Buffalo Tracks and Buffalo Trails

The presence of buffalo or the hope for buffalo could be symbolized by their hoof prints. These could be indicated by a design as simple as a square or could be a more detailed depiction. The buffalo trail, which symbolizes the location of the buffalo, is usually depicted in beadwork as a simple rectangle. This motif was popular with the Arapaho.

Buffalo Intestines

Many examples of Plains footwear feature checkered patterns on the vamp. This pattern represents the buffalo intestines that were a favoured food across the Great Plains. This symbol was particularly popular with the Cheyenne and the Arapaho.