate ivory embroidery decorating its pale leather. It includes a snip toe and warm-toned, stacked heel with a Goodyear welted sole, which allows you to resole the shoe after your day is done to preserve them forever. All you need now is something blue.
Material: Goodyear leather | Sizes: 5.5-11 | Colors: 1 | Heel height: 2.5 inches | Shaft height: 13 inches | Toe shape: Snip
Best High Heel: Schutz Maryana Block Boot
So you want a shoe that feels Western, but isn’t necessarily a cowboy boot, and also feels elevated enough to be worn out on the town. Enter: the Schutz Maryana Block Boot. Everything about this high-heel screams city girl, from the crocodile leather to the thick, block heel — that is, until you see its scalloped edges, which immediately calls back to cowgirl style. We love this boot as a middle-of-the-road option for someone who wants to evoke the cowboy style without explicitly wearing one of these boots, and we appreciate its ability to be elegantly dressed up.
Material: Crocodile-embossed leather | Sizes: 5-11 | Colors: 5 | Heel height: 3.3 inches | Shaft height: 13.6 inches | Toe shape: Round
How to Pick the Right Cowboy Boots
Shaft Height
“The shaft height is basically the tube of the boot,” Ruiz explains. This section usually has a scalloped edge and pull straps on each side. “The classic shaft height is 11 to 12 inches — that’s your traditional look,” she adds. You’ll typically find this height on a boot suited for the field, or any traditional cowboy boot — like the Lucchese Cassidy Boot. However, 14-inch shafts are typically the “sweet spot” for a fashion boot, Ruiz later adds. This length usually hits around the calf, like on the Berness Arizona Cowboy Boot or Durango Crush Narrow Boot. However, if you’re looking for something with a bit more height (think a knee-high boot), you’ll want to keep an eye out for a 17-inch shaft.
Heel Height
In general, cowboy boots are on the lower end of the scale when it comes to heel heights — but according to footwear designers, these kinds of boundaries aren’t as solid as they once were. “I think in this day and age, anything goes in a cowboy boot,” Ruiz says. While three inches are considered tall for a cowboy boot, you can find versions with an even steeper heel, and they can be as low as an inch (usually for everyday wear).
If you’re looking for something a little dressier with a higher heel, then you’ll want to consider the Western-inspired Schutz Maryana Block Boot. But if you want something on the lower side, the Ariat Heritage R Toe StretchFit Western Boot is a comfortable choice due to its 1.75-inch heel.
Material
The material of your cowboy boots is arguably one of the most important factors to consider as your pick out your rodeo-ready pair. While genuine leather is the most common (and preferred among real cowgirls), there are other options available depending on your budget and personal preferences. “You’ve got to look out for quality leathers — make sure that the construction is built welted and that the lining is leather,” says Ruiz, re-emphasizing the importance of Goodyear-welted soles.
However, if you’d rather opt for a vegan leather, that is totally doable — and oftentimes cheaper. Ruiz also recommends cactus leather as an alternative to genuine leather if you so prefer. But when it comes to faux leather, she recommends proceeding with caution. Faux leathers can be made from plastic blends, such as polyurethane, which may result in excess sweating. “The benefits are wearing a leather boot are that it's breathable and you're not going to feel super hot in them,” she adds. So if you’re headed to an outdoor concert venue in mid-July, you may want to opt for a genuine leather pair.
Colors
When it comes to the colors of your cowboy boots, the world is your oyster — but our experts have some tips for the fashion and function sides of things. Cuttrell prefers a classic color palette in order to get the most use out of them. “There is always something so special about a timeless cowboy boot that ages well and carries you through year after year,” she says. “I would personally lean towards black and brown for a great closet staple.”
Cuttrell understands the importance of a neutral go-to shoe, but Elizabeth Poett, a seventh-generation cattle rancher and the host of the Magnolia Network show Ranch to Table, wants you to embrace your colorful side if you plan to wear them in the field. “It is always a good idea to have a solid, deep brown that will go with everything, but I also love to have some fun colors that I can mix and match with my outfits throughout the years,” Poett tells PEOPLE. “Also, I love a boot with a pop of color at the top of the shaft that is covered by my bootcut jeans. Even though the color doesn't show, it’s a pop of personality.” In short, you can’t go wrong with earth tones or rainbows — just make sure it’s a shade you’ll wear often.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the different styles of cowboy boots out there?
Cowboy boots come in many shapes and sizes, but what you can keep an eye out for is different toe shapes. A defining aspect of a cowboy boot is its toe, and the most common silhouettes you’ll see are snip toe, like the The Annie from Tecovas or the Durango Black Rosewoods, and pointed toe, such as the Crown Vintage Sila Western Boot. (A snip toe is nearly a pointed-toe boot, but it flattens out at the tip like it’s been snipped off.) However, you can also find rounded toe shapes, like the Ariat Heritage R Toe StretchFit Western Boot, or square toes, which look just like they sound.
