I’ve been an obsessed horse girl ever since I was a little kid.
The moment I got my first pair of Ariats at 13 it was game over, dude.
Their comfy leather and funky stitching kept my feet happier than a pig in mud while saddled up.
But lately I’ve been itching to try some new brands instead of sticking to my Ariat faithfuls.
Through my explore sesh, I discovered there’s actually a bunch of solid alternates that give Ariat a run for their money in terms of quality, comfort, and rad style!
Ariat’s been numero uno for riding boots forever, but you’d be shocked at all their competitors killing the game.
Tony Lama
Founded in 1911 in the great state of Texas, Tony Lama serves up boots with beautiful stitching and detailing that feel worn in right off the bat.
Their leather quality is seriously top notch and on par with Ariat.
I tried on a pair of their floral embroidered boots at a local shop and was impressed with how comfy they were.
The leather lining molds perfectly to your foot for a custom feel.
They have loads of fun, flashy designs to choose from, like their pink camo Tin Haul collection.
Prices range from around $180 to $500, so they have options for every budget.
Tony Lama sells styles tailored for both Western and English riding so you can get the performance features you need.
They use excellent waterproofing to keep your feet dry on those muddy trail rides.
Overall the quality and construction is right on par with what I’m used to from Ariat.
Justin
In business since way back in 1879, Justin puts a modern spin on traditional cowboy boot designs.
They’re a solid choice if you want something fashionable for both riding and everyday wear.
I tried on their Gypsy collection with gorgeous embroidered patterns and fell in love.
The detailing gives their boots such a fun, artsy vibe.
They use high quality leathers that feel buttery soft right out of the box.
Justin has a lightweight composite shank that provides stability without weighing your feet down.
Their boots are very affordable, with most styles under $200.
They have specific English and Western riding boots to suit your equestrian needs.
You can’t go wrong with their signature blue ribbon accents and detailed stitching.
For a stylish, modern take on cowboy boots, Justin is a wonderful option.
Luchese
Handcrafted in Texas since way back in 1883, Luchese boots offer incredible comfort and support.
Made from premium leathers, they’ll seriously last you forever when properly cared for.
I tried on their Plateau range, crafted from lush full quill ostrich—amazing.
Their boot shanks provide excellent stability whether you’re on your horse or walking around.
Luchese uses meticulous stitching and hand-laid edging for beautiful detailing.
They’re on the pricier side, ranging from $500 to over $1000.
But the quality is unmatched and worth the investment in my opinion.
The leathers mold perfectly to your feet right away for a fully custom fit.
Luchese has an awesome range of intricate embellishments to choose from too.
For stunning cowboy boots made the traditional way, Luchese has you covered.
Anderson Bean
Offering both Western and English riding styles, Anderson Bean prides itself on achieving a flawless custom fit.
Their boots mold to your feet like a dream right out of the box.
I was fitted for a pair of their exotic lizard boots and was amazed at the instant comfort.
They use high quality leathers that conform to your unique foot shape.
Anderson Bean’s craftsmanship and construction is seriously top notch.
Their boots also properly support and cradle your feet when riding.
Prices generally range from $300 to over $1000 for more elaborate exotic materials.
They have an awesome range of leather choices like ostrich, stingray, and elephant.
Anderson Bean boots boast beautiful stitch detailing for a one-of-a-kind look.
For a fully custom fit and feel, you can’t beat Anderson Bean.
Twisted X
A fresher company established in 2005, Twisted X injects cowboy boots with playful colors and designs.
They are perfect if you want something stylish with a funky modern twist.
I love their driving mocs with cool patterns that jazz up ordinary boots.
Twisted X uses really soft, flexible leathers that don’t require a break-in period.
The vibrant colors they offer add flair to any outfit.
They have options specifically designed for ranch work or riding.
Prices are very affordable, ranging from $60 to $200.
Twisted X boots are extremely lightweight thanks to their flexible soles.
They also incorporate serious safety features like steel toes.
For cowboy boots that shake up tradition, Twisted X delivers.
Dan Post
Specializing in handcrafted boots since 1945, Dan Post is known for its signature blue label and reasonable prices.
Their boots feature expert leatherwork and detailing at an accessible price point.
I tried on some of their hand-tooled designs and was impressed with the quality.
They use supple, durable leathers that last forever with proper care.
Dan Post offers both Western and work boot styles to choose from.
Most of their boots range from $120 to $200, making them a budget-friendly option.
They have riding-specific boots with adequate heel support and grip.
Dan Post also incorporates flexible bottoms and lightweight materials.
For well-made, reasonably priced cowboy boots, you can rely on Dan Post.
Laredo
In business since 1923, Laredo offers a wide selection of boot styles.
Along with Western boots, they also have hiking and work boots.
I checked out their Longhorn collection with gorgeous hand-stitching you’ve got to see.
They use extremely durable leathers that hold up through years of heavy wear.
Laredo boots feature cushioned insoles for impressive all-day comfort.
Most of their styles range from $80 to $200, making them budget-friendly.
