Cowboy boots are an iconic piece of Western riding gear and they’re not just limited for use in the saddle. As well as being perfectly suited for horseback riding, they're also comfortable, durable and make stylish dress boots. With so many boots on the market, it can be a bit overwhelming trying to find the perfect pair. In this guide, we're going to take a look at all of the things that you need to consider so that you can choose the best boots for Western horseback riding.
What are Western Horseback Riding Boots?
Western boots are traditionally made from leather and often have fancy stitching and embroidered designs which makes them quite different from English riding boots.
They're tough and durable to protect feet and legs against rough terrain, sharp plants and even snake bites. They come in different lengths and colors and are recognizable by their square or pointed shape around the toes, and a sturdy square heel.
Traditional Western boots don't have laces, a zipper or buckles so their overall design makes them safe and functional in the stirrups. The distinctive design of Western boots has made them a common fashion accessory and you'll see many dress boots available on the market.
Pros and Cons of Western Boots
Pros
Western riding boots have been around for a long time. They're practical, versatile and look great too. Not only are they perfectly suited to horseback riding they're also very comfortable to wear out of the saddle.
The stylish design of comfortable cowboy boots makes them a classic piece of fashionable footwear and they also offer high levels of support and protection for the feet and legs. It's thought that the small heel found on these types of field boots may help with some foot conditions such as Achilles tendon.
Cons
However, a poorly fitting boot can cause painful foot problems. There is no real standard of sizing between manufactures so finding a good fit can take some effort. If the boots are too small or narrow then they can cause bunions on the toes.
Another drawback of western boots is that they rarely offer arch support which can put extra pressure on your back.
What are the Best Horse Riding Boots?
If you don't wear the right type of riding boot when you're horseback riding there's a chance of getting your foot caught up in the stirrup. Horse riding boots are designed to greatly reduce the chances of this happening. When it comes to choosing the best boots for riding horses, you should look out for one with a small heel that's a minimum of one inch in height.
The boots should be made from a smooth, durable, material with a good sole and they should be narrow enough to slide freely through the stirrup. Although rain boots can be good to wear around the barn, they're not a good choice of riding boot. They're often too wide with an insufficient heel. It's a good idea to have two separate pairs of boots or shoes, one for doing your stable work and one for horse riding. If you only use your riding boots for riding then you'll keep them looking nicer for longer.
How to Choose the Best Western Riding Boots
When it comes to choosing the right field boots there are a few things you should check before making your purchase. Below we've listed the main things to look out for when you're choosing a pair of boots.
Material
Western riding boots are traditionally made from leather but these days you'll find many synthetic options too.
Cowhide is the most common and economical type of leather used for making leather boots. More expensive options include goat leather, ostrich leather and even snakeskin.
Leather boots can last many years but to do this they require regular maintenance. We recommend purchasing and reading our guide on the top saddle soaps to care for leather boots.
Synthetic boots are generally more affordable and are a better choice if you're looking for a pair of weatherproof boots. The synthetic boots are pretty durable and require less maintenance than leather boots.
Comfort and Support
A good pair of field boots should be comfortable to wear and provide plenty of ankle support. Consider choosing a slightly larger size if you're planning on wearing them in winter with thick, padded socks.
Make sure that the riding boot feels tough and sturdy, and consider buying ones that offer extra cushioning for arch support if you have back problems. To get the maximum support from your boots then choose a pair that's suited to your riding discipline.
Sole
The soles of traditional Western riders boots were made of leather, which makes them great for riding in but not so good for walking over wet or rugged terrain. If you're planning to use your boots strictly as horseback riding boots then you can safely choose leather-soled ones.
If you want your boots to be a bit more practical for use in the barn or paddock, then choose a boot with a synthetic sole and a good tread.
Design
When it comes to choosing the style and design of your boots, it's important to make sure that they're suitable for horseback riding. There are lots of dress boots on the market that are made for the look and won't cut it as horseback riding boots. Horse riding boots need to be tough and durable.
If you intend to wear your boots with chaps then you should get a shorter shaft length. Choose a longer style boot for extra leg protection without chaps.
Special Features
If you're out on the trail a lot and riding in all weathers then you should look for waterproof boots for horseback riding. If you live in a cold climate or ride a lot in the winter then choose insulated boots that will make riding more comfortable in the cold.
However, if you're a fair-weather rider or living in a hot climate then choose a breathable boot to prevent sweating and rubbing.
Review of the 5 Best Western Boots on the Market
If you're unsure where to start in your quest for a good pair of Western riding boots, then why not start by looking at our five reviews below.
1. Ariat Heritage Women's Western Boot
Ariat is one of the most trusted brands and they're leaders in the world of Western horse riding boots. These Ariat Heritage boots are made with premium full-grain leather and ATS supportive technology. They provide the ultimate in comfort with a unique four layered footbed cushioning system and they're made to last with a tough synthetic sole. You can enjoy this classic, comfortable boot in a huge range of modern colors.
2. Roper Women’s Riley Western Boot
These Riley boots from Roper are made from faux leather and are available in five attractive colors so you'll be sure to find a style that you like. They have a traditional Western heel, snip toe design and beautiful embroidery on the shaft. These boots are tough with a synthetic sole for extra durability, as well as a cushioned insole for extra comfort.
3. Ariat Men’s Rambler Western Boot
This is another pair of high-quality boots from Ariat but this time for men. They provide the ultimate in comfort with special ATS technology that supports and cushions the foot. The “Duratread” sole is sure to last a long time and inside, the moisture-wicking footbeds will let your feet breathe. They're made with full-grain leather and have a pre-worn/ distressed design.
4. Justin Boots Women’s Gypsy Western Boot
These short Gypsy boots from Justin come in a huge range of stylish designs which makes them very appealing. As well as looking good, they have tough, durable synthetic soles and a smooth round-toed profile. The 1.5-inch heel and 8-inch shaft make them perfect for horseback riding and the mesh lining offers extra comfort. These are a very comfortable and lightweight pair of Western boots.
5. Old West Men's Boots
These are one of the most traditional styles of long boots on the market with a tall 13.5-inch shaft and 1.75-inch heel. They're made with high-quality leather and have classic 3-row stitching on the front. The cushioned insole provides extra comfort, and the heavy-duty rubber sole is sure to last a long time. These boots come with reinforced shank construction which really provides extra support and they're available in several colors including black and brown.
Our Top Choice
If you're looking for quality equestrian boots to ride horses in that provide the ultimate in comfort and durability then you can't go wrong with the Lariat Heritage boots. Not only do these boots look stylish but they also offer the maximum support and safety when you're riding. They're a very popular brand amongst Western riders and are the best horse riding boots to invest in.
Western riding boots have been around for a long time so its no wonder there are so many different styles and designs. When it comes to choosing the best boots for Western horseback riding always choose durable boots that are fit for purpose. When you're wearing a good boot, riding is safer and more comfortable. By following this guide, you'll be able to make a quick and easy decision about choosing the right pair of boots for your needs.
