Brand new cowboy boots can be unpredictable in terms of the fit. Some boots will fit well from the start, supporting your foot without causing you any discomfort. However, most cowboy boots need a little bit of care and attention to get them fitting just right. If you've never bought cowboy boots before, it's in your best interest to familiarize yourself with the tips and techniques for breaking them in. Here's a look at some different ways to improve the comfort of your new boots.
Walking In Them
The more you walk in your new cowboy boots, the more the leather will soften and wear, making them fit more comfortably. Unfortunately, the process of getting there can be slow, and that may leave you with sore feet in the meantime. If you opt for this method, do it gradually by wearing the boots for brief periods and increasing the wear time gradually as they become more comfortable.
You'll also want to wear wool socks if you're going to use this method. The wool will draw moisture away from your feet, while cotton will leave it against your skin. It's in your best interest to keep moisture away to reduce your risk of discomfort.
Getting Them Wet
One method that some people swear by is the water method for breaking in cowboy boots. Under this approach, you'll get your new boots completely wet, either by walking through a deep stream on a ride or by standing in a bucket for five to ten minutes. Then, wear the boots until they're dry. The goal is for the boots to conform to your feet while they're wet and dry that way.
Don't use a hairdryer or anything else to speed up the drying process, though. The boots need to dry naturally to avoid chapping the leather. Once they are completely dry, you can treat them with a quality saddle oil to keep them in good condition.
Oiling Them
Sometimes, a little bit of oil and massage is all your boots need to get them fitting perfectly. Opt for saddle oil or another leather-specific oil, and work it into the leather repeatedly to soften it and help your boots give a little bit. Then, they'll form to your feet more easily. The added benefit to this method is that the oil will also give your boots some waterproofing protection.
As you can see, there are several different options for breaking in new cowboy boots. While each person who wears them has their own preferred method, it's up to you to decide which one you'd prefer to use when you buy your first pair. For more tips, contact a retailer like Cowpokes.
