How to Choose the Best Horse Riding Boots

Introduction

Horseback riding (equestrian) has deep roots in the U.S. Over 30 million people ride each year. So, are they wearing the proper boots for the ride? The right pair can mean a lot. It can make a ride comfortable and confident. Or, it can make it frustrating. This guide covers the key factors in finding the perfect horse-riding boots. Let’s step up your riding game without any further ado!

How to Choose the Right Horse Riding Boot?

Which riding boots fit you perfectly for equestrian adventures? Here are the factors you can check every time you make a new purchase of these boots!

Safety 

Your ultimate comfortable riding boots should be designed with safety in mind. Sudden movements are quite common in horses. Thus, safe boots act as a protective barrier for your feet and lower legs. They shield you from stirrups and potential pinches or impacts by the horse’s body. 

Material

A high-quality yet sustainable material should be the next focal point when considering purchasing horse riding boots. Leather is the most common preference of riders due to its flexibility and durability. And, you can also choose eco-friendly materials among them, including recycled leather with biodegradable components. You should also consider the impact of the material used on both the performance and the environment.

Sole

A good grip on the sole helps prevent slipping. It is essential for balance and control while riding. A secure and good quality sole is also crucial for shock absorption and stirrups. So, it would help if you looked for soles made from high-quality rubber or synthetic materials.

Cost

Horse riding is an expensive hobby. Thus, purchasing these boots can be costly, too. Thus, your job is to find a healthy balance between extremely costly and cheap horse-riding boots. You may not need to set high budgets if you’re a beginner or a casual rider. You can also consider the best synthetic options if your budget is tight. However, you should ensure whatever boots you select, offer proper support and comfort even if it means slightly stretching your budget.

Style

The style of the comfortable riding boots should sync with the rider’s preference and riding discipline. Choosing the right style is essential for both functionality and aesthetics. Field boots are for English riding, while dress boots are for formal events. Paddock boots are best for beginners or everyday use. 

Waterproof

Always look for this feature in your boot! Non-waterproof boots can become heavy and uncomfortable in wet environments. Thus, buying waterproof horse riding boots with better treads that enhance grip is essential. It also prevents you from slipping. Also, ensure the shoes have sealed seams to prevent water from seeping in.

Types of Best Horse Riding Boots

Long Riding Boots

Tall riding boots are the standard competition footwear. They are sturdy boots that end below the knee and provide necessary support, protection, and style. The three main categories of these boots are described below. 

Dress Boots

These are formal boots and can be worn over various riding disciplines. They are ideal for dressage events due to their polished appearance. You can explore this collection of dress boots by Equizone to learn more about the variety and looks. The stiffer and straight-fit materials are used to give you a sleek look.

Field Boots

These fashionable riding boots have lace-up fastenings on the front. They are also more flexible at the ankle part than dressage boots. They can be worn in the hunter/jumper riding disciplines. These horse riding boots are allowed in lower-level dressage competitions. They are made with supple, soft leather material that often creases at the ankles. 

Hunt Boots

Hunting boots are designed for comfort and support during long hours of riding. Their distinctive feature is the brown/mahogany leather cuff at the top (the tan top!). They feature a cuff at the top that signifies their use in formal hunting attire. They also feature a simple pull-on design without zippers.

Short Riding Boots

 They are an excellent option for riding around the yard. However, they could be more practical regarding the protection, support, and versatility of riding in the harsh winter. Short boots are popular among younger riders due to more freedom of ankle and leg movements. 

Paddock Boots

You can have traditional paddock boots or winter paddock boots specifically. They are ankle-height horse riding boots with heels at the bottom. Most of the time, you will find them in zipped or laced-up versions. These budget-friendly short-riding boots are ideal for both women and children. But they aren’t professional boots for specific riding disciplines. 

Jodhpur Boots

Jodhpur boots (the classic all-rounders) are among the famous footwear for horse riding. These shoes feature either a lace-up front or a convenient front or side zipper. They originated in India in the 1920s and were first worn by the local polo riders.

They are perfect for riding with their slim fit and riding-friendly heels. Also, you will find them great for mucking out stables or fetching the horse from the paddock due to the low shaft.

Western Boots

As the name says, they are specifically designed for Western riding disciplines. They fit both the pleasure riding and shows. These best western riding boots feature a mid-calf height to protect your ankle and calf from chafing. They are ankle-height boots and look similar to paddock boots with laces. 

Top 10 Brands for the Best Horse Riding Boots of 2024

Are you stuck on what pair of riding boots are right for you? Let’s walk you through the top 10 horse-riding boot brands shining in 2024! 

Ariat

Ariat is a well-known brand trusted by the Equestrian community. The brand focuses on innovative design and quality craftsmanship throughout their riders’ products. The brand uses high-quality materials such as full-grain leather to ensure long-lasting and best riding boots. They are expensive yet durable boots you get in the market. 

The brand is loved for its innovative technologies like advanced torque stability, 4-layer rebound, and Duratread™ outsoles. Their footwear collection includes horse riding boots, ankle boots, walking boots, Chelsea boots, cowboy boots, deck shoes, safety boots, and wellies. They produce best horse riding boots for women, men, and kids. 

TuffRider

TuffRider is another famous brand offering a range of horse riding apparel in 2024. They offer clothing and accessories for both riders and horses. The brand was launched in 1992 and is still in demand due to premium products and services. 

