If you’re new to horseback riding, it’s crucial to have the right gear. That includes a good pair of horseback riding boots. We’ve put together this guide to the best horseback riding boots for beginners to help you make the right choice.
Horseback riding is a great way to get outdoors and enjoy the fresh air. Not to mention, it can be a lot of fun! Once you have the proper gear, you need a willing horse and open space to enjoy this activity.
Whether you’re just getting started or are looking for an upgrade, a good pair of horseback riding boots is essential. After reading this guide, you’ll know what to look for in a pair of beginner riding boots, as well as our top picks.
We hope you enjoy your new hobby and stay safe while horseback riding!
What are Horseback Riding Boots?
Horseback riding boots are a type of riding shoe specifically designed for riding horses. They’re usually made from leather and have a heel to help keep your foot in the stirrup. These horse riding shoes also come in various styles, from tall riding boots that extend up to your knee to shorter paddock boots that stop just below the ankle.
Why Do You Need Horseback Riding Boots?
There are a few reasons why you need riding boots when horseback riding. First, riding boots offer protection for your feet and lower legs. If you fall off your horse, riding boots can help prevent serious injury to your feet and ankles. Additionally, riding boots can help improve your riding posture and keep your feet from slipping out of the stirrups.
Long vs. Short– Which is Better?
Regarding horseback riding boots, there is some debate over which style is better. Some riders prefer tall riding boots because they offer more protection for the lower leg. Others prefer short riding boots because they’re more comfortable and easier to walk in. Ultimately, deciding which type of horseback riding boot to buy is up to you.
If you’re starting horseback riding, we recommend purchasing a pair of short paddock boots. They’re less expensive than tall riding boots and will be more comfortable to walk in when you’re not on your horse. Once you’ve been horseback riding for a while, you can decide if you want to invest in a pair of tall riding boots.
Our Top Pick for Beginner Riding Boots
If you’re looking for the best horse riding boots for beginners, we recommend the One Stop Equine Shop Genuine Leather Paddock Boots. These riding boots are made from genuine leather and have a front zipper for easy slip-on.
Additionally, they have tough soles that are non-slip and come with a steel shank for additional support. Plus, the elastic panels make it easy to slip on and off these boots.
Five Factors to Consider Before Buying Riding Boots
Now that you know more about horseback riding boots, it’s time to start shopping for a pair. It would be best to consider a few factors before purchasing when looking for horse riding boots.
Below are factors to consider before purchasing horseback riding boots:
The Type of Riding You Do
The first factor to consider is your riding. Are you an English rider or a Western rider? If you’re not sure, take a look at the saddle you use when horseback riding. English riders use saddles with stirrups that hang down from the pommel, while Western riders use saddles with fenders and stand-up stirrups.
Your riding will determine the type of horseback riding boots you need. For example, English riders typically need tall, stiff boots that extend up to the knee. This boot offers support and helps keep your foot in the stirrup.
On the other hand, Western riders can get by with shorter boots that stop just below the ankle. These boots are more comfortable to walk in and don’t need to be as stiff.
Material of the Boot
When participating in equestrian sports, one needs sturdy, long-lasting footwear because riders frequently come into touch with dirt, whether wearing competition-grade leather riding boots or stable winter boots to clean up the stables daily. Since they spend their time with an animal that weighs at least a half-ton, they also rely on the shoe to keep them secure and protected.
Traditional materials for many riding boots and shoes include smooth leather, which gives them an attractive appearance and is especially popular in English riding.
Most equestrians prefer rough leather accents for western and stable boots since they offer the footwear a more laid-back appearance. Although functional textile uppers made of nylon or chloroprene rubber are particularly popular for winter boots, waterproof rubber is also quite valuable.
