Top Cowboy Superstitions You Should Know

Cowboys have long been known for their rugged lifestyle and unique traditions, many of which have been passed down through generations. Among these traditions are a variety of superstitions that have become integral to cowboy culture. Here are some of the most well-known cowboy superstitions:

Don't Wear the Color Yellow

Wearing yellow is considered bad luck among cowboys. This superstition dates back to the early days of rodeo when bullfighters, known as rodeo clowns, wore bright yellow to distract the bulls. As a result, yellow became associated with danger and bad fortune.

Don't Pay Your Fees with $50 Bills

Another common superstition is the avoidance of $50 bills. Many cowboys believe that paying entry fees or any significant expenses with $50 bills brings bad luck. It's rare to see a cowboy pay their fees with a $50, and if they get paid out with a $50–they're likely to ask for different change.

Don't Compete with Money in Your Pocket

Cowboys also avoid competing with money in their pockets. This superstition is based on the idea that carrying money while competing will result in losing both the competition and the money. To prevent this, cowboys make sure to leave their cash behind before stepping into the arena.

Don't Put Your Cowboy Hat on the Bed

One of the most well-known cowboy superstitions is to never place a cowboy hat on a bed. It is believed that doing so will bring bad luck and misfortune. This superstition likely originated from the practical concern of keeping hats clean and off surfaces where they could easily be damaged.

Never Eat Chicken Before a Rodeo

Another lesser-known superstition is that eating chicken before a rodeo can lead to poor performance. Cowboys believe that consuming chicken, which is considered a timid animal, can transfer that characteristic to the rider, resulting in a lackluster performance.

Always Mount a Horse from the Left Side

Traditionally, cowboys always mount their horses from the left side. This practice dates back to the cavalry, where soldiers were trained to mount from the left to avoid tangling their swords. Although swords are no longer a concern, the tradition continues as a matter of habit and superstition.

These superstitions, while varied in their origins, continue to be a part of cowboy culture today. Whether out of genuine belief or simply as a nod to tradition, cowboys adhere to these customs as they navigate the challenges of their rugged lifestyle.