Whether you ride once a week or once a day, the first thing you need if you’re going to get on a horse is a good pair of boots. We’ve got you covered with the best women’s horse riding boots for every level of riding.
It’s really important you don’t get on a horse with sneakers or bare feet (unless you’re riding bareback).
If you’re riding with stirrups, you need something that’s sturdy with a solid heel on it so your foot doesn’t slip through. This can be super dangerous.
Depending on what level you’re planning to ride at, you’ll want to choose a boot that’s perfect for you.
Choosing the best women’s horse riding boots for you depends on a lot of things:
- Going on vacation or a few trail rides? Anything that’s sturdy with a good heel will work.
- Just riding once a week and you’d like something more durable? A simple ankle boot that you can pair with some half chaps should be fine for you.
- Planning on entering rodeo events? You’ll need a good pair of cowboy boots (or you could just get these for fun because they’re awesome!).
- Pursuing English lessons seriously and eventually entering in some competitions? You’ll need some high end dress boots (as in the picture below).
What Type of Rider Are You?
Depending what type of rider you are, you’ll have different needs. Authentic English or Western riding boots are typically quite pricey and you don’t really need that level of quality unless you’re planning on competing (or you might just want a gorgeous pair of cowboy boots too).
I don’t compete in rodeo events but I have a pair of authentic cowboy boots I’ll wear around the barn. I also wear them when I go out to the bar because they look awesome!
Casual rider looking for something to wear trail riding, on vacation or at a friends? Scroll down for our picks!
Most women – myself included – love style and fashion.
If you’re a casual rider looking for something that’s stylish but classic so it won’t go out of style anytime soon, will make your legs look great and you can ride a horse on, we’ve picked out some of our favourites for you below.
Looking for cowboy boots for fun? Click here for our guide to choosing the best ones:
More of a serious rider? Click here for our ultimate guide to riding boots where you’ll find a breakdown of authentic English and Western riding boots:
Best Women’s Horse Riding Boots – Our Top 3 Picks for Casual Riders
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#1: Sam Edelman Women’s Penny Equestrian Boots
The brand Sam Edelman is known to offer luxury products at an affordable cost and these boots are no exception. The boots are a perfect combination of design and a worldwide sensibility, yet their primary focus is the comfort on the feet.
These boots are available in sizes ranging from six to ten. However, some riders say boot sizing does not fit well for small feet so make sure you get your correct size before buying a pair.
The boots offer two stunning colors you can choose from: black and whiskey.
They are entirely made out of leather and will last for a very long time as the material is imported.
Unlike most riding boots, these are meticulously MAN-MADE (yes, not by machines) to assure top notch quality for every pair.
These Sam Edelman boots have a certain appeal that makes any outfit look chic. The knee-length boots, with the distressed buttons on the sides, are your textbook riding boots. Whether you use them for riding or as part of your daily outfit, the boots will make you look and feel fashionable and elegant once you put them on.
The sole of each of the boot is constructed using a synthetic material for durability and excellent grip. In addition, this pair is very riding-inspired, as is noticeable by the asymmetric shaft as well as the single ear pull, along with an embossed button. The boots are comfortable to wear, soft, and well-made.
What is interesting about these boots is that they have an extensive opening, approximately 14 inches, which is enough for you to put your feet in conveniently. The heel measures about 1.25 inches whereas the platform is estimated to have a measurement of half an inch.
When it comes to the boot’s shaft height, it is about 15 inches from the arch. In addition, for it to be worn with exceptional comfort, a zipper on the back, which goes all the way down, has been integrated with minimal hardware. There is also a snap tab to secure it tightly.
Pros:
- Easy to wear and remove.
- Durable, comfortable and stylish pair of boots with a long zipper.
- Made out of an imported leather.
- The soles have high-level of grip.
Cons:
- These boots don’t run true to size.
