On material things , I have but 3 Goals in life : I would Love to have 3 Custom things made especially for me . A Bowie Knife , A Guitar , and a Nice Pair of Cowboy Boots . All Custom . I’ve owned over 70 pair of cowboy boots in my life and every single pair had at least one thing wrong with them . Nothing major / but something that could of been better . “ Custom “! Yes ! Dream Big Right !?!? Haha
those are three great goals! Custom is definitely the best way to go but it does get pricey and probably not the best option for someone just getting into it. I can't blame you though. I can't wait to get my first custom pair too. That's a long ways off though hahah
The Guitar is probably way out of reach . But the knife is Possibke ( I actually did find a place that will do one per speck for me / but pretty pricey ). For the boots ??? I think I’m going to actually have them done in 2020 . I have a friend in Nashville who knows a guy . So our next trip out there I will be introduced and get an estimate. ( I’m going to sell a lot of knives to achieve this ). I hope you keep us posted on your custom pair as you know I will absolutely let you know . Come on 2020 !!!! Thanks guys 🤠🔪🇺🇸( they really need to make men’s cowboy boots emoji’s - Brown and Black ones haha )
We make custom boots and private label boots in El Paso, TX. Hand made to your specs and liking. Botas Nueva Vizcaya. Wholesale Clients from NYC Boutiques, Santa Fe, Fort Worth, Houston, with retail customers in most states and abroad. All ?'s answered w no obligation Bnvboots@gmail.com w Tony
When I was in high school I owned my first pair of cowboy boots and I thoroughly enjoyed-so much I put a hold in the sole and need to resolve them after a year, of course, they were 100 dollar code west but they worked. I remembered how much I enjoyed them but could never replicate that feeling because I just could never cough up the money for the boots that I REALLY WANTED. I appreciate the craftsmanship and quality of a great pair of boots. So happy to say 😁, the wife gifted me a pair of Lucchese crocodile boots for Christmas! MAN I LOVE THEM! I pulled them right out of the box and started wearing them right away and haven’t stopped! 😂 thanks for the video my friend. I will be wearing and enjoying my new lucchese daily.
We're stationed out here in Arizona and it's funny to see so many people balk at the cost of a decent pair of cowboy boots, maybe the $200 price range.... but they won't think twice about spending that on some combat boots. The ones that finally break down and spend the money are greatly impressed with comfort, durability, and I make sure to let them know they can get them repaired as they wear out instead of buying new boots all over again.
I am currently shopping for just my second pair of cowboy boots ...my first pair was way, way, back in 1977 when I purchased a new pair of Frye's. I was 24 then and had just purchased a motorcycle so I needed some boots for riding. I just recently sold those boots because they no longer fit, but believe it or not, they were still in great condition! My wife thinks I'm crazy for wanting to get a pair of cowboy boots, but I feel the need. Jeremiah, please keep the great vids coming...thanks to you, I have learned enough to make an informed decision.
Yes sir, you did change my mind. Just this past weekend I bought my self 3 pair of cowboy boots. A pair of Ariats, Justins and Dan Post. First time wearing cowboy boots. Ive always wanted a pair. I was mind blown on how comfortable they are. I went ahead and treated myself. Im never buying a pair of sneakers or air forces ever again. What you said in this video makes perfect sense. No longer spending my money on rubber or plastic. Thank you 👍
I have a pair of Lucasee boots that are over 30 years old. Even back then they were over $500. I think closer to 700. But if you only have one pair of boots, I say spend the money and get quality, because they last. Still have them, still wear them.
Some of them are really expensive because they are custom made or handcrafted and in a regular basis are all leather crafted but some of them from comercial brands are cheaper and long lasting and use less expensive materials....
Definitely! The materials matter, the building process, where they're made, shipping, so much! haha. The video would have probably been an hour long or so to really explain all the different things that make up the cost of a boot. Hopefully this video gets the new folks to look into it more.
I bought my first pair of cowboy boots back in 2006. I will have to retire them this year as I have worn holes into them. Definitely worth the $110 I paid for them! I have put them through the paces on the farm and everything else you can imagine!
Good video. If it haven’t been done before a extensive video about how to know how to fit a boot properly would be nice. It’s the main problem most of us have when starting out.
Jeremiah Craig that would be nice. The salesmen in my area don’t know crap. It would be nice too if your brother would do a review of his amazing looking brown boulet.
