Which is Better - Long or Short Horse Riding Boots?

If you are starting out in horse riding, or even if you are not, a common debate is often whether you should choose to ride in traditional long riding boots or short jodhpur boots, perhaps with chaps or gaiters. The choice really depends upon a few factors; what you are going to use them for, your style of riding and personal preference. Your budget and the size and shape of your legs may also play a part in the type of horse riding boots that you choose.

Whichever type of horse riding boots that you choose, the important thing should be that they are designed especially for horse riding. For safety they should feature a smooth sole with a small heel which will prevent the foot from slipping through the stirrup and getting stuck in the event of an accident. They should also allow enough flexibility around the leg and ankle to enable you to have a close contact with the horse and keep your legs in the correct position.

Vintage Leather Riding Boots by funkomavintage and Short Jodhpurs by Horlicks

Firstly, the activities that you take part in will affect your decision. If you are competing then it is often considered that a smart long leather riding boot is the acceptable footwear. Sometimes, the rules of a competition will insist upon long leather boots or at the very least jodhpur boots with matching leather gaiters. Certainly short jodhpur boots with a pair of half chaps will not be permitted. On the other hand, if you ride in showing classes, you should wear short riding boots without gaiters or chaps. Whilst this is normal for showing classes, in general this is not recommended for everyday riding as your legs require some protection from rubbing or pinching from the saddle or stirrup leathers. If you will be wearing your horse riding boots also for yard work then you need to give some consideration to durability of the boot that you choose. In general, long riding boots do not allow enough freedom of movement for mucking out or handling horses all day, and more to the point, most people would not want to wear their smart leather riding boots to get dirty around the stables all day! In this case, a sturdy pair of short boots with half chaps, or specifically designed rubber boots might be more practical.

Some people simply prefer short jodhpur boots for horse riding. They feel that this affords more flexibility in the ankle and provide a more versatile fit. Combined with a pair of half chaps or leather gaiters, they can still be a smart outfit. For those people who have short or wide legs, it can be difficult to find a pair of long riding boots that fit well unless you look to have a pair of horse riding boots custom made and in this situation it is better to opt for short boots and gaiters. Other people much prefer long riding boots, claiming that they are more flattering and look smarter and give a better protection to the legs.

On the whole, it is usual for horse riders to have more than one pair of horse riding boots; a short pair of jodhpur boots with chaps or gaiters for yard work and riding at home, and then a smart pair of leather long boots for competition. This enables you to keep your smart boots looking smart for when you need them. When it comes to choosing your boots, it is advisable to shop around to find the best quality boots that you can afford. Always remember that you get what you pay for and a cheap pair of boots may not last as long as a good quality but more expensive pair of horse riding boots. Shopping around online can be a good way to find quality boots at a reasonable price once you are clear on the style of boots that you are looking for.

Author Resource: Written by Josie Amani
The Equine Store is packed full of quality horse riding clothing, everything from horse riding boots to breeches. Visit the shop at www.equine-store.com

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