#2: Saxon Women’s Equileather Zip Front Boots
The Saxon Women’s Equileather Zip Front Boots are a great starter riding boot. They have a low-top design which means that they would be classed as short boots or paddock boots. The best part about this pair of boots is that even though they are marketed for women, I would say the design is also suitable for men.
Unlike the other two pairs we recommend here, this pair is perfect if you are looking for boots that don’t look too feminine yet are completely versatile and fashionable. The neat, professional design of this short boot is perfect to toughen up and complete your power ensemble.
You can pair these with some half chaps for better riding comfort when you’re out riding, they’re perfect for field work, and they look great with jeans.
Another cool feature is that the manufacturer has created a ton of adult sizes ranging from 5.5 to 11, as well sizes for children. These Saxon boots are lightweight – weighing only 4 pounds.
The pair of Saxon Women’s Equileather Zip Front Boots is made from imported materials, which assures its durability.
It has an upper material made from non-leather fiber, but it still looks like supple leather.
The leather-like material of the boots allows for effortless cleaning. In fact, all you need to do is wipe them down with a clean cloth after wearing them, or every time they get dirty.
On the other hand, the soles are made from sturdy rubber that has a great grip. Likewise, the product has a completely built-in spur rest and gussets that are made from elastic which provide maximum comfort.
The front zip is an amazing feature that you won’t see in other boots. Positioning the zipper at the front, instead at the back, makes it easier for you to put on and remove your boots.
The round toe provides absolute comfort. These boots also feature a narrow design with rounded heel for better grip while riding.
Pros:
- Equipped with a heavy-duty, quality zipper.
- Made from sturdy and durable materials.
- Front zipper provides easy access.
- Comfortable to wear.
- Easy to clean.
- The product has a great grip.
- Available in multiple adult and kid sizes.
- Unisex, versatile design.
Cons:
- The size of the boots runs smaller than the one indicated on the sizing chart.
- May not be perfect for women looking for boots with feminine style.
- Front zipper may feel slightly restrictive and/or lessen ankle movements.
Tommy Hilfiger Women’s Madelen Equestrian Boots
When it comes to high-fashion brands, almost everyone all over the world recognises Tommy Hilfiger. This pair of Tommy Hilfiger Women’s Madelen Equestrian Boots keeps up the brand’s high-quality and the standards they’re known for.
This product has sizes ranging from 6 to 10.
These boots are available in three different designs and colors including brown with grey flannel, black, and brown with blue cloth.
They are constructed using imported textile and synthetic materials . Also, a zip closure has been placed inside; a feature that sets the product apart from other boots.
In addition, the company has the iconic Tommy Hilfiger logo monogrammed at the top of the boots to add more style.
Measurement-wise, the heels of the boots are 1.5 inches while the circumference of the shaft is approximately 15.25 inches and the height is about 15.25 inches. On the other hand, the mouth opening of the boots is quite large at 14.25 inches all around. These numbers should assure you that they will be comfortable even when worn extended periods of riding.
The toe of each of the boot has a round design to provide extraordinary comfort to the toes.
Pros:
- The product comes from a well-reputed and high-fashion brand.
- Durable, stylish, and comfortable.
- The pair of boots has an inside zip closure.
Cons:
- Can be a bit too tight.
Stylish Boots That You Can Absolutely Wear Riding
These boots that we have reviewed in this article are three of the best women’s horse riding boots for casual riders that aren’t going to cost you a fortune and can be multi-purposed for casual wear.
They are all durable, stylish, and comfortable.
The pair of Sam Edelman Women’s Penny Equestrian Boots is great if you are looking for something that has an all-leather and chic design. Whereas if you are into brands and you want a pair that is made using a combination of quality materials, then, the Tommy Hilfiger Women’s Madelen Equestrian Boots will be perfect for you.
If you are not so into knee-length boots, the Saxon Women’s Equileather Zip Front Boots is an ideal choice. This pair is also great for those who are looking for one that can be worn by both males and females. This makes it the most practical choice amongst the three. The downside to this pair, in comparison to the other two pairs, is that it is only available in two basic colors, black and brown, unlike the two models mentioned above.
