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Are Sea Turtle Boots Illegal?
If you are here then you are seeking the answer to Are Sea Turtle Boots Illegal? Or when did sea turtle boots become illegal? then you are in the right place. These questions and more will be answered below. Looking for more examples of what exotic skin boots are legal?, we have that on the site too.
Laws Covering Sea Turtle Boots
Sea turtles are protected in the US by both the ESA and CITES along with other state and federal laws, regulations, and rules. The sale, import, and use of sea turtle products is either banned or tightly controlled. This includes sea turtle cowboy boots, bags, purses, and other similar goods made from sea turtle skin. Turtle skin products had a very high demand in the past and even today the illegal trade still exists.
When Did Sea Turtle Boots Become Illegal?
Sea turtle leather (and boots) moved into the post-ban space in 1973 with the enactment of the ESA. There are sea turtle boots that exist today from before this time – they are commonly referred to as pre-ban boots or just pre-bans. While you may technically be ok if you are the original owner of a pair of pre-bans or come across a pair gifted or passed down to you, the sale of sea turtle boots has been legally banned since 1973.
Traveling With Sea Turtle Boots
Even as an owner of pre-ban sea turtle boots you could expect potential challenges at any port of entry or customs point as it is not uncommon for any such materials to be confiscated. Traveling while wearing or transporting sea turtle leather products, even pre-bans, could subject you to additional scrutiny or having your products confiscated from you.
Sales of Sea Turtle Boots
In spite of this you will still occasionally see sea turtle boots for sale online. Don’t be fooled by the fact that you can possibly find a pair of these banned sea turtle boots for sale on eBay or poshmark. Some sellers may attempt to evade the platform bans by labeling such boots as vintage, antique, unique, or similar words. Be aware that even if these listings manage to slip through the rules still apply.
Summary and Wrap Up
The bottom line is this – remember that it is illegal and arguably unethical to buy, sell, or own products made from the skin of a sea turtle due to their status as an endangered species. It would be a strong recommendation that before purchasing sea turtle boots that you are sure to understand both the legality in your country and the possible environmental impact of your actions.
Hopefully this writeup about the legal status of sea turtle boots and the history of the rules and regulations on them gave you the information you were looking for.
Frequently Asked Questions about Sea Turtle Boots
When did sea turtle boots become illegal in the US?
Sea turtle boots became illegal in the US with passage of the ESA in 1973.
Are sea turtle skin boots illegal to own?
Generally, yes. However technically if they are of pre-ban manufacture, they can be owned, but sales or imports can be on shakier legal ground.
Is it illegal to wear turtle boots?
No, it isn’t illegal to wear them unless they are of post-ban manufacture. However, be aware that they can, and possibly will, be seized at customs or other ports of entry, so you may not want to travel with them or while wearing them.
Why are sea turtle boots illegal?
Both the ESA and CITE regulate trade in sea turtle skins. Sea turtles are an endangered species that face many threats to their long-term survival. These laws and regulations aim to prevent their continued decline.
How much are sea turtle boots worth?
The price of a pair of sea turtle cowboy boots can vary quite a bit and will change based on several factors. A pair of authentic and vintage sea turtle boots will usually be priced higher due to their relative scarcity and that they are no longer able to be legally produced. Prices can be expected to range from a few hundred dollars up to several thousands based on condition of the boot and complexity of the design. We must again note that the selling of sea turtle boots could potentially violate the laws in your jurisdiction. The use of sea turtle parts, which includes their shells, for commercial purposes is usually illegal.
How can I tell if sea turtle boots are real?
It can be a challenge to authenticate a real pair of sea turtle boots without experience with the real thing. A few general pointers are listed below:
- Material: Authentic sea turtle skin has a distinct pattern of large, polygonal scales that are slightly raised and set relatively far apart. The scales are surrounded by smaller, irregular patches. Replicas and faux skins may not accurately mimic this pattern.
- Texture: Genuine sea turtle leather is relatively soft and has a unique, somewhat rubbery feel. Replicas and faux skins are often stiffer and have a more plastic-like touch.
- Price: Genuine sea turtle boots as a function of their scarcity usually carry a high price tag. A suspiciously low price can be a red flag for a replica or faux skin.
You can watch a Youtube video that is based on a summary of this article by going here: https://youtu.be/yH-M229Dck4