Riding Boots - An Evolution

When I was old enough to earn a little more than just pocket money I graduated myself from rubber riding boots to a pair of Tredstep boots and gaiters (fancy half chaps).

Since then I've been through countless riding boots, chaps, and paddock boots (called jodhpur boots in Ireland/UK)). Some lasted longer than others, anything from a few weeks to years of use.

Paddock Boots vs Tall Riding Boots

I really find this is down to personal preference, there are definitely pros and cons to both but right now I have a pair of tall boots for work riding and a very nice pair of paddock boots and chaps to show in.

Well-designed chaps and matching paddock boots can look great at horse shows, especially if you take the time to shine them up with some good quality boot polish.

The chaps and boots combination also tends to be a bit cheaper than purchasing tall boots.

However nice classic English riding boots are a natural choice for a lot of people and they're easier to take around with you than boots and chaps.

Ariat Footwear

I've had many pairs of Ariat paddock boots and chaps, some were extremely durable and some I chewed through in a matter of weeks, so here's a rundown on the models I've owned in the past.

Ariat Heritage IV Zip Paddock Boot

I bought these as work boots along with a pair of chaps which I talk about in the next section. They were extremely comfortable boots and I liked the style, they looked great to ride and teach in.

I particularly liked the front zip making them very easy to get on and off.

Unfortunately, they were not up for hard work. They lasted a mere 2 months, granted at the time I was riding 8-10 horses a day and wore them constantly, but for the price and reputation of the brand, I expected better.

That said, an amateur rider would probably like these boots and if you were only riding a few times a week you would obviously get much longer out of them.

Features:

• Duratread outsole: designed to provide excellent traction and durability.

• Moisture-wicking lining: helps to keep your feet dry and comfortable.

• 4LR technology: offers support and cushioning for all-day comfort.

• Full-grain leather: for long-lasting durability and a classic look.

• Padded collar: provides additional comfort and support around the ankle.

• Elastic twin gore: allows for a snug and comfortable fit.

Ariat Heritage Paddock Boot Mens

Ariat Heritage Paddock Boot Womens

Ariat Breeze Half Chaps

I bought these with the Heritage IV Zip Paddock Boot above, and although the boots didn't last long the chaps were incredible.

Maybe not the fanciest looking chaps I've ever owned, they certainly looked more like work gear than show gear, but they lasted 3 years of abuse before I retired them.

These chaps were a little hard to do up initially over the Bluntstones I switched to for my paddock boots, but once the leather stretched a little they were great.

I'd highly recommend these chaps to any rider and even a professional looking for durable riding gear.

Features:

• Moisture-wicking lining: keeps your legs dry and comfortable.

• Elastic gore back panel: provides additional flexibility and comfort.

• Genuine leather: full-grain leather for durability.

• Heavy duty side zip: for durability.

• Reinforced: extra stitching at stress points.

Ariat Breeze Half Chaps

Ariat Heritage Contour II Field Boots

I always tend to have somewhere between 35-40 students at any one time depending on the time of year and I would estimate that about 50% of those students either own a pair of these boots or have owned them in the past.

They're a great field boot for them to wear at home and they shine up well for horse shows. Would they tolerate the rigors of a professional rider? Probably not, but that doesn't mean they wouldn't suit non-pros, many of my students have had theirs for a few years now and they're still doing really well.

Features:

• Full-grain leather: durability and a classic look.

• Ultra-contoured fit: comfortable and secure.

• Elasticized laces: classic look

• Flexible panels: additional flexibility and comfort.

• 4LR footbed system: excellent support and cushioning for all-day comfort.

• Duratread outsole: designed to provide excellent traction and durability.

• Moisture-wicking lining: keep your feet dry and comfortable.

Ariat Heritage Tall Boots

Also Read:

Riding Helmets Review, The Best I've Owned

Horse Riding Gloves, The Best And The Worst