8 pairs of men’s long riding boots for everyday wear and competition
Finding the right long riding boots for men isn’t always straightforward – especially if you need performance, comfort, and the right fit. This guide highlights eight top-rated pairs, including both men’s-specific and unisex designs available in larger sizes, to help you make the right choice.
I’ve covered both field boots (with ankle laces for flexibility – ideal for jumping and shorter stirrups) and dress boots (lace-free, offering more ankle support and a sleek, traditional look favoured in dressage). Both styles work across disciplines, so it comes down to personal preference.
I’ve also noted models available in different calf widths and heights, so you can find a boot that fits as well as it performs. Just be sure to check each brand’s size guide before you order. And if you’re looking for more styles, check out our guide to the best men’s riding boots, which includes short options.
Best men’s long riding boots: H&H’s quick guide
Best long riding boots for men: Ariat Heritage Contour II
Best value long riding boots for men: Rhinegold Luxus
Best long riding boots for winter riding: Mountain Horse Wild River Tall
Best premium long riding boots for comfort: Animo Zodiak Unisex
Ariat Heritage Contour II Field Zip Tall Boots
Colours: Black
Sizes: UK 6–12, available in three calf widths and three height options
RRP: £300
Rating: 10/10 *H&H Approved*
Reasons to buy
- Wide range of sizes for a near-custom fit
- Smart and polished enough for competitions
- Comfortable from day one – no breaking in needed
Reasons to avoid
- Price is on the higher end, but reflects the quality
The Ariat Contour II boots are a go-to choice among our testers, and it’s not hard to see why. Built from high-quality full-grain leather with a soft inner lining, they’re shaped to hug the ankle for a clean, tailored silhouette. Thoughtful design features like a full-length elastic panel alongside the zip and a stretch gusset at the top ensure flexibility and comfort while riding.
They’re ready to ride straight out of the box—no stiff break-in period required. For serious riders looking to invest in a pair of boots that feel like they were made to measure, these deliver. Our senior news editor Becky Murray, reviewed the women’s version and described them as “custom-fit comfort without the custom price.”
Read the full Ariat Heritage Contour II Field Boots review.
Rhinegold Luxus Leather Riding Boots
Colours: Black or Brown
Sizes: UK 3–11, with four calf width options and two height options
RRP: £119.50
Rating: 9/10 *H&H Approved*
Reasons to buy
- Soft, supple leather – instantly comfortable
- Excellent sizing range, especially for wider calves
- Impressive durability for the price
Reasons to avoid
- Less structure and support than premium boots
If you’re looking for a budget-friendly, all-rounder boot that’s comfortable from day one, the Rhinegold Luxus is a strong contender. Designed with soft leather that feels more like wearing slippers than stiff riding boots, they’re ideal for riders who want flexibility without the hassle of breaking them in.
They’re especially suited for daily use. After months of regular riding and yard work, these boots have held up surprisingly well – no issues with the zip, leather, or soles. The fit is also a big plus. With four calf widths to choose from and a stretch panel at the back, they offer a snug feel that still allows for movement, whether your legs are slim, short, or wider.
In the saddle, they feel more like half chaps and short boots: close-fitting, lightweight, and easy to ride in. They might not offer the firm structure of higher-end dressage boots, but for everyday comfort and value, they really hold their own. A great choice if you want something soft, simple, and durable for regular use.
Mountain Horse Wild River Tall Boots
Colours: Brown
Sizes: EU 36–42 (limited calf width options)
RRP: £249
Reasons to buy
- Supportive yet flexible design – good for walking and riding
- Hard-wearing full-grain leather with waterproof foot section
- Great grip underfoot and solid stability
Reasons to avoid
- Slightly heavier than more competition-focused boots
These boots are built for riders who don’t just stay in the saddle – they’re made to handle long yard days, muddy fields, and bad weather too. The waterproof foot keeps your feet dry, and the sturdy leather shaft gives plenty of support without feeling stiff or rigid.
They’ve got a rugged, all-rounder feel – more structured than a country boot, but less formal than a competition boot. The grip on the sole is a real bonus if you’re doing a lot of walking or riding on varied terrain. They’re also fleece-lined for warmth, so they’re especially handy in colder months.
They don’t have the sleek, contoured profile of a dress boot, and they are on the heavier side – but for comfort, warmth, and practicality, they’re a very solid choice for winter riding and yard work.
Animo Zodiak Unisex Riding Boots
Colours: Black
Sizes: EU 36–45, with six calf width options
RRP: £395
Reasons to buy
- Made in Italy with premium soft leather that feels light and elegant
- No inner lining for an ultra-comfortable, close fit that molds to your leg quickly
- Smart, rider-friendly details like spur rests, zip guards, elastic panel, and pull-tab lock
Reasons to avoid
- Higher price point
If you’re after boots that feel like they were made for your leg, the Animo Zodiak delivers. Handmade from buttery-soft Italian leather, they’re surprisingly lightweight – and the unlined design only amps up that wear-right-now feel. These are the kind of boots you slip into and forget you’re even wearing, but you’ll notice how they move with you.
