Justin’s Bay Apache Boots

My images of cowboys developed over five decades ago with John Wayne, the Marlboro man, and Clint Eastwood. They wore and used tough, functional gear with little bling. My first boots were Justin’s because the Texas company made cowboy boots the way they were suppose to be: made in America with high shafts, angled underslung heels, and spur ridges. Each feature had a purpose. They became part of you and better with every wear as they molded to the way you moved, rode, and walked.

Nowadays, I see that the rugged, independent spirit of ranchers and cowboys – those who spend their days horseback moving cows, checking fence, and riding big circles – is still reflected in their well-worn, comfortable, no-nonsense gear. Tobacco, coffee, and wheat are the colors of the range and colors of their boots. No neon blue or lime green. No rhinestone rodeo or gathering cattle on ATV’s.

When I opened the box containing my Justin Bay Apache boots, it was a tactile confirmation of those real, organic, and down-to-earth images. I recalled childhood memories: these deep tan boots with narrow, rounded toes could easily accompany John Wayne’s leather vest or Clint Eastwood’s olive poncho.

Like my saddle with leather conchas and my horse hair mecate reins, these boots are as natural looking and authentic.

Even right out of the box and their narrow profile notwithstanding, they were as easy to slip on as well-worn jeans. The stylish stitching on the shaft is nicely earth-toned with subtle oranges and beige.

These boots feel just as comfortable walking around town or driving a car as they do horseback and accommodating a pair of spurs.

I may not be a working cowboy. Nor am I any spaghetti western star. But the Bay Apaches take me there. They’re ideal for us 21st century riders.