True! But as a cowboy boot lover, it breaks my heart to say that most cowboy boots were made in an excellent quality(hard leather insole etc) back in 80s 90s in a cheaper price (even if you consider the inflation rate). It's way too expensive and difficult to find handmade classic cowboy boots these days and most well-known cowboy boot company they put rubber and plastic to sell them in a cheaper price. I remember hearing this from a cowboy bootstore owner in Paris, that major cowboy boot brand we all know used to make cowboy boots with richer quality that could last 30 years or more. Man I wish I was born 30 years earlier..Correct me if I'm wrong because I really want to find an excellent cowboy boot that can last more than 20 years.
Hi Augustus! You're right! As costs increased manufacturing techniques and materials changed but you can still find those older boots on ebay, Poshmark and other places online. There are also a few brands who make boots like they used to. Hondo is one that is still in the $200-$300 price range for the most part and they are all made traditionally
One of my favorite pairs of cowboy boots is my cheapest pair. I just love the shape of them, they are a snipped toe without being too pointy, so more like a round toe with a snip. And the toes turn up a little. The soles are a hard vinyl and the shaft isn’t lined with leather. But they look awesome on me. I don’t mind spending money on good boots, they last forever...But lately I buy second hand, so it doesn’t matter. I just wish there were more made in the USA brands.
Second hand is a great way to go. Especially if you buy from someone who doesn't know the value of cowboy boots. I've gotten a couple of pairs that were only worn a few times for around 25 bucks and they last years! Gotta love it
I just bought my first pair. Fully handmade in my homecountry Finland for 260€. I expect and know them to last really long time and also repairs to be available. After looking up how shoes are made by watching some videos I also figured from just a few words of the seller that these boots are quality.
same philosophy I used in a coat I bought in Switzerland. At the time it was $300SF and I thought holy smokes. I'm still wearing it 30 years later!! Quality is worth the higher price in things if you are a person that wears it well over many years!
I’ve lucked out on boot deals since my size is 14/15 depending on the MFG. got a set of vintage Mexico hornback alligators for 250 instead of the 325 asking. Just this week got a set of ariat heritage ropers that looked brand new but got them for $50 plus shipping ($180 retail ) soles weren’t even scuffed. Also got a set of the ariat work series for $75 since they were old stock from ebay retailer.
PRO TIP: When you buy a new pair of C.Boots they "usually" come with leather sole, well they are SLIPPERY, it is a fact, specially in kitchens, bathrooms or any wet surface, BEWARE. So I take them as new to the shoe repair guy and ask for a non slippery sole usually they glue a thin rugged sole similar to sand paper (it is not sand paper) or something in those whereabouts, well besides fixing the slippery issue this extends the life of your sole for a WHOLE lot, with this you just have to give maintenance to the hell part of the boot once every two years. Cheaper maintenance, long lasting footwear. Great deal.
I just ordered my 4th pair of Tecova’s and they should be delivered Monday (yeah baby!)…. As I was selecting my latest pair online, I noticed The Nolan’s in bourbon lizard are priced at $335. I bought the same pair several years ago, when Tecova’s were just getting started, and I believe I only paid around $225 or so (if I remember correctly). Even though they are worth every penny, I know I didn’t pay $335. I’m glad they are going up in value.
I wore nothing but cowboy boots from birth until my teens. Now after a 30 year gap I've got some again. Double H with the ICE sole, worn every day for the last 6 months with 4 to 6 miles of walking a day at work they show barely any wear so I expect maybe 5 to 7 years before they need resole, at $225 great deal. You should check them out.
It depends on the brand, and the skins. Lucchese boots, for example, are a higher price brand than Durango. A pair of caiman boots are more expensive than a pair of regular leather. It's in the materials, and certain other aspects.
I have flat feet and the sneakers made for people like me such as Brooks and Asics run for $169.99 and they guarantee it to suport you for 3 months then you have to get new pairs. Add $169.99 without tax every 3 months that's around 679.96 a year in sneakers alone. I decided to get boots instead they provide better suport because the heel keeps flat feet a bit stable. I find the investment better than damn sneakers.
I think cowboy boots are quite cheap compare to other boots style like work boots( red wings) or service boots( viberg). I live in Canada and there are 2 companies that i know of (Canada West and Boulet) that make their boots in-house for less than 300$( depends on the retailer store though). And near my parents house in Viet Nam, there is a small store that make custom boots for ~250$. Tldr: cowboy boots are worth it. It really are cheap for what they do.