They have men’s, women’s, and kids’ boot sizes and widths.
Laredo incorporates lightweight shanks for stability and support when moving.
Their boots also have excellent traction and slip resistance.
For well-priced, long-lasting boots, Laredo is a stellar choice.
Durango
Known for full-grain leather and quality hardware, Durango boots are made to last through years of frequent wear.
I was impressed by the durability when examining their materials and construction.
They hold up incredibly well through repeated use in harsh conditions.
Durango offers both Western and work boot styles for men and women.
Their signature stitching and embellished designs make the boots quite fashionable too.
Most Durango boots range from $120 to $200 price-wise.
They have riding-specific boots with ample heel support and traction.
The materials also repel moisture and stand up to the elements.
For hardy, heavy-duty boots, Durango is a wonderful bang-for-your-buck option.
Rios of Mercedes
These gorgeous exotic leather boots from Mexico bring serious flair to your footwear.
Rios of Mercedes uses beautifully embroidered designs crafted by artisans.
I tried on their ostrich skin boots with intricate stitched patterns that stunned.
They incorporate high quality materials like snake, lizard, and stingray leathers.
Each pair features unique and elaborate embellishments.
These dazzling boots range from $500 to $1000.
Rios of Mercedes offers matching belts, wallets, and accessories too.
The cushioned insoles provide comfortable support all day long.
For exotic cowboy boots that make a statement, check out Rios of Mercedes.
Old Gringo
Funky cowboy boots handmade in Leon, Mexico since 1992.
Old Gringo does awesome patterns and embellishments that set them apart.
I adore their artistic, colorful designs like the painted floral motifs.
They use supple, pliant leathers that feel fantastic right away.
Old Gringo offers women’s styles with chunky heels and whimsical themes.
Prices range from around $250 to $500.
Their boots are seriously comfortable thanks to cushioned insoles.
Old Gringo has trendy Western styles that work for the city too.
For one-of-a-kind cowboy boots with artistic flair, Old Gringo is perfect.
Corral
Family-owned since 1983, Corral uses detailed stitching and eye-catching design elements on all its boots.
I’m obsessed with the embroidered style and colors they offer.
Corral boots feature fancy overlays, embellishments, and creative patterns.
They use high quality leathers that feel wonderful when you slip them on.
Most Corral boots range from $150 to $300.
They have riding, Western, and work boot styles available.
Corral incorporates flexible bottoms and lightweight materials.
The boots are very comfortable right away thanks to cushioned insoles.
For cowboy boots with artistic style, Corral Boots has you covered.
Roper
Roper offers affordably priced everyday Western boots suitable for riding and other activities.
Tried and true, they’re a classic brand with wide appeal.
Roper uses durable leathers that hold up well through repeated wear.
Their riding boots have ample heel support and traction.
Most of their vast selection costs between $80 and $120.
Roper boots feature vibrantly colored stitching and embellishments.
They have mens, womens, and kids boots in sizes down to toddler.
The flexible walking soles provide stability when you’re on the move.
For a classically styled, budget-friendly boot, Roper delivers.
Frye
Known for their signature harness boots, Frye has been handcrafting footwear since way back in 1863.
Timeless Frye styles remain fashionable through the years.
Their distressed leathers give boots a worn-in feel right away.
Frye constructs footwear to the highest standards with meticulous detail.
Prices generally range from $200 to $600.
They offer Western styles along with biker, Chelsea, and harness boots.
Frye boots have seriously cushioned footbeds for comfort.
The quality leather holds up incredibly well decade after decade.
For heritage craftsmanship, Frye boots deliver in spades.
Lucchese
With impeccable craftsmanship and materials, Lucchese boots are well worth the investment.
Made in El Paso, Texas since way back in 1883.
Lucchese uses meticulous stitching and premium leathers.
The boots mold to your feet for a fully custom, glove-like fit.
Prices range from $500 up past $1000.
They have styles perfect for both Western and English riding.
Lucchese boots feature beautiful embellishments and detailing.
The brand offers exotic skins like ostrich, lizard, and crocodile.
For superior cowboy boots, Lucchese has your back.
Nocona
Nocona started out producing baseball equipment in 1896 before moving into fancy cowboy boots.
I adore their floral and geometrically tooled leather designs.
They use high grade leathers with excellent moisture protection.
Nocona boots feature double-stitched construction for serious durability.
Most cost between $200 to $500.
They have riding specific boots plus Western and exotic styles.
Nocona boots have cushioned insoles and lightweight, flexible soles.
For gorgeously designed cowboy boots, Nocona delivers the goods.
Double H
Double H specializes in rugged Western-style work boots.
Perfect for ranchers and laborers who need serious durability.
They use thick, protective leathers resistant to the elements.
Double H boots feature heavily padded collars and oil-resistant soles.
Prices range from $150 to $500.
They have safety features like steel toes and electrical hazard protection.
The boots provide ankle stability and cushioning when on your feet all day.
For cowboy boots built for hard work, Double H has you covered.