Below is a table of materials available for horseback riding boots, features, and uses.
| Material | Features | Uses |
| Smooth leather | -High-maintenance -Noble and classic appearance -Water and dirt resistance -Resilient | -Winter riding boots -Stable shoes -Half chaps -boot shafts -Leather riding boots |
| Synthetic leather | -Not as durable as real leather -Fairly priced; Simple to maintain -Classic appearance | -Jodhpur boots -Riding boots -Stable shoes -Half chaps |
| Suede | -Maximum comfort -Defense against the cold -Susceptible to UV rays, stains, and scratches | -Western boots, chaps -Winter riding footwear -Stable footwear |
| Rubber | -Strong -Waterproof Simple to clean -Not breathable -Manure resistant | -Rubber boots -Stable boots -Waterproof bases for winter riding boots |
| Textile | -Breathable -Warming -Water-permeable -Readily absorbs dirt -Lightweight | -Winter boots -Light summer riding boots -Thermal riding boots |
If you plan on horseback riding regularly, we recommend investing in a pair of leather horseback riding boots.
The Fit of the Boot
The fit of the boot is another important factor to consider. You want your horseback riding boots to be snug but not too tight. If your horseback riding boots are too loose, they could slip off while you’re riding. Conversely, if your horseback riding boots are too tight, they could be uncomfortable and make it difficult to move your feet.
When you’re trying on horseback riding boots, make sure you wear the socks you plan on wearing when you ride. This will ensure that the horseback riding boots fit properly.
It’s also a good idea to walk around in horseback riding boots before you buy them. This will help you determine if they’re comfortable and fit properly. If you’re buying horseback riding boots online, make sure to read the size chart carefully.
The Cost of the Boot
The price of the boot is another important factor to consider. The price starts from $80 per pair, while good quality ranges between $150 to $200 per pair.
If you’re beginning horseback riding, we recommend buying a pair of horseback riding boots that are on the lower end of the price range. As you become more experienced, you can invest in a more expensive pair of horseback riding boots.
Discipline-Specific Horseback Riding Boots
You should also be aware of a few Discipline-Specific horseback riding boots. If you plan on competing in show jumping, dressage, eventing, or fox hunting, you’ll need a pair of horseback riding boots specific to your discipline.
Here are a few examples of discipline-specific horseback riding boots:
- Show Jumping Boots: Showjumping boots are typically tall and have a square toe. They have a design that gives you a close contact feel with your horse and provides support when jumping.
- Dressage Boots: Dressage boots are similar to show jumping boots but have a round toe. Their design gives you a close contact feel with your horse and provides support when performing dressage movements.
- Eventing Boots: Eventing boots are similar to dressage boots but have a higher ankle. They give you support when you’re horseback riding and competing in cross-country events.
- Fox Hunting Boots: Fox hunting boots are tall and have a square toe. They will give you support when you’re horseback riding and fox hunting.
Safety
Safety is the most crucial factor to consider when buying horseback riding boots. But, you also want to ensure that the horseback riding boots are comfortable and properly fit. Additionally, it would help if you considered the riding you do and the price of the horseback riding boots before making your purchase.
Horseback riding is a dangerous sport, and you need to equip yourself with the proper safety gear. That includes a good pair of horseback riding boots. Wearing the wrong horseback riding boots can put you at risk for serious injury.
The Style of the Boot
You don’t need to sacrifice style for practicality regarding boots. However, you don’t have to lumber around in uncomfortable footwear either. Horseback riding boots are available in various styles, from classic to trendy.
Consider your style when choosing a pair of horseback riding boots. If you want a pair of horseback riding boots that you can wear in and out of the saddle, we recommend choosing a classic style.
However, if you’re looking for a pair of horseback riding boots that make a statement, you might want to choose a pair with embellishments or a bold color.
Horseback riding boots are an important part of your horseback riding gear. They not only protect your feet but also provide support when you’re riding. When choosing a pair of horseback riding boots, consider the above five factors. Doing so will help you find the perfect pair of horseback riding boots for your needs.