The Best Women’s Riding Boots: Should I go for tall or short?
A pair of trusty riding boots is a horseback riding staple. Riding boots are specifically designed to protect and support your feet when riding. You can choose either ankle-length or tall boots.
Most riders prefer tall, knee-length boots for additional skin protection and to prevent chaffing on the lower legs but you can also use half chaps.
You may also want to get a pair with narrow foot design so that it can fit easily into the stirrup.
There are a lot of factors you need to check on when buying your next pair of boots.
The most important thing you must consider, however, is your comfort. If you are not comfortable with the boots you are wearing, riding will become an exhausting and unpleasant experience rather than an enjoyable one. Make sure the boot you choose is ergonomically designed and perfectly fit for you.
You wouldn’t want your feet to be sore and painful after every ride, right?
Take time to decide which pair is best for you. Your riding boots are one of your most critical riding gear investments throughout your horse riding career. Regardless of your style, regularity of riding, and other preferences considered, there is definitely a perfect pair for everyone.
If you CAN NOT find that perfect pair, well, theres always the option to make your own!
If you need any help deciding on a the best pair of women’s horse riding boots, don’t hesitate to let me know in the comments!
Happy riding 🙂
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Thank you for writing this. I am lucky to have lots of horses near where I live (very rare in a big metropolitan city) and I often wondered how the riders could pick out a pair of boots that was both stylish AND good looking. Thank you for writing this. I was just wondering what are the advantages of the short boots v’s long boots? Is it a requirement for the type of riding that the person is doing or is it personal choice?
Hey there!
Thanks for the positive feedback 🙂 For training it’s a personal choice but if you’re showing or doing competitions, then you’ll have to dress according to standard. You can take a look here to find out the different dress code standards for various horse events.
Warmly,
Martina
Hi – are longer boots recommended over short ones? I’m thinking about chafing, but also safety. I’m curious as to whether they have steel toe-caps, and fur-lined options for the winter months.
Do you know if these styles are matched with riding hats and gloves i.e. available as a set?
Best wishes, Derek
Hi Derek,
Not generally because you’re usually going to be wearing pants – mostly it can be helpful for grip if you have half-chaps. But, if you’re competing then there are regulations about style of dress that you need to follow.
In terms of styles – I’ve written some posts about sets of clothing that you can put together. You can see them here and here.
Also here’s a good overview of types of horseback riding apparel.
Lastly, you seem to be in the book writing niche so I’m thinking you might like my list of best horse novels!
Cheers,
Martina
Hey Martina
I used to love horseback riding when I was a little girl. I love all of these styles but my favorite pair has to be the Tommy Hilfiger pair. I support Tommy Hilfiger because they do not promote sweatshops so I know that these boots were made in America by adult hands. I really like the different styles. Can you wear these casually other than horse riding?
Thanks!
Sophia
Hey Sophia,
That’s a good point – thank you for adding that so other people know too when they’re deciding between a pair. And of course you can! At least I wear my boots out all the time haha
Cheers,
Martina
Wow, these boots are definitely very stylish. I love the Tommy Hilfiger boots and I see that they’re also available in black, as are the Saxon boots. Very nice. Is it better to have knee length boots when riding? Do they offer more protection than ankle boots? I ask because I’ve seen lots of professional riders wearing knee length boots and I’m just curious because I usually just stick with paddock boots 🙂
If you’re competing then you have to be more careful about what you’re wearing – like for instance show jumping and dressage have strict protocols about what you have to wear. Just for training or leisure, however, high boots vs. low boots comes down to your preference.
For training I prefer paddock boots and half-chaps. Paddock boots, like you mentioned you wear all the time, are super comfy and versatile and then I can throw on half-chaps which I like because I feel like they give me a better grip, especially when I’m jumping. In terms of safety I don’t find there’s a difference so it really comes down to preference at the end of the day!