My Russian Tarpaulin boots were $61.99 CAD plus $13.99 CAD shipping and they are brand new from military storage. The heels and soles are nailed on and I cant find any evidence of a welt, the heel is one piece rubber, the midsole is a very thick leather and the rubber outsole is nailed on. The foot is very thick cowhide and there is what looks like a pig hide reinforcement strip that runs up the back of the boot. The shaft is an artificial leather developed in WW2 that is very stiff and looks very much like pig hide. Inside mine came with thick leather insoles. Although the seller I delt with does not differentiate widths the Russian boots come in 4, y is narrow, c is medium, w is wide and ow is extra wide. The Finnish boots I think I spent just under $60 CAD for with the $13.99 CAD shipping. They arrived well used but with tons of life in them. The shaft and foot are solid, unlined, thick leather. There is a leather midsole and a stacked leather heel with a nailed on rubber heel cap. The outer sole is rubber with a very good Goodyear welt. The sizes run very large and wide with the Finnish boots but I didnt know just how much until my size 42 (American size 9) arrived! A size 10 could likely easily fit them and if I ever find a size 41 for a good price I am buying a second pair. I run heavy felt insoles and arctic weight wool socks in them even in the summer (typically it does not break 30 degrees Celsius here) and it is like walking on marshmallows almost. I highly recommend a jackboot, the Russians can even be found in full leather for less than $200 CAD shipped brand new. That is a life investment! All that was ment to help reinforce what you are saying, in the long run a good pair of boots is a lifelong friend!
Nope, you must be talking about the expensive boots. I bought a pair for riding from boot barn a real pair of ariat leather with leather and it was on only $100. Yeah I love mine and I didn't spend the numbers you have been saying, but thanks.
Bought my ostrich full quill boots I’m Harlingen Texas for 250 bucks just got the soles re done and they are ready for another two years while I bought some 200 dollar air maxes that lasted me a year
Im sure some people wear out sneakers in a heartbeat, but I tend to get 5 or 6 years from a single pair of shoes while wearing them daily. I tend to try to get running shoes if I can because the soles tend to last a lot longer (when NOT used for running) I paid $60 for my current pair of Nikes on clearance and have had them 5 years now, so my per year cost is $12 and I will probably get another year out of them before I buy a new pair. They are my only pair of shoes (other than my boot collection which never get worn outdoors). Im not knocking the video or anything, but the last time I had a pair of sneakers fell apart after a year of wearing them, I was 16 and had gone swimming in a lake while wearing them. Are cowboy boots worth it in the long run? Sure. But I think buying new sneakers each and every year is a bit of an exaggeration, which in turn screws up the "per year cost" comparison.
Makes sense from your perspective. On the other hand, I beat the shit out of everything I own so a lack of quality becomes apparent quickly. Before I went to cowboy boots I couldn't keep a pair of sneakers for a year and it's a big reason why I fell in love with cowboy boots. The fact is, they just last even when you treat them like shit
@@JeremiahCraig You are quite welcome. Just putting a different perspective on things. Not everything works for everyone. You got me thinking though, in the last 20 years, I think I've bought 3 or 4 pairs of sneakers, which are always my primary footwear. I did have one pair of "work boots" as well for winter's in New England. I put work boots in quotes because they were actually surplus Marine Infantry boots that I bought online. Those lasted me a good 10+ years and only tossed them out when I moved to Florida. So I think in total my shoe budget for the last 20 years has been just under $500ish. But yeah, I totally agree if you are in a line of work that just trashes clothing, then you need to spend the extra to get something durable. My winter work boots would have been toast after 2 seasons if I had gone cheap on them.
The reason they are so expensive is because of the quality craftsmanship that goes into them. Now there a some cheap junk boots that don't last. Good ones can be resoled and repaired and will last forever almost. You do have some responsibilities, such as, cleaning and conditioning. If that's done regularly and they get resoled when needed, they will last. My oldest boot are my Tony Lama alligator. I purchased them in 1998. To this day, they still look like they just came out the box. It's all how the consumer takes care of them.
Ok, guys and Jeremiah. I am stationed in New York City, no cow country here whats so ever, walked every where and NADA. So what is the nearest farm/tack/boot/horse supply store near here within a weekend travel distance (airplane, train or bus)? anyone?
But yeah, I love boots. I have a pair of Boulets that I absolutely love and a vintage 30 or 40 year old pair of 14-16 riding boots that were actually used, absurdly good quality and I can tell it's hand made. I intend to get myself some tecovas, and eventually a pair of Lechusse's or two
@@JeremiahCraig yea I always wondered how you got them so cheap. I figured maybe it was because it was almost 15 years ago since you got yours but who knows. I like the boots just not customer service..as you know and as I've found out from experience first hand!
