KimC, I don't think it's generational, but it might have to do with geography. At least in Wyoming and western Colorado, keeping your pants over your boots helped to keep the scrub oak and sage brush from falling down in your boots, plus it was supposed to keep snakes out, too. As for showing off boots, maybe if one was in town or all fancied up for a rodeo, but working one always wore their old, broken-in boots which were most comfy.:-) Interesting to note the differences in areas.

kat