11 Rookie Approved Horseback Riding Boots for Beginners - Horse Rookie (2024)

Wondering what shoes to wear horseback riding? Been there.

If you’re new to the equestrian world, sitting atop a thousand-pound animal with a mind of its own offers enough challenges without worrying about your aching feet, the possibility of your shoes getting stuck in the stirrups, and just looking like a total rookie.

When it comes to beginner horse riders, choose boots that are safe, durable, use and style appropriate for your chosen discipline, and worth the money. Here are our top 9 rookie-approved boots:

• *TOP WESTERN PICK* Merrell Captiva Waterproof Boot
• *TOP ENGLISH PICK* Ariat Heritage Contour II Field Boot
• Ariat Heritage III Zip Paddock Boot
• TuffRider Starter Front Zip Paddock Boot
• Roper Crossrider Western Boot
• AdTec Packer Boot
• Ariat Sport V Zip Tall Riding Boot
• Ariat Heritage Lacer Western Men’s Cowboy Boot
• Laredo Breakout Men’s Western Boot
• Durango Women’s Rebel Boot
• Ariat Women’s Anthem Venttek Western Boot

Whether you’re planning to ride horses on vacation, getting into lessons, or heading out on the trails with your horsey friends, choosing quality boots (like my beloved Ariat Heritage Lacer Paddock Boot) is crucial for safety and helps you ride with comfort and confidence.

How to Choose the Best Riding Boot

If putting your foot in the stirrup feels equal parts exciting and nerve-wracking, that’s a good indicator that your gear matters. Sure, you want to be comfortable, but you also want to be safe.

Over the years, I can’t tell you how many times I’ve seen rookies swing into the saddle in sneakers. National parks, beach vacations, backyard get-togethers, it happens everywhere.

It makes me cringe every time, and not just because it looks so out of place—it’s downright dangerous.

Of course, many endurance riders train and compete in sneakers, because they do a lot of running, but they use toe cages to prevent their feet from slipping through the stirrups.

(Trust me: I’ve been dragged by one stirrup as a kid, and you should avoid it.)

When it comes to horseback riding shoes, I’ve heard the same excuses over and over:

• “I don’t want to spend money on something I’ll only wear once.”
• [Insert safety caution] “Yeah, like that’s really going to happen.”
• “Those don’t go with my outfit.”

Luckily for you, there are TONS of options when it comes to horseback riding boots. You can find a pair that not only “does the job” but also looks great and lasts for years.

I’ve consolidated my top 11 beginner boots across tall dress boots, short paddock boots, Western-style boots, and a couple of great options for men.

If you want more guidance, read our full guide about what to wear horseback riding.

5 factors to consider when buying horse riding shoes:

1. Safety: Riding shoes must be closed-toed and have a distinct heel. The last thing you want is a huge hoof crushing your little piggies. Heels keep your feet from accidentally sliding through the stirrups and getting caught. Safety first!
2. Discipline: Your boot should match the type of riding you’ll be doing. Dressage, cow work, trail riding, basic pleasure riding, and endurance (just to name a few) put unique demands on your shoes.
3. Material: Boots come in a variety of materials from leather to rubber. If you’re slogging through mud and snow, you need something waterproof and possibly insulated. If you’re riding in 100-degree heat, your feet need to breathe.
4. Cost: Horseback riding is a notoriously expensive hobby. (My checking account can attest.) You need to strike a balance between buying cheap boots that’ll break down in a year vs. spending your entire paycheck on a single pair of shoes. There’s a happy middle ground, and I’ll help you find it.
5. Style: This one is last on the list for a reason. Style should never be your primary buying factor, but that doesn’t mean you have to clunk around in boots you hate either. Each of the options below will have you looking like a pro and strutting in style.

Save yourself the trouble of scouring the web and making all those returns. Read on for 11 great beginner boots you won’t regret. (Men, skip to the last two.)

Return to top

Our Take on the Best Boots for Horseback Riding

Merrell Captiva Buckle-Down Waterproof Boot

For the past five years, I’ve ridden in my beloved Espresso Merrell Captivas for every single western ride. (I also ride English, so you’ll see my favorite English boot next.)

