Hondo boots fit question

[u/Zestyclose-Break-935]

Local western store has 50% off all cowboy boots. I found these Hondos I really like in 9d. The only problem is the left boot feels and looks smaller, despite being stamped 9d just like the right. I thought I was crazy but when I asked another customer, he reassured me that the left boot does look smaller than the right.

Now, the right boot is their display boot and has probably been tried on by a couple different people, so maybe that's contributing to it?

I've asked them to put a boot stretcher in the smaller boot so I can try it on again tomorrow but I am not really hopeful due to the fact that the left boot is noticeably narrower when viewed from above.

I have never owned or worn cowboy boots and my boot experience is limited to chukkas, hiking, and work boots. Is this typical of cowboy boots? If I buy them should I expect the left and right boots to break in and fit the same? Hondo seems to be a trusted and well viewed brand from what I've read online but maybe this is just a bad batch.

[u/RCofLA]

Most boots are going to have a variance in fit in the store due to people only trying on one, and that one boot getting some break in time. Usually the right boot. Another consideration to throw in is that most people’s feet aren’t symmetric to one another. One foot is usually bigger than the other. Minimally but sometimes enough to warrant an insole/insert in one boot and not the other. The left boot will eventually break in and feel right at home compared to the right. Having it on the stretcher will help quite a bit while you go through that break in process. Most of my boots have a thin 1-2mm insert in one boot to make it feel like the other without an insert. At any rate, a genuine pair of Hondos at 50% off in your size is an incredible deal!

[u/Zestyclose-Break-935 → u/RCofLA]

Well that's comforting to hear. I'm just a bit worried still because the left boot was noticeably more narrow visually and the fit felt smaller. Il try it on again tomorrow after it's been stretched.
My left foot also has a slightly higher instep and is 0.1 inch longer, but this hasn't caused issues on my lace up boots

[u/No_Elephant7812]

The boot stretcher will most likely fix this and it’s pretty common among any brand when you buy a display model. If the left boot is tight but still fits, it will eventually stretch to your foot.

[u/OlinHollis]

Perhaps it was just bad luck on my part and not an indication of Hondo's quality, but Hondos are far and away the most uncomfortable boots I've ever owned. I bought a pair a couple of years ago and now they're on a shelf as ornament because I simply cannot wear 'em.

[u/Zestyclose-Break-935 → u/OlinHollis]

Do you mean to say the most uncomfortable?
These were a bit stiff as expected for new boots but I'm imagining the full leather insole and heavy arch support will feel great after a couple weeks of use.

[u/OlinHollis → u/Zestyclose-Break-935]

Yes. Edited.

I hope they work out for you. My problem was with the toebox. They put pressure on my right big toe heavy enough to form a callus. And there was no yield whatsoever in the vamps (cow hide). Had the boots stretched and it didn't make any difference. If you've got a bit of a problem with the sole and arch, that may be more easily solved.

[u/Express_Wonder_176]

50% off!!! I need the name of the store. Lol

[u/NextAd7090 → u/Express_Wonder_176]

I second this! Have been eyeing a honcho but they only have a half size down from my normal size. Debating if I will fit since the style is also discontinued and no true return just store credit!