Women’s boots for horseback riding range from the uber-stylish, to the rugged and practical. So when it comes to choosing the right boots for horseback riding, it can be quite confusing. However, knowing what to look for in those riding boots will be a bonus to picking out the right pair. While there are a few obvious things that you will want to keep in mind, one of the most important features is comfort.
When it comes to breathability, boots don’t fair that well. Since they’re enclosed and generally made from thicker materials, you can’t expect much air to pass through. That’s why it’s so important to complement your riding boots with the right pair of horseback riding socks.
How To Choose The Best Women’s Boots For Horseback Riding
Whether it’s the best horseback riding shoes or horseback riding boots, comfort is the key to choosing the right one. However, as we stated earlier, there are other features that you need to factor in to get your money’s worth. One of the key factors is usage. If you’re only a casual rider you may want to look for something more fashionable that you can wear outside the stables too. Versatile boots are a bonus but if you’re looking for something purely for the stables there are a few things that you need to keep in mind.
Style
Riding boots are available in three main styles – tall boots that go up to the knee, cowboy boots, and shorter paddock boots. Beginners generally prefer paddock boots before investing in tall boots. Paddock boots are comfortable and can work like tall boots with half chaps. They’re also excellent for wearing around town as regular boots.
Material
The preferred choice of material is generally leather but these days you’ll find a wide range of excellent choices. Many synthetic materials look as good as the real thing and are sometimes difficult to distinguish. They’re also easier to maintain. The advantage of leather is that it will go the distance and can also be revived after wear and tear. It’s also easier to break-in a pair of leather shoes.
Heels and Soles
The heels and soles of your riding boots are extremely important for a good ride. Riding heels are more prominent and are generally one and a half to two inches tall. Those who use their riding boots for barn work and walking around will probably prefer a lower heel. The tread on the soles is another factor to consider in riding boots. Those that have a spur rest and smaller tread are generally preferred for safety reasons. Some riders prefer a smooth finish as they’re easier to clean.
What Is a Quick Way To Break In Cowboy Boots?
If you’re stretched for time and need to break in your shoes really quickly a good idea would be to steam them. When the leather is soft, wear the boots until they cool down. Alternatively, you can also use a hairdryer to warm the leather. Boots that fit well don’t generally need breaking in.
Are Riding Boots Comfortable For Walking Around?
Not all riding boots are comfortable for walking around in. That being said, these days, boots have been designed with comfort in mind. Many brands provide you the versatility of using them around the yard or even around town.
Sam Edelman Women’s Penny Classic Equestrian Boot
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An extremely popular pair of women’s boots for horseback riding is the Sam Edelman Women’s Penny Classic Equestrian Boot. These classy knee-length riding boots epitomize chic comfort with the beveled top line and antiqued button detail. They’re made from basto crust leather and feature snap detailing. The synthetic sole and stacked heel provide great traction.
Women love the soft feel of the leather and the diagonal design plus the convenience that the back zipper provides. It goes all the way down to the ankles which makes these boots easy to wear. Also, the fact that these boots don’t take long to break in is an added bonus. As with any tall boots that you buy, make sure you measure your calves so that they don’t feel tight.
Pros:
- Classy look
- The back zipper makes it easy to wear
- Don’t take long to break-in
- Easy to clean with a damp cloth
Cons:
- These boots are great for women with wider calves. Those with smaller calves may find them a bit roomy.
Durango Women’s RD4424 Boot
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Western boots like the Durango Women’s RD4424 Boot, which have shrunken leather stand out because the grain of the material becomes rich and intensified. The distressed-looking brown leather on these boots stands out because of this. In addition to the look of the leather, another great feature is the embroidery on the upper that is sewn onto the boot’s shaft and foot.
Apart from the stylish looks of these square-toed boots, the comfort is also quite exceptional with the cushioned footbed. Getting these on is pretty easy with the durable pull tabs and dipped topline. In addition to the comfort, the steadiness and support that the tempered steel shank provides are also pretty outstanding. The low rocker heel will reduce the stress on your feet, making these a great pair to wear throughout the day.
Pros:
- Tempered steel shank for support
- Stylish
- Cushion flex insole
- Rolled shank area
- Distressed full-grain leather foot and collar
Cons:
- Sizing could be an issue with these boots
Muck Pacy II Rubber All-Season Women’s Riding Boots
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One of the most functional and great looking pair of women’s boots for horseback riding is the Muck Pacy II Rubber All-Season Women’s Riding Boots. These riding boots are ideal for barn work and riding. They’re designed to suit a variety of riding conditions. Completely waterproof, they feature a flexible 5mm neoprene bootie that bends and moves according to your movements. Additionally, the warm fleece lining and the sock liner acts as good insolation.
You can easily tuck your riding pants or jeans into your boot because of the flexible boot opening. These boots are also easy to slip on or take off with the pull-on tab. The slim tread with a horizontal pattern provides stirrup access and grip. There’s also Achilles reinforcement for additional support and long wear, plus a heel spur for riding. You can be sure that these boots will go the distance with the high-grade rubber.
