Tall Riding Boots In Styles For Every English Discipline
Tall boots are preferred for all jumping events, such as hunt seat equitation, fox hunting, show jumping, and eventing. Dressage riders and eventers wear dress boots in the dressage portion of the show. They're also worn for show jumping and on formal fox hunts.
Tall riding boots are leather boots that come to the knee, with a smooth sole and prominent heel that provides a good grip in the stirrup. An essential element of your English wardrobe, tall riding boots offer firm support to your ankle and lower leg while protecting your leg from bumps, kicks, and scratches. Even more important, they help give your legs close contact with the saddle, allowing better communication and control with your horse.
Frequently Asked Questions About Tall Riding Boots
Why do equestrians wear tall boots?
Equestrians wear tall boots to protect their calves from rubbing against the English saddle, which can cause chafing. They are also useful in the field to protect the rider’s leg against burrs, brambles, and branches on the trail. Tall boots are required for most English-style riding events and shows.
How tall should my riding boots be?
Your English riding boots are designed to create a long, elegant appearance to the lower leg, so they should come up to the bend at the back of your knee. When measuring for tall riding boots, put on the socks and breeches you intend to wear with your boots, and have a partner available to help you capture measurements. Sit in a straight chair with your knees bent at a 90-degree angle.
- Measure your calf width at the widest part
- Measure your leg height from the floor to the back of the knee
- Add an inch to your leg height measurement (or whatever the manufacturer recommends) to accommodate the drop around the ankle after wearing
- If your calf widths differ, choose your size based on the larger calf