Your boots are the only thing between your foot and the stirrup — and the ground. A good riding boot supports your ankle, has a heel that stops your foot slipping through the stirrup, and fits snugly enough that you can feel your horse’s side.

What to Look For

• Heel: a defined 1-inch heel is non-negotiable for safety
• Ankle support: tall boots for dressage and jumping, paddock boots with half chaps for everyday
• Sole: smooth enough to release from the stirrup, grippy enough for the yard
• Fit: snug through the instep with no heel slip

Our Advice

If you ride more than twice a week, invest in quality — cheap boots wear out at the ankle and lose their support. For children, check fit every few months; growing feet change everything.

See all our rider gear recommendations.