I bought these boots on a whim on my first trip to Montana, and I’ve been obsessed with them ever since.

Pros:

• They tick all the boxes for safety, durability, and style (e.g. heel, closed-toed, waterproof synthetic, classic riding design).
• They’re SO comfortable. I’ve ridden in these 2-4 times a week for years, and the cushy sole (or exterior) has never shown even a hint of wear/tear.
• The in-step zipper makes getting them on/off really easy.
• They look super cute with jeans tucked inside or out. (I ride in skinny jeans tucked into my boots.)
• Comes in black, espresso (my fav), and burgundy.

Cons:

• While I love the buckle style, you end up with a second strap under it if you wear spurs. (But my spurs work fine with these.)
• The 12” shaft is a bit shorter than typical cowboy boots but taller than paddock-style boots, so they may come to an odd spot on tall-legged riders.
• If you have larger calves, you may find the top of these boots too snug.

Read customer reviews on Amazon

Return to top

Ariat Heritage Contour II Field English Boot

These are my favorite English boots, and I’ve worn them for every single dressage and jumping ride for 3+ years.

The Ariat Heritage Contour II Field Bootis the most comfortable dress boot I’ve owned in 20 years, and it’s reminded me why Ariat is a go-to boot brand for riders.

Pros:

• Ariat is arguably the leader in equestrian dress boots, so the quality and style will have you looking like a pro.
• They have a really solid heel, a nice spur stop on the back, and they’re easy to break in.
• The full-back zip is a MUST for dress boots, and it’s held up well.
• Premium full-grain leather upper and full leather lining lasts forever (with proper care).
• Gusseting on the inside knee increase comfort in the saddle and out.

Cons:

• I have these in a “short” and they fit me perfectly (I’m 5’6 and 120#). So if you’re remotely on the shorter side, the regular shaft may be too tall.
• These are the field boot style with laces, so if that’s not your personal style you may prefer dress boots sans laces.
• If you like riding in jeans, pick another boot. These are designed to fit snuggly over breeches, and jeans will be too bulky.
• These are an investment cost-wise. But the craftsmanship will last for years and be easy to resell if you ever change your mind.

Check the latest price on Amazon

Return to top

Ariat Heritage Breeze Lace Paddock Boot

The Ariat Heritage Breeze Lace Paddock Boot is basically the short boot equivalent of the previous Heritage Contour.

Paddock boots are a great beginner choice because they’re usually less expensive than dress boots and easier to wear out and about before/after your ride.

Pros:

• They have a great heel for safety and an easy pull strap at the back.
• The laces makes getting this boot on/off a breeze.
• They have a washable extra soft full-grain leather upper!
• Classic equestrian styling looks great solo or with half chaps. (More on those later.)
• Leather upper and rubber sole are built to last.
• Ankle flexion notches increase flexibility in the saddle (and keep your ankle bones from getting rubbed raw).

Cons:

• The soles are a bit on the thin side, so you may want to add a cushion insert.
• They aren’t waterproof (but choosetheseif that’s important to you).
• Spur rests keep your spurs in place on the back heel.

Read customer reviews on Amazon

Return to top

TuffRider Starter Front Zip Paddock Boot

If Ariat isn’t your style (or you’d rather not spend that much to start), the TuffRider Starter Front Zip Paddock Boot is a nice alternative.

Don’t expect them to hold up quite as long, but if you’re only riding occasionally, they’ll do the job just fine.

Pros:

• Side elastic gullets increase flexibility in the saddle.
• Front zip makes these pretty easy to get on/off.
• Affordable for the beginner horseback rider.
• Comes in black and mocha.
• Easy to clean with a damp cloth.

Cons:

• No pull-on strap in the back (unfortunately, as I prefer them).
• Quality and craftsmanship aren’t as high as Ariat, so these won’t hold up wear to everyday use if you’re at the barn a lot.
• Synthetic vs. real leather uppers.
• Very little arch support or cushion, so you might need inserts.

