Types of Leather Boots – The Ultimate Guide

Leather boots are the classiest pieces of footwear that any fashion lover can have in their collection. You can wear leather boots with pants, skirts, and even gowns to make an impressive style statement. Whether wearing my sturdy work boots or casual thigh-high stiletto boots, nothing beats the warm buzz I feel while making confident strides.

Impressively, there are various types of leather boots, ranging from full-grain and top-grain leather boots to other attractive options like pull-up, genuine, suede, and nubuck leather boots to suit varying styles. With lots of exciting leather options, some folks can rarely place a name on the different kinds of leather boots and often need help when settling for new additions.

In this article, I will be exposing some helpful hints on how to identify the best types of leather for boots and other helpful tricks for buying the right leather boot. These tips will help you make more informed decisions and ensure that every leather boot that you purchase is money well spent.

Leather Boots Category

We’ll start by reviewing the various types of leather boots depending on their sources and treatment. Although most leather is sourced from raw hides, many require special treatment before they are fit for purpose.

Some leather types are hard to source, unlike other readily available leather options. Sometimes, local legislation limits and even prohibits such rare leather options’ use, trade, and export. These factors combine to produce different categories of leather boots, such as:

Aardvark Leather Boots

Aardvark Leather Boots

Aardvark leather boots are one of the most exotic leather boots you can find. They are produced from the hides of aardvarks. The hide of this nocturnal anteater carries a natural resistance to sunlight exposure. This quality makes Aardvark leather boots very durable.

Aardvark leather boots require minor tanning compared to other exotic leather types and are very easy to maintain. However, aardvark leather boots are costly. Many willing investors shy away from raising aardvarks due to their nocturnal behavior and feeding habits.

Calfskin Leather Boots

Calfskin Leather Boots

Just as the name implies, calfskin leather boots are sourced from the hides of young cattle. Since their hides are yet to fully harden due to age and harsh weather conditions, calfskin leather boots are usually soft and supple and feel very comfortable against the skin. Most designers prefer calfskin when producing full-grain leather boots for women and men.

They are also more durable than other options and look more luxurious. Calfskin leather shoes are usually subjected to aniline dyeing during the boot production stage to give them a natural, uniform look free of blemish. They are usually made from a single leather piece to increase their elasticity and comfort.

In addition to their soft feel and look, calfskin leather shoes are very flexible. They are mainly popular with fashion enthusiasts who prefer lightweight boots. The closely packed grains of calfskin boots also make them water-resistant. However, they require adequate leather conditioning to protect them against moisture damage.

Camel Leather Boots

Camel Leather Boots

Camel leather boots are widely renowned for their breathability. The natural hide carries unique scars and stretch marks across its surface. The camel hair offers ample insulation against harsh weather conditions and is a massive favorite amongst hikers and other outdoor enthusiasts.

During its production stage, camel leather is tanned using natural vegetable oils without chromium to prevent it from cracking over time. This process leaves camel boots with a lovely texture and a unique smell which many fashion enthusiasts describe as waxy.

Compared to other types of exotic leather boots, camel leather boots are rare. They are also durable, water resistant, and offer excellent resistance against everyday wear.

Chamois Leather Boots

Chamois Leather Boots

This type of leather boot is made from the hide of mountain goats. Chamois leather is thin and supple. Its porous nature also makes chamois leather highly absorbent. Like suede leather boots, this exotic leather boot requires lots of special treatment before they are fit to wear.

Many brands produce chamois leather boots by tanning the hides of mountain goats and oiling them to give the leather its distinct sheen. Due to its gentle and smooth texture, chamois leather is perfect for shaping into form-fitting boots. Hence, it is commonly used in the production of sports shoes.

Cowhide Leather Boots

Cowhide Leather Boots

Harder and more rugged than calfskin leather boots, cowhide leather boots come from fully developed cattle and they are the primary source of leather shoes for men. Cowhide leather boots are usually made from pieces of cowhide leather that are stitched together. It is common to find the rough side turned inward to protect the stitching from abrasion.

Most cowhide leather boots are made with full-grain or top-grain leather. They are thicker and harder than most leather boots. Hence, cowhide leather boots are usually water-resistant. You can find two types of cowhide leather boots; the apache cowhide boots and the Engineer cowhide boots.

