How tight should western work boots fit? Wondering how to fit western boots or how your western boots should fit? Check out our step-by-step instructions here and learn more about how to try on your next pair of western boots.
To fit your western boots correctly, you need to consider several factors. With so many styles and shapes to choose from, finding the right boot can be tricky.
We started making Ariat western boots in 1995 and some of those original styles, such as the Heritage Roper and the Heritage Lacer; are among our best-selling products today. So it's fair to say we know a thing or two about boots.
To help you find your absolute perfect fit, we've put together an ultimate six-step guide to get you started the right way.
How to wear western boots?
1. Put on the boot and listen for the slight "pop" as your foot slides into place.
2. Confirm the correct amount of heel lift (there should be some lift, but not too much).
3. Stand comfortably and then place a thumb sideways between the ball of your toe and the end of your boot. This is the right amount of space between the toes and the end of the boot.
4. Walk to confirm comfort, fit, and heel lift
Put on Those Boots
The first thing to do when putting on a new pair of boots is to insert your foot into the shaft of the boot and grip the pull tabs or holes firmly.
The shaft is the top of the boot where the calf and shin will rest.
Depending on the boot, there are holes or tabs to put the boot on.
Once you pull the boots past the resistance point on the arch, you will hear a slight click as your foot enters its resting place. The point of resistance comes from the top of your foot in the arch area and also from your heel in the shank.
Check for Slight Heel Lift
A heel lift is a gap between the insole of the boot and the heel. It is caused by a small amount of space from the arch to the toe area of the boot. This opening should not exceed 1/8 inch and is necessary for a snug and comfortable fit.
When putting on the boots, you may experience a slight resistance in the arch area of the boot. This is to be expected as it ensures that your foot fits properly and ensures that your heel also has the correct heel lift.
Check the Fit
Once your feet feel comfortable, stand in your boots and try using a side thumb to measure the distance between the tip of your toe and the tip of the boot.
The toe should rest about a thumb's width from the end of the toe box. Here are a few things to keep in mind:
The toe box is the part of the boot that contains the toes. It is the part of the boot that starts at the base of the toes and ends at the tip of the boot. Wider toe shapes often have a wider toe box.
Remember that everyone's toes are different lengths, so it's always a good idea to have that thumb lateral distance from the tip of the toe to the end of the toe box.
Walk Around to Confirm Comfort and Fit
Whether you're trying on boots in the store or at home, be sure to walk around on them to make sure you're getting the right heel lift. Remember that 1/8 inch is the ideal clearance for heel lift. More than that and the boots will feel large and clunky, anything less will make the boots feel too tight.
Remember that the socks also affect the fit of the boot. We recommend wearing a good boot sock when trying on a boot. Remember that the sock the boot will be fitted to should be the same sock that you will be wearing in the boots. A thicker sock may require a larger size or a thinner sock may appear to have a more snug fit.