The 15 best horse riding boots - The ultimate boot guide 2023

Choosing the right kind of equestrian footwear is vital for riding safely, as well as ensuring you look good whilst doing it. To help you choose the best horse riding boots for your needs, we’ve written this handy guide to make the decision slightly easier. 

What do I need to consider when buying riding boots? 

Safety 

Riding boots must be closed-toed. Whatever style you choose, the riding boot must have a small tread and a heel that is about 1 inch (2.5cm) to 1 ½ inch high. This will help prevent your boot from accidentally sliding through the stirrups and getting caught.  

Use 

Each discipline will put unique demands on your feet and consequently your footwear. Therefore, your new boots must be suitable for the type of riding you’ll be doing.  

Material 

Riding boots come in a variety of different materials, including leather, rubber and synthetic leather. As expected, leather boots tend to be more expensive and require more care, but can be more comfortable and long-lasting.  

Cost 

A good pair of riding boots is an investment, and with good care, should outlast a cheaper pair.  With variations in terms of style and material available, it’s possible to purchase a pair of riding boots to meet both your needs and remain in budget.  

Women’s horse riding boots 

Winter riding boots 

TheAriat Coniston Pro GTX Insulated Boots are the best riding boots for winter, thanks to their cosy insulation and stylish design. 

Utilising Ariat’s ATS Pro technology, the Coniston Pro GTX boots support hard-working feet using shock absorption, ensuring reduced foot fatigue both in and out of the saddle. The premium, waterproof full-grain leather and the waterproof, breathable GORE-TEX membrane construction also protects from the elements. 

These boots are packed with features, such as a full-length YKK back zipper for convenience and a front lace system for calf adjustability. The stirrup-friendly design offers improved stability, meaning they feel just as stable when horse riding as they do on the ground and the non-bulky design lends itself to schooling, hacking or just looking great while out walking. 

For more winter riding boots inspiration, check out the best winter horse riding boots.

Ariat Coniston Pro GTX Insulated Boots -0

Long riding boots/tall riding boots 

A fresh take on traditional field boots, the Ariat Palisade Tall Riding Boots are the best long riding boots on the market for women. 

The perfect addition to your long riding boot selection, the Palisade long boots feature an athletic design with energetic detail and finesse. Expertly crafted from a premium full grain leather, these tall boots offer riders of all levels a sleek, ultra-contoured fit, exposed full zip and a boot slide for ease of entry. Plus, technically advanced support and comfort inside and outside. 

Ariat Palisade Tall Riding Boots-0

Short riding boots 

Whether you’re off to a show, riding for pleasure or out for a hack, the Ariat Ladies Devon Nitro Paddock Boots make the perfect addition for any keen rider. 

Made with superior craftsmanship and advanced technology for peak performance, the Devon Nitro Paddock Boots offer a waterproof, premium soft leather upper and leather lining for superior comfort. With a padded collar and tongue top line, these short riding boots have an added lightweight Nitro frame to ensure for perfect heel and mid-foot torsional stability for extra comfort. 

With a full length YKK zip, the paddock boots are complete with a dual stretch gore fit system and a Duratread outsole which has been tested by horse riders to ensure the perfect traction zones and prevent any slipping in the stirrup or on the ground. 

Ariat Devon Nitro Ladies Zip Paddock Boots -26662 

Full grain leather boots 

The DeNiro Short Riding Boots are one of the best-known Italian brands for elite riding in all equine riding elements. The DeNiro short riding boot, is made from the finest Italian Calf Skin Leather and uses WRAT technology (Water Resistant Advanced Treatment) making them a great pair of hard-wearing, high-quality leather boots.  

These short boots feature a neat, elastic lace in the front of the shoe which ensures an easy instep and a perfect fit around the ankle. The zipper in these leather boots is positioned in the back and protected by a small zipper protector at the top and the design was made with eye for detail and for optimal comfort. 