The Best Horseback Riding Boots at a Glance
- One Stop Equine Shop (Best overall horseback riding boots for beginners)
- TuffRider Children's Starter Back (Best children’s horseback riding boots for beginners)
- Ovation Elite Amara Ladies (Best affordable horseback riding boots for beginners)
- Saxon. Adult's Equileather (Best for wet and rainy seasons horseback riding boots for beginners )
- DREAM PAIRS Women's Knee (Best women’s horseback riding boots for beginners)
- Kenneth Cole New York (Best durable horseback riding boots for beginners)
Horseback Riding Boots for Beginners – Our Reviews
One Stop Equine Shop (Best overall horseback riding boots for beginners)
Key Features
- Brand: One Stop Equine Shop
- Product specifications: 13.1 x 12.6 x 4.5 inches (33.27 x 32.00 x 11.43 centimeters)
- Color/s: Black
- Material: Leather
- Weight: 2.5 pounds (1.13 kilograms)
- Rating out of 5: 5
The One Stop Equine Shop Paddock Boots are the perfect horseback riding boots for beginners. These boots are genuine leather and have a front zipper for easy slip-in. The tough soles of these boots are non-slip to prevent slipping when confronted with moisture, oil, or grease.
Each boot has a steel shank integrated into the sole for added support. These riding boots for women are simple to put on and take off, thanks to the elastic panels on each side. The attractive round front of these boots helps keep your toes comfortable during long horse riding and walking days.
You can use these riding boots at the stable or during the winter. They will protect your feet and keep them warm. The One Stop Equine Shop Paddock Boots are an excellent choice for a beginner who wants a quality and affordable pair of horseback riding boots.
Pros
- Made of genuine leather
- Front zipper for easy slip-in
- Tough soles to prevent slipping
- Steel shank for additional support
- Elastic panels for easy slip-on and off
- It is comfortable
Cons
- Not for people whose feet are a lot wider than normal
TuffRider Children's Starter Back (Best children’s horseback riding boots for beginners)
Key Features
- Brand: TuffRider
- Product specifications: 24.5 x 13.5 x 5 inches (62.23 x 34.29 x 12.7 centimeters)
- Color/s: Black
- Material: Synthetic leather
- Weight: 4 pounds (1.81 kilograms)
- Rating out of 5: 4.8
As a beginner, you will want to find a pair of comfortable horseback riding boots that offer good support. The TuffRider Children’s Starter Back is a great option for children’s horse riding boots. The material of these children’s horse riding boots is 100% synthetic leather.
They also have a leather lining and a zip closure. The TuffRider brand is known for its quality horseback riding gear; these boots are no exception. They are water-resistant and made from premium leather.
They are also breathable, moisture-wicking, and durable. Another great thing about these boots is that they are lightweight, making them ideal for beginners. If you are looking for a quality pair of horseback riding boots, the TuffRider Children’s Starter Back is a great option.
Apart from using these shoes as riding boots, you can also use them as stable boots and jodhpur shoes.
Pros
- Comfortable
- Offers good support
- Water-resistant
- Breathable
- Durable
- Lightweight
Cons
- It is expensive
Ovation Elite Amara Ladies (Best affordable horseback riding boots for beginners)
Key Features
- Brand: Ovation
- Product specifications: 20 x 8 x 0.5 inches (50.8 x 20.32 x 1.27 centimeters)
- Color/s: Black and brown
- Material: Suede leather
- Weight: 0.90 pounds (0.41 kilograms)
- Rating out of 5: 4.5
The Ovation Elite Amara Ladies Half Chap has soft, durable suede leather that’s easy to clean and maintain. The chap has ribbed stretch panels for a comfortable, customized fit and snaps closures at the top and bottom for easy on and off. Additionally, the chap has concealed genuine YKK(R) dirt-resistant zippers that help keep it looking brand new.
These riding boots are a great choice for beginners because they’re affordable and offer good support and protection. The boots are available in black or brown and come in sizes 5-11.
If you’re starting with horseback riding, we recommend checking out the Ovation Elite Amara Ladies Half Chap. These riding boots are fantastic and offer good support and protection for beginner riders.
