Many of us own a pair of cowboys boots, even though we have never been anywhere near a ranch, or even been on a horse. Yet, we seem to have a fascination with the cowboy boot regardless of whether we live in a small town or in a large city. What is it about the cowboy boot that attracts so many of us? Here are a few reasons that may help us understand a little better.

First, the cowboy boot may not be part of your personal background, but it figures prominently in our collective historical and cultural heritage. Visions of the struggles to settle new areas and to build new communities remind us of the role the cowboy played in maintaining that momentum, driving cattle to market, performing any number of tasks on a working ranch, and providing many of us with heroes to look up to. When we slip on the cowboy boot, a part of us is connecting with the past in a powerful way.

Another reason many of us enjoy the cowboy boot is one of practicality. There are those of us who work in environments that require sturdy footwear. The cowboy boot is indeed strong and provides excellent coverage from all sorts of weather and ground conditions. We never have to worry about getting our feet wet or whether we have adequate protection from other dangers. We know the cowboy boot will do the trick in just about every situation.

Next, some of us just like the way they feel on our feet. Shoes are just fine, but the cowboy boot, when it fits our foot properly, can be as comfortable as running around barefoot. For people who dress for comfort as much as possible, the cowboy boot is often an excellent choice as part of casual wear.

Of course, there are those who wear the cowboy boot just for appearances sake. From time to time, the cowboy boot becomes a national craze. When this happens, you will see all sorts of colors, materials, and designs on the cowboy boot. Once the fad runs its course, all the gloss and glitter versions will disappear. The tried and true utilitarian cowboy boot will reign supreme again among its adherents. The glitter will go back to some parts of the country music industry, but not all. Many a country musician is more comfortable with a good quality cowboy boot that will last for a long time.