19th century men’s boots were divided between sleek and sturdy, privilege and practical. Men of means wore refined and polished boots likened to the long tradition of equestrianism while the boots worn by laborers were rough and utilitarian, designed for durability. This pair of German boots is very similar to those worn on the Canadian and American frontiers. Indeed many new immigrants headed west after arriving in North American bringing with them their well-made and hard-wearing boots.