Rough and Ready (Hardcover)

Hardcover. A definitive history that tracks cowboy boots from cattle trails to contemporary rodeo, revealing an American icon whose craftsmanship continues to shape national identity.From cowboy boots humble origins to their elevation as cultural icons, this far-ranging volume chronicles how their distinctive designs and makers have shaped and been shaped by American culture.Engaging narratives, insightful interviews, and vibrant images showcase the evolution through five transformative eras: Real explores multicultural origins and the authentic cowboys who wore them; Rodeo examines Western mythmaking through Wild West shows, early film, and dude ranches; Rhinestone delves into country western music, Nudie Cohns designs, and the shifting archetypes from Gene Autrys moral code to John Waynes tougher persona; Red investigates the boots emergence as luxury commodities during the Reagan years and Urban Cowboy phenomenon; and Reclaimed presents contemporary reinterpretations from the Western-inspired fashion of Beyonce and Pharrell Williams to modern bootmakers.Complementing the authoritative foundation are thoughtful interviews that enrich the historical analysis: an Indigenous voice essay provides cultural perspective, Nudie Cohns origin story offers industry context, and conversations with both traditional craftsmen and innovative makers demonstrate how the cowboy boot continues to evolve while honoring its heritage. A definitive history that tracks cowboy boots from cattle trails to contemporary rodeo, revealing an American icon whose craftsmanship continues to shape national identity. Shipping may be from our Sydney, NSW warehouse or from our UK or US warehouse, depending on stock availability.…