Should i buy riding boots

Field boots are available in leather and synthetic leather, and in either black or brown with black being the standard for competition. A formal and stylish boot favoured by dressage riders and competitive show jumpers alike. In fact, the style is quite popular and you will see riders of other disciplines wearing them, too. Dress boots are traditionally black in colour and made from leather, although rubber and synthetic dress boots e. This shape is called a Spanish Cut. Short riding boots offer an informal, inexpensive option for young children and beginner riders of all ages.

If you cannot tolerate the tight fit of long riding boots a short jodhpur boot and gaiter or a paddock boot is your best option. And, it is an excellent option if you have difficulty finding a long boot that fits your foot and calf size perfectly. If you will be competing in events or horse shows, check that short boots are acceptable in the class or event you will be entering and that the short boots and gaiters you choose meet the entry rules.

When choosing a pair of short riding boots, you will discover that there is a vast range of them available on the market. Some features make short riding boots suitable for general purpose wear so you can go from the yard to the school to the competition in comfort and style. Depending on the manufacturer as well as the features and quality of material e. Jodhpur boots and paddock boots are both short riding boots that, at first glance, appear to be quite similar as they both come up just above the ankle - providing support and flexibility - and have a distinct, low heel.

Wearing either of these short boots, you can go easily from yard to town while looking and feeling good. Traditionally, jodhpur boots are pull on and usually feature elastics inserts that make it easy to slip them on and off.

Many styles now feature a zip in the front giving you more options for a comfortable fit and stylish look. Whether made of quality leather or synthetic material, jodhpur boots are designed to stand up to everyday wear around the yard.

The resin or rubber soles have a slip resistant tread giving excellent grip even on mucky or muddy ground. Most also have an impact and pressure absorbing insole to protect and cushion your feet whether you are walking or riding. Jodhpur boots are recommended for small children and are a suitable choice for anyone taking occasional riding lessons or just starting out in horse riding.

Gaiters give a more stylish and elegant appearance than jodhpur boots on their own. Many adult riders find wearing short boots with gaiters or half chaps a great alternative to long boots — especially if they have sizing difficulties — without sacrificing comfort and leg protection. Also, they have more flexibility and comfort in their ankles and calves during long periods in the saddle. Before deciding between gaiters or chaps, it is important to understand the difference between them — particularly if you will be riding competitively.

While gaiters may be allowed in some competitions, half chaps are not usually permitted. Half chaps generally have a more casual appearance than gaiters and come in a variety of colours.

They have a relatively basic shape and can be made of different materials including suede, suede alternatives and synthetic machine washable materials as well as leather. Gaiters are generally made from either black or brown leather and are more similar to the look and fit of long leather riding boots than half chaps because they are shaped to fit the contours of the lower leg. The zip and other fastenings are well hidden. I have three pairs already and have my eyes on these beauties next! Here in Montana, I ride throughout the loooonnngg winter down to about twenty degrees.

So my winter riding boots have to be really hardy. Ill-fitting boots, rubbed-raw ankles, and unsafe shoes can ruin an otherwise great ride. Quality boots help horse and rider perform at their best. I began riding horses at age six, and I'm just as infatuated OK, more!

My AQHA gelding exemplifies the versatility of the breed -- reined cow horse, reining, roping, ranch riding, trail, dressage, and jumping.

We're also dipping our toes hooves into Working Equitation! Written by Horse Rookie. Wondering what shoes to wear horseback riding? Been there. Article Quick Links show. How to Choose the Best Riding Boot 5 factors to consider when buying horse riding shoes:.

Roper Crossrider Western Boot. AdTec Packer Boot. Laredo Breakout Western Boot Men. Best Half Chaps for Beginners. Paddock boots also ankle boots but are intended for use around the stable and paddocks, so made with rougher use in mind. They are made of waterproof or resistant , durable material and should be comfortable to make in for longer periods of time.

Given the environment they are used in, it is a big plus if they are easy to clean as well! While it is possible to use the same shoes for both stable work and riding, personally, we are not a fan of this.

This is why we use sturdy, waterproof ankle boots in the stables not necessarily specific to equestrians and change into riding boots before getting in the saddle. Choosing the right riding boots is important as they play a key role in ensuring your safety and comfort both on and off the horse. What type of boots you go for will depend on a few criteria.

Do you go through new hobbies like you go through your underwear or are you more of the committed type? Are you going for Western or English style? This is likely to influence the style of boot you want to purchase.

Will you be riding in hot or cold temperatures? Inside or outside? Check that your boots are adapted to the environment you will be spending the majority of your time in. How much are you willing to spend? There is no need to break the bank for a pair of boots, however, if you will be wearing these shoes twice or more per week you probably want them to be comfortable.

Be wary of the cheapest synthetic or rubber models. They can be very sweaty and uncomfortable, so read reviews or talk to friends for recommendations if you are considering those — they are not part of our recommended boots.

They are made from high-quality leather and take the shape of your legs and feet after a surprisingly short! The zipper means not having to struggle to pull tight and sweaty boots off after a ride and it still glides smoothly after many, many uses.

The boots themselves look great at least we think so and can be used for competitions as well as everyday riding. Do you want them to keep your feet warm throughout the winter, or prevent your feet from getting wet?

Take a look at our selection of thermal and waterproof boots. They are made from a durable, waterproof, full-grain leather with a suede inner leg panel and a waterproof membrane inside. Perfect to keep your feet warm and dry. They are made from hard-wearing, fleece-lined Nubuck leather and have elasticated panels alongside a full length zip at the back for extra comfort and flexibility. Great if you are looking for a boot for the cold weather.

