When it comes to a style that is truly American, western wear is really where it's at. Western Wear is so much more than just great hats, blue denim jeans and cowboy boots. It is the spirit of the American West, preserved. Although today's society is pretty far removed from the pioneers, settlers and hard-living cowboys, we still attach a certain value to that time period, as romanticized as it may be. It may be that we've formed our memories mostly as a result of Hollywood depictions of the "wild, wild west" and that is in some ways, true of most of our society. We listen to media and movies to a degree that most people are not aware of.

Regardless of how skewed our views on the matter are, it doesn't change what it means in the hearts of Americans. Cowboys (and the good, strong women who stood by their sides) were seen as a brave lot, marching forward to confront and at times, conquer, the unknown. The rougher aspects of their lives we gloss over, the damage that was done to native peoples, ignored. We see it as the ultimate American spirit- independent, fierce, hard-working and self-reliant. It is important, in many ways for us to have such an image. The United States is an extremely young nation, and that is something that is often overlooked. We are not far from our cowboy ancestors, and there is probably a great deal we could still learn from them that would serve us well in our lives.

It isn't just that cowboy boots were worn that makes them so magical, it's that they developed out of the unique needs of American cowboys. Narrowed, rounded toes to slide in and out of western saddles with ease; high shafts to protect them from rattlesnakes, thorny brush, and rocks, etc. These are all things that were unique to the conditions that existed in our country, and the response has been great. Many a hat is worn in this country, few make as unmistakable an impression as the cowboy hat does. Modern rodeo cowboys have come up with yet another classic-looking boot- the roper boot.

While cowboy boots are truly functional in their build and fashionable in the variety of styles they present themselves in, there is no denying that they have also become a fashion item. The minute a movie star is seen in a certain pair of boots, demand for that style skyrockets. Any animal whose skin can be made into a boot, well, you can buy those. They also come in just about every color under the sun and by the time you get into stitching designs the possibilities are endless. At any price and at any age, cowboy boots are something to be treasured.

Written by Kacy Suther. Brand name    . Ariat boots, Justin boots more at    om .