The Apache is a popular choice with outdoor enthusiasts who need a rugged boot to handle all terrain without suffering much damage. Compared to the Apache boots, engineer leather boots are more stylish. They easily match with business suits and casual wear.

Cowhide leather boots only need a little maintenance. You only need the occasional dab of a good leather conditioner to keep cowhide leather boots in excellent shape.

Crocodile Leather Boots

Crocodile Leather Boots

This exotic leather boot is sourced from the hide of only one of the known twenty-three species of crocodiles. It makes up less than 1% of the world’s leather products. Manufacturers make crocodile leather boots from the softer underbelly of the reptile as well as the top part.

Crocodile leather boots are rarely compared to conventional leather types like sheep and cowhide. The toughness of the skin makes the boot very durable and resistant to abrasion. Crocodile leather skins are also water resistant, perfect for wearing in wet conditions.

Many people assume crocodile leather boots are very expensive due to their rarity. However, the complicated process that crocodile leather must undergo also contributes to its cost.

Hippopotamus Leather Boots

Hippopotamus Leather Boots
Image Credit: tomassoarditti.com

With lots of stringent wildlife protection legislation in most parts of the world, hippo leather boots take a lot of work to come by. Hippo leather boots have a rough texture resembling knife markings on damp clay. The thickness of the hide makes hippo leather boots sturdy and very durable.

Hippo leather boots offer significant protection against abrasion and make excellent work boots. However, it is common to find stretch marks and scars from injuries.

Additionally, the tightly packed fibers of the leather make it water-resistant. Compared to many other leather types, hippo leather boots are low maintenance. Besides the occasional conditioning of the leather boots, you do not need much else.

Kangaroo Leather Boots

Kangaroo Leather Boots
Image Credit: stridewise.com

Kangaroo leather boots are easily the most durable type of leather boots that you will find on the market. It is mostly sourced from the hides of the Australian kangaroo and is extremely tough.

They offer significant resistance against abrasion and everyday wear. In addition, their lightweight nature makes them a huge favorite, with outdoor enthusiasts looking to go the distance without stressing their feet.

Nubuck Leather Boots

Nubuck Leather Boots

Although they appear similar to suede leather boots, nubuck leather is sourced from the outer side of the hide. Nubuck leather boots usually come from top-grain leather and are buffed along its grain side to give it its unique velvet-like appearance. After this step, Nubuck leather is impregnated with a suitable pigment to produce the preferred color.

Since Nubuck leather has a more robust structure, they are durable and do not need much maintenance. Apart from the occasional brushing to eliminate any dust or dirt that the boot gathers, you only need to condition the leather occasionally to protect it from moisture and keep it supple.

Patent Leather Boots

Patent Leather Boots

Patent leather boots are easily identifiable by their shiny, polished surface. This category of leather boots is usually made from corrected grain. This type of leather offers the perfect surface for the high glossy finish that patent leather boots carry.

While patent leather was originally produced by letting natural oils soak in lots of different oils, experts in the fashion industry have fine-tuned this process over the years to give patent leather boots their unique look. They begin by soaking the smooth, thin, and translucent material in a solution of chromium salts before coating it with clear nitrocellulose lacquer.

This treatment helps protect patent leather boots from moisture. However, they are at significant risk of damage caused by abrasion.

Pull-up Leather Boots

Pull-up Leather Boots

Also known as ‘distressed leather boots,’ pull-up leather boots are produced from full-grain aniline-dyed cowhide. The dye is gradually pulled to the surface of the hide during the finishing process of production.

Leather workers dye the pull-up leather with aniline dyes containing natural oils and waxes during the tanning and finishing stage. These oils and waxes appear to darken the original color of the aniline dye but pull up the lighter shade when the material is stretched. The aniline dying process also allows the natural wrinkles on the hide to remain visible through the eventual finish.

While they might be water resistant, pull-up leather boots are not waterproof. They will absorb moisture if exposed to excess humidity and need adequate leather conditioning for more protection.

Rough-out Leather Boots

Rough-out Leather Boots

Rough-out leather boots can easily be identified by the leather’s rough side facing outward while the grain side remains hidden. This formation gives rough-out leather boots a rugged, no-nonsense look and is very popular amongst workers in the construction industry.

The corium of rough-out leather boots is most natural and protected by another layer of leather on the other side. Rough-out leather boots also have a napped surface and suede grain.

