For cowboys and cowgirls looking for the perfect pair of boots, two major brands stand out: Double H and Justin. Both companies have been handcrafting high-quality Western boots for over 50 years and have garnered die-hard fans along the way.
But which brand truly wears the cowboy boot crown?
In this comprehensive, 3200 word review, we’ll break down the key differences between Double H and Justin to help you decide which brand best suits your needs and style. We’ll compare their flagship technologies, leather quality, fit, comfort, styles, and overall reputation.
By the end, you’ll know exactly how Double H and Justin boots stack up across all the categories that matter most.
A Brief Comparison Table
| Category | Double H | Justin |
| Heritage | Founded in 1955, handcrafted in their own factory since the beginning | Around since 1879, one of the oldest boot brands in the US |
| Leather Quality | Use full-grain leathers from around the world like buffalo, calfskin, and oiled cowhide | Rely on exotic leathers like ostrich, alligator, and elephant hides |
| Fit | Accommodate standard foot widths and volumes, run slightly large | Advanced scanning technology allows for customized fit across foot shapes and volumes |
| Comfort | Proprietary insole and walking heel offer instant comfort and support | Flexwelt construction and precision fitting prevent discomfort right away |
| Style Variety | Classic western motifs and ornamentation, minimal colors and prints | Expanding fashion collections with bold colors, prints, and embroidery |
| Affordability | Most boots under $300, excellent value for quality | Average price $275-$400, exotic collections exceed $1,000 |
| Reputation | Beloved for multi-generational quality and craftsmanship | Lauded for innovation balanced with heritage construction |
Double H Boots: The Original Western Brand
Double H Boots prides itself on being the original western footwear company. Based in Washington state since 1955, Double H handcrafts every pair of boots in their own factory using time-honored techniques. Their goal is to make long-lasting cowboy boots that provide comfort right out of the box.
Double H offers three main collections:
- Premium Leather: Made with full-grain, supple leathers. Double H’s classic styles featuring ornate stitching and patterns.
- On-the-Job Boots: Durable boots made for ranch and construction work. Feature safety toes, waterproofing, and slip-resistance.
- Fashion Collections: Trendy western boots in unique colors and embellishments for a modern look.
Within each collection, you’ll find boots for both men and women. Some of their most popular options include:
- Dalton: Iconic traditional cowboy boot.
- Avenue: Feminine boot with a cinched ankle.
- Paul: Square-toe boot made for the rodeo arena.
- Visionary: Weatherproof work boot with safety features.
No matter the style, Double H aims for immediate comfort. They use proprietary technologies to achieve this:
- Double Comfort Insole
This multi-layer insole provides cushioning and arch support right away. The top fabric wicks moisture while the 2nd foam layer molds to your foot. Finally, a 3rd shock-absorbing layer adds softness underfoot.
- Walking Heel
Double H’s signature low walking heel ensures stability when striding. It also allows your weight to be evenly distributed, reducing foot fatigue.
By combining these technologies with expert craftsmanship, Double H produces flexible, supportive boots designed for all-day wear.
Justin Boots: The Brand That Fits
Justin Boots opened its doors in 1879, making it the oldest footwear brand still operating today in the United States. Based in Texas, Justin handmakes every pair of boots in their Fort Worth factory using quality leathers and precise construction methods.
Justin organizes their collections into three main categories:
- Western: Their classic cowboy boot styles featuring traditional motifs and ornamentation.
- Work: Durable boots with safety features made for industrial jobs.
- Fashion: Trendy cowboy boots with bright colors, unique materials, and statement silhouettes.
Some of Justin’s fan favorites over the years include:
- Gypsy: A rugged western boot for women with gorgeous stitching.
- Bent Rail: An iconic square-toe boot for the rodeo.
- Stampede: A mesquite-colored work boot ready for any job site.
- Sierra: A fashion-forward boot with exotic embroidery.
Justin’s focus rests heavily on fit. They use advanced 3D scanning and AI technology to recommend the best size and style for each customer’s unique foot shape.
- Fit Analysis Technology
This proprietary system uses hundreds of 3D foot scans to identify your foot’s nuances. An AI model then matches your foot to the optimal last, creating a custom fit feel.
- Flexwelt Construction
Justin’s signature flexwelt process adds extra flexibility to the welt of the boot. This allows the upper to move with your foot for instant comfort and break-in.
Thanks to these technologies paired with premium leathers, Justin Boots feel like a custom job straight out of the box.
Leather Quality Comparison
The leather makes up the majority of any cowboy boot. Both Double H and Justin rely on high-quality hides to craft their signature boots. However, there are some distinct differences in their leather choices.
