The Original Muck Boot Company Women’s Adjustable Chore Tall Boots

The Chore adjustable wellies are handcrafted from natural rubber, also they’re the redesigned iconic Muck Boot Chore for women, with the addition of a fully waterproof adjustable gusset at the back that extends up to 7cm for extra room around the calf and a more customised fit. These neoprene wellies are the chunkiest wellies I’ve tested.

They have chunky soles for excellent grip, and because of the form-fitting interior, they don’t slop about at all on the feet. They’re also breathable while staying warm, and due to the wide calf fit and neoprene upper they are easy to get on and off even with waterproof trousers on without your socks being left behind.

The Chore boots did come up slightly shorter than standard wellies, but this didn’t affect the performance of these boots. These boots have been worn around the stables and on daily dog walks, and I’ve found them comfortable. Even with the chunkier looking exterior they are lighter than they look. The reinforced toe and heel area also offer additional support in key areas. The 5mm neoprene upper kept me warm even though the temperature dropped to below 0°C.

Muck Boot Women’s Chore adjustable tall boots are available in sizes UK3–9 (not including half sizes) and in one calf width, however the adjustable gusset allows for up to 7cm of extra room. I am a size UK5, but the advice online is that they run small so you may need to size up, so I tested a UK6. I found them to be a great fit with room for a thicker sock if needed.

The adjustable calf fit offered plenty of room for added layers with ease. My mum who is a size UK6 also regularly wore these wellies for yard chores and gardening as she normally struggles to find wellies to comfortably fit her calves, but had no trouble with these.

They look industrial, so don’t win points on style for the most part unlike some of the more fashionable brands, but if you’re after a daily work boot then that doesn’t matter.

Verdict

*H&H Approved* These adjustable wellies are good value with a neoprene upper for added warmth. They are not as stylish as some other brands but have been proven to be a ‘workhorse’ welly that is built to last.

Who tested the The Original Muck Boot Company Women’s Chore Adjustable Tall Boots?

I am products editor at Horse & Hound and have been testing products for the last 10 years. I own three horses who are on grass DIY livery, so I am up the yard at least twice a day, doing all the daily jobs of a horse owner and riding up to four times a week.

I live on Hayling Island, right by the sea, so I regularly walk my dogs on the beach. As well as endless hours in the field looking after my horses and walking the dog, I wore these wellies on the school run, running errands in town and leading my son on his pony around the countryside. To ensure I gave them a thorough test, I purposely went out in very wet weather and splashing around in puddles with my son – which was great fun!

Find out more about how Horse & Hound tests products

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Subscribe to Horse & Hound magazine today – and enjoy unlimited website access all year round

Harry Hall Mud Boot Neoprene Wellies

These Mud Boots from Harry Hall are one of the cheapest pairs of wellies I have been testing lately. But don’t be fooled into thinking the lower price tag means they lack in quality – I have been really impressed. They’re not too heavy or bulky, and so far, have kept the water out and my feet toasty and warm.

The entire upper section is made of 5mm neoprene rather than rubber, so it’s fabulously warm and flexible, making it a better fit for a variety of leg shapes, but still has enough rigidity and a back pull tab to make sliding your feet in and out easy. They come up slightly shorter than standard wellies, but unless you’re planning on going through deep water regularly, these neoprene wellies should cope just fine.

In terms of comfort, these score pretty highly, with a bouncy sole, they are very comfortable and easy to wear for long periods of time. They have a trainer-like feel and they are supportive. The sole has proven to offer stability when walking through the slippery mud in the fields.

The Harry Hall Mud Boots are available in sizes UK3–8 (not including half sizes), and are available in one standard calf width. I am a size UK5 and I found them to be true to size. The calf fit was good, which is lucky as they are not adjustable, but they do allow for some give due to the neoprene upper.

The size chart says the approx calf size for a UK5 is 38.4cm and my calves measure 38cm at the widest part and they offered a comfortable fit. The closeness of the calf fit also helped keep the warmth in.

Verdict

*H&H Approved* These boots are excellent value for money. They are very comfortable and not too tight on the legs, plus they have performed well at keeping my feet warm and dry. The Mud Boots are a great buy and I would say they give similar-looking but higher priced neoprene wellies a run for their money.

Who tested the Harry Hall Mud Boot Neoprene Wellies?

I am products editor at Horse & Hound and have been testing products for the last 10 years. I own three horses who are on grass DIY livery, so I am up the yard at least twice a day, doing all the daily jobs of a horse owner and riding up to four times a week.