Their products include riding breeches, show coats, and saddle pads. TuffRider is widely used for horse riding boots of all levels. They focus on comfort, durability, and reliable performance. Breeches.com is where you can buy TuffRider equestrian apparel and breeches. They make products for men, women, and children. 

Dublin

The brand Dublin was launched in Australia in 1980. The brand is also popular with riders of all levels. However, the brand started small with jodhpurs but expanded rapidly. They offer a range of products, including breeches, riding hats, casual clothing, competition wear, and riding boots (of course!).

They specialize in paddock boots, tall riding boots, and casual wear. Dublin products are valued for their breathable materials and adjustable fits. Overall, it’s a reliable brand for equestrians, offering a mix of functionality and style in their products. 

Toggi

Toggi is another well-known brand that was founded in 1990. It focuses on high-quality equestrian apparel and accessories. Toggi emphasizes sustainability by using recyclable materials that biodegrade faster than usual fabrics. Thus, eco-friendly and durable products are ideal for riders who spend a lot of time outdoors. 

They sell the most extensive range of horse riding boots for women. This category’s collection includes country, long-riding, and ankle-length jodhpur boots. Toggi’s best riding boots also cope with harsh, muddy conditions and get cleaned easily. Their uppers are made from unique leather with lining. 

Ovation

Ovation is another ideal riding brand for riders of all skills and budgets. It is a one-stop shop that offers clothing and apparel. You can buy anything from riding socks to protective gear. This includes vests, helmets, shirts, show coats, and breeches. They have offline stores in the United States, South America, and Central America. 

You will find a separate Horse menu tab on their official website. So, you can’t buy your horse riding boots but equipment, clothing, or tools related to your horse. They also produce a variety of equestrian saddle pads. They have categories: Dressage, Hunter Show, All-Purpose, Half Pad, and saddle pad accessories.

Petrie

The brand is a family business that originated in 1857. Thus, it’s been there for 160+ years and has been a favourite of professional riders.  The brand is based in the Netherlands. It expanded under the craftsmanship of Jacobus Petrie. Petrie creates timeless, authentic styles with a balance of function and design. 

All their products are crafted in  Brummen, Netherlands. Their operations are supervised by brothers Alwin, Gerald, and Hans-Paul Petrie. It’s a pretty premium brand endorsed by high-profile brand ambassadors. They use almost 280 steps to make a pair of horse riding boots. Then, they test them for functionality.

Sergio Grasso

It is a brand originated in 1979 in Verona, Italy. They employ cutting-edge technologies to produce horseback riding boots. They have a separate Horse Riding Shoes section on their official home page menu. The company’s expertise shines through its innovative techniques and advanced technologies. 

Sergio Grasso’s horse riding boots begin with master shoemakers. They use lasers to cut the leather. They use only top-quality raw materials and premium full-grain calf leather to maintain their renowned quality. Their commitment to craftsmanship and innovation has made them a global favourite among equestrians. 

DeNiro

Another Italian company delved into details, style, and innovation since 1981. The company was launched due to a passion and love for equestrian sports. Each boot is innovatively designed, researched, and customized to every detail. Skilled artisans handcraft these boots in Casarano, Italy. 

DeNiro (official partners of two equestrian federations) follow a unique philosophy. The story of the one-cent coin inspires it. A rider once faced poor performance issues while wearing DeNiro horse riding boots. He felt an unusual pressure under his foot and adjusted his movements to re.

Since then, the brand has adopted the ‘one-cent principle’ in production. They pay intricate attention to every detail, believing no aspect is too small to consider. 

Alberto Fasciani

This Italian brand was founded in Fermo, Italy, to produce footwear. The company’s workshop in Fermo shelters master artisans who uphold traditional crafting methods. They hone the conventional artisanal skills that define the brand’s success. Their horse riding boots use rare, precious leather. 

These leathers give the boots their distinctive richness and lustre. Each piece is then hand-finished to achieve Alberto Fasciani’s signature look. 

Der-Dau

Artisan and craftsman Jose Der launched The brand in Brooklyn, New York. His son runs his legacy to carry forward a tradition of premium and handsome riding boots. They have a great collection, including field boots, dress boots, dressage boots, polo boots, hunt boots, paddock, jodhpur boots, half chaps, western boots, and dream boots.

Der Dau specializes in bespoke riding boots. They are custom-made to fit the rider’s feet and legs. Skilled artisans handcraft each pair. The process involves more than 200 steps. It ensures meticulous detail and superior craftsmanship. 

Conclusion

The right horse riding boots can boost your riding. They will help you enjoy every moment in the saddle. The right boots makes all the difference whether you’re galloping through fields, perfecting your dressage moves, or enjoying a leisurely trail ride.

FAQs

Can I use hiking boots for horse riding?

Yes, you can but there are several reasons why specialized horse riding boots are the better choice. You can choose from a variety of exceptional riding boot brands above. 

How often should I replace horse riding boots?

The lifespan of your riding boots can vary based on several factors. It includes how often you ride, your riding, and the quality of the shoes. 

If you ride frequently, replace them every 1-2 years. For occasional riders, replace them every 3-5 years.

What is the difference between paddock boots and jodhpur boots?

There isn’t any major difference between paddock boots and jodhpur boots. Sometimes, Jodhpur boots are also referred as paddock boots.

What shoes are best for horse riding?

All the brands we have mentioned above produce the best boots for horseback riding. What makes good riding boots?

A good riding boot is made of high-quality materials. It features a snug fit, ankle support, a non-slip sole, durability, water resistance, and breathability.