While rough-out leather may appear rugged, they are not waterproof. Although they can somewhat resist moisture, they are prone to water damage. However, you can protect them by coating them with protective wax.

Scotch Grain Leather Boots

Scotch Grain Leather Boots

Scotch-grain leather boots are made with top-grain or full-grain aniline-dyed cowhide. They are known for their embossed texture and are highly resistant to everyday wear and tear. Scotch grain leather boots are also very durable and water resistant.

Manufacturers give scotch grain leather boots their unique pebble grain finish by buffing and polishing the hide on one side. So long as you keep your scotch grain leather boots well-conditioned, they need much fussing.

Shell Cordovan Leather Boots

Shell Cordovan Leather Boots

Shell cordovan leather is smooth, supple, and durable. It is produced from the ‘shell’ or flat muscle directly under the hide on a horse’s rump. Unlike calfskin, shell cordovan ripple or roll instead of forming creases. This type of leather is not tanned and retains much of its rugged look.

Shell cordovan leather boots are rare and are among the most expensive leather boots you can find. This exotic leather dates back to the 7th century, and many fashion enthusiasts refer to shell cordovan as the masterpiece of men’s footwear.

With increasingly sophisticated techniques and expert handling, shell cordovan has returned to prominence in recent years. Shell cordovan leather boots are high maintenance and require specific care lotions and leather conditioners. This rare leather boot reacts differently to other conventional leather care products and will likely become damaged without the right care.

Stingray Leather Boots

Stingray Leather Boots
Image Credit : heritageboot.com

One of the rare leather sourced from marine life, stingray leather boots often cost a fortune. While their beautiful skin makes them ideal for luxury leather products, stingrays are dangerous animals. It is impossible to raise them for their hide sustainably.

The surface of stingray leather boots resembles tiny pebbles and bears a distinct star shape. Stingray leather boots are extremely tough and do not stretch. They are water-resistant and do well in harsh weather conditions.

Suede Leather Boots

Suede Leather Boots

Suede leather boots come from the underside of cowhide leather. Hence, it is usually thinner and feels supple. This type of leather boots has a soft feel due to the pile they carry. This feature results in a fuzzy underside that gives suede leather shoes their unique look. While suede leather boots often carry a smooth surface, many designers often buff the leather to give it a more rugged feel.

These leather boots are great for casual outings. However, the absorbent surface of suede leather boots makes them prone to water damage. Most high-quality suede leather boots carry an extra layer of protective wax coating.

This addition offers the boots more protection against weather damage and oil stains. You can offer suede leather boots more protection by occasionally spraying them with a leather conditioner.

Vegetables-Tanned Leather Boots

Vegetables Tanned Leather Boots
Image Credit: kindsupply-co.com

Vegetable tanning gives raw hides a natural tan using tree bark and other select plant life. This process is one of the oldest techniques for tanning leather. You can easily identify vegetable-tanned leathers by their unique smell, which tends to linger even a few weeks after purchase.

Vegetable-tanned leather feels softer than most leather types. Its surface also carries a distinct matte texture. However, this type of leather offers little protection against abrasion and is prone to wear. Hence, they require delicate handling and adequate protection.

Leather boots Types

Unlike the previous section, the types of leather boots in this part are classified based on several factors. Some of these factors include function, appearance, and style.

You might wonder, ‘How many types of boots are there?’ It’s hard to tell. With many manufacturers and fashion stylists, placing a number on the types of leather boots you can find is difficult.

However, based on distinct styling and popularity, here are the most common types of leather boots.

Balmoral Boots

Balmoral boots feature a closed-lace setup and look very similar to Oxford shoes. They are easily one of the best dress-boot options for men. You can comfortably wear Balmoral boots with a suit. They do not look out of place in an office setting and tend to look better in formal attire.

Chelsea Boots

This type of leather boot usually has one or two pieces wrapped around the foot and stitched at the back. However, its most distinct feature is its elastic sides. Chelsea boots came to the limelight and were even known as ‘the Beatle boot’ after The Beatles began to wear them onstage during their tours in the early ’60s.

You can easily identify two distinct styles of Chelsea boots today. The first one is bulky and fits most casual wear. The other is sleeker and easily matches formal wear, even suits.

Chukka Boots

These types of leather boots are plain, unlined ankle-high leather boots. They carry open lacing, a few eyelets with thin soles, and a round toebox.

