The best winter yard boots for riding are versatile — they are just as good to wear in the saddle as they are on the yard, mucking out and traipsing through fields. A good boot should fit well — adjustable is a bonus — and be comfortable, allowing for a short period of breaking in; they should also be easy to put on and take off and look smart. Features that make a pair of boots good for the yard include being waterproof, sturdy, easy to clean and a good grippy sole. A boot that will also be worn while in the saddle, should also be nice to ride in and provide a close contact with your horse.
Horse & Hound has been working with a number of professional riders, trainers and yards to put a range of products to the test in a busy yard environment. And here are the results…
Horse & Hound’s pick of the best winter yard boots for riding 2019
*H&H APPROVED*
HyLand Waterford winter country riding boots
RRP £99.99
“I loved the style of these boots — they looked well made, smart enough to wear out but not so smart that I felt bad wearing them in the mud, which was the perfect balance.”
9/10
*H&H APPROVED*
Ariat Coniston Pro GTX Insulated boots
RRP £360
“Overall, these boots were fantastic. The fit was amazing — it was great that you could adjust the calf width all the way down — and they were really warm and comfortable.”
9/10
Brogini Winchester lace-up country boots
RRP £125
“I liked the style of these boots and found them quite versatile. They fitted well in the foot, but I found they had quite a wide calf.”
8/10
Dublin River Grain boots
RRP £169.99
“These boots kept my feet really dry, whatever I took them through, and they were comfortable enough to wear all day. I also found them easy to clean.”
8/10
Muck Boot Unisex Colt Ryder Tall boots
RRP £100
“I found these boots really warm, comfortable and waterproof. I didn’t like wearing these for riding, but for everything else they were ideal.”
7/10
Meet the product tester
Jamie and Georgi Broom run Lakeside Equestrian, a busy livery and training yard in Berkshire. Jamie is a dressage rider and, prior to taking over Lakeside Equestrian with Georgi, was in the Household Cavalry.
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Find out which pairs of long winter riding boots were awarded H&H Approved status in our independent group test
Horse & Hound is in the process of testing a wide range of equestrian kit, clothing and equipment, the results of which will be published on HorseandHound.co.uk
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