Riding Boots

Riding boots are boots that are specifically meant for horseback riding. Classic riding boots often extend high enough to prevent the skin of the rider’s legs being brushed against the leather of the saddle. Besides, classic riding boots also feature a sturdy toe in order to protect the rider’s foot, when on the ground, and a uniquely shaped distinct heel that prevents the rider’s foot from slipping through the stirrup. The sole of classic riding boots are made smooth to prevent the rider from being caught on the tread of the stirrup in case of a fall.

Currently there are many different types and styles of riding boots available. Riding boots differ in form in accordance with the type of riding (from horse shows to pleasure riding). Tall riding boots, which often go right up to the knee of the rider, are available in three forms: field, dress and hunt riding boots. Field riding boots feature lacing at the ankle; to provide increased comfort while riding. Hence, due to the comfort offered by field riding boots, they are preferred in all jumping disciplines. Dress riding boots usually do not feature lacing and are generally seen in black colour. Dress riding boots are worn by dressage riders, eventers in the dressage phase, show jumpers and at formal fox hunts. Hunt riding boots (also known as top riding boots) are much like dress riding boots except for they feature a "cuff" at the top. Tall riding boots are a part of standard show attire and are worn by all horse riders in the hunter/jumper and dressage disciplines.

Paddock riding boots, very much unlike tall riding boots, are limited to slightly above the ankle and are a part of the standard attire for children. The Paddock riding boots are at time referred to as Jodhpur riding boots, and are sometimes worn with gaiters to provide protection or to give the impression that the rider is wearing tall riding boots.

Though, traditionally riding boots have been made from leather, increasingly riding boots made from different materials, such as vinyl, synthetic and other artificial materials are used of which rubber riding boots are most popular.

Among the many different brands of riding boots available, Brogini and Aigle riding boots are perhaps among the most sought after. While Brogini is perhaps most known for its long riding boots, Aigle is known for its expansive range which also includes a special line of child riding boots. Another brand of riding boots that are popular are Mountain Horse riding boots.

Used and thus cheap mens riding boots and other items of horse riding clothing can be purchased from different online trading stores. Furthermore, one can also find websites on the Internet that are solely dedicated to riding boots and other equestrian items such as riding gaiters and horse rugs.