Double H Leathers
Double H uses full-grain, grade-A leathers sourced from all over the world. Some of their favorites include:
- Buffalo: Water-resistant and durable. Often used for work boots.
- Oiled Cowhide: Supple and flexible right away. Features a rich patina.
–Calfskin: Sophisticated fine leather perfect for dress boots.
- Bull Hide: Thick hides that become softer over time.
Double H proudly displays their leathers by keeping finishes to a minimum. Simple polishes and waxes allow the natural grains and textures to shine through.
Justin Leathers
Justin also utilizes premier exotic leathers from around the globe. Some of their high-end offerings include:
- Ostrich: Extremely breathable and lightweight. Displays dynamic textures.
- Alligator: Tough with natural scale patterns. Ages beautifully.
- Caiman: Similar look as alligator but more affordable.
- Elephant: Soft and supple, often used in fashion boots.
In addition to exotics, Justin relies on top-grade cowhides. To showcase specific qualities, they use more finishes and embossing. For example, they’ll heavily distress leather to accentuate its ruggedness in a work boot. Or they’ll add glossy finishes to present refined calfskin on a dress boot.
Both brands source excellent hides. So when it comes to leather alone, there’s no clear winner. It comes down to your personal preferences on textures, finishes, and types of animal hides.
Fit and Sizing Comparison
Finding the ideal fit makes all the difference when evaluating cowboy boots. An excellent pair means nothing if the boot doesn’t align to your foot shape and stride. Here’s how Double H and Justin compare when it comes to fit:
- Double H Fit
Double H boots cater to standard foot widths and volumes. Their sizes range from 6-15 for men and 5-11 for women. Their insoles are designed to mold to your feet over the first several wears. This gives them a custom-like feel after break-in.
While they accommodate most feet out of the box, some folks find Double H boots run large. Trying them on in person is recommended to find your ideal Double H size.
- Justin Fit
Justin takes fit very seriously. Their Fit Analysis Technology allows them to accommodate a wider range of foot shapes and volumes than most competitors.
Justin’s sizes also span 6-15 for men and 5-11 for women. However, their widths range from AAA to EEE. This extensive selection ensures most customers can find the perfect fit for their foot’s exact needs.
Justin’s advanced scanning and construction methods result in an immediately personalized feel. Less break-in is required, making them a great choice for those with sensitive feet.
Between the two, Justin wins when it comes to advanced fit options for different foot shapes and widths. Their technology allows for a truly tailored fit experience.
Also Read: Differences Between Feetures And Balega Running Socks.
Comfort and Feel Comparison
Along with fit, you want your cowboy boots to feel great right away. Let’s see how Double H and Justin stack up on first-wear comfort:
- Double H Comfort
Double H tunes each pair of boots for instant comfort.
Their leather selections emphasize softness and flexibility.
Proprietary technologies like their walking heel and cushioned insole provide support where you need it most.
Most customers report Double H boots feel broken-in just minutes after first stepping in them.
Even their work boots maintain a comfortable feel thanks to cushioning and shock absorption. Break-in times average 1-2 weeks.
- Justin Comfort
Justin’s precision fit helps remove discomfort spots right off the bat. Boots align perfectly to your foot’s shape and volume for zero pinch points.
Their Flexwelt construction allows the uppers to flex naturally with your foot’s movements. While stiffer than athletic shoes, Justin boots maintain excellent flexibility.
The combination of anatomical design and flexible components results in pure comfort straight out of the box. Break-in times can be just days with Justin’s boots.
When it comes to immediate comfort, both brands excel. Their proprietary technologies and focus on quality materials means you can put in long days on your feet right away.
Comparison of Style Variety
Style preferences often dictate which cowboy boot brand to choose. Lucky for boot lovers everywhere, both Double H and Justin offer diverse collections spanning classic to modern aesthetics.
- Double H Styles
Double H sticks to timeless cowboy boot motifs you’ll recognize right away. Intricate stitching, pronounced heel counters, and piping around the tops create dimension. Neutral colorways of brown and black allow the rich leathers to speak for themselves.
While classic in style, each Double H boot features small distinguishing details. Customers can choose between snip, rounded, or squared toe shapes. Decorative top stitches, exotic inlays, and colorful boot pulls provide flair.
Overall, if you want a traditional cowboy boot silhouette rooted in heritage, Double H delivers.
- Justin Styles
Justin also provides plenty of classically-styled western boots. However, their expansive fashion and exotic collections speak to a more adventurous wearer.
The brand experiments with colors from bright turquoise to pastel pinks and purples. Their floral motifs and unconventional overlays give boots a modern twist. Options like the Justin Sierra with its vibrant embroidery cater perfectly to the cowboy bootie crowd.
