Boots carry stories, style, and practicality. Yet, myths about them keep circling for years. Some of these myths make buyers avoid great pairs. On the other hand, there are others who create confusion about materials and design.

The truth is much simpler than the rumors. This article will lay to rest to most common myths that you might come across about boots. Let’s walk through seven common boot myths and uncover what’s really true.

7 Boot Myths That Are Not True

Boot myths often sound convincing because they’ve been repeated for generations. Some grew from small facts twisted over time, while others are simply wrong. The good news? You don’t need to be an expert to separate truth from fiction. Let’s break down seven myths that don’t deserve the weight they carry.

1. Leather Soles Suck

Leather soles often get dismissed as weak or unsafe. People assume they wear out fast or provide no grip. That’s far from the truth. Good leather soles are made to mold to your feet and become more comfortable the longer you wear them. They also hold up better than most expect. Let’s clear things up with a few facts:

• Leather soles mold to your foot over time.
• Many are surprisingly durable with regular maintenance.
• They provide breathability that rubber soles can’t match.
• Quality leather resists wear with the right care products.
• Resoling leather soles extends their lifespan significantly.

Instead of treating leather soles as outdated, think of them as a timeless part of boot craftsmanship. With care, they can last years while offering comfort and style.

2. Chrome-tanned leather Is Always Bad

Some people believe chrome-tanned leather is cheap or low-quality compared to vegetable-tanned leather. That belief leaves out a lot of facts. Chrome tanning, when done well, actually produces durable, flexible leather with many strengths. It’s also used in plenty of high-end boots. Here’s why it deserves credit:

• Chrome tanning creates soft, flexible leather.
• It resists water better than vegetable-tanned leather.
• Colors stay richer and more consistent.
• Break-in time is shorter and less painful.
• Properly tanned chrome leather still lasts for years.

Both tanning methods have value. Instead of labeling chrome leather “bad,” recognize it as a solid option that balances strength, comfort, and style.

3. Every Boot Needs a Shank

Shanks are small pieces inside boots that add support and stability. Many people assume every boot needs one. That’s not true. Shanks are useful for heavy-duty boots, but casual or lightweight boots don’t always require them. Their purpose depends on the boot’s design and use. A few points to keep in mind:

• Shanks add structure for work or hiking boots.
• Casual boots often work fine without them.
• They prevent foot fatigue under heavy loads.
• Not every design benefits from the added stiffness.
• Comfort depends more on fit than on a shank.

So while shanks have their place, they’re not a must-have in every pair. What matters most is whether the boot suits your lifestyle and needs.

4. Shanks Offer Arch Support

Another common myth is that shanks directly support your arch. They don’t. A shank’s main role is stability, not comfort for the arch. Many people confuse their purpose and end up expecting too much. If you want arch support, you need insoles designed for that. Shanks simply play a different role in boot design. Here’s how it really works:

• Shanks bridge the boot for better weight distribution.
• They reduce flex in the sole during heavy use.
• Arch comfort depends on insoles, not shanks.
• Shanks protect feet from pressure on uneven ground.
• They keep the boot’s shape over time.

Mixing up these functions leads to false expectations. A shank doesn’t fix arch issues, but it does help your boots feel more stable in demanding conditions.

5. Stitchdown Construction Is Less Waterproof

This myth comes from the way stitchdown boots look. Because the stitching is visible, people think water leaks right through. But the design is actually built for toughness. When paired with waxed stitching and the right care, stitchdown construction resists water well. It’s trusted by serious bootmakers worldwide. The truth looks like this:

• Stitchdown construction locks the upper securely to the sole.
• Waxed stitching blocks water entry points.
• With care, it’s just as water-resistant as other builds.
• The flared edge protects against outside elements.
• Many heritage boots with stitchdown lasts have lasted decades.

Instead of assuming it’s weaker, see stitchdown as a mark of strength and tradition. With conditioning and proper wear, these boots stay dependable even in damp settings.

6. Chromexcel Scratches Easily

Chromexcel leather often gets called “fragile” because scratches show up quickly. What people miss is that this is part of its charm. Chromexcel is rich in oils and waxes. Marks are natural but also easy to buff out. Far from being a flaw, this gives boots a lived-in character. Here’s what to know:

Chromexcel develops a patina faster than other leathers. That’s what makes it unique. Scratches blend into the surface with a simple rub of your thumb or a touch of conditioner. Instead of seeing wear as damage, think of it as character. Over time, Chromexcel boots become personal to the wearer, each mark telling part of the story.

7. Suede Is Delicate

Suede often gets a bad reputation as fragile. Many people think it can’t handle rough wear or weather. But modern suede is far stronger than most assume. With the right treatment, it’s surprisingly tough and long-lasting.

Suede isn’t a fragile material to be feared. It’s stylish, adaptable, and dependable when cared for properly. Don’t skip a great pair of boots just because they’re suede.

Conclusion

Boot myths can steer buyers away from solid options. Once you know the truth, picking the right pair becomes easier and more fun. Boots should fit your lifestyle, not old rumors.

Ready to step into boots without myths weighing you down? Visit SquareToToe today and explore pairs made for real life.