Lived here most of my life, and never got around to buying boots yet (and my Dad is more or less a real cowboy rancher).
What should I buy that I can wear Stampeding, and also around the ranch and trail-riding?
http://www.albertaboot.com/
New boots should feel comfortably snug. The ball of the foot should be right in the widest part of the boot, indicating proper arch length and adequate toe room (toes should sit flat and free). The boot should be snug over the instep (top of the foot) since there are no laces, buckles, etc. Finally, there should be a slight lift in the heel when you walk (approx. ½ inch) which will subside as the sole starts to flex. If a boot is too tight there will be little or no lift and if a boot is too big, the heel will slip dramatically.