These custom boots are made for walkin' at YY Collection kick-off party

“Never rush a boot”

That’s the motto of Walter Pye’s new custom boot line for men, which was recently unveiled at a VIP party at his Pinto Ranch Houston store and also available at Dallas and Las Vegas locations. The niche boot line is a departure from machine-produced boots, and Pye’s cadre of craftsman have generations of experience behind their art. Retailing for between $800 to $2,000, YY boots are a nod to Pye’s family, who came to Texas in the 1880s and still call the sprawling YY ranch home.

The interior of each YY boot contains a “born on” date,” listing the size, serial number and production number. If there’s an issue with the boots, the information allows each element to be traced back and the problem solved.

Custom bootmaker Bob McLean measured a customer's boot size at the party, while presenting the collection. McLean, who started making cowboy boots in 1978, is passionate that each boot feels light, looks great and lasts for years. He inspects a boot 12 times before it leaves the shop.

Tools of the trade: The YY bootmakers are based in El Paso, the home of the last line of generational bootmakers.

The YY unveiling gave customers like James Holland the opportunity to be fitted for his own custom pair of boots. Pictured, left to right, Angela Holland, James Holland and Walter Pye.

Each YY last — the model of the wearer's foot — is kept on file so bootmakers can refer back when making other pairs.

YY boots are made from ostrich, alligator, Italian horse and other skins. McLean and Pye work with a highly respected tannery in Florida where they sift through up to 400 skins — and leave with only 10.

Hugo Olivas has been custom-making boots since he was 13-years-old.

Pete Schnuz and Patrick Carr look on while Hugo Olivas works with ostrich skin.

Hugo Olivas measuring the for a custom pair of boots.

This boot is on the way to being complete.

Graham Gemoets of Butter Catering got into the spirit of the occasion by serving up Texas-style bites.