I was your age,give or take,when I started knowing what I like(birkinstock.3different styles.couldve taken better care of some of them but still have 2 of 5-6 pair from 20ish years ago. didn't love the look but didn't despise the look either. ...comfortable healthy feet to show for ponying up for multiple pairs of quality shoes & rotating wear.enough of that mess...it's blog time...& I'm talking to mr.Craig wit a boot at the end of his leg.(rap!you have permission to use that as part of the outro..,your welcome)going ariat1st.maybe.quickdraw or .sthn likeat.Will.check out Spain & others asap.thx for tips & your hard earned knowledge. L8r "Perceived cost" I believe is how you put it....Curch!
The factory outsole on my Tecovas I bought brand new in July of this year (2019) has already started to come apart from the welt... Is it even worth a resole on a boot that's quality is this low? Edit: And on average I've probably only worn them once every 3 days, usually not all day and most of the time not on concrete/asphalt.
Jeremiah, not sure if you answered this before, but does your lady wear boots? Love to see a review with both of you that's if she's passionate like you of course
She does wear boots but she's hard to fit. We did this review together for Alcalas python booties! ru-vid.com/video/%D0%B2%D0%B8%D0%B4%D0%B5%D0%BE-Q42LvbuC8yc.html
Cowboy boots aren’t cheap, but they aren’t expensive either, unless we are talking about extremely exotic skins. In my opinion $200-$300 for such boots is a reasonable range.
Plus, sneakers have a time frame on distance and its only about 100 miles, and then they are worthless, true story. cowboy boots they still work with duck tape...BTDT, in the middle of no where....
El Paso is an awesome city for boots but I think that goes for a lot of places in Texas too haha. That could be a huge debate topic. Leon Mexico is a huge city for boot making too. TONS of quality stuff is made there as well
I find this to be so true. Even in shoes. Buy quality and they last. I bought two pairs of SAS shoes about twelve years ago. Still have one of them. American made and built to last. Ugly though. lol That's why I'm back into boots after almost 40 years. Thanks for the videos Mr. Craig.
Judging from the posts by your followers they understand the cost of good boots. Those who wear them once in while have the pleasure of style and obvious quality. Those of us who make or have made a living being stewards of Gods creatures, mainly cows and horses, rely on good boots to help get the job done. In our world quality translates to longevity. Longevity is the ultimate cost reducer. My wife bought me a hat in 1995, cost $500 or $600. She could have bought one for $75 and I would have trashed it in a few months. My hat gets refurbished every couple years and looks like new. Basically what I am saying is I that have a quality hat that so far is costing me less per year than what buying a new second rate hat would. It appears your followers understand that this applies to boots as well.
I don't see them being more expensive than that $150-$300 dollar Nike, Jordan, Adidas sneaker, majority of which are made very cheaply. Unless your boots are custom of course.
You can find those deals once in awhile. In 2019, I snagged a pair of Dan Post waterproof work style cowboy boots at a garage sale for $15. It looked like they were only wore a few times. I use them for motorcycling, but they can be hot in the summertime. I think the same boots retail for around $200.
I’ve had cowboy boots in the last 50 years that cost anywhere from $35 to $280. Some I have had for 20 years, resoled and heeled once. So in that respect, a pair of boots that cost me $200, re done once in ten years, last me 20 years put them at around $10 a year, bargain!
Make sure you don't buy a shitty boot too. Stay away from Tecovas unless you want fraying, odd sizes and low quality construction. And yeehaw cowboy has financing on boots. I think it's stupid to finance anything but if you want a great pair for less a month it's not bad.
I told my girlfriend (now wife), yes boots aren't $20 on sale, but I can wear them casually, use them for work, and with a bit of care, take them to a job interview. And they'll last much longer than her sneakers.
Jeremiah, good, American-made boots are worth every penny. It's just sad to see when people pay a lot for Ariats, cheap Chinese crap. Save your money and buy American, but be selective. Good, vintage boots are a legitimate choice for quality.
True I agree but it's all about what people are looking for in a boot. I'm not the biggest fan of Chinese cowboy boot quality either but they have their value nonetheless. Ariat seems to be making moves to build more boots in Mexico and the US even. Everything has its place I guess
I spent 320 bucks on my first cowboy boots. Some el Dorados. The sole on the right foot is slipping off a little bit and im fuckin pissed. Haven't even had em a week. Wtf boot barn. Stay away from them
But I would 'totally' love to buy 120 dollar sneakers that last 6 months that are made over seas in China instead of my slightly used all American high quality real lizard hide leather hand crafted boots that will last a lifetime... Not Boots for life