Read customer reviews on Amazon

Return to top

Roper Crossrider Western Boot

Don’t worry Western riders, you can wear short boots too.

The Roper Crossrider Western Boot is a great option for beginners taking lessons, riding on vacation, or helping around the ranch.

Pros:

• Roper is a well-respected brand in Western wear, so quality and craftsmanship are high.
• These have a really classic Western design and look great solo or with half chaps.
• The forged steel shank adds support and stability.
• Perfect safety heel for riding and plenty of traction on the sole.

Cons:

• The sole is pretty thick, which it’s my personal style.
• They’re not waterproof, so you may want to spray with a waterproofer for everyday use.
• They run on the large side and don’t have much arch support.

Read customer reviews on Amazon

Return to top

AdTec Packer Boot

Style shouldn’t decide what shoe you buy, but I must say the AdTec Packer Boot looks really cool.

It’s got everything I look for in a Western-style boot I’d also wear downtown for dinner.

Pros:

• Great heel for riding and a full-grain leather upper with rubber sole.
• The style and design are really flattering (vs. a chunky work boot).
• Comes in some really fun color choices like a tone-tone cherry/black, tan, or solid brown and black.
• Orthotic removable insole cushion for extra comfort.
• The fringe accent piece is removable if it’s not your style.

Cons:

• These boots run on the heavier side, so if you’ll be doing a lot of walkingyou may not love them.
• Not a lot of traction on the heel or sole.
• The heel is 1.5” tall, which is higher than you need for riding. (Though it doesn’t hurt.)

Read customer reviews on Amazon

Return to top

Ariat V Sport Zip Tall Riding Boot

For English beginner riders in search of a sportier-looking dress boot, consider the Ariat V Sport Zip Tall Riding Boot.

It’s a really unique look with all the “must-have” features for riding.

Pros:

• They’re super comfy and don’t need a “breaking in” period.
• Great traction on the sole and a perfect safety heel for riding.
• Navy Spanish-style top design is a lovely accent (with a snap closure).
• Full zip down the back makes for easy on/off.
• Elasticized panels create a custom fit without paying for a custom boot.

Cons:

• This boot is on the pricier side, but you definitely get what you pay for.
• To help them last for a long time, remove them after riding vs. wearing them around for barn work.
• Calf sizing can be a bit tricky on this boot, so you may want to order two sizes and keep whichever fits best.
• Sometimes the zipper can slide down (no leather keeper to hold it in place).

Equestrian Vlogger and horse trainer Shelby Dennis also included this boot in her Horse Rookie Equestrian Gift Guide.

Read customer reviews on Ariat

Return to top

Ariat Heritage Lacer Cowboy Boot (Men)

OK gents, this one’s for you. The Ariat Heritage Lacer Cowboy Boot is a clean, classic western boot for riding, working, and wearing around town.

Pros:

• Leather upper and rubber sole are durable and comfortable in the saddle and out.
• Duratread outsole is tough and flexible, and the ATS technology adds support and stabilization.
• Quality and craftsmanship riders have come to expect from Ariat.

Cons:

• No pull strap in the back.
• The soles are built for riding and ranch work versus really tough terrain.
• These take a little breaking-in time, so be sure to wear them around for a while prior to a long ride.

Read customer reviews on Amazon

Return to top

Read more about why we love this boot in our Ariat Heritage Review.

Laredo Breakout Western Boot (Men)

If you’re in the market for more of a classic cowboy boot, go with the Laredo Breakout Western Boot.

This is one of my favorite men’s boots, and its timeless design lasts as long as the boot itself. (A long time!)

Pros:

• Leather upper and synthetic sole are durable and comfortable.
• Perfect safety heel for riding with a classic design you can also wear out to dinner.
• Accent stitching on the shaft and toe is subtle but adds a Western flair.
• Breathable mesh lining helps keep your feet cool in warm weather.

Cons:

• These boots aren’t insulated, so if you’ll be riding in the winter you’ll need something warmer.
• These run on the small/narrow side, so you may want to order two sizes and return the one that doesn’t fit.

