Whether you’re a newbie or a seasoned rider, you need essential kit to enjoy your time while riding your horse.

Last Christmas, when buying a gift for my wife, I learned that at the top of the horse riding essentials list is a good pair of horse riding boots,

It can be challenging to know how to select riding boots as a gift for someone else, but likewise a challenge for you to choose a pair that meet your needs.

So here are 5 tips for choosing the perfect horse riding boots for you:

1. Type of Horse-Riding

Do you need paddock or tall boots?

The first, are boots that fit just above the ankle. These are worn with chaps, often described as yard or Paddock boots use to spare your tall boots from wear and tear due to overuse. But they are not for show events.

Tall boots on the other hand, are meant to be worn for field and/or dressage riding. They are functionally designed to aide the rider by offering support and agility.

2. To Zip or Not to Zip?

Sliding a zipper at the rear or up the side of a tall boot makes it easier to take them on or off.

While many use zipped boots, others prefer pull on boot that use a shoehorn to take them on and off.

It really boils down to preference.

However, you can opt for them if you are eager to have the tightest fit. 

3. Always Try On Horse Riding Boots

Only buy Riding boots after you have tried them on. Like any apparel they vary by manufacturer. You may wear a 8 in one brand, but a 8.5 in another.

New boots should be snug, but not painful to wear. Also, tall boots should hit below the knee cap, so get measured.

4. Comfort First

I mentioned a snug fit i.e. your boots should fit as close to the skin without pinching the calf, foot or ankle.

This allows the rider to feel the side of the horse and signal them more effectively.

It’s important to note that tall boots should fit just below the knee cap, so try ‘em on!

5. Wear Your Horse-Riding Socks

Always wear your riding socks when trying on any new boots. You should select riding boots that wear comfortably with the socks you wear when riding, so try them on together.

Initial Discomfort

Any new boot, the horse riding type of not, need time to be broken in.

• For ankle type paddock/yard boots, it can be as little as a few days of constant wear.

• For tall boots, it can take more time because you’re unlikely to wear them as often as yard boots.  

So expect a period of some discomfort during your first few rides, but know that your new boots will mold to your form and movement in a few days or weeks.

Plus - You look FANTASTIC!

Conclusion

If you’re a newbie, or an experienced rider replacing old boots, ask your fellow riders, trainer or instructor for advice and suggestions about the right boots for you.

We look forward to seeing you in your new boots at CDS Equine in 2022.