I live on Hayling Island, right by the sea, so I regularly walk my dogs on the beach. As well as endless hours in the field looking after my horses and walking the dog, I wore these wellies on the school run, running errands in town and leading my son on his pony around the countryside. To ensure I gave them a thorough test, I purposely went out in very wet weather and splashing around in puddles – which was great fun!

Find out more about how Horse & Hound tests products

You may also be interested in:

6 of the warmest waterproof wellies with a neoprene shaft

7 pairs of the best wellies we’ve tried, tested and approved

The Original Muck Boot Company Arctic Sport II Tall boots review

£140

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Le Chameau Chasseur neoprene-lined wellington boots

The Le Chameau Chasseur is one of the most expensive wellies I’ve ever tested. Le Chameau is a well trusted brand within the agricultural and equestrian industries and was the first to use a neoprene lining and vulcanised natural rubber, which is said to be softer and more durable than alternatives.

Although these boots are definitely workhorses, my first impression was that they are pretty smart, too. The shaft does lack structure similar to the Le Chameau Vierzonords (but this is great if you value the flexibility), and having the full-length waterproof side zip really helped getting them on and off.

The full-length zip is a feature I never knew I needed on a pair of wellies – it was perfect for tucking in waterproof trousers or baggy leg wear without the uncomfortable bunched up effect in your boot leg.

These Le Chameau boots are available in sizes UK2½–9 in ladies (UK6–15 in mens) with three width options making them the ideal boot if you have a wider calf. I am a size UK5 and I found this size to be a great fit. I wouldn’t be able to wear a thicker sock with them as they were a bit tight around my foot – but with the neoprene lining I wouldn’t need to.

My calves measure 38cm at the widest part and I tested the 40cm option as I prefect a looser feel and like to have enough room to tuck my waterproof trousers in my boots comfortably. This width was great at accommodating my needs.

These are seriously technically boots, however I just didn’t get the same comfort feel from the footbed like I do when wearing my favourite Aigle wellies. I have put these boots to the test with daily horse care and dog walking and even some gardening – they have proven to be durable and completely waterproof. The 3mm neoprene lining has kept my feet warm white wearing normal socks.

Verdict

*H&H Approved* If budget allows and you are looking for a Le Chameau wellington with more structure to the shaft, you’ve got wide calves or want room to tuck in your waterproofs, these are your best bet. They should have plenty of life in them for years, and the neoprene lining keeps you toasty.

Who tested the Le Chameau Chasseur Neoprene Lined Wellington Boots?

I am products editor at Horse & Hound and have been testing products for the last 10 years. I own three horses who are on grass DIY livery, so I am up the yard at least twice a day, doing all the daily jobs of a horse owner and riding up to four times a week.

I live on Hayling Island, right by the sea, so regularly walk my dogs on the beach. As well as endless hours in the field looking after my horses and walking the dog, I wore these wellies on the school run, running errands in town and leading my son on his pony around the countryside. To ensure I gave them a thorough test, I purposely went out in very wet weather and splashing around in puddles with my son – which was great fun!

Find out more about how Horse & Hound tests products

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Aigle Parcours 2 Iso wellingtons boots *H&H Approved*

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Le Chameau Vierzonord neoprene-lined wellingtons review *H&H Approved*

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7 pairs of the best wellies we’ve tried, tested and approved

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Subscribe to Horse & Hound magazine today – and enjoy unlimited website access all year round

Aigle Parcours 2 Iso Wellingtons Boots

I have been testing products over the last 10 years and I am yet to find a welly more comfortable than Aigle – to me, they are like walking on clouds and I know H&H deputy website editor Georgia Guerin spends a lot of time telling people how much she loves her pair, too. I should start this review by saying that although we get sent a lot of products to test, I bought this pair myself five years ago and I was unable to get hold of Aigle to get an official pair on test to review. However, I rate these wellies so much that I feel I would be doing H&H readers a disservice not to tell you how much I love them.

Aigle are widely considered to have designed some of the best wellington boots when you’re talking about comfort and durability and they are well known for their anti-fatiguing features. All Aigle boots are handmade in France. The company owns the only natural rubber boot manufacturing factory in France, which is in line with their commitments to sustainable and responsible fashion.

I like having a sturdy boot without it being too heavy and feel restricted. Due to the shaft being more structured (due to neoprene lining) than some of the other popular premium brands (for example, Le Chameau wellies) it make them easier to put on and take off.

From the moment I put these on I’ve never looked back. I am able to wear these boots in sub-zero temperatures while only wearing normal socks without my feet feeling cold.

