Roper/Working Styles

If the Western Classic boot is the Levi’s of the boot world, the Working boot is the Carhardt. As the name suggests, these are practical boots that are still worn daily by guys who work hard and play even harder.

The modern Roper style boot is a good example of a working boot.  With a lower heel and shorter shaft, the Roper is an evolution of traditional designs and was created for modern rodeo riders, particularly calf ropers who need to run after calves as well as ride.

These boots have somewhat shorter shaft compared to the classics, usually reaching up to just above the ankles, and they tend to have a more rounded toes.  Ropers also have the squared off heels which are also likely to be slightly lower than the classic cowboy boot.

The lower shaft required less material and results in a less expensive boot and also allowed the boot to be more easily removed. Versatile and practical, the Roper has gained broader acceptance among working cowboys and weekend warriors, alike.

Ariat is a great example of a working man’s boot. Their Fat Baby has the traditional 8” high full grain leather and a bump toe. Likewise, the Heritage Roper has a 10” inch leather upper, traditional single stitch welt and the roper toe.

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