Chukkas are ideal for warm weather but offer little protection against harsh weather conditions. While the most common chukka boots easily match casual jeans and chinos, you can pair many chukka boots with suits and other formal wear.

Combat Boots

Although originally designed for ‘combat,’ combat boots grew popular amongst punk-rock stylists in the ’80s and ’90s. Since then, they have gradually slipped into mainstream fashion and have become a mainstay in today’s fashion.

With their tough soles and sturdy leather uppers, combat boots are easily an alternative to work boots. And since they are considerably lighter, they offer all the feel of a rugged work wear style without stressing your feet.

Cowboy Boots

Cowboy boots are widely associated with cattle herders and countryside farmers and are as rugged as work boots. Cowboy boots usually stand out among the commonest types of boots for men. They are usually calf-high with thick, high heels with spurs and other decorative studs.

Although originally designed for work, ankle-high cowboy boots easily combine with slim-fitted jean trousers to give a classy look.

Derby Boots

Derby boots have an open-lacing style with eyelets stitched into the vamps. This design makes Derby boots easy ‘slip-ons.’ It’s quite common to mistake derby boots for oxford boots. Although the open-lacing design keeps Derby boots nearer the casual point of the fashion spectrum, you can find sleek derbies to add a classy touch to your collection.

Desert Boots

Desert boots are a form of the infamous chukka boots. While the styles look similar, you can differentiate them by their soles. Unlike the vulcanized rubber or leather soles chukka boots carry, desert boots have a crepe rubber sole.

Crepe soles are considerably softer than other soles and offer maximum comfort if you need to stand on your feet for long periods or walk long distances. However, they offer little to no resistance against abrasion. They will wear quickly on hard surfaces such as cement and asphalt.

Duck Boots

Originally designed to be watertight through their sole and leather upper, duck boots are the perfect men’s footwear for rainy days. Also known as bean boots, duck boots have a rubber work boot sole and were initially designed to keep hunter’s feet dry and warm.

Duck boots have an excellent grip and are great for rainy and snowy days but can feel like hell in warmer weather.

Engineer Boots

This boot is another rugged adaptation of work boots and is widely loved by bikers for its simple design and durability. It is usually made by stitching a few pieces of leather. The engineer boot usually has a leather strap around the ankle and the calf.

The engineer boots offer ample protection against harsh weather and are best for long motorbike trips.

Hiking Boots

While many hiking boots designers consider looks, they are made for something other than style. Hiking boots are designed to last, withstand moisture and resist wear and tear.

Due to continued advancement in research and design, hiking boots now carry newer materials that provide better resistance against harsh weather and abrasion. You are more likely to find quality super-hardened composites on the leather uppers of hiking boots instead of old-fashioned steel shanks.

Jodhpur Boots

Jodhpur boots share the same sleek form as Chelsea boots. The only difference is the strap and buckle that goes around the ankle of the Jodhpur boots. They are often seen as a suitable alternative to the Chelsea boot.

Although Jodhpur boots were a thing in the late 19th century, they retain a wider appeal amongst fashion enthusiasts today. They offer ample protection from harsh weather conditions, and just like the Chelsea boots, Jodhpur boots easily match with jeans and chinos. Although many find the Jodhpur boots unnecessary, they are also great for formal wear.

Moc Toe Boots

Moc Toe boots combine the sturdy build and water-resistant qualities of the moccasin and the ankle support of a work boot to give a more fashionable and lighter work boot. The moc toe burst onto the fashion scene in recent years and easily combined with jeans and chinos trousers. They are ideal for harsh weather conditions and great for casual outings.

Mukluk Boots

If you need to frequently deal with the snow or work in extreme weather conditions, then mukluk boots are just what you need. Mukluk boots keep your feet warm and dry and are ideal for freezing conditions.

While they are better off as work boots, mukluk boots are also great for ski trips. Additionally, less bulky models of Mukluk boots make excellent camping shoes.

Oxford Boots

Oxford boots are similar to derbies and are one of the few you can safely pair with suits. But they have a closed-lacing setup. You can’t casually slip them in, but these boots provide ample comfort against harsh weather and are ideal for casual or formal outfits.

Service Boots

Service boots can easily be traced back to their military origins. Military service has always needed rugged and durable leather boots. Although military boots have evolved over the years, designers have streamlined the style into men’s wardrobes today.