The quality of these natural rubber boots feels fantastic and I am confident that even after five years of heavy use they will keep my feet warm and dry for years to come. The sole has offered excellent grip, allowing me to push the wheelbarrow through muddy, slippery gateways with ease. I have also been submerged in deep water due to an extra high tide near my horses field and they kept me dry.

The Parcours 2 Iso is available in sizes UK3½–14½ – they come in one calf width (but are adjustable) and half sizes are available. I am a UK5 and I find these wellies in a UK5 to be a perfect fit. I did notice on their website it states that they run small so it would be best to try before you buy to make sure you get the best fit for you.

The adjustable side gusset does have an element of adjustability, it allows me to customise the fit to my calf depending on how many layers I have on. I believe it would accommodate for most leg sizes that are not too far from average. My calves measure 39cm at the widest point with riding tights and long socks on and I’ve never struggled with the fit. Georgia has worn hers comfortably with waterproof riding trousers tucked in and, for context, wears wide fit Ariat Heritage long boots.

This pair of premium wellies allows me to be out all day, be it with the horses, walking the dogs, chasing my toddler around or going to the pub without feeling any fatigue on my feet. The only negative I have to say is the neoprene lining makes me too hot so I am not able to wear it in warmer temperatures, but you can get a non-insulated version if you’d prefer.

Verdict

Yes the Aigle Parcours 2 Iso are expensive, but they’re a technical, stylish welly that is built to last with unrivalled comfort. I can confirm that these wellies are superb and fit for purpose. You can tell they’ve been well worn, but for five years of heavy use they look brilliant – and I’m confident I’ll get many more years’ use out of them. I’ve rated them 10/10 in all aspects, and as far back as I can remember, we’ve not rated anything quite so high!

Who tested the Aigle Parcours 2 Iso Wellington boots?

I am products editor at Horse & Hound and have been testing products for the last 10 years. I own three horses who are on grass DIY livery, so I am up the yard at least twice a day, doing all the daily jobs of a horse owner and riding up to four times a week.

I live on Hayling Island, right by the sea, so regularly walk my dogs on the beach. As well as endless hours in the field looking after my horses and walking the dog, I wore these wellies on the school run, running errands in town and leading my son on his pony around the countryside. To ensure I gave them a thorough test, I purposely went out in very wet weather and splashing around in puddles with my son – which was great fun!

Find out more about how Horse & Hound tests products

You may also be interested in:

Treat your feet to a pair of the best thermal wellies

10 pairs of adjustable wellies to suit all leg shapes

7 pairs of the best wellies we’ve tried, tested and approved

Subscribe to Horse & Hound magazine today – and enjoy unlimited website access all year round

Toggi Barnsdale Wellington Boots

The Barnsdale are unisex handmade rubber wellies with a 4mm neoprene lining, and they feature a real leather strap and fine piping. My first impressions of these wellington boots were that they looked smart with a similar look to the now discontinued Ariat Burfords. The expandable back gusset allows for a more tailored fit – suitable for a slim, regular or wide calf, this was great for when I needed a bit of extra room for my trousers and I found them quick and easy to adjust.

The Toggi Barnsdale wellington boots are available in sizes EU37–48. I am a size UK5 and tested the EU38, but after a few wears I realised my feet were slipping about because they were too big and I was getting blisters, so I had to wear them with thicker socks and felt more secure in the foot.

I asked my mum to try them (as she’s a UK6) and she found them to be a comfortable fit when wearing regular socks and had no issues with rubbing. She found them easy to slip on and off, and comfortable when looking after the horses and walking. She also noted they were not as tall as her Ariat Burford wellies she usually wears daily. I think if these boots came in half sizes I would have been able to get a better fit.

The tread has been great and prevented sliding when pushing up the wheelbarrow at the muck heap and walking out into the muddy fields with the horses.

These are smart wellies, which offer some added warmth with the 4mm neoprene lining, however I did not find them as warm as some of the others I tested, but also meant they could be worn on sunnier days, too.

These boots allow for plenty of adjustment around the calves making them ideal for a range of calf sizes. The leather strap and piping offers a higher end finish without the price tag. If you’re after smart adjustable wellingtons for a less eye-watering price than some of its rival brands, then the Barnsdales could be a good bet for you.

Verdict

H&H Approved – Smart looking wellies with a reliable tread and warm neoprene lining that would not look out of place away from the stables.

Who tested the Toggi Barnsdale Wellington Boots?

