Cowboy Boot Fit Guide

Wearing a perfect fitting pair of cowboy boots is almost spiritual—and something everyone deserves to experience. Here are a few tips to help you achieve boot nirvana.

What to Look for in Fit

Cowboy boot fitting guide diagram showing a Chisos boot sole and boot shaft with 5 numbered reference points for proper fit assessment.
Cowboy boot fitting checklist with 5 numbered guidelines: widest part fits ball of foot, snug instep, normal heel slip that breaks in, supported midfoot without pinching, and room for toe movement.

Fit Modifiers

Chisos boots fit true to size according to US shoe standards. Simply order the size that you wear most often.

In general, your Chisos size will match what you wear in other leather footwear—or be about a half size smaller than your athletic shoes. If you usually alternate between two sizes, we recommend going with the smaller one.

The conversion between men’s and women’s sizes is typically a 1.5–2 size difference. For example, a Men’s 7 D is roughly equivalent to a Women’s 8.5 or 9.

That said, fitting cowboy boots is more art than science. Because boot fit is based more on foot volume than just length, it's not always accurate to size based solely on your Brannock measurement. Small adjustments can make a big difference in comfort and fit.

If any of the following applies to you, consider modifying your typical size:

  • In between sizes? Go with the smaller size
  • Wide foot? Try EE width or go up a half size
  • High arch or high instep? Go up a half size
  • Toe or heel discomfort? Go up a half size

While the size chart is a great place to start, be sure to factor in these fit considerations as you find your perfect pair.

Chisos Boot Size Guides

Men's Size Chart

Men's boot sizing chart showing US sizes 7-15 with corresponding measurements in centimeters and inches

Women's Size Chart

Women's boot sizing chart showing US sizes 5-11 with corresponding measurements in centimeters and inches

How Boots Should Feel

Person seated and pulling on a cowboy boot, with the opposite boot striking the floor to secure a snug fit—dark leather boot with natural heel, worn over jeans on a rustic leather rug.

Satisfying "Thud"

As you first pull on new boots, you should feel resistance until your heel slips into position with a satisfying "thud" sound. Your toes should fit comfortably in the toe box. If your toes are cramped, it is best to go up a half size.

Person adjusting jeans over well-fitted cowboy boots—dark leather with stitching detail, showing snug fit around the instep and shaft on a rustic floor.

Snug, Not Painful

New boots should fit snug across the widest part of your foot and also across the top of your arch. Snug, but not uncomfortably tight. This part will slightly stretch over time. Ultimately, personal preference rules the day.

Back view of cowboy boots in motion—one heel lifted to show boot sole and Texas logo, illustrating normal heel slip during walking.

Heel Slip

It is normal for your heel to slip up to a half inch at first when you walk. Over time, the leather heel counter (the rear part of the boot) will naturally adjust and conform to your heel shape and this slippage will stop.

Watch the Video Fit Guide

Video Guide

The Perfect Fit

"How should my cowboy boots fit?" Use these tips and tricks to get the perfect cowboy boot fit for you!

0:15 — Before You Buy
1:00 — Will It Stretch?
2:22 — Leather Matters
3:18 — Toe Shape Nuance
4:07 — The Break In
4:45 — Fixing a Tight Boot
6:00 — Different Sized Feet

Watch Video