Durango cowboy boots are made to be sturdy and durable, complementing the men and women who wear them. Each pair of boots will get the job done, but there are specific features you should look for to improve your experience. Think of a work boot as a tool – any good hammer can pound nails into wood, but why use a sledgehammer when a normal one will do?
The features you need in Durango boots will depend on the conditions you wear them in. Find the right blend of safety and comfort that is appropriate for your work or hobby. If Durango is your choice of brand, your style preference is clear – western work boots – but there are still different types that you may find more or less appealing.
Safety Toe Feature
The type of safety toe is one of the most important aspects of men’s work boots. This is where you need to choose between additional protection or less weight. There are three main types of safety toes, and Durango men's boots come in all three.
Steel toe – the steel toe is an old-school classic for cowboy boots. It offers the highest degree of safety but can add weight to your western footwear. If you plan to be on your feet for long hours, a steel toe may not be the choice for you – you could easily start to feel the added weight.
On the other hand, if there is a significant chance of falling objects hurting your feet, this should be your choice. Take note that steel can get hot or cold quickly, so it may not be the optimal choice for extreme temperatures.
Composite toe – the composite toe is made from materials like Kevlar and carbon fiber, making it lighter than a steel toe, but providing comparatively less protection. This doesn’t mean that it doesn’t add to the safety of your feet – it still protects from compression and impact. Unlike steel, composite materials don’t transmit heat or cold, so they are suitable for extreme surroundings.
Soft toe – a soft toe offers no special protection, other than the material itself that the work boots are made from. When safety is an issue, the soft toe is probably not the right choice. However, western work boots with a soft toe are the most lightweight of the three types. They are a good choice if your work entails walking long distances.
Type of Outsole
The outsole is meant to provide you with good traction and be oil- and abrasion-resistant. There are many types of outsoles, designed for different terrains. Durango men's and women's boots are made for outside use, so they provide you with outsoles specifically made for the conditions you will wear them in.
Insulation
The type of boots you need heavily depends on the work you do. Many Durango work boots for men and women are insulated, but also employ new technologies to let your feet breathe with special linings. They won’t help in Arctic temperatures, but it’s unlikely you will wear them in such conditions anyway.
Degree of Water-Resistance
There is a difference between water-resistant and waterproof. However, the difference is often not clear, as there is no set industry standard. In general, waterproof provides a higher degree of resistance to liquids than water-resistant boots.
Water-resistant work boots can keep your feet from rain and moisture, but won’t last long if they are fully submerged. Waterproof boots will keep your feet dry longer, but they won’t protect them indefinitely. No boot will. Not all Durango boots are waterproof, but most are water-resistant, so make your choice based on the conditions of your work.
If you’re looking for high degree of water resistance, you may want to check Ariat boots as these are known for their exceptional waterproofing abilities.
Fiberglass and Steel Shank Boots
The shank is an essential part of a good work boot for men. Traditionally, it’s a piece of steel sandwiched between the insole and outsole. It diminishes the load on your joints and foot arch, prevents punctures, and helps the boots keep their shape over time. Fiberglass is a relatively new material for shanks and it serves the same purpose. Durango boots come in both types.
Are Durango Boots Made in America?
Some, but not all. Many models are outsourced, while some are manufactured locally. 100% U.S.A. products are likely to have a higher price and be specifically designated. However, their headquarters are still located in Nelsonville, Ohio.
The Best Western Footwear for a Low Price
With Durango women's and men's boots, you get a lot of bang for your buck. Their prices are in the lower to mid-range for high-quality western work boots.
Check our collection of discounted work boots to find a pair that suits you. Kick up your heels and proudly celebrate your western values with Durango work boots!