I am products editor at Horse & Hound and have been testing products for the last 10 years. I own three horses who are on grass DIY livery, so I am up the yard at least twice a day, doing all the daily jobs of a horse owner and riding up to four times a week. I also enlisted the help of my mum who is also a horse and dog owner as I found these boots to be big and wanted them to get a fair and thorough test.

I live on Hayling Island, right by the sea, so I regularly walk my dogs on the beach. As well as endless hours in the field looking after my horses and walking the dog, I wore these wellies on the school run, running errands in town and leading my son on his pony around the countryside. To ensure I gave them a thorough test, I purposely went out in very wet weather and splashing around in puddles with my son – which was great fun!

Find out more about how Horse & Hound tests products

You may also be interested in:

7 pairs of the best wellies we’ve tried, tested and approved

10 pairs of adjustable wellies to suit all leg shapes

Subscribe to Horse & Hound magazine today – and enjoy unlimited website access all year round

Hy Equestrian Sorrento Field Riding Boots

Hy Equestrian describe these Sorrento long boots as “perfect for the competitive or everyday rider”. And they’re not wrong, but they’re also ideal for someone coming back to riding after a long break – me – and for those who have never ridden in a long boot and don’t want to spend a substantial amount of money on a pair of leather boots.

These boots are perfect for road-testing the feel of the best long leather riding boots without splashing the cash. This is because they feature a leather foot and inner calf with a synthetic leather outer that gives a great, tailored fit. I must admit I’d never had a pair of “mainly synthetic” boots before, but the super-softness of the upper eliminates all those hours of breaking in a pair of all-leather boots and gives a really close-contact feel, which really surprised me. I was very impressed.

Sizing

Because I knew that these field boots had more of a pointed toe than I’d been used to in the past – and that the width of the foot was narrower than my last pair of long boots – I opted for a size larger than I normally take. And I was glad that I did because that one size larger made all the difference in terms of a comfortable fit.

First impressions

My first impression of the boots was how smart they looked with their distinct, classic, field-boot laced fronts, and a breathable lining added to the comfort factor and would be great for extra warmth in winter. But how easy would they be to get on? I’d always struggled with the rear zip on the leather chaps I used to wear with my jodhpur boots, but with these I had no need to worry. The zip is robust and doesn’t feel as if it will let you down. And although a little “clunky” at first, all that was required was a hefty tug and a couple of “slides” up and down to get the zip running smoothly. It fastened easily at the top, thanks to the press-button stud. There’s also a useful elasticated back panel that provides a bit of “give” to help bring the edges of the zip together and each boot came with a detachable shoelace-type zip pull to facilitate easier zipping up.

Comfort

As far as hacking and schooling were concerned, they felt extremely comfortable from the get-go. The only thing I was slightly concerned about, given the fact that I’d plumped for a larger size for my wide feet, was if the ball of my foot would sit correctly in the stirrup – as the pointed-toe design of the boots can make them look quite long. But happily, there were no issues there.

The heel of the boots incorporates two rubber spur rests and there’s a push-button spur guard at the bottom of the boot to protect any scuff marks from spurs. And the soles are anti-skid, making them a great choice for competing or schooling, as the last thing you want is any slip-sliding when going over a jump. To put them to the test, I actually braved it over a small jump, the soles’ “grip-ability” passing with flying colours.

Care

What I really love about the boots is how easy-care they are. Obviously the leather foot needs more looking after with a coat of polish and maybe some waterproofing, but the synthetic uppers only need a quick wipe down to keep them clean. They come in sizes EU37–41 (UK 3–7), so are more of a ladies’ boot, in calf sizes 34.5–37cm and height sizes 43.5–46cm.

It’s worth mentioning here that the height sizes are quite generous – I’m 5ft 6in and consider myself to be of average size, but I found that the back of the upper was quite high at the back of my knee. Likewise, the front, which “crinkled” a bit. If, however, these had been all-leather boots, that digging in and crinkling would have been uncomfortable and taken a lot of wearing in, but after a few times riding in them and lots of walking around the yard in them, they soon began to feel more “broken in” and the crinkling became less of a problem.

Verdict

These boots are great value for money and the perfect starter long boot for riders who’ve never ridden in long boots. I loved that they felt light, close-contact and almost an extension of my leg. And I particularly liked the fact that I wasn’t going to be spending hours polishing and shining leather uppers until they gleamed! Cleaning was hassle-free, quick and left more time for the all-important riding!

