Nocona Boots
ActiveOverview
Nocona Boots is a western boot brand founded in 1925, specializing in cowboy and work boots. It operates as a division of Justin Brands, known for producing durable footwear for ranch work and western lifestyles. The brand maintains a heritage tied to Texas bootmaking traditions and oil field demands.
History
Nocona Boots was founded in 1925 in Nocona, Texas, by Enid Justin, daughter of H.J. Justin, after she stayed behind when her family moved Justin Boots to Fort Worth. The company prospered during the local oil boom with tough lace-up work boots. It expanded with new plants in the 1940s and 1970s, merged with Justin Industries in 1981, and shifted production to El Paso, Texas, in 1999.
Product Lines
| Product Line | Positioning | Price Range |
|---|---|---|
| Men's Western Boots | Traditional cowboy styles for work and riding | $150 - $400 |
| Women's Western Boots | Feminine western designs for daily wear | $140 - $350 |
| Men's Work Boots | Durable oil field and ranch work boots | $160 - $300 |
| Lace-Up Boots | High-lace tough boots for rough terrain | $170 - $320 |
| Youth Boots | Scaled-down western boots for kids | $100 - $250 |
Manufacturing
Production was originally in Nocona, Texas, until the plant closed in 1999, after which it moved to El Paso, Texas. Manufacturing is handled under Justin Brands, with no current details on in-house versus outsourced processes.
Notable Products
- 16-inch Lace-Up Boot - Tough boot developed for oil field wildcatters during the 1920s boom
- Men's Cowboy Boots - Classic western heel and pointed toe designs rooted in Texas heritage
- Women's Rodeo Boots - Styled for western events with authentic detailing
Reputation
Nocona Boots is regarded by western enthusiasts for its authentic Texas heritage and durable construction tied to oil workers and cowboys. Professionals value its historical role in bootmaking innovation and family legacy. Criticisms center on the closure of the original Nocona plant, shifting away from local handmade production.