De Niro T09 Short Boots-0

Ariat riding boots 

The Ariat Windermere II H20 Boots are a waterproof, warm and comfortable pair of long leather riding boots from Ariat which ensure the wearer the utmost comfort in the outdoors. Plus they’re stirrup friendly!

The stretch gusset ensures a better fit for several calf widths and is finished off with a stylish brass button design. 

Whether you are popping out for an afternoon ramble or taking to the saddle these boots are at home where ever you want to go in them.

Yard boots 

The Le Chameau Women’s Vierzonord is the perfect neoprene boot for everyday yard life. Famed for being the original rubber wellington boot to feature an adjustable, waterproof gusset, the Vierzonord also boasts a warm, insulating neoprene lining that will keep you warm and comfortable all day. Although we do not advise riding in these boots!

The dual-density cross rubber sole absorbs shock, and a shank reinforcement board delivers stability and arch support to help reduce fatigue. The abrasion-resistant outsole gives you shoe-like comfort while offering surefooted traction on uneven, slippery, muddy or soft terrain. 

 

Le Chameau Vierzonord Ladies Wellington Boots

Country boots 

The Ariat Belford GORE-TEX Waterproof Boots are finely crafted with full-grain leather, perfect for heading into the country or into town. Using the latest material technology, these fashion boots are as waterproof as waterproof can get. Creating an impermeable barrier against the wet weather the entire shaft is lined with GORE-TEX, so the boots can withstand deep mud, perfect for the country equestrian lifestyle or any outdoor activity.  

Ariat Belford GTX Insulated GTX Country Boots-0

Best boots for everyday wear 

These Ariat Ladies Barnyard Twin Gore H2O Paddock Boots are a pair of good-looking, no-nonsense yard boots suitable for everyday riding and wear. 

Full-grain leather with waterproof construction delivers durability and the promise of keeping your feet dry. Plus, the twin gore stretch panels accommodate a range of sizes comfortably. These country boots are the perfect pair for knocking out barn chores season after season. 

Ariat Ladies Barnyard Twin Gore H2O Paddock Boots - Mid September 2021 Delivery-0

Men’s horse riding boots 

Long riding boots/tall riding boots 

The De Niro S3312 are beautifully crafted long leather riding boots made from soft, textured calfskin leather that can easily adapt to the shape of your leg to provide the perfect fit. 

These long boots feature intricate stitching adorning the lower portion of the boot and the cushioned sole offers extra comfort. 

De Niro S3312 Riding Boots Brown-0 

Short riding boots 

The Men’s Ariat Wexford H2o Waterproof Boots add style and practicality to any wardrobe. Crafted from a Waterproof Pro construction with full-grain leather, these premium boots are sure to keep your feet warm and dry. Sleek and simple, the Wexford boots have been designed to offer the upmost comfort, featuring ATS technology for stability, whilst containing a gel cushioned footbed with a heel stabiliser for shock absorption and to provide lasting support helping you to walk further for longer. 

Ariat Mens Wexford H20 Boots-24528

 

Yard boots 

Rugged and durable, the Men’s Ariat Skyline Mid H2o Boots are a good pair of field boots suitable for both riding horses and mucking them out. 

These boots provide long-lasting durability and comfort, which is ideal for long days in the yard. You need a boot you can trust to protect you from the elements and thanks to Ariat’s Waterproof Pro technology and waterproof construction, these premium full-grain leather boots provide an impermeable barrier to deliver durable, long-lasting protection with a breathable mesh lining and extra wear protection around the toe and heel.  

Ariat Skyline Mid H20 Mens Boots Distressed Brown-0

Best boots for everyday wear 

Beautifully crafted from premium full-grain leather, the Devon Nitro Paddock Boots feature Nitro technology for top-of-the-line flexibility, stability and comfort – everything you’re looking for in everyday equestrian footwear. 

They’re also ultra-fashionable! 

Ariat Devon Nitro Mens Zip Paddock Boots -0

 

Children’s horse riding boots 

Long riding boots 

If you’re looking for a long boot for your little one the De Niro Salentino Long Riding Boots with Black Glitter Tops are an ideal choice. 

