Texas just crowned a new king (or, rather, capital)—and it’s got a whole lot of leather and legacy stitched into it. The El Paso County Commissioners Court has officially declared El Paso the Boot Capital of Texas, recognizing the city’s long-standing status as a powerhouse in cowboy boot craftsmanship. If you’ve ever owned a pair of handcrafted boots, there’s a good chance they came from a workshop in El Paso, where boot-making isn’t just a business—it’s an art form.
El Paso’s Boot-Making Legacy: More Than Just a Title
El Paso has been crafting boots for over a century, making it one of the most significant production hubs for cowboy boots in the world. The city’s skilled artisans, many of whom have passed down their trade for generations, have been shaping the look (and feel) of Western footwear long before mainstream fashion caught on.
One of the standout names in the industry? Caboots (Champion Attitude Boots)—a business (co-owned by a woman!) that’s been in the boot game since 1928. Specializing in custom, handmade cowboy boots, Caboots caters to collectors, working cowboys, and anyone who appreciates the intersection of craftsmanship and style. Their made-to-order approach ensures that every pair tells a story—whether it’s destined for the rodeo or a high-end fashion statement.
Boots, Boots, and More Boots
Tony Lama Ladies Jemma Turq Boot XT5151L
Caboots isn’t the only game in town. El Paso is home to some of the biggest names in Western footwear, and this new title puts the spotlight on the city’s world-class bootmakers:
- Tony Lama Boots, founded in 1911, is a household name in Western wear. Their commitment to handcrafted quality has made them a go-to brand for ranchers, rodeo champions, and country music stars alike.
- Lucchese Bootmaker, a brand synonymous with luxury cowboy boots, they were founded in San Antonio in 1883 by Salvatore Lucchese, an Italian immigrant. However, the company moved its headquarters to El Paso in 1986, where it remains today.
- Black Jack Boots is known for its dedication to traditional craftsmanship, producing high-quality, exotic leather boots that combine time-honored techniques with modern innovations.
- Rocketbuster Boots takes custom boot-making to another level, blending vintage aesthetics with bold, artistic designs that make each pair a true work of wearable art.
Why This Matters for Business and Tourism
Black Boots Jackie Triad Designs
This designation isn’t just about bragging rights—it’s a major win for local businesses and tourism. With El Paso officially recognized as the Boot Capital, expect to see an uptick in boot-centric tourism, where visitors can explore local workshops, meet artisans, and even design their own custom pair. For the businesses that have been fueling this industry for decades, this means more exposure, more customers, and more investment in keeping traditional craftsmanship alive.
In short? El Paso isn’t just making boots—it’s making history. And now, the world knows it.
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