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Subscribe to Horse & Hound magazine today – and enjoy unlimited website access all year round

Horse & Hound magazine, out every Thursday, is packed with all the latest news and reports, as well as interviews, specials, nostalgia, vet and training advice. Find how you can enjoy the magazine delivered to your door every week, plus options to upgrade your subscription to access our online service that brings you breaking news and reports as well as other benefits.

Ariat Heritage Contour Field boots

The riding boots market is a vast one with so many options available, and the Ariat Heritage Contour II Field Zip Tall Riding Boots are a super choice if you’re looking for an all-rounder suitable for various disciplines.

My first impression was how smart the boots look, making them perfect for everyday riding, clinics or competition. They are made from a premium full-grain leather upper, with a full leather lining and Ariat’s 4LR technology. They have an elasticated panel and gusset, and include a moisture-wicking sock liner to keep your feet dry.

The boots come in UK sizes 3–8½ (for ladies’, UK 6–12 for men), four calf sizes from extra-slim to wide, and you have the height choices of short, medium or tall.

I’ve always ridden in short boots and gaiters, and finding boots that I’d describe as super comfortable has always been a bit tricky as my feet are in between sizes, and I have wider calves. Ariat provide a very useful size and measuring guide, and after measuring my legs, I opted for the boots in size 6½, full calf, short height (for reference I am 5ft4in).

When the boots arrived I confess to panicking that I had got my measurements wrong as on the first attempt to get them on I failed and thought they were too small around my lower calves. However after consulting with a wise colleague (our products expert Georgia Guerin), I was advised to enlist a willing helper. The trick was to stand as straight as possible with my feet in the boots and have my helper carefully do up the zips.

As with any leather product, they should fit snugly because over time the leather will stretch and mould to you. Once the boots were on, although they were tight, they weren’t uncomfortably so. They were however quite high at the back of my knee – but again, boots will adapt to you over time and eventually drop as you break them in – and so I was advised heel risers can come in handy to wear inside the boots until they dropped that little bit. Adding heel raisers made a huge difference, especially when jumping with shorter stirrups, and I’ve since been able to remove these after wearing the boots regularly.

It took a little bit of getting used to riding in the Heritage Contour field boots as they felt a little more restrictive than my well-used gaiters, but over time as the boots moulded more to my legs, they became much more comfortable. I think the boots look really nice on and create a lovely streamlined appearance, and I’m particularly looking forward to using them for some dressage and jumping competitions over the winter.

Ariat is a brand I associate with high quality products, and the boots feel well-made, particularly the zip – which doesn’t feel flimsy. The Heritage Contour Field Zip Tall Riding Boot is also available in a lovely brown colour and in a waterproof insulated version aimed at winter riding, so there is plenty of choice.

Georgia has had a pair of these boots for 10 years – she advises that they’ll last well if you don’t walk around in them and always change into a pair of yard boots once you dismount. Even better, store them in one of the best riding boot bags.

Verdict

H&H Approved – I am very pleased with the Heritage Contour field boots, firstly for the fit and good range of sizes available, and secondly for how smart they look. The boots needed a little time to ‘break in’ and mold, as do most leather boots, but quickly became very comfortable. These boots are worth saving up for – and if you look after them, they’ll last you a long time.

Who tested these Ariat boots?

Becky Murray started freelance writing for Horse & Hound in 2016 alongside other equestrian titles, before joining the H&H news team in July 2018. She was made senior news writer in January 2022. During her time at H&H she has reported on a broad range of topics across the equestrian industry including welfare issues, veterinary studies, FEI Tribunal hearings, rider safety, and road safety campaigns. In 2019 she attended the national Strangles Symposium and the Scottish welfare conference.

Becky was part of the home remote reporting team for the Tokyo Olympic Games and the European Showjumping Championships and has reported from Morris Equestrian, the Royal Highland Show and Blair Castle International Horse Trials. She also regularly contributes to the weekly H&H podcast.

Based in north Scotland, Becky learnt to ride at the age of five. She got the showjumping bug with her 13.2hh older pony Phoenix, who used to particularly enjoy a chase-me-Charlie. She went on to compete in British Showjumping and riding club activities as a teenager with her pony Sparkle. After losing two horses in 2015 to illness and injury, Becky is now producing her Irish mare Chloe, and has returned to the showjumping ring. She also has two miniature Shetland sisters, Mootie and Poppet, who keep her on her toes.

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Subscribe to Horse & Hound magazine today – and enjoy unlimited website access all year round

Horse & Hound magazine, out every Thursday, is packed with all the latest news and reports, as well as interviews, specials, nostalgia, vet and training advice. Find how you can enjoy the magazine delivered to your door every week, plus options to upgrade your subscription to access our online service that brings you breaking news and reports as well as other benefits.

