Howdy
That type of boot was very popular when I was in my twenties. You too? Yes the ring is decorative and serves no practical purpose.
Actually they were popular when I was in High school (mid 70's). But I was never allowed to own them back then.
I bought them for riding my BMW motorcycle. I wasn't sure if the straps really did anything, I know my heal sticks at the point when it hits the strap area taking them off, figured the strap might be to make them harder to come off if I dumped the bike.
I wish I could ride the bike to the CAS matches, I don't have a problem riding in a costume, but I don't think the local LEO's would like me putting an 1892 and a sxs in scabbards on the bike.
Now if I could just come up with a hitch for the BMW. I could build a light trailer shaped like a coffin that I could tow to the match, then use as a gun cart once there. Problem is the price of the Hitch would buy for a lot of diesel for the pickup so the break even point would be to high.
as for the straps, maybe I will hem my pants long enough to hide them in the beginning.
thanks everyone.