Pros
- Affordably priced
- Good support and protection for beginner riders
- Comfortable
- Has strong zippers
Cons
- Some riders may find the boot to be too stiff
Saxon. Adult's Equileather (Best for wet and rainy seasons horseback riding boots for beginners)
Key Features
- Brand: Equileather
- Product specifications: 20 x 8 x 1 inches (50.8 x 20.32 x 2.54 centimeters)
- Color/s: Black
- Material: Leather
- Weight: 10.4 Ounces (294.83 grams)
- Rating out of 5: 4.5
The Saxon Equileather Half Chaps are excellent for beginner and experienced riders. They offer protection for your lower legs while riding and are made of a durable, leather-like material that will withstand the wet and rainy seasons.
These half chaps also feature an elastic calf to ensure a great fit and a full-length YKK zipper in the back with a snap closure at the bottom to secure the zipper. For easy care, wipe or gently spray down with water after riding. If needed, you can use a mild leather cleaner. You use these boots during winter or in the stable.
Pros
- Made of durable, leather-like material
- Features an elastic calf for a great fit
- Easy to care for
- It is easy to clean
Cons
- Some equestrians find it not strong enough to last long
DREAM PAIRS Women's Knee (Best women’s horseback riding boots for beginners)
Key Features
- Brand: Dream Pairs
- Product specifications: 11.69 x 10.98 x 5.12 inches (29.69 x 27.88 x 13.00 centimeters)
- Color/s: Army brown, army black, army camel, Utah brown, Utah black, Utah camel, turtle black
- Material: Leather
- Weight: 2.75 Pounds (1.24 kilograms)
- Rating out of 5: 4.5
These riding boots from DREAM PAIRS are perfect for beginners! The classic knee-high style is easy to wear, and the lightly padded faux fur lining and insole make them comfortable to walk in.
The instep zipper makes them easy to take on and off, and the approximate measurements are as follows: Heel Height: 1.4 inches (3.56 centimeters); Platform Height: 0.5 inches (1.27 centimeters); Shaft: 15.5 inches (39.37 centimeters); Circumference: 16 inches (40.64 centimeters).
The boot opening measures approximately 15.5 inches (39.37 centimeters) around. These riding boots are available in black or brown and come in various sizes. Order yours today and enjoy the perfect riding experience!
You can use these boots as half chaps, boot shafts, winter riding boots, and stable shoes.
Pros
- The knee-high style makes it easy to wear
- Lightly padded for comfort
- The instep zipper makes them easy to take on and of sizes
- It comes in a variety of sizes
Cons
- Some may find the faux fur lining to be too warm
Kenneth Cole New York (Best durable horseback riding boots)
Key Features
- Brand: Kenneth Cole New York
- Product specifications: 5 x 5 x 0.7 inches (12.7 x 12.7 x 1.78 centimeters)
- Color/s: Black and brown
- Material: Synthetic
- Weight: 1.12 Pounds (0.50 kilograms)
- Rating out of 5: 4
The classic Kenneth Cole New York riding boot has a 100% PU upper and a synthetic sole. It has a decorative buckle and a pull-on tab at the back, and the shaft measures are approximately knee-high from the arch.
These riding-style boots are comfortable, true to size, and available in black and brown colorways. The boot has a pointed toe and a low heel, making it perfect for everyday wear.
Kenneth Cole New York was founded in 1982 by Kenneth Cole. The brand is known for its stylish and modern designs. The company’s products are available in department stores and online retailers worldwide.
You can use them as stable shoes, stable boots, and half chaps.
Pros
- Easy to clean
- Comfortable
- True to size
Cons
- Its calf is too small
FAQs on Horse Riding Boots
Can I Wear Tennis Shoes for Horseback Riding?
No, you should not wear tennis shoes for horseback riding. Tennis shoe design cannot protect your feet from the stirrups or provide the support that riding boots do.
Are Paddock Boots Good for Riding?
Paddock boots are suitable for riding because they provide support and protection for your feet and ankles. They also have a low heel, which helps to keep your foot in the stirrup.