Pros:
- Waterproof
- Ideal for mucking about and riding
- Fleece lining and sock liner for good insolation
- Easy to wear with pull-on tab
- Slim tread provides stirrup access and grip
- Durable
Cons:
- These are are on the larger side
ARIAT Women’s Barnyard Side Zip Barn Boot
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Offering comfort and stability, the Ariat Barnyard Side Zip Work Boot is an excellent multipurpose women’s boot. Whether it’s working around the stable, running errands, or getting into the saddle, these boots will suit a variety of activities. Featuring the ATS technology that supports and cushions your feet and ankles as you move, you can be sure that your feet will be far from stressed in these boots. Apart from this, the boots also have the Ariat ATS composite shank and protective toe.
As for the material, it’s a full-grain, waterproof leather to prevent any moisture from seeping in. The side zipper makes these easy to wear or take off. Also, the Duratread cup outsole with extended sidewall increases the durability of these women’s boots for horseback riding. The look of the boots isn’t too bad either with the mid-cut leather upper and detailed stitching.
Pros:
- ATS comfort technology
- Duratread cup outsole with extended sidewall
- Waterproof leather
- Versatile
Cons:
- You’re not going to be making a fashion statement with these boots on your feet but they’re practical
Dublin Ladies Pinnacle Boots II
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A great pair of women’s boots for horseback riding that can be worn through the day is the Dublin Ladies Pinnacle Boots. Crafted from rich, waterproof leather, these tough, durable boots also have a breathable exterior. You won’t have to worry about water getting into these shoes as the treated russet leather comes with a fully waterproof lining. What makes this pair stand out as a great pair of horse riding shoes is Dublin’s Rider Comfort System (RCS). Providing unsurpassed riding comfort, the shoes have incredible arch support and impact absorption. A high-density foam heel support and EVA molded cup, keep your feet comfortable throughout the day.
Apart from the comfort, the non-microbial materials ensure your feet stay free from unpleasant odors. The adjustable side laces combined with a hook and loop closure provide a secure fit, while the durable Tough Tech rubber soles will stand up well to wet terrain.
Pros:
- Waterproof
- Rider Comfort System (RCS)
- Durable Tough Tech rubber soles
- Adjustable side laces give a secure fit
- High density foam heel support
Cons:
- Feels a little wide around the calves
Justin Boots Women’s Gypsy Collection
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Many women absolutely love the look and feel of the Justin Boots Women’s Gypsy Collection. These western-styled boots are big on comfort and style. Whether you’re on the back of a horse, walking on the ground, or taking a turn around town, these boots are sure to turn heads.
Featuring a smooth brown leather foot with saddle vamp under a bright purple and embroidered leather shaft, these boots ramp up plenty of points on the style quotient. As far as comfort goes, the mesh lining, updated square toe profile and easy-on pull straps take this up a few notches. There’s also a thick synthetic sole that provides extra cushioning for the footbed.
Pros:
- 100% leather with lovely embroidery
- J-Flex comfort system
- Meticulously crafter stitching
- Wide range of colors to choose from
- Available in square or round toe
Cons:
- Takes a while to break in
Dublin Women’s River Tall Equestrian Boot
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Another excellent pair of women’s boots for horseback riding or mucking around in the yard from the Dublin brand is their Ladies Black River Boot. One of Dublin’s best selling boots is its line of River Boots with their stylish look and this pair is one of the newest and more popular boots in this edition. Fashioned from waterproof leather and an HBR waterproof membrane, you can be sure that water will stay out even in the worst conditions. It offers a comfortable fit with the elastic gusset at the inside top of the calf along with a drawstring on the outside.
Additionally, the boots also feature the signature Rider Comfort System (RCS) insole for all-day comfort. Apart from this, the boots also score high on durability with the lightweight and durable Tough Tech sole. This is designed to fit into a stirrup for riding.
Pros:
- Good for riding or barn work
- Waterproof leather and HBR Waterproof membrane
- Comfortable fit
- Elastic gusset
- Rider Comfort System insole(RCS)
Cons:
- Feels a little roomy so those with narrow calves may not like the fit
ARIAT Women’s Probaby Western Cowboy Boot
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The ARIAT Women’s Probaby Lacer Western Cowboy Boot hits all the right notes when it comes to style and comfort. It’s no wonder then that these boots sit high on our rankings for best women’s boots for horseback riding. These performance riding boots have some innovative features that enhance the comfort of wearing them. While they feature the patented ATS technology, the little extras make them so much better. The durable Pro Crepe sole provides lightweight cushioning with extended durability. An added bonus is the spur ledge which makes it extra convenient.
They’re also easy to break in so you won’t have to wait too long before you’re in the saddle with these on your feet. Those who have problems with their feet will enjoy the extra support that these boots provide. Though these boots are not waterproof, they keep water out.