Read customer reviews on Amazon

Return to top

Durango Women’s Rebel Boot

If you want a durable boot that doesn’t compromise on safety or style, the Durango Women’s Rebel Boot fits the bill. The 1 ¼” heel is perfect for riding, and the robust design means they’ll stand up to daily wear.

Pros:

• Perfect heel for riding and rolled shank area promotes perfect placement in the stirrup.
• Cushion flex insole provides support and flexibility in the saddle
• Fiberglass shank provides lightweight stability
• The style and design are really flattering (vs. a chunky work boot).
• Comes in some fun colors, like briar brown/rusty red and meadow ‘n lace.
• Ventilated cushion footbed and mesh lining provide breathability.

Cons:

• These boots run on the larger side, so you might want to order half a size up.
• Soft leather requires regular care if you want these boots to last.
• The toe box may be uncomfortable for those with wider feet.

Read customer reviews on Amazon

Return to top

ARIAT Women’s Anthem Venttek Western Boot

A classic Western boot that looks just as good on the dancefloor as it does in the saddle. The Ariat Women’s Anthem Venttek Western Boot is great for riding, ranch work, running errands, and even showing off your moves on the dance floor.

Pros:

• 100% leather upper.
• Rubber sole provides extra traction in the stirrup.
• Breathable panels promote airflow, keeping you cool in summer.
• Four Layer Rebound technology provides greater stability.
• The style and design are really flattering (vs. a chunky work boot).

Cons:

• Be sure to get what you order – these boots come either with or without a composite toe.
• Wide fit may run narrower than other Ariat models.

Read customer reviews on Amazon

Return to top

Best Half Chaps for Beginners

If you land on a pair of paddock boots, you’ll want to pick up a good pair of half chaps to go with them.

Half chaps go over your boot (strap under the arch) to provide the coverage and grip of a tall boot… without buying a tall dress boot.

You can also whip them off after you ride and just wear your paddock boots (read: hot weather lifesaver).

Here are five great half chaps for beginners:

• Saxon Equileather Half Chaps
• Horze Amara Easy Care Suede Half Chaps
• Ariat Unisex Terrain II Half Chaps
• Ovation EquiStretch II Half Chaps
• Tough 1 Breathable Half Chaps

For more great half chap options, check out our articles on 7 Best Horseback Riding Half Chaps for All Budgets and 15 Best English Half Chaps for Getting a Grip.

Return to top

Horse Riding Boot FAQs

Q: What are riding boots used for?

“Riding boots” refer to a general style and function. Horseback riders need specific features on their boots like safety heels and good grip that other fashion boots may not have.

If you want to learn more about what people wear to ride horses, we have a full guide here.

Q: Can I ride horses in tennis shoes?

Tennis shoes and sneakers are NOT safe for horseback riding unless you combine them with a pair of half chaps and ride with a toe cage.

Riding boots must have a distinct heel for safety, and they should fully protect your ankle (and often higher) from rubbing or getting pinched on the saddle.

Mesh sneakers, in particular, offer no protection if you get stepped on, which is why riders should always wear leather boots (or a synthetic equivalent).

Q: Should horse riding boots be leather?

Ideally, horseback riding boots should be leather or synthetic leather. This material provides grip, durability, and protection from the elements (and getting stepped on).

Q: What are the best boots for horseback riding lessons?

Rookies and pros, alike, are never done learning. One of the best ways to expand your knowledge is by taking lessons.

If you’re just starting out, you need to ensure you’ve got all the necessary equipment — including safe boots.

We recommend Ariat Heritage Breeze paddock boots for new riders, as they’re perfect for English or Western riding lessons. (Read our full review here.)

Or, choose one of the other choices highlighted in our article about the best horseback riding boots for lessons.

Q: What are the best boots for western horseback riding?

No matter which Western discipline you choose, it’s important to wear boots that are safe, durable, and appropriate for your discipline. Check out our top picks for ladies and gents.

Q: Are there vegan horse riding boots?

Vegan horse riding boots are pretty hard to find, and there isn’t much of a market for them.