If your boots’ purpose is to be worn in the field rather than for fashion, Poett has a few words of advice. “I find when I am working on the ranch, I go with a cowboy boot with a round or square toe for comfort,” she shares. “[But] when I am going out to dinner or feeling fancy, I love a cowboy boot with a little bit more of a heel and a pointed toe.” Wherever and whenever you plan on channeling your inner cowgirl, there’s a boot waiting for you.
How should cowboy boots fit?
Of course, there’s no better way to find your perfect fit except by taking a trip to the store. But if you’re eyeing a pair from a brand that doesn’t have a storefront near you, your best bet is to stay true to size. “A perfect fit means your toes are comfortable with wiggle room, and the leather should be snug across the broadest part of your foot,” advises Eduardo Nieuwenhuyzen, Senior Creative Director at Allen Edmonds. And since it’s typically made of leather, creasing isn’t something you should be afraid of — in fact, it’s an indicator that they fit correctly. Mark Recchi, VP of Research and Development at Rocky Brands Inc., says you’ll know you’ve found the right fit when “the boot creases when bent across the widest part of your foot.”
But if you’re in fact purchasing a genuine leather pair, then it may be in your best interest to size down. “I find cowboy boots tend to stretch over time so I often purchase them with a bit of a snug fit,” says Poett. But she reminds us that comfort is key, so forcing a fit in a boot that’s too small is not helpful. For reference, Recchi says that: “You want your foot to feel like the boot has the pressure from a slightly firm handshake.”
Another aspect to keep in mind when it comes to fit? The shape of the toe. “If you're a size seven, start with a seven — but depending on the toe shape, or width of the boot, you might want to go up or down,” Ruiz recommends. Pointed-toe designs are often culprits of a too-narrow fit due to their tapered design. And if you feel your heel lift while you walk, it’s no cause for alarm. The footwear designer states that anything around a half-inch of lift is perfectly normal (and actually preferable).
How should you clean leather cowboy boots?
Taking care of leather boots is no different than how you would treat any other leather products you own. “Routinely cleaning and conditioning will prevent drying out the leather, increase longevity, and keep your boots strong and durable,” says Nieuwenhuyzen. But what if you want to prevent messes, like mud and water stains, before they even have the chance to happen? “Rubber outsoles — those would definitely work,” says Ruiz. The designer recommends them for rainy or snowy conditions or anytime when you know your shoes have the potential to get messy.
How should you style cowboy boots?
“I think pairing cowboy boots with a chic, long dress elevates the look,” Cuttrell says “The juxtaposition of a simple dress and a classic cowboy boot is super interesting and feels dressed up.” However, the renowned stylist can appreciate a dressed-down outfit with a Western accent, as well. “I love dressing cowboy boots down for a casual look with a great pair of jean shorts and an effortless white button-down.”
Recchi, however, left us with these final words: “A true cowboy wears boots every day, no matter the weather.” Cowgirls and cowboys alike can style their new Western kicks any way they choose.
Take Our Word For It
Alyssa Brascia is a shopping writer for PEOPLE specializing in fashion and beauty. She has also written shopping stories for other Dotdash Meredith brands such as InStyle, Shape, and Southern Living. For this article, she researched the most popular styles, silhouettes, and fabrics of cowboy boots in 2024, while also tapping experts across several areas of the industry to contribute their insights on the topic. Our contributors include experts Mimi Cuttrell, Elizabeth Ruiz, Elizabeth Poett, Eduardo Nieuwenhuyzen, and Mark Recchi, along with tested insights from our own editors, as well.
Meet Our Experts
Mimi Cuttrell is a New York and Los Angeles-based celebrity fashion stylist and DSW Style Authority, best known for her street style looks on several models, actresses, and more.
Elizabeth Ruiz is the Senior Footwear Designer at Tecovas, specializes in Western shoes and has previous footwear design experience at Caleres Inc. and Kenneth Cole, along with many other brands.
Elizabeth Poett is a seventh-generation cattle rancher and the host of the lighthearted cooking show Ranch to Table on Magnolia Network.
Eduardo Nieuwenhuyzen is the Senior Creative Director at Allen Edmonds who has expertise in the world of leather footwear and over five years in a leading role at Caleres Inc.
Mark Recchi is the Vice President of Research and Development at Rocky Brands Inc., a leading manufacturer and marketer of Western and work-related footwear and apparel such as Durango, Rocky Boots, Georgia Boot, and more.
Erin Johnson is a New York-based Senior Shopping Editor at PEOPLE, who has over 9 years of experience in the digital media industry with specializations in fashion and home — and hailing from Tennessee, she also grew up in cowboy boots.
Claire Harmeyer is a New York-based Senior Shopping Writer at PEOPLE who specializes in fashion and has over 5 years of experience in the digital media space. She shares a love for all things Western.
Related: The 11 Best Wide-Calf Boots of 2023 You Can Wear All Day Long
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