The best winter horse riding boots will do all the things your regular riding boots can, while keeping you protected while you’re riding in the wet and cold winter weather. There are a few different styles, but the best ones will allow you to ride with as much feel as you would get in the best long leather riding boots, despite having the extra layers of insulation.
Some riders choose to wear country boots in the winter for riding. However, these aren’t always designed for riding in and neither are they suitable for a tough, muddy winter on the yard.
How to choose winter horse riding boots
Although they’re not all designed to be yard boots, many winter boot options have features to help them cope with winter life on the yard. You’re more likely to find waterproof, breathable and insulating materials as well as grippy soles – and these are all features you should look out for – but make sure you look out for flexibility at the ankle and features to help you get them on and off easily, too.
These extra touches will make a real difference to your day, especially when it’s -2°C on a morning in January. Last but not least, you want to find a pair that’s comfortable and will stand up to daily wear — riding boots often lead a pretty tough life!
Best winter horse riding boots on the market this season
Hy Waterford Country Riding Boots
Colours: Brown
Sizes: EU 36–41
RRP: £106.99
H&H Review: 9/10, H&H Approved
These practical and robust boots from Hy are described as stylish, lightweight and comfortable to wear. Made of a water-repellent oiled leather, they will keep you dry in all weathers and the technical lining will allow your feet to breathe. A full-length YKK zip at the rear of the boot ensures the boots are quick and easy to remove, while integrated stretch panels on the back of the calf for comfort and freedom of movement whilst riding. The PU sole is stitched for double strength and features anti-skid grip, which is ideal on an icy morning.
Read H&H’s full and independent Hy Waterford Boots review.
In the UK? View now at viovet.co.uk, gsequestrian.co.uk or ebay.co.uk
Ariat Heritage Contour II Waterproof Insulated Boots
Colours: Black or waxed chocolate
Sizes: UK 3–8½, with a range of width and height options
RRP: £325
Ariat describes these boots as perfect for “everyday winter riding”. They’ve been upgraded with waterproof technology and warming insulation, and benefit from 4LR (four-layer rebound) technology, which provides your feet with the comfort and support they need as you walk and ride. They have a smart Spanish topline, elasticated laces and a full-length elasticated panel on the side to ensure a good fit.
In the UK? View now at ariat.com, naylors.com, gooutdoors.co.uk or ebay.co.uk
In the US? View now at ariat.com, statelinetack.com or smartpakequine.com
Brogini Kendal Sub-Zero Harsh Weather Boots
Colours: Black or brown
Sizes: EU 36–42
RRP: £120
These boots might not be suitable for competition riding, but they are designed to withstand the harshest weather and keep your feet warm in temperatures as low as -20°C.
The calf is insulated and lined with faux fur (as is the foot), while the outer is made of a durable, water-repellent fabric that will hold up on overgrown bridleways. It fastens with five Velcro straps that allow for a tailored fit.
In the UK? View now at amazon.co.uk, viovet.co.uk, gsequestrian.co.uk or gooutdoors.co.uk
Shires Moretta Ventura Winter Riding Boots
Colours: Brown
Sizes: UK 4–8, with three calf width options
RRP: £139.99
These casual riding boots from Shires are a practical option on chillier days. The fleece lining will help keep your feet warm, while the durable, water-repellent leather will help them stand up to winter wear. The leather-covered elastic calf panel offers responsive fit, while the dressage-cut tops provide an elongated leg line. The boots feature a YKK zip at the rear, non-slip spur rests, an ActiveFlex insole and anti-shock cushioning. The sole provides reliable grip in all weathers and activities.
Also available in children’s sizes.
In the UK? View now at amazon.co.uk, viovet.co.uk, gsequestrian.co.uk, naylors.com, sportsdirect.com or ebay.co.uk
In the US? View now at sportsdirect.com
Hy Equestrian Londonderry Winter Country Riding Boots
Colours: Black or brown
Sizes: EU 36–41
RRP: £129.99
These smart, fleece-lined boots will keep feet dry thanks to the water-repellent waxed leather finish. They have a full-length YKK zip and a hidden stretch panel to ensure a great fit. The rubber sole is designed for durability and performance, with double stitching for strength and anti-skid grips.
In the UK? View now at viovet.co.uk or gsequestrian.co.uk
Brogini Monte Cervino Zipped Country Riding Boots
Colours: Brown
Sizes: EU 36–43
RRP: £120
Designed for the colder weather, these Brogini boots are fully lined with a dense faux fur to help retain heat and are made of a water-resistant leather. The rear of the boot features a covered elastic panel that ensures a flattering close fit while still being comfortable. The full length zip at the side of the boot – with zip cover at the top – is designed to make fastening easy.
In the UK? View now at decathlon.co.uk or ebay.co.uk
Mark Todd Fleece-lined Tall Winter Boots
Colours: Black or brown
Sizes: EU 37–45, with two calf width options
RRP: £109.99
These fleece-lined riding boots from Mark Todd have a nubuck leather upper and sturdy rubber grip sole with a full-length rear zip fastening. They feature an elasticated panel for added comfort, spur rests and a leather zip pull. Also available in children’s sizes and men’s sizes.
In the UK? View now at amazon.co.uk, viovet.co.uk, gsequestrian.co.uk or ebay.co.uk
In the US? View now at amazon.com
Mountain Horse Snowy River Tall Boots
Colours: Black or brown
Sizes: EU 36–43, with two calf width options
RRP: £269
H&H Review: 7/10
Made from full-grain leather with a faux-fur foot lining and 200g Thinsulate insulation these Mountain Horse boots will keep your feet plenty warm, while the waterproof foot will also keep them dry. Built-in steel shanks provide improved stability, while the rugged outsole helps maintain optimum grip in slippery conditions and the ergonomic ShockX insole ensures comfort.
Read H&H’s full and independent Mountain Horse Snowy River Boots review.
In the UK? View now at amazon.co.uk
In the US? View now at statelinetack.com or smartpakequine.com
Rhinegold Nevis Winter Boots
Colours: Black/sand
Sizes: UK 3–8
RRP: £68.50
These Rhinegold boots have a hard-wearing upper with three Velcro straps and a side gusset for maximum size alteration. The faux fur lining aids warmth, while the synthetic foot upper will repel rain. They also feature a reinforced heel, spur rest and have a lightweight yet durable sole.
In the UK? View now at amazon.co.uk or ebay.co.uk
Toggi Calgary Boots
Colours: Black or cheeko
Sizes: EU 36–43, with two calf width options
RRP: £160
These nubuck leather riding boots from Toggi are water repellent to provide protection on wet winter days. Described as stylish as well as practical, the Calgary boots feature a full-length YKK zip with elasticated panels that provide an easy fit and offer more flexibility in the leg while riding.
In the UK? View now at amazon.co.uk, blacks.co.uk, gooutdoors.co.uk or ebay.co.uk
In the US? View now at ebay.com
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