Dan Post Boots
Dan PostDan Post has built its reputation on delivering comfortable exotic leather boots at prices that make them accessible to a wide range of buyers. Their Comfort Technology innovations and broad exotic offerings have made them a popular choice for both everyday wear and collecting.
History
Dan Post Boots was founded in 1965, entering the western boot market during a period of strong demand for quality cowboy boots. The company established its manufacturing in El Paso, Texas, the epicenter of American boot production. From the beginning, Dan Post differentiated itself by focusing on comfort alongside traditional western aesthetics, investing in cushioned insoles and flexible construction techniques that set their boots apart from stiffer competitors.
Over the decades, Dan Post carved out a distinct niche in the market — quality exotic boots at moderate price points. While makers like Lucchese pursued the premium end and mass-market brands competed on price alone, Dan Post occupied the middle ground effectively. The company was acquired by McRae Industries and later became part of the Dan Post Boot Company portfolio, which also includes Laredo Boots. Production continues with a mix of domestic and imported manufacturing.
Product Lines
Dan Post's catalog spans a wide range of exotic leathers at accessible prices. Their exotic lineup includes boots in Caiman, Smooth Ostrich, Full Quill Ostrich, Teju Lizard, and Shark. The brand's Comfort Technology line incorporates a proprietary cushioned insole system that has become a signature feature. Dan Post also offers a range of fashion-forward western boots and traditional cowboy styles in domestic leathers like Cowhide and Goat.
Identification Tips
Dan Post boots are identified by the "DP" or "Dan Post" branding on the outsole and inside the shaft. The company uses a style numbering system that typically begins with "DP" followed by a numeric code. Their boots often feature a distinctive comfort insole that is visible when the boot is removed — this padded footbed is a quick identifier. Shaft stitching on Dan Post boots tends to be decorative and colorful, often more elaborate than conservative makers like Nocona. Vintage Dan Post exotics from the 1970s-1980s are worth noting for their generous use of skin on the vamp and shaft.
Notable Models
- Chandler — A best-selling Caiman belly boot that exemplifies Dan Post's value proposition in exotic footwear.
- Tempe — A popular Full Quill Ostrich model featuring the brand's comfort insole system.
- Raleigh — A classic Shark boot known for its durability and distinctive texture.
- Milwaukee — A round-toe roper in various leathers that has been a consistent seller for the brand across multiple decades.