New Exhibition Answers The Big Question: Why Do We Love The Cowboy Boot?

The cowboy boot has been a formidable symbol of Western strength, tradition, and perseverance as far back as anyone can remember. But where did it all begin? In collaboration with international leader in boot production Lucchese Bootmaker, Oklahoma’s National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum is revealing all with Cowboy Boots: From Roundups to Runways. The exhibition, which opened to the public on February 7, 2025, explores the evolution of the cowboy boot, beginning with the origin of the iconic shoe during the post-Civil War American West and following its rise in popularity into the 21^st century.

"Cowboy Boot" features custom-made cowboy boots by Lucchese, the exhibition's Presenting Sponsor.

Guests can get up close and personal with the craftsmanship of the iconic shoe.

Never-before-seen custom designs are on display at the Oklahoma museum's exhibition.

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David Davis, Chief Curatorial Officer at the National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum teased the exhibition’s many highlights, saying “this exhibition offers a unique opportunity to examine the lasting legacy of the cowboy boot, which has played such a pivotal role in the landscape of the American West. It will highlight some of the most extraordinary cowboy boots ever created, offering a one-of-a-kind look at this cultural icon.”

Reaching beyond the traditional exhibition format, Cowboy Boots mixes artifacts with artwork, color graphics, video and audio presentations, and interactive elements to convey the cowboy boot’s history and significance. Guests can view boots worn by famous rodeo athletes, musicians, and actors and can get even get creative by designing their own cowboy boot via a touchscreen.

Guests can experience the crafting process of the iconic cowboy boot.

The exhibition deconstructs the key elements of the cowboy boot, which have stayed consistent for centuries.

Lucchese, the exhibition's Presenting Sponsor, provides guests with a unique Western fashion experience.

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Behind the exhibition’s unique blend of information and artistry is Presenting Sponsor Lucchese Bootmaker. “Lucchese has always been at the forefront of craftsmanship and Western culture, and it’s an honor to celebrate the rich history of the cowboy boot through the artistry and craft that define Lucchese, showcased in the National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum’s exhibit,” says Doug Hogue, Vice President of Brand and Product at Lucchese. “In the exhibit, you’ll see a variety of special Lucchese boots created with our collaborators and from our archive, including even some made for famous athletes and celebrities.”

Fallon Appleton (left) and former First Lady of Oklahoma Cathy Keating (right) attended the exhibition opening.

Western fashion designer Nick Fouquet attended the exhibition's opening.

Austin Ripmaster, Lucchese's Creative Director and Vice President of Brand, welcomed guests to the exhibition on February 7, 2025.

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Cowboy Boots: From Roundups to Runways runs at the National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum until May 4, 2025. Head to nationalcowboymuseum.org to grab tickets now.

PHOTOGRAPHY: Wes Walker/Courtesy Lucchese Bootmaker