Pros:
- Stylish and comfortable
- ATS technology for comfort
- Durable Pro-Crepe sole
- Easy to break in
Cons:
- As with most boots the sizing could be an issue
EQUISTAR Women’s Zip Paddock Boot
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If you’re looking for a good affordable pair of women’s boots for horseback riding, the EQUISTAR Women’s Zip Paddock Boots are a good option. The synthetic durable leather makes these boots a comfortable choice. They’ll definitely go the distance with the comfortable long-lasting EquiStar Sole System.
When it comes to wearing these boots, the front YKK metal zipper, makes them easy to put on or take off. The elastic goring provides a good, secure fit. Newbies or beginner riders will love these boots. You can also easily fit chaps over them if you prefer something longer while riding.
Pros:
- Affordable
- Comfortable long-lasting EquiStar Sole System
- Easy to put on or take off
Cons:
- These shoes are not very durable so if you’re looking for something that will last for a long time this may not be the right pair
Frye Women’s Melissa Button Back Zip Boot
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Top-quality construction and a good range of color choices push the Frye Women’s Melissa Button Back Zip Boots to the top of the rankings of best women’s boots for horseback riding. The pull-on feature on these boots makes them easy to put on or take off. They’re also big on comfort, with the cushioned leather insole and rubber heel. With the aid of the back zip and asymmetric topline, getting these boots on or off your feet is easy.
The cushioned leather insole and smooth leather lining will keep these on your feet all day with no discomfort. Another plus point of these boots is the durable leather outsole with a rubber heel insert that provides excellent traction. These horseback riding shoes also ramp up extra points in the style factor with the antiqued leather and classic riding shape. The Frye Company boasts of being the oldest continuously operated shoe company in the United States so you can be sure that their shoes will have you reaching for your purse.
Pros:
- 100% leather
- Back zip and asymmetric topline
- Smooth leather lining
- Cushioned leather insole
- Durable leather outsole with rubber heel insert for traction
Cons:
- The zipper at the back can be a little tough to manage
ARIAT Fat Baby Heritage Boots
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Western cowboy boots for women don’t come more stylish than the popular, Ariat Fatbaby Western Boot. With its patented 4LR technology, these women’s boots for horseback riding are big on comfort. This technology enhances support and cushioning. The unique style of these all-purpose boots with bold colors and four-row stitching is sure to turn heads if you wear them around town.
It’s not just the style factor that makes these boots stand out, but also the durable outsole that enhances longevity. As for comfort, you won’t have to worry too much about stressed feet with these on. Ariat is a brand that is committed to quality, and these boots are a clear indication of that.
Pros:
- Good range of colors and styles to choose from
- 4LR technology enhances comfort
- Can be used as a fashion accessory too
- Durable outsole
- Easy to break in
Cons:
- The arch is a little higher than average so it may feel uncomfortable to women not used to this feature
TuffRider Ladies Starter Front Zip Paddock Boot
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Sitting at the top of the rankings of Equestrian Sport Boots on Amazon, the TuffRider Ladies Starter Front Zip Paddock Boots is highly popular with new riders. TuffRider is a renowned brand for affordable boots for horseback riding. One of the reasons why these boots stand out as one of the best women’s boots for horseback riding is their affordability. For beginners and occasional riders who don’t want to dig too deep into their pockets, these boots are great. Although these aren’t as durable as the Ariat brand, these paddock boots deliver the goods. The synthetic leather on the exterior and the rubber outsoles are both water-resistant.
Like the children’s starter boots of the same brand, the paddock boots also feature spur rests and punched toe caps. If you’re concerned about the ease in getting them on or off this is solved by the zipper on the front and elastic side gussets. Cleaning these boots is also easy with a damp cloth to wipe off any dirt.
Pros:
- Affordable and good for beginners
- Water resistant
- Spur rests and punched toe caps
- Easy to put on or take off
Cons:
- Not very durable
ROPER Women’s Riley Western Boot
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Featuring a chic western-style and fun embroidery, the ROPER Women’s Riley Western Boot is one of the more popular women’s boots for horseback riding. These come in five different colors with a Snip Toe Western Cowboy profile, a traditional rubber heel, and a durable rubber sole. The cushioned insole provides exceptional comfort for wearing throughout the day.
Fashioned from high-quality synthetic leather, these boots are lightweight, stylish, and durable. What’s more, they come at a rate that will not burn a hole in your pocket. However, for women who prefer a more rugged riding shoe, you may want to consider the Roper Women’s Horseshoe Kiltie Boot featured on our list of best shoes for horseback riding.
Pros:
- Chic western-style with fun embroidery
- Available in five different colors
- Snip toe western cowboy profile
- Cushioned insole for comfort
- High quality synthetic leather
- Affordable
Cons:
- The boots can feel a little big on narrow feet