Made from a soft and textured calf skin leather with a full-length zip to the rear of the boots, they create a perfect close fit for the rider and offer ultimate leg protection. 

Plus, thanks to their funky glitter detailing, your child will be the star of the show. 

De Niro Salentino Black Long Riding Boots with Prugna Glitter Tops-0

Short riding boots 

The Tivoli Piccino Junior Boot is based on the popular adult leather version but is made entirely from a soft synthetic leather, which is perfect for the junior rider needing almost no maintenance care. Perfect for the young rider who wants to spend all their time at the yard and in the saddle.  

Like the adult counterpart the junior version has a reinforced toecap with a simple but attractive brogue design. The sole is durable rubber and also has nonslip qualities. There is a single rubber spur stud on the heel to keep those spurs in place and also avoid wear and tear.  

The perfect pair of short boots for your young equestrian. 

Brogini Tivoli Piccino Zipped Childs Boots

Best boots for everyday wear 

Whether your child needs boots for horseback riding or exploring the yard, the Dever Rio Boots are a great choice. 

They’re a good-looking Jodhpur Chelsea boot with a leather upper, elastic sides and a soft synthetic lining for comfort. This boot has a nonslip rubber riding sole and pull tab at the heel for ease of entry for the foot. Suitable for everyday riding, but stylish enough for the show ring.  

Available from junior size 8/27. 

Dever Rio Boots Childs-0

How to measure for horse riding boots 

Before rushing to buy a pair of the best riding boots, it’s well worth measuring to ensure they’ll fit comfortably and as they should.  

To measure, you’ll need: 

  • Your riding attire or clothes which are similar 
  • A flat, straight-backed chair 
  • A flexible cloth or vinyl tape measure  
  • Optional: A friend, while you can measure alone, it is easier with another person present.  

Measuring for riding boots: 

  1. Sit in a flat, straight chair with your feet flat on the ground and knees at a 90-degree angle. 
  2. To measure width, take the tape measure (or ask your helper) around the widest part of your calf. Take a few measurements to be sure. 
  3. To measure boot height, take the tape measure from the back of your heel to the crease of your knee.  
  4. While it differs between brands, add at least 1 inch to your original height measurement for drop allowance.  
  5. Begin consulting sizing charts of different brands to find your perfect riding boots.  

Tips for maintaining your boots  

To keep your boots looking their best, it’s important to take good care of them.  

It’s vital to regularly clean your boots with boot cleaner and brush away dirt or debris after use. For a deeper clean, synthetic riding boots can be nursed with water and mild detergent.  

Leather boots do, however require more care, needing regular cleaning and conditioning.  

Between use, store your boots in a cool, dry place out of direct sunlight to avoid discolouration or damage.  

To ensure long riding boots remain in pristine condition it’s essential for them to be kept standing upright between uses. You should also use boot stretchers to maintain boot shape and prevent sagging.  

If you know you won’t be wearing your riding boots for some time, it’s worth purchasing a boot bag to protect them. Many of which offer protection during transportation.  

FAQs 

Are riding boots comfortable for walking? 

Yes. Most riding boots are comfortable whether riding or walking. While many can be difficult to break-in at first, such as leather boots, these will eventually soften.  

How should riding boots fit around the calf? 

Tall riding boots should have a snug fit around the calf, not being too easy to zip up. You shouldn’t be able to move the boots easily around your legs when zipped up. As your boots flex and mould, you will find they drop an inch for a more comfortable fit. 

Why do you need riding boots for horse riding? 

Riding boots have a distinct heel designed for horse riding. These heels not only stop your foot from sliding through the stirrup, but they can prevent pinching from the stirrup leathers and offer protection to your feet if you’re stood on.  

Still unsure on the best boots? 

We hope this blog has helped you decide on the best riding boots for you and your family. 

However, if you’re still unsure about which pair is best for you, please get in touch. 

Contact us on 01948 820720. 

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Posted by: Edgemere
Posted on: 01/03/2022
Posted in:

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