10 Best Riding Boots 2024 in the United States

Riding boots have always been in demand in the footwear industry. Because of their versatile design, these boots can be worn for many different occasions. Whether you’re using them for their designated purpose—horseback riding—or as a cute addition to your outfit, riding boots will always be in style. There are so many options available, however, that it may be hard to shop for them online. This guide provides insight into the different types of boots available so you can make an informed purchase.

English riding boots have a flat heel and fit the leg and ankle snugly to give more comfort and support when riding. Most are made of cowhide in black or brown, but there are other materials that can make up these boots as well.

• Field boots are normally very tall and can almost reach the knee. They have lacing at the ankle, giving you more flexibility.
• Dress boots are also tall, but have no lacing. They are more stiff and rigid than field boots, and are part of the required attire for horse shows.
• Jodhpur boots are a type of ankle boot. They may have zippers or buckles for added style, but the important part is that they are made with elastic.
• Paddock boots are short, laced ankle boots. These are worn by children when riding, but are also the most common type of boot for saddle-seat style riding.

Western riding boots are best known as cowboy boots. These differ from English riding boots in many ways. The heel is higher, but the fit is not—these boots normally reach mid-calf and are not as snug as those listed above. Western boots also include spurs, which are not a feature of English boots. They have a completely different appearance in terms of material and color as well. There are more color options available than black and brown, and they can be made from many different hides or types of leather. The different types of Western boots are categorized by the height of the heel.

• Ropers have the shortest heel and shaft and are worn by rodeo cowboys.
• Walking heels have a heel that varies in height from an inch and a half to two inches.
• Riding heels have the highest heel for gripping the stirrups, and can be two inches or more in height.

Other styles of riding boots are available that don’t fit into the two categories above.

• Trail riding boots are great for people who like to take their horse on various terrains through different climates and weather patterns. These boots are often made of material that is waterproof or water-resistant and can be ideal for water trails.
• Athletic riding boots are relatively new and are a hybrid between short riding boots and hiking boots. They fit like a gym shoe and are equipped with laces as well as a rugged sole that provides you with great tread and traction. These are very useful for everyday riding and practicing.

• Comfort: Make sure you break in your boots and that they are comfortable—nothing can ruin a riding experience like a pair of uncomfortable boots.
• Calf size is an important consideration: It is helpful to measure the width of your calves when buying a pair of boots, especially ones that are not made of forgiving material. Many boots vary in size when it comes to the shaft and calf measurements, and customers frequently stress the importance of buying boots that fit properly.
• Traction: The soles of the boots need to have good traction and tread in order to be safe. They should grip the stirrups, or ground, and not be slippery to walk in.

• If you are investing in a good pair of riding boots, consider buying a boot hook or pull. These help when putting on tight boots.
• When your boots are not being worn, they should have a boot tree placed inside. Made of wood or plastic, these help the boots retain their shape and fit.
• A leather care kit can also come in handy for cleaning your boots and keeping them in good condition.

Frye: Has been manufacturing boots for over a century. Its beautiful boots can be worn for style purposes or horseback riding. A bit on the expensive side, these boots are made of quality materials with your needs in mind.

TuffRider: Its boots are geared more toward an equestrian audience, who use the boots for sport. It offers a variety of boots and is a top-selling company in the US.

Ariat Legend: Sells English and Western cowboy boots, both for riding and for fashion. Its website even has “how-to” videos, a great resource to use when determining what size you need, or what boot is best for you.