Ariat Kelmarsh wellington boots

The Ariat Kelmarsh wellies have quite a different look to many of the others I’ve tested, but I like it. They look modern without being out of place. I liked the grey colour as it went with everything I had, but without being too matching/clashing, which I find can happen with navy wellies for me as I have a lot of navy riding tights and my favourite yard/riding jacket is also navy.

I’ve worn these wellies all winter and they’ve held up really well. They’re more workmanlike than the Ariat Burfords (which I’d recommend if you want a smarter welly to wear on a walk to the pub), but these are still smarter than many neoprene types and other farm wellies. I’m not usually all that keen on branding, but with the main Ariat logo being on the rear, I completely forgot it was there – and actually I think it adds to the style.

They’re not insulated, but I can’t say my feet were noticeably cold as I spend most of my time at the yard on the move. I wore both these and the Burford during the December 2022 cold snap and wasn’t uncomfortably cold in either. I’ve also worn these in warmer weather without an issue.

They are comfortable to walk in – with a good amount of cushioning and support – and don’t feel heavy. They were also a nice width – I have average size calves and could comfortably tuck in waterproof trousers. They fit nicely in the foot. My favourite thing about Ariat wellies in general is that they’re available in half sizes.

The shafts are structured without preventing movement – I regularly drive in these quite happily. This also makes them easy to put on – you can just slip your foot in without holding onto the boot.

They are adjustable at the rear. I found the clasp easy to use but as I wasn’t using it to tighten the boots regularly, I found that it did come undone quite easily as I walked around. This wasn’t a problem, however, as they didn’t feel too loose. And the fastening also felt well made and unlikely to break.

I think these are fairly priced. When they were first released they had an RRP of £95, but (as with everything) they’ve increased to £110. They are a good pair of boots and feel as they’ll last, but there are many pairs of more expensive boots out there, that I don’t think are always worth the extra cost.

Verdict

These wellies exceeded my expectations. They are comfortable, supportive and have become a go-to pair. After a full year’s wear they have started to show signs of perishing, but I’m confident I would get at least another full winter’s daily wear out of them.

In the UK? View now at amazon.co.uk, ariat.com, equus.co.uk, naylors.com, philipmorrisdirect.co.uk or sportsdirect.com 

Who tested the Ariat Kelmarsh wellington boots?

Georgia Guerin looks after Horse & Hound’s shopping, fashion and product content. She owns a Norwegian Fjord horse, is at the yard twice a day every day and wellies are her go-to footwear of choice. Georgia was even once stopped by a stranger on Henley high street who commented on how she wore her wellies like a second skin. The shopper then questioned about which wellies she’d recommend – it was her lucky day as this is exactly what Georgia does for her day job.

Find out more about how Horse & Hound tests products

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Subscribe to Horse & Hound magazine today – and enjoy unlimited website access all year round

Horse & Hound magazine, out every Thursday, is packed with all the latest news and reports, as well as interviews, specials, nostalgia, vet and training advice. Find how you can enjoy the magazine delivered to your door every week, plus options to upgrade your subscription to access our online service that brings you breaking news and reports as well as other benefits. 

Mountain Horse Aurora long riding boots

If you are after long riding boots that fit well without shelling out for bespoke, the Mountain Horse Aurora Tall Boots may be the answer.

This smart-looking boot comes in a range of leg sizes besides the usual foot size. As well as regular/regular, you can opt for short, wide, narrow and extra narrow alternatives. It is quite rare to slip on a new boot and to find it fits like the proverbial glove – or sock – but I am an average size 8–10, with size 40 feet and the regular/regular 40 is almost spot-on. They are a touch loose on the upper calf, so I’d consider the narrow option were it not for the fact that round the ankle they are perfect. I’d always opt for slightly loose than too tight, and the slight gap doesn’t affect my leg position in the saddle, nor is it annoying walking around. However the elasticated panelling means that it makes sense to opt for the tighter fit because there is some give.

I have wide feet, and they didn’t feel squished at all, while the ankle is snug but very forgiving thanks to the elastic lacing. They also have elasticated panels for further give, which all helps ensure a great fit when the boots are not made to measure.

Mountain Horse Aurora Tall Boots: comfort and flexibility

As with all new boots, they do feel a little stiff when you first put them on. However, I quickly forgot about this once on the horse. I found they helped me to keep my lower leg in a good position, which is a definite bonus. The zip goes down the calf all the way from the back of the knee to the heel, and makes it easy to slide in the foot, and then zip yourself in, with a securing popper at the top.

