Are you having trouble deciding if you need long or short riding boots for the upcoming year? While, ultimately, everything comes down to personal taste, style, and intended use, we at SB Leathers, the best boot manufacturer and boot supplier UK, aim to give you all the information you might require.
In the world of horseback riding, shoes are quite important. It plays a significant role in your feet’s comfort, safety, and foot care, as well as your riding, whether you’re a novice, expert, rarely rider, or competitor.
When it comes to selecting the appropriate footwear for you, there are numerous considerations. And that entails taking into account the length, colour, material, brand, cost, durability, function, and usefulness in addition to their length. To perhaps help you make a decision, we’ve included a bit extra information about short vs long riding boots here.
How Does It Differ?
Though there are other characteristics of each style of boot that distinguish them, you should take them into account. While length is undoubtedly a major distinction between short riding boots and long riding boots, there are other factors to take into account as well.
Long Riding Boots
A key component of British horseback riding is boots. They are a more formal style boot that sits a few inches below the knee. They are meant to elongate the leg to make a rider appear taller and more regal.
For everyday riding, equestrian boots or long riding boots despite the fact that they are a more conventional and ‘competition’ style boot.
In comparison to short riding boots, long riding boots are said to provide greater protection both on the ground and when riding, and they also lessen the chance of pinching and chafing from stirrup leathers. Because they limit your ability to move and wriggle your feet and ankles when riding, they are also thought to be a better choice of footwear to encourage better leg position and riding.
Long riding boots are incredibly wonderful for riding, but because they might restrict flexibility and range of motion, they are not as popular for yard work that requires walking. To keep your legs dry and warm during the winter, these might be preferable!
The Advantages of Long Riding Boots
- As long as they’re properly maintained, they look gorgeous—classic but polished and sophisticated.
- Long boots provide some protection from a kick or tumble, and they also avoid chafing and pinching from the stirrup leathers.
- Some riders believe they can assist them in maintaining a better lower-leg position because of the stability they provide.
- In the winter, they keep you dry and comfortable.
The Decision
There’s no turning back once you’ve discovered a great fit in long riding boots. For many riders, a well-made pair of long leather riding boots is the ideal choice because they look nothing like it. Although they are expensive, and you may decide to wear less elegant riding boots around the yard, they provide significant protection and leg support.
Short Riding Boots
Short Riding Boots are a great option for riding and around the yard, but they may provide less support and protection when in the saddle. That’s why it’s best to wear chaps or gaiters for riding, if necessary.
Short Riding Boots are especially more popular for younger riders, as they are accepted by young competitors in the show ring. They also tend to offer more freedom of leg and ankle movement, which typically makes it easier for young riders or beginners to learn.
While short riding boots are fantastic for working in the yard, they might not be the best option in the winter to keep your feet dry and your legs warm. Are, nevertheless, a fantastic choice in the summer to keep your legs a lot cooler.
The Advantages of Short Riding Boots
- Comfortable and simple to put on, especially in warm weather when a long boot could get sweaty.
- A multipurpose footwear that is often durable enough to withstand regular garden use.
- The appropriate half-chap can make a classy leather short boot look like a long boot.
- Easier for juniors and newbies to acquire feel when teaching a horse to use leg aids.
The Decision
The most excellent choice for younger riders, casual riders, those on a tight budget, or those whose calves are too big for regular-sized boots.
Even without competition, you’ll probably need two pairs of boots: a sturdy short pair for daily use and a fashionable long pair to remain presentable and professional.