Leather is the default material for almost all riding boots, but you could get the LifeStride Xandy Equestrian Boot or LifeStride Xripley Riding Boot as a vegan alternative.

Check out the customer reviews on Amazon.

Q: Are paddock boots good for riding?

You bet! Paddock boots are some of the most popular riding boots for good reason. These short boots are versatile whether you’re riding, helping around the barn, or running errands in town.

The key thing is to find a well-constructed boot with a good safety heel. I also prefer boots that have a grab strap in the back to make on/off maneuvering easier.

Q: What are the best short riding boots?

If you’re new to horse riding, I’d go with the Ariat Heritage Breeze Lace Paddock Boot.

Learn more about it here or read the customer reviews on Amazon.

Q: What are the best muck boots?

Glad you asked! We wrote an entire article about our favorite muck boots.

Q: Why do horse riders keep their heels down?

Riders drop their weight into their heels to help keep their feet properly positioned in the stirrups. Heels down (think more of a slight angle than toes pointing up) is about keeping your balance in the saddle while also staying relaxed.

The heels-down position also helps a rider keep her legs properly positioned on her horse’s side, providing a more secure seat.

Keeping your heels down also helps contribute to an overall correct position in the saddle, balancing the rider’s weight around the horse, instead of perched on top.

If you have a hard time keeping your heels down or find yourself frequently shifting your weight to the balls of your feet, check your stirrup length. If they are too long or too short, it can shift your weight to the wrong part of your foot.

You also can practice stretching your heels downwards out of the saddle! Stand on the edge of a stair and stretch a few times each day to increase flexibility.

Q: Will a horse step on you?

Horses try to avoid stepping on feet because they’re not very stable. As grazing animals, horses are good at distinguishing stable ground from unstable footing and actively choose the former. And let’s face it, tiny, squishy human feet aren’t exactly solid footing for a horse.

Accidents happen, however, particularly when a horse is excited or scared. When fear takes over, a horse loses some of the sense of his surroundings, making your feet fair game. Wear boots.

Being stepped on is usually an accident that happens when your horse is distracted. Be mindful of your feet around horses (because being stepped on HURTS).

Q: Can I wear rain boots horseback riding?

Glad you asked! We wrote an entire article about this question here.

Q: What are the best fancy cowboy boots?

Old Gringo, hands down. See the full selection on Amazon, but trust me when I say I don’t buy anything but “OGs” when I want a super fancy western boot.

I have three pairs already and have my eyes on these beauties next!

Plus, they’re really comfortable, have impeccable craftsmanship, and make me feel like a million bucks every time I wear them.

Q: What are the best winter riding boots?

Here in Montana, I ride throughout the (loooonnngg) winter down to about twenty degrees. So my winter riding boots have to be really hardy.

I love my Horze Spirit Montana Thermo Boots (though I admit they aren’t exactly fashionable) with a pair of Grabber Insole Foot Warmers. I buy a bulk box of these each winter because they’re just. that. good.

If you can’t find the Horze Montana in your size, Ovation makes a Blizzard Winter Boot with solid Amazon reviews.

Q: What do you need to go horseback riding?

Glad you asked! We tell you exactly what to wear horseback riding in our beginner’s guide.

Return to top

Boots for Riding Horses & Having Fun

When you’re new to horse riding, you should be focused on just that—your RIDING. Ill-fitting boots, rubbed-raw ankles, and unsafe shoes can ruin an otherwise great ride.

Stick with one of our favorite beginner boots above, and you’ll be in super shape!

P.S. Enjoy this article? Trot on over to:

• Most Comfortable Cowboy Boots for Walking All Day
• Most Comfortable Work Boots for Hurt-Free Feet
• Best Boots for Working Hard & Playing Hard
• Horseback Riding: What to Wear (With Pictures)
• 16 Best Cowboy Boots (Men, Women, Fashion, Riding, Work)
• 9 Best Boots for Western Horseback Riding
• 20 Fashionista Tips: How to Wear Cowboy Boots in the Summer
• Horse Riding for Older Adults: Why It’s Never Too Late to Start
• 10 Best Stirrups for Jumping Clear (And Staying Safe)