How to Choose Socks for Cowboy Boots

Cowboy boots aren’t just for buckaroos. Even big city slickers are strutting their stuff in their western kicks. Aside from a good pair of work pants or Daisy Dukes, not everyone knows the right way to wear their boots, especially when it comes to the best socks.

The right pair of cowboy boot socks will keep your feet comfy and safe from common problems like sweat or blisters. By knowing what socks to wear with cowboy boots, FLAT SOCKS® reckons you can protect your look and those hard-working hoofs.

What socks are good to wear with cowboy boots?

Whether you’re kicking it country or living in the Big Apple, you need a pair of socks that will keep your feet dry, comfortable, and free of irritations like blisters or boot chaff.

Although boot socks are the traditional pick for many cowpokes, sock inserts like FLAT SOCKS are good to wear with Ariat®, Justin®, or Tecovas® cowboy boots when you want that barefoot feel with all the benefits of wearing socks.

When buying socks for cowboy boots, be on the lookout for the following features:

• Moisture-wicking and breathable. Leather cowboy boots can trap in foot sweat and odors. Wearing moisture-wicking socks prevents overheating as well as foot odors and fungal infections like athlete’s foot.
• High durability. A rugged boot deserves a tough sock. Durable materials help your socks last longer and protect your feet from rubbing that may cause blisters.
• Extra cushion. Socks with built-in supportive cushioning like reinforced heels or toes help absorb some of the stress of being on your feet.
• Seamless design. Toe seams add bulk to your boots, which can make feet feel cramped particularly in steel toe boots. Look for no toe seam socks for a smoother, less irritating fit.
• Non-slip fit. Socks that are too short or loose slide down and bunch up in your boot. Make sure your socks are snug and flexible or wear non-slip socks with added grip.

Can I wear cowboy boots without socks?

Some cowboy boots are so cozy, do you even need to wear socks? If you like the idea of slipping into your boots and yee-hawing it outta here, then feel free to go sockless. Just be prepared for sweaty, stinky boots to be a part of your get-up, too. Unless, of course, you use FLAT SOCKS.

FLAT SOCKS are no-show sock inserts that are moisture wicking, non-slip, and help reduce smelly boot odors. With a no-show design, FLAT SOCKS fit anything from women’s western booties to men’s dress boots and kid’s cowboy boots with FLAT SOCKS Kids. Wear them in summer or winter with options like breathable mesh or cozy faux fur.

If you wear cowboy boots for work, you’re better off wearing socks for the added protection from blisters, calluses, and sweaty feet. Struggling with loose or smelly boots? FLAT SOCKS can be worn with socks as cushioned boot inserts to fill in gaps in your boots and control odors.

The Best Socks to Wear with Cowboy Boots

With most cowboy boots, no one can see that you’re wearing socks and no one can see that you're not. Ultimately, it’s up to your comfort preference and whether you need the extra protection and length that ordinary boot socks provide.

If you’re still on the fence about the best socks for cowboy boots, see our recommendations for types of cowboy boots and socks to wear with them:

No Shows

For slip-on leather boots and women’s cowgirl boots with side cut-outs, choose no show socks that stay put like FLAT SOCKS. These lightweight boot inserts go inside your boots and not on your feet for lightweight comfort that doesn’t slip or show, keeping the focus on your boots.

Our stylish patterns, florals, and colors let you personalize your boots and add cushion to hard leather soles. FLAT SOCKS can be trimmed to fit any round, square or pointed-toe style. Because a good pair of boots are an investment, FLAT SOCKS help protect your boots from the inside with sweat, slip, and odor control, helping them last longer.

Ankle Socks

Many cowboy boot brands like Ariat® design cowboy boots for women and men in shorter styles including Chelsea boots, dress boots, and ankle booties. For these styles, you can wear ankle socks to maintain comfort and protect your feet from blisters.

Ankle socks don’t show above the ankle, so you can wear your booties with sundresses, shorts, or other clothes without your socks showing. Some ankle socks may be too thin, causing your feet to slip inside your boots, so choose ankle socks with enough cushion.

Crew Socks

Crew socks can be worn in many boot varieties including cowboy boots that stop at the middle of the calf or just below. With crew socks, you can choose from a variety of brands, thicknesses and materials.

For some, crew socks might be too short and slip down into the boot, causing discomfort from bunching up. Crew socks can be worn with your everyday western boots, dress cowboy boots, and work boots depending on length.

Boot Socks

Traditionally, boot socks have been the best socks to wear with cowboy boots thanks to their height. These socks are specifically designed to be worn with boots and serve as a barrier between your feet and legs and the boot shaft.

Boot socks are taller than crew socks, sitting over the calf. The extra thickness adds cushion and protects your shins while filling in the boot for a secure, natural fit. Boot socks are best worn in working boots and riding boots for reliable protection and comfort.

Be a Fashion Outlaw with FLAT SOCKS for Cowboy Boots

Urban cowboys and western ranchers may not live the same life, but they can agree on one thing: you need good socks to make your boots comfortable. For all day comfort on or off the range, choose FLAT SOCKS and be the fashion outlaw that you were meant to be.

Finally, when you’re feeling a little lead-footed from a long workday, give your feet a break and put on your favorite slip-ons with the best socks for Hey Dude™ shoes.

FLAT SOCKS is not affiliated with Ariat®, Justin®, Tecovas®, HEYDUDE™ or any other shoe manufacturer. Reference and trademarks used above are examples of cowboy boot brands and other shoes with which FLAT SOCKS can be worn.