Thoughtful touches are everywhere: spur holders that don’t shift, zipper guards so there’s no pinching, elastic panels that keep the fit snug, and a pull-tab lock to keep the zip secure. It’s quality you can feel in every detail.
Sure, they’re not the cheapest choice – but if you value elegance, comfort, and a boot that works as hard as you do, these are worth every penny.
Mark Todd Competition Field Boot MK II
Colours: Black
Sizes: EU 37–44, with three calf width options
RRP: £229
Reasons to buy
- Soft leather with a comfortable fit from day one
- Sturdy build with durable zip, double spur rests and rubber-injected sole
- Available in both field (lace-front) and plain competition styles
Reasons to avoid
- Less structured than high-end boots
May not suit very slim legs – some riders report slight gaping at the top
The Mark Todd Competition Field Boot MK II is a well-balanced choice for riders looking for comfort, practicality and a smart look without pushing into premium prices. Made from soft leather with a synthetic lining, these boots are known for feeling broken-in from the first ride.
They’re designed with useful features including a YKK full-length zip, elastic panels for ease of movement, double spur rests, and a reinforced heel. The contrast stitching and neat finish add polish, while the handmade rubber sole gives solid grip and durability.
With the choice of a field boot with laces or a plain competition style, you can pick what suits your riding best. For everyday use or lower-level competition, these boots deliver good looks and performance at a sensible price.
Tredstep Donatello SQ II Field Boots
Colours: Black or Brown
Sizes: UK 3–11
RRP: £299
Reasons to buy
- Refined full-grain leather for a premium look and feel
- Built-in comfort features like a shock-absorbing sole and stretch panel
- Durable details
Reasons to avoid
- Not as many calf width options as some competitors
- Slightly stiffer than some boots straight out of the box
If you’re after a boot that blends classic looks with smart comfort features, the Donatello SQ II is a solid option. These boots are made from high-quality full-grain leather, so they’ve got that polished, competition-ready appearance – but they’re also practical enough for daily use.
One of the standout features is the outer stretch panel, which helps the boot contour to your leg while still being easy to zip up. The moulded sole has decent grip and shock absorption, which you’ll notice on longer rides. They’re not the softest boots from day one, but they do break in quickly and start to feel like a second skin.
They’re finished with thoughtful touches like a strong size 10 YKK zip, spur guards, and guides – all the little things that make a difference when you’re riding regularly. If you want a boot that looks the part and works hard without tipping into luxury pricing, this one’s definitely worth a look.
Shires Moretta Gianna Riding Boots
Colours: Black or Brown
Sizes: UK 3–11 (EU 36–45), with five calf width options and three height options
RRP: £119.99
Reasons to buy
- Wide range of size, height, and calf fit options
- Comfortable straight out of the box
- Great quality for the price
Reasons to avoid
- Not as sleek or contoured as some higher-end boots
If you want a solid pair of everyday field boots that won’t blow the budget, the Moretta Gianna is a smart choice. These boots look sharp enough for competition but are designed to handle regular riding without wearing out fast.
They’ve got elastic leg panels for a snug fit, a leather inner calf for grip, and a moisture-wicking lining to help keep things comfortable. The insole feels supportive, and paired with non-slip spur rests, you get a steady, secure ride. They’re the kind of boots you can wear all day at the yard without aching feet or sore spots.
With plenty of sizing options across height and calf widths, it’s easy to get a fit that works – which is rare at this price point. They may not have the ultra-polished finish of a £300 boot, but for the money, they deliver way more than you’d expect.
DeNiro Amabile Unlaced Tall Riding Boots
Colours: Black (custom options available)
Sizes: EU 34–46 (multiple calf width and height options)
RRP: £345
Reasons to buy
- High-quality Italian leather that softens quickly and molds to your leg
- Sleek, lace-free design with a close, elegant fit
- Good quality zips
Reasons to avoid
- Premium price point
These boots are a great pick if you’re after something clean, smart, and competition-ready. They’re made in Italy from soft calfskin leather, so they feel supple from the start and break in fast. The lack of laces gives them a classic, streamlined look – perfect for dressage – and the elastic panel at the back helps them flex naturally with your leg.
They’ve also got practical features – a secure rear zip, a zip guard, and spur rests – so while they look sharp, they’re built for regular riding too. Just be aware that the fit is quite close-cut, so double-check your calf and height measurements before ordering – DeNiro have great measuring guides available online.
If you’re looking to invest in a boot that looks and feels high-end without going full custom, the Amabile is a solid choice.
What are the most comfortable long riding boots?
- A snug fit through the calf and ankle – no gaping, no pinching
- Soft leather or flexible panels that move with you
- Moisture-wicking lining if you ride for long sessions
- Height that reaches the back of your knee – new boots will drop slightly with wear
- Minimal break-in time or enough give to ease into
Are long boots better for riding?
Should riding boots be a size bigger?
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Oscar joined Horse & Hound in October 2023 and is the magazine’s dressage editor and sports manager, overseeing coverage of equestrian sport. After studying equine science at Myerscough College, he spent four years working for leading dressage rider Emile Faurie, competing at the 2015 National Dressage Championships and travelling with the yard to CDIs including Aachen and Saumur. He holds a master’s degree in Literature from York St John University (2021).