So, you’re planning to hit the market to buy a new pair of horse riding boots for yourself, right? Now, buying the ideal pair of boots happens to be quite a task. There certainly isn’t a dearth of choices. The moment you step into the market, you will be able to find countless pairs of horse riding boots. It goes without saying that having too many choices is bound to make you feel perplexed. Investing in the right set of riding boots is extremely important because these boots happen to be a long-term investment. Also, buying a pair of heavy-duty boots will make your riding sessions safer and comfortable.
Here are a few pieces of advice that’ll help you in your bid to choose the right set of riding boots:
Which kind of boots do you need?
Ask yourself this question before planning to hit the market. Every equestrian needs a variety of boots, whether it’s riding boots or boots to wear around the barn.
Field boots: Field boots are popular for English-style riding in the hunter/jumper and flat class disciplines. Lacing has been provided at the ankles to ensure a comfortable and snug fit.
Dress boots: These are your traditional riding boots made for the Dressage discipline. Dress boots are made using traditional leather. These boots feature a stiff look and feel.
Paddock boots: A traditional style paddock boot emulates that of the fashionable “Chelsea” boot version out on the market today. Paddock boots are great for wearing around the barn or wearing with breeches and a pair of half chaps if you’re out schooling or riding at the farm for the day.
Country / Barn Boots: If you’re mucking stalls and hosing off your horse after a ride, you don’t want to wear your Field or Dress boots. Select something that’s more comfortable and durable to wear in the elements, like these country boots.
A pull-on boot or a zipped boot
Zippered riding boots are quite popular now, especially with field boots. Wearing and removing a zippered boot happens to be quite simple. Some boots have a zip at the back of the boot while others have a zip in front. Zips can also be found on the side of the boot. On the other hand, pull on boots lack laces or zips. These can be worn and taken off with ease as well. The kind of closure you choose is completely dependent upon your personal choice. You can find such boots at Church Equestrian.
Fitting holds the key
The boots you choose should fit well. Frankly, nothing is as bad as riding a horse while wearing a pair of bulky and over-sized boots. Mostly, manufacturers produce a wide variety of sizes. This is done because different riders have different requirements.
Getting the measurements
You need to take a couple of measurements
- Measure the widest point of your calf.
- Measure the lower leg’s length. Measure it from the back of the knee to the floor.
Both these measurements would determine the size of your boot. It is advisable to take both these measurements while sitting with your legs bent. Also, your foot needs to touch the floor.
Once you have the measurements, you can go and hit the stores. It is recommended that you try these boots while wearing socks and breeches. It will provide you with a fair idea about the boot’s overall fitting.
A handy tip:
Also, make sure you try both boots on as we rarely have equal sized feet and calves. Bear in mind that with a little wear most boots will drop slightly, so make sure you don’t choose boots that are too short.
Wearing your boots
Once you have bought a new pair of horse riding boots, it’s time to wear them and hit the saddle. A new pair of boots will feel a bit uncomfortable at first, but once you start wearing it regularly, it’ll be fine. You might also encounter a few blisters at the back of your knees and ankles. Leather will take some time to soften up. Before hitting the saddle, put on your boots and roam around the farmland. In this way, you will get used to wearing them.
Okay. So, that’s pretty much everything that you need to keep in mind before hitting the stores in order to buy a new pair of riding boots. Taking all these things into consideration will help make your life easier.