They have a strongly curved top, which covers the side of the knee. I was concerned this would affect my flexibility and ability to bend the knee. However, I tried them out on the gallops with short stirrups and they didn’t cut into the back of the knee at all, and were extremely comfortable. The (fixed) elastic lacing on the front of the ankle makes it easy to flex the foot and keep your heels down!

With the advanced Vertycore 4D shock impact reduction technology in the sole, as well as a good grip, they were really comfy to wear around the yard too.

Smart and stylish

Looks-wise, this is a smart boot. I like the slight heel, as it gives a bit of extra length to the leg. They are made of full-grain leather, with a nice shine. They are easy to keep in good shape as well, because they come with inflatable trees.

These stylish boots are a typical high-quality item from Mountain Horse, a Swedish company that focuses on engineering superior apparel and footwear for riders. They are world-renowned for their use of innovative design technology and superior fabric selection, resulting in products with practicality and style.

Verdict

*H&H Approved* – An extremely well-fitting pair of long boots. These look smart, are comfortable both in and out of the saddle, providing sufficient flexibility as well as strength.

In the UK? View now at amazon.co.uk

Who tested these riding boots?

Martha Terry is Horse & Hound’s features editor. She has a horse and is at the yard every day. She is currently producing a four-year-old ex-racehorse with a view to eventing after several years off the circuit.

Find out more about how Horse & Hound tests products

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Riding boots: long or short – which is best for you?

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Horse & Hound magazine, out every Thursday, is packed with all the latest news and reports, as well as interviews, specials, nostalgia, vet and training advice. Find how you can enjoy the magazine delivered to your door every week, plus options to upgrade your subscription to access our online service that brings you breaking news and reports as well as other benefits.

Mountain Horse Aurora Paddock Boots

I loved these short boots! They were comfortable from the outset. Perhaps they feel a little stiff when you first put them on, but that is due to the quality of the leather. The zip and elasticated sides make them quick to slip on and off, and they work well with a pair of chaps for riding. Overall, they give an elegant appearance, and I’d be happy pairing them with some smart half-chaps for a clinic or grassroots show.

They are made from full-grain leather upper, with Vertycore insole and outsole. This is designed to provide “exceptional cushioning and comfort”, and I did find them extremely comfortable on the ground while dashing about the yard.

For me, this is a very smart look for a yard boot, so I would favour them for riding rather than mucking out, although they feel sturdy enough to do both jobs. They have pretty detailing around the toe area, which implies they are more aesthetic than a work boot.

However, the chunky rubber sole really does provide cushioning and feels like it would stand up to hours walking around, and is also comfortable for those who are on their feet on the yard all day long.

I haven’t tried them in the rain, but like any product made from leather, they would need protection and maintenance to keep that lovely, glossy look. Again, the rubber sole gives some protection against wet ground and muck.

They have a robust feel, very supportive around the ankle, and also in case of the horse stepping on your toe.

While the boot is sturdy, it is sufficiently narrow to be perfectly fine slipping into a stirrup, with no concerns about the width. Some yard boots are too chunky to be safe in the stirrup. A pair of short-chaps fits easily over the top with no stretching of the zipper.

The heel is fairly chunky – I’d go as far as to say it is slightly raised. This is ideal for those of us who are keen for a bit more height, but perhaps if you are already very tall a flatter heel may be preferable.

The Mountain Horse Aurora Paddock Boot is available in black or brown. I tried brown in a size 40 (UK 6½) and found them to be true to size.

Verdict

H&H Approved – Smart but functional and very comfortable, suitable particularly for riding but robust enough to stand up to yard chores too. An elegant short boot, which is both practical and looks great.

In the UK? View now at amazon.co.uk or ebay.co.uk

In the US? View now at amazon.com or ebay.com

Who tested these short boots?

Martha Terry is Horse & Hound’s features editor. She has a horse and is at the yard every day. She is currently producing a four-year-old ex-racehorse with a view to eventing after several years off the circuit.

Find out more about how Horse & Hound tests products

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The best half chaps and gaiters to pair with your favourite short boots

Riding boots: long or short – which is best for you?

Subscribe to Horse & Hound magazine today – and enjoy unlimited website access all year round

Horse & Hound magazine, out every Thursday, is packed with all the latest news and reports, as well as interviews, specials, nostalgia, vet and training advice. Find how you can enjoy the magazine delivered to your door every week, plus options to upgrade your subscription to access our online service that brings you breaking news and reports as well as other benefits.

