Women's riding boots and shoes on Black Friday

Size, height, calf: the three measurements for a boot

A riding boot is chosen based on three measurements. The size first, the same as your regular shoe size. The shaft height next, taken while seated, with the leg bent at a right angle, from the floor to the back of the knee. Finally, the calf circumference, measured at the widest point, over the riding trousers. That's why the Mountain Horse Cumberland comes in Regular and Wide versions, for slim or more robust calves. A new leather boot should be chosen a bit high: it compresses a few centimetres at the ankle as it shapes to the leg, then returns to the right height under the knee.

The rest of the women's gear

Women's riding at the Black Friday also includes:

• Riding trousers.
• Polo shirts.
• Shirts.
• Jackets & Coats.
• Competition jackets.

All women's gear is gathered on the women's page.

Field boot or dressage boot: depending on the discipline

The field boot is recognised by its lacing on the instep, which adds flexibility to the ankle: this can bend and absorb movement in the balanced position needed for jumping. The Ariat Palisade Field and the Horze lace-up boot follow this model. The dressage boot, with no laces, higher on the outside of the knee and with a stiff shaft, keeps the leg long and straight, with no creases at the ankle. Between the two, versatile boots like the Horze Verona or Kavalkade Maximus are suitable for leisure riding, both in the arena and on hacks, and for riders who dabble in multiple disciplines.

Zip and material of the shaft

Most modern boots have a zip at the back of the shaft, which makes it easier to put on a very snug boot without a boot pull. An elastic insert at the top of the shaft adds a bit of comfort when the calf contracts in the saddle. The leather, as seen on the Ariat Palisade Field or the Mountain Horse Cumberland, shapes to the leg and becomes more flexible over time, provided it is regularly conditioned. Synthetic boots, which are lighter and often more affordable, can be wiped clean and are suitable for beginners or riders who often ride in the rain.

Boots, waterproofs and thermal wear for the stable in winter

For daily use, boots are more practical than tall boots. The Ariat Heritage Paddock, with laces, provides good ankle support, while the Horze Wexford, with a zip, slips on in seconds, and both can be paired with mini chaps for riding. In the rain, the Ariat Coniston Max H2O, featuring a waterproof membrane, keeps feet dry in a sodden paddock. In extreme cold, thermal boots from Horka and QHP Thermo Calgary, with lining, insulate the feet from the ground frost and the icy stirrup. They should be chosen with a bit of extra room to slide on a warm sock without compressing the foot.

Frequently asked questions

What to do if the boot is too tight on the calf?

A quality leather will stretch slightly over time, but only by a few millimetres. If the zip is tight right from the start, it's better to try a wide calf version rather than risk damaging the zip or restricting blood circulation.

How to break in new leather boots?

First wear them while walking for a few hours, then during short riding sessions, so the leather can shape to the ankle. A softening balm applied to the stiff areas speeds up the process without weakening the leather.

How to store riding boots between sessions?

Clean them and then store them upright, with boot trees or shaft forms, in a dry and airy place. Avoid a damp tack room like near a radiator, which dries and cracks the leather.

Can you ride with rubber boots?

A rubber boot without a defined heel is not suitable, as the foot may slip in the stirrup. Waterproof riding models are available, with a proper heel and a low-profile sole, for safe riding in the rain.

How to clean a boot zip?

Brush the zip teeth with an old toothbrush to remove sand and horsehair, then rub them with a wax or dry soap stick. A dirty zip gets stuck and can eventually break, especially on a fitted boot.