What Is the Difference Between English and Western Riding Boots?
The main difference between English and Western riding boots is the style. English riding boots are typically taller and have a slimmer silhouette, while Western riding boots are shorter and have a wider calf.
What Kind of Socks Should I Wear With My Riding Boots?
You should wear comfortable socks that won’t slide around inside your boots. They should also be thick enough to protect your feet from rubbing the boots.
Do I Need Half Chaps?
Half chaps are not required, but they can offer additional protection for your lower legs while riding. If you choose to wear half chaps, make sure they fit snugly and are of durable, leather-like material.
What Is the Difference Between Paddock Boots and Tall Boots?
Paddock boots are shorter than tall boots and do not come up as high on the leg. Tall boots offer more protection for your legs and feet but can be more challenging to walk in.
How Should My Riding Boots Fit?
Riding boots should fit snugly but not be too tight. They should also be comfortable to walk in. If you are unsure of your size, it is best to try on a few different pairs before purchasing.
What Type of Material Are Riding Boots Made Of?
The most common materials for riding boots are leather and synthetic leather. However, you can also find boots made of suede, rubber, and textile.
Do I Need to Break in My Riding Boots?
It is not necessary to break in your riding boots, but it can help them to feel more comfortable and conform to your feet better. If you choose to break in your boots, you can do so by wearing them around the house or taking short rides in them.
Why Are Horse Riding Boots Important?
Horse riding boots are important because they offer support and stability for your feet and legs while riding. They also help to protect you from injuries.
How Do You Care for Horse Riding Boots?
To care for your horse riding boots, wipe them down with a damp cloth after riding. You can also use a mild leather cleaner if needed. If your boots get wet, you should stuff them with newspaper to help absorb the moisture and let them air dry.
Do I Need to Wear Tall Boots for Horseback Riding?
No, you don’t necessarily need to wear tall boots for horseback riding. You can wear ankle-length paddock boots or half chaps if you’re just starting out. As you become more experienced, you may want to switch to tall boots for added protection.
What Is the Best Material for Horse Riding Boots?
The best materials for horse riding boots are leather and synthetic leather. These materials are durable and can mold to your feet over time.
What Are the Best Brands of Horse Riding Boots?
Some of the best brands of horse riding boots are AdTec, Ariat, and EquiStar. These brands offer a variety of styles and materials to choose from. Other good brands include TuffRider, Rocky, Laredo, Smoky Mountain, and Roper.
Should Horse Riding Boots Be Leather?
Generally, yes. Horse riding boots should be either leather or synthetic leather. These materials provide the best grip, support, durability, and protection.
What Is the Heel of a Horseback Riding Boot Used For?
The heel of a horseback riding boot keeps your foot in the stirrup. It also provides some support and stability for your ankle.
Can You Wear Normal Boots for Horseback Riding?
No, you should not wear normal boots for horseback riding. The design of regular boots is not conducive to riding and will not offer the support or protection you need. A horseback riding boot must have a heel to prevent your foot from slipping through the stirrup.
The Final Say
Whether a beginner or an experienced rider, investing in a good pair of horseriding shoes is essential. There are many different types and styles of horse riding shoes available on the market, so it is important to research to find the right pair. Consider the climate you will be riding in and the type of terrain you will be riding on.
The One Stop Equine Shop are the perfect choice for beginner and experienced riders. They offer protection for your lower legs while riding and have a durable, leather-like material that will withstand the wet and rainy seasons.
These half chaps also feature an elastic calf to ensure a great fit and a full-length YKK zipper in the back with a snap closure at the bottom to secure the zipper. For easy care, wipe or gently spray down with water after riding. If needed, you can use a mild leather cleaner.
If you are looking for a versatile and durable option, the Saxon Equileather Half Chaps are a great choice. The leather-like material is easy to care for and features an elastic calf for a great fit.
So what are the best horse riding boots for you? It depends on your individual needs and preferences. But, no matter what type of horse riding shoe you choose, invest in a good pair that will last you for years. Happy riding!