While they might appear rugged, you should protect them from dirt and moisture the best you can.

Work Boots

Work boots are designed to safeguard your feet against trauma and last decades. Hence, they are mostly made of thick leather hides and come with steel or composite toes.

While steel toes offer more protection, they are heavier than composite toes, which also offer a decent amount of protection. Due to their sturdy nature and durability, work boots are also great for outdoor camping. But they are too heavy for hiking and will easily tire you out.

How to Determine the Quality of Leather Boot

You must ensure you get quality leather boots each time you get a new pair. But with different types of leather boots out there, it often takes more work to tell the quality of leather boots at a glance.

However, here are some factors you can use to ensure you get quality leather boots.

Pricing

Quality leather boots cost a good sum of money. Rare and exotic leathers are harder to source and more expensive. Also, the treatment of leather and level of finishing that quality leather boots require adds up to the final price.

Although the price of any boot is not an exact guarantee, it should give you a good idea of its quality. Here’s what you should keep in mind:

Dos:

Kindly ensure that you do not overpay for any leather boots. Generally, the price tags for boots based on their quality fall under three distinct categories.

  • Low-quality leather boots with cemented soles. These usually go for around $12 to $30 and easily make the bottom of the list.
  • Medium-quality leather boots with better leather and cemented soles. You can purchase leather boots in this category for about $30 to $60. These boots usually carry lots of decorative stitching, making them look more expensive.
  • High-quality full-grain leather shoes with properly stitched soles. These leather boots should go for about $60 to $150. Depending on the type of stitching the boots carry, they could cost more or less.

Don’ts:

  • Avoid extremely cheap leather boots. Whether you find them in a dark corner of some old store or at a yard sale, quality boots are never cheap.
  • Luxury brand boots going for lower than their usual price. You might believe you are striking a bargain, but you are most likely buying a low-quality look alike.
  • Overpriced designer brands. Most of the money you pay for such leather boots is likely due to the brand’s reputation and has nothing to do with the quality of the boot. Unless you wish to make a strong fashion statement and have the money to spend, you can find other quality leather boots for reasonable prices.

Leather Upper

Quality leather looks natural and feels smooth. While you can easily tell natural leather by its smell and finish, it is easy to make mistakes.

Dos:

  • Kindly invest in full-grain leather, as it is the best quality you can find. It is followed by top-grain leather and, finally, correct-grain leather. This last category is generally referred to as genuine leather and is usually buffed and treated with chemicals that give it a smooth and glossy look. Please know that the leather boot carries a label showing the leather used in production.
  • Carefully inspect the leather boots’ hide pores under close inspection. The leather is most likely full-grain if the skin pores are visible. The absence of these pores means the leather is more likely to be top-grain or corrected-grain.

Don’ts:

  • Don’t solely rely on brands that carry the ‘genuine leather’ or ‘real leather’ This tag has grown popular and is casually slapped on most mass-produced leather boots. Verify the leather type with the seller and inspect the boots yourself before you buy them.
  • You may want to avoid synthetic leather boots. In addition to their unnatural look, these boots hardly withstand reasonable stress and are not durable.

Outsoles

Leather shoes with stitched outsoles are better quality than those with glued soles. Here are some crucial things to look out for.

Dos:

  • Be sure to check for stitching on the insides of the leather boots. Also, check that there is stitching on the bottom at the same distance from the edges as the one inside. This is an indication of a Blake-stitched boot.
  • Kindly look out for welts if no stitches are present. Good-year welted boots usually have wider outsoles. The stitching on the welt is usually at the same distance from the edge as the stitching on the bottom of the boot. The threads are also similar on both sides.

Don’ts:

  • Steer clear from leather boots with glued or cemented soles. These are of low quality and will quickly wear out.
  • You may want to overlook faux welted outsoles. Many looks like Goodyear welted boots. Here’s how to spot the faux welted leather boots.
  • The outsoles are not up to 4mm wider than the leather upper.
  • The distance of the stitching from the edge differs on both sides.
  • The thread spacing on the top and the bottom are uneven.

5 Best Leather Boots for Men and Women

If you are keen on investing in quality leather boots, choosing from the many options out, there may seem pretty tasking. Nevertheless, here are some of the best picks you can try.

