There is something so special about a pair of quality-made cowboy boots. Not only is the footwear an American classic, but these types of boots are sturdy, traditional, functional, comfortable, a perfect fit, and are always a timeless piece of fashion no matter where your travels take you. When exotic leathers are featured in a pair of cowboy boots, that elevates this iconic footwear to the ultimate level.
Cowhide, as most of us know, is the most popular leather used for all kinds of footwear. It is the least expensive and delivers that smooth texture when the grain is removed, and although cowhide is the standard, it pales in comparison next to beautiful exotic skin.
Alligator.
Talk about having a heel in history; the alligator has been roaming the earth for some 70 million years now, and its sleek, smooth underbelly and hard scales can create an incredible and luxe pair of cowboy boots. Alligator leather looks very rich. Alligator skin isn’t cheap, but it can last almost forever, according to exotic skin experts. The skin is very soft and smooth to the touch.
Ostrich.
The leather is known for its unique “goosebumps” texture and lovely colors that range from cognac to hot pink. Ostrich leather is another soft and sophisticated skin that can be made into awesome cowboy boots. It can also take a beating and contains natural oils that help the leather resist cracking or drying. Ostrich leather is usually made from the leg where it has a scaly appearance, the back of the bird where the bumpy texture comes from feather-plucking or the softer, smoother side of the animal.
Python.
Most people have no problem noticing a stunning pair of python cowboy boots because of the leather’s distinct and complex-looking pattern. The rich leather often makes the top runways every season, from footwear to accessories. Python is lovely to look at and durable but requires more tender loving care to keep its magnificent scales supple with boot conditioner.
Kangaroo.
This leather puts the spring in every step of cowboy boots it touches. Kangaroo skin is popular because of its lightweight leather, flexibility, and strength. The colors of the leather are also gorgeous neutrals in beige, whiskey, tan, and black. Even though kangaroo leather is thin, it is still quite tight and delivers excellent material and beauty for a pair of cowboy boots.
Stingray.
A unique, granular pattern belongs to stingray leather, and yet, it remains smooth and delicate skin for cowboy boots. It is leather you want to touch because of its distinctive, bumpy texture that is made of calcium deposits. The expensive leather is challenging for crafting cowboy boots as the calcium deposits make it extremely hard for sewing in a straight line. Stingray is especially attractive to many because it is waterproof and impossible to scratch.
Let’s be honest. Exotic leathers like fine jewelry have an enduring charm. The valuable nature of the raw materials and skilled handcraftsmanship set these unique pieces apart from all the rest. The demand is there, and trends do not overshadow their significance.
Exotic leathers used for cowboy boots enhance this iconic footwear as their unusual patterns can add depth, richness, and texture. When properly cared for, these cowboy boots can last for many, many years, making them a superb investment piece.