Do you want your boots for riding and competitions, or are you looking for something that you can wear around the yard too? It's important to get the right boots to ensure they don't get damaged. For example, your long leather riding boots are not really suitable for mucking out in - mud, manure and water can rot the stitching and dry out the leather.

Take a look at our range of multipurpose riding boots that can be used around the yard or in the saddle. We love the Ariat Coniston and the Busse Trondheim. How do I fit my long riding boots? Before you begin, get a cloth tape measure, a pen and piece of paper so that you can write the measurements down.

It's also easier if you have someone to help you. Put on the riding breeches and socks you'll be wearing with your long riding boots, as this may affect the width measurement. Sit in a dining room chair with your feet flat on the floor and knees at a 90 degree angle.

For the boot width measurement, ask your helper to measure your calf around its widest point. For the boot height measurement, ask your helper to measure from the floor to the back of your knee. Note: Shoe size in long boots works in exactly the same way as normal shoe sizes.

How do I ensure that I get the right fit? Go up to the next foot size: You may need to go up a foot size if the width or height is not available in your foot size. If this is just half a size, it may be bearable but a whole size might mean that your foot moves about in the footbed. The extra space in the foot can be taken up with an extra foot bed, gel sole or air cushion. And consider how thick your riding socks and breeches are, as this will affect the fit too.

Go up to the next height: Boot height is a matter of personal preference. Some riders prefer a very long boot, while others prefer a shorter boot. The front of the boot should rise to the middle of your kneecap. If you cannot see the kneecap at all, the boots are too long. Initially, the boots will be uncomfortable behind your knee and will crease slightly at the top as you bend it.

This will be most noticeable and uncomfortable for your first few rides. What else do I need to think about to increase my chances of getting the right size and fit? There are some basic principles that, if followed, will mean that you've more chance of getting the right fit first time, thus saving you hassle and time so you can get on with your riding. Never guess: Have you said this: "Yeah, my legs are pretty normal. Measure and be sure. Every brand differs: A lot of people don't realise it, but each brand of boot has a slightly different size guide.

Check the size guide of each brand of boot that you look at. Breaking in your long riding boots. Breaking in long riding boots can be a pain - literally!

Keep in mind that not all boots need to be broken in. Dressage boots, for example, are not supposed to soften at all. If they do break in at all, it will be minimally at the ankle. Field boots, however, are quite different and can be expected to drop noticeably. Patience is required as it can take some time.

However, there are a few things you can do to help speed the process along. These include:. Wear them for short periods: Put your long riding boots on just for short amounts of time at first.

Wear them around the house or even for a walk. If you feel the boots rubbing or blistering your skin, take them off to give your legs and feet time to recover. A fair amount of time may be required to break them in, so plan accordingly. Heel lifts: Insert heel lifts into the soles of your boots. This can give you the temporary added height you need to minimise the amount that the boot digs into the back of your leg during the breaking-in process.

While this accounts for the fact that most long boots drop as they break in, it can also make wearing them initially very uncomfortable. Mimic the feel of riding: Stand on the edge of the stairs, facing up, and drop your heels over the edge of the stair tread. This will mimic the heels-down feel of riding and begin breaking in the boots at the ankle. Leather conditioner : Liberally apply leather conditioner to your boots to the ankle area where the boot needs to drop.

You can also apply it to the top of the boot where it sits behind your knee, but be careful as the conditioner will stain your breeches if you apply too much. Repeat this process as you break your long boots in. The trick to breaking in long boots is to get the boots to soften up enough to mould to your legs. Once you ride in your boots, the motion of your leg will work the oil from your tack into the parts of the boot that come into contact with it, suppling them as you ride.

Boot stretch spray : Apply a boot stretch spray to the ankles of your boots. Caring for your boots. How well you look after your boots will determine how long they will last, i. Here are some tips that will help. Leather cleaners and conditioners: Use oil-free leather cleaners or conditioners that are made specifically for boots. Horse riding boots are made out of "polished" or "finished" leather, which is different from the type of leather used to make saddles, bridles and work boots.

Many regular leather-care products, such as saddle soap, are too harsh for boot leather. Some contain oils, which can cause stretching and leave a residue that permanently dulls the finish. Use a cleaner that is designed specifically for boots, rather than using a tack cleaner. As soon as possible after every ride, wipe the dirt and sweat off your boots with a damp cloth or sponge.

To avoid scratching the fine surface, always use soft sponges, cloths and brushes horsehair bristles are the best in gentle motions on your boots. Never scrub! Use as little soap as possible to clean your boots.

If plain water doesn't lift off all the dirt and sweat, use a soft, damp cloth or sponge to apply boot-leather. Lather well and then rinse thoroughly, using just enough water to remove the soap and dirt, but not so much that you soak the boots. To soften any dry areas, apply a thin layer of boot leather conditioner while the leather is still wet. To get a good shine, buff your riding boots with a clean, soft rag after the polish has soaked in. Occasional polishing is good for preserving the finish, but don't overdo it.

Excessive polishing leads to a build-up over time on the leather. Store your boots properly : When you take your boots off, put boot trees in them to maintain their shape. When not to wear. Mud, manure and water can rot the stitching and dry out the leather. Make sure to change into something that is fit for this purpose.

If you are looking for a boot that is suitable for both then take a look at our range of multipurpose long riding boots.