Ariat Rambler Patriot Boot for Men

Highlighted Features:

  • Advanced ATS Pro technology
  • Rubber sole
  • 100% leather

The Men’s Rambler Patriot Boot by ARIAT is a fashionable and tough cowboy boot created to satisfy the needs of Western aficionados. High-grade full-grain leather in its construction offers comfort, flexibility, and resilience.

The boot has a traditional square-toe shape with a faded finish, giving it a tough and genuine appearance. The ATS technology offers exceptional support, strength, and cushioning for all-day comfort and is one of the boot’s standout characteristics.

Schutz Dress Shoe for Women

Highlighted Features:

  • Leather sole
  • Brazilian leather
  • Cushioned insole

The chic and functional SCHUTZ Dress Boot is made specifically for ladies. It has a traditional shape with a pointy toe and a high heel, giving it a slick and elegant appearance. The boot’s high-quality leather construction guarantees comfort and longevity.

It comes in a variety of hues and sizes to accommodate various tastes. Additionally, the heel is reliable and cozy for prolonged walking. The boot is a flexible addition to any wardrobe; it is simple to dress up or down.

UGG Biltmore Chelsea Boot for Men

Highlighted Features:

  • Rubber sole
  • Moisture-proof leather upper
  • 100% leather

Fashionable and cozy footwear made for casual use, the UGG Biltmore Chelsea footwear. It has elastic gore panels for simple on and off and is constructed of superior full-grain leather. This boot’s textile lining, which offers outstanding breathability and comfort, is one of its most distinctive qualities.

The rubber outsole is excellent for various surfaces, providing good grip and durability. Several buyers have praised the boot’s fashionable design and comfortable fit.

Blundstone Chelsea Original 500 Boot

Highlighted Features

  • Elastic inserts
  • Leather upper
  • Rubber sole

Fans of Chelsea boots frequently and favorably choose the Blundstone Chelsea Original 500 Boot. These boots feature a traditional, timeless design and are constructed of high-quality leather; depending on the situation, you may dress them up or down.

They are easy to wear and take off thanks to their elasticized side panels and draw tabs, and their slip-resistant sole offers a good grip on various surfaces. Most folks laud this footwear for its sturdiness and comfort and claim it has lasted for years, even with continuous usage.

Vince Camuto Amanyir Knee-High Women Boots

Highlighted Features

  • Zipper closure
  • Rubber sole
  • Highly versatile

Since Vince Camuto is recognized for its fine craftsmanship, you can count on the boots to be strong and long-lasting. The boots have a long, knee-high shaft, a rounded toe, and a sleek, straightforward style. High-quality leather makes up the outside, while a soft, breathable fabric lines the interior. The side zipper on the boots makes it simple to wear and take off the footwear.

Buying Guide for the Best Leather Boots

Fashion lovers hardly ever look past style and class when choosing any piece. However, there are several factors that you must consider before purchasing any leather boots. Thoroughly considering such factors would help you ensure maximum satisfaction for every cent you spend and avoid future trouble.

Here are some crucial factors to consider before buying leather boots.

Sizing

Ensure that your preferred leather boot fits your feet properly. Getting the right size of leather boots will eliminate the need to shrink or stretch leather boots after you purchase them. The right leather boot should not be too tight to cramp your toes or limit blood circulation to your feet. At the same time, it shouldn’t be too loose to wobble around your feet and limit your movement.

Put on a pair of fairly thick socks when trying on any boot. Also, leave the boots on for a few minutes and see if you start to feel any discomfort. Additionally, ensure that you try on both shoes in case they are different sizes.

It is also best to try shoes in the late afternoon or evening. Your feet are often at their largest at this time of the day. Also, try standing on the tips of your toes while wearing the boots. The right boot size will let your toes stretch out without forcing them against the tips of the boots.

Purpose

Remember that the “why” comes with the style when choosing leather boots. For work boots, you should look for thicker leather boots and pick moisture-proof options for the wet seasons. Besides offering your feet more protection, these boots will last considerably longer.

On the other hand, if you need a casual pair of boots, boots with softer and more flexible leather are your best bet. Also, avoid boots with heavy soles when choosing a casual pair of boots.

Flexibility

Always ensure that leather boots are quite flexible before you buy them. Flexible leather boots are less likely to hurt your feet or crack due to continuous folding and stretching.