For those wanting a blend of western motifs with daring details, Justin boots satisfy the need. Their styles traverse tradition yet still capture the cowboy spirit.
So if you like embellished boots that make a statement, Justin takes the lead on style variety. Double H stays tried and true, while Justin pushes boundaries.
Also Read: How Alvies And Tecovas Boots Stack Up?
Boot Costs: Affordability Overview
Cost often becomes a deciding factor when investing in high-end footwear. So how do prices stack up between these two premium brands?
- Double H Prices
Double H positions itself as an affordable heritage brand. Their boots range from around $200 on the low end up to $600 for top-grain exotics. The average price hovers around $350.
Considering the quality leather and detail-oriented construction, Double H represents an excellent value. Their boots cost a fraction of boutique brands while maintaining stellar craftsmanship.
- Justin Prices
Justin boots have an entry point around $175 and can exceed $1,000 for specialty hides like ostrich and elephant. The average price for their collections falls between $275 to $400.
While not the cheapest around, Justin boots provide excellent bang-for-your-buck. Advanced technologies alongside handcrafted materials justify the investment for many loyal fans.
When evaluating overall affordability, Double H just barely wins for keeping more options below the $300 price point. However, Justin also offers plenty of budget-conscious boots in their collections.
Brand Reputations
Beyond the boots themselves, a brand’s reputation holds weight when choosing which to buy. Both Double H and Justin benefit from die-hard fan followings they’ve built over decades.
- Double H Reputation
Devoted customers laud Double H for making high-quality boots accessible to the everyday cowboy and cowgirl. The generations of families who have worn Double H boots speak to their outstanding construction.
Fans love that each pair still passes through over 140 skilled hands at their factory. Customers feel confident investing in a brand with decades of experience using time-tested techniques.
The only complaints some have is their sizing running slightly big and having fewer width options. Overall though, longtime boot lovers sing Double H’s praises.
- Justin Reputation
Ask a Justin owner their thoughts, and their loyalty shines through.
Wearers adore how their proprietary technologies deliver instant comfort across styles.
Justin earns respect for continuing to innovate while preserving heritage construction methods.
The brand garners praise for accommodating more foot shapes and volumes than competitors.
Occasional minor grievances involve prices creeping up for their exotic leather boots. However, most accept the cost as fair for the level of quality and detail.
In the end, both Double H and Justin earn glowing reputations among cowboy boot enthusiasts. The brands focus on keeping customers for life by prioritizing quality craftsmanship and comfort. Their reputations hold strong as go-to western wear companies.
Double H Or Justin: Which Should You Buy?
When choosing between these heavyweight cowboy boot brands, there’s no one-size-fits-all answer. The right pick depends entirely on your personal priorities.
However, here are some sound guidelines for deciding between the two:
Buy Double H If You Want:
- A classic, traditional cowboy boot aesthetic
- Leathers that showcase natural beauty
- Generous sizing/roomy toe boxes
- An affordable price point under $300
Buy Justin If You Want:
- A precise, personalized fit straight out of the box
- Distinctive boot styles that make a statement
- Detailed exotic hides and modern embellishments
- Flexibility and quick break-in time
Both brands craft excellent cowboy boots rooted in tradition, comfort, and quality. Keeping your preferences in mind will naturally lead you toward the perfect pair.
Also Read: Comparison of Garmont T8 NFS And BIFIDA Boots.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Still have some questions about Double H and Justin? Here are answers to some of the most frequently asked questions:
No, Double H and Justin are separate competing brands in the cowboy boot industry. Neither company owns the other.
Yes, Double H boots are known for providing excellent comfort right out of the box. Technologies like their cushioned walking heel and supportive insoles allow all-day wear without pain or blisters.
Yes, Justin is one of the top cowboy boot brands, known for precision fit and flexible welts that hug your feet. Their quality leathers and construction methods make them some of the most comfortable boots available.
Some Double H boots are waterproof or water-resistant, making them suitable for wet conditions. Their work boots tend to feature technologies that allow them to repel water and still feel comfortable when damp.
Closing Remarks
We hope this comprehensive comparison of Double H and Justin Boots helps steer you toward the perfect pair. Both companies carry on the heritage of American cowboy boots while advancing comfort and craftsmanship.
The most important step is trying on boots in person whenever possible. Let your own feet be the judge to decide if Double H or Justin better matches your style and comfort needs. With the foundation we’ve provided, you’re ready to confidently invest in a pair of boots that will bring you years of enjoyment.
Happy boot shopping!