You can check for any boot’s flexibility by bending the toebox upwards. A good leather boot should bend slightly but not up. Test both the outside and the top of the boot for flexibility. These parts also affect the comfort of leather boots.

Comfort

I’m sure you wouldn’t want to invest in shoes that keep hurting your feet. Good leather boots also carry other provisions to offer you maximum comfort. Ensure that you feel both sides of the leather before purchasing any boot. Hard, roughly finished leather is likelier to chafe your skin and leave you bruises.

Also, check for soft insoles – these insoles protect your feet from the hard soles of leather boots and gradually adjust to accommodate your feet better as you wear the boots.

Additionally, ensure that the boots have wide and thick heels, as such provisions will make it easier to maintain balance while wearing leather boots. It is also important that you look out for leather shoes that are easy to clean and maintain to prevent them from looking trashy in the future.

Originality

With lots of boot manufacturers and sleazy salespersons looking to make a quick profit, there are many fake leather boots on the market. Although it is often difficult to tell the difference at a glance, there are several measures you can take to ensure that you are buying the original boots.

First, ensure that you only buy from well-recognized and trusted suppliers. Run a background check on any store before handing your money over to them. Next, always look for the manufacturer’s labels before settling for any boot. Finally, good leather boots cost a significant sum. If the price sounds too good, you are most likely looking at a counterfeit.

Frequently Asked Questions – FAQs

Which type of leather is best for boots?

Determining which animal leather is best for shoes depends on several factors. If you are looking for a pair of casual footwear, softer leather will offer you more comfort. But toughness and durability are more important when you need a pair of sturdy work boots.

Hence, it is difficult to declare that any option is the best leather for shoes. However, cowhide leather is the most preferred choice for boots. Besides its supple nature and flexibility, this leather is harder to tear or damage. Furthermore, cowhide leather is easier to clean and maintain when compared to other leather.

What is the thickest leather for boots?

Cowhide is easily the thickest leather you can find for boots. It is strong leather, and its fibers are tightly packed and dense. Also, you would find that cowhides resist abrasion reasonably, a popular choice amongst construction workers.

Despite its strength and thickness, this leather type is quite flexible, and its top layers do not dry out quickly compared to cowhide leather.

What are the three types of leather in shoes?

There are mainly three types of leather used in boots. The first and most common of these is the waxed or oiled leather. This type of leather is treated with oils to make it water-resistant and give it a glossy finish.

Next is the pigmented smooth leather, which carries a pigmented binder coating on its grain side. Finally, you have aniline leather dyed with soluble dyes that color the leather without sealing the pores on its grain sides.

What is the most expensive leather for boots?

The cost of any leather depends on several factors, such as its availability or rarity, the nature of treatment it requires, and local legislation. However, the shell cordovan easily tops the list of the most expensive leather for boots.

This exotic leather is sourced from the flat muscles beneath the hide on a horse’s rump. The shell cordovan usually takes about six months of treatment and is very delicate. Compared to other types of exotic boot leather, the shell cordovan ages quite well and develops a fine sheen.

What are high-leather boots called?

High-leather boots go by several names. However, the most generic name for high-leather boots is cuissardes. Other common names include over-the-knee boots, thigh boots, hip boots, waders, and top boots. Although high-leather boots were originally designed for men, they have grown more popular among women.

Final Words

Leather boots come in various styles, as you would find different options in the market today. From traditional designs like Chelsea boots and chukkas to more tough choices like work boots and hiking boots, there is a pair for everyone. No doubt, choosing a suitable pair of leather boots among seemingly endless options often feels like an uphill task.

While you might easily find over a dozen pairs of suitable leather boots at any store, your final decision should be based on several factors, such as leather type size, durability, and maintenance requirements. If you are unsure of the exact type of leather boot to pick, this write-up will guide you through this rigorous process.

Evina Naomi

Ewofere, Evina Naomi is a biotechnologist and passionate content writer. As a great lover of leather and various leather crafts, she broadly addresses leather-related issues. She is a writer of many excellent articles on leather. With great knowledge and enthusiasm, readers can access researched pieces on various leather types and the best techniques that work on them. Naomi is here to lead you through the journey of choosing excellent leather products and ensure you handle them rightly. So you can embark on your leather sewing and crafting journey with her and have an incredible experience.

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