Bareback Footwear Kentucky boots

As someone who is fairly traditional in my choice of footwear and has always tended towards wearing very simple plain jodhpur boots in the past, I did wonder whether the Kentucky Jodhpur Riding Boots from Bareback Footwear were going to suit me. With slim legs and small narrow feet, chunkier boots can leave my feet swimming around inside and have a tendency to make me resemble a golf club (!) when viewed from the side, however I was pleasantly surprised to see that this wasn’t the case here.

I really like that the laces allow you to adjust the fit of the boots, which is ideal whether you have slim ankles like me or have been born with “a bit of bone”, while the clever zip and press stud on the side, make them quick and easy to take on and off once you’ve got the laces how you want them.

Having had the top of my left foot “remodelled” by my horse around six months ago, I did initially find the left boot a little tight to slip on initially, but within two or three wears, the leather had softened enough that both boots now slip on and off easily. I was advised that if I found them a little tight to start with, the inner sole could be removed until the leather softened up – while that hasn’t been necessary, it was useful to know.

I have found the boots are extremely comfortable to wear around the stable yard and while long-lining my horse and working him in-hand. My feet do not become sweaty in them and the tread gives a good level of grip across a variety of surfaces. While the pair I am testing are not the “waterproof” option (Kentucky Storm boots), I have not experienced damp feet after wearing the boots while walking through long wet grass to and from my horse’s turnout paddock, which was an issue in my previous pair of short boots.

While I do the vast majority of my riding in long leather riding boots, I wore my Kentucky Jodhpur Boots with a pair of half chaps during a two-day riding holiday in Wales and they were great. They were comfortably both in the saddle, and when we had to dismount and lead our horses while negotiating particularly slippery downhill sections, so I thoroughly recommend them as great all-rounders for use both in the saddle and as yard boots. I also worn them for a week’s riding holiday in Turkey during which we spent a considerable time on the trail leading our horses up and down rocky tracks – these boots were ideal for this challenging terrain.

I chose the Havana colour – these boots are also available in brown and navy – and I think they look really stylish.

Verdict

H&H Approved: I’m a huge fan of these boots – comfortable, stylish and up to the job. I would definitely recommend them to others.

Who tested these jodhpur boots?

Carol Phillips is Horse & Hound’s website editor, who has ridden since childhood. She has a seven-year-old Irish Sport Horse, who she exercises most days, including working him in-hand twice a week, with a weekly long-lining session as part of his ongoing fitness and rehab programme after being diagnosed with kissing spines, so her footwear will undergo a thorough test with many miles walked!

Find out more about how Horse & Hound tests products

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Horse & Hound magazine, out every Thursday, is packed with all the latest news and reports, as well as interviews, specials, nostalgia, vet and training advice. Find how you can enjoy the magazine delivered to your door every week, plus options to upgrade your subscription to access our online service that brings you breaking news and reports as well as other benefits.

BareBack Footwear Quebec Waterproof Boots

I can’t remember the number of times I’ve bought a pair of trainers, walking boots or yard boots that have claimed to be waterproof, but turned out not to be. So when I read manufacturer BareBack Footwear’s claims that their Quebec boots wouldn’t let the water in, there was no option for me other than to throw them in at the deep end – literally! For where I live in Hampshire, in a valley through which the River Test flows – and surrounded as we are by all its little tributaries and water meadows with random pools and streams running through – here was my chance.

So I headed for our local water meadow, found myself a stream and stood in it, almost willing the water to seep through so that I could say “told you so”. But I am thrilled to report that not a single drop penetrated the Stormproof Wil-Tex waterproof and breathable membrane of this chunky workhorse of a boot. Having said that, I’m not going to do this on a regular basis as I don’t want to run the risk of stripping the colour out of the leather.

I would have been disappointed if the BareBack Footwear Quebec boots hadn’t been waterproof because I’d already fallen in love with them when I opened the box they arrived in, each lovingly protected in a soft-cloth boot bag of its own. And the smell and feel of their Italian leather was just wonderful and told me that this was a quality boot that deserved to be looked after.

As much as I wanted to keep these mid-length boots “for best”, they have been thoroughly tried and tested in all weathers and have withstood all sorts of terrains – boggy, stony, muddy – with flying colours, which makes them ideal for country walkers and equestrians. The BareBack Quebec boots are made from full-grain waxed leather, edged with piping, finished with immaculate stitch detailing and lined with a Stormproof Wil-Tex breathable and waterproof membrane so you won’t get waterlogged feet out on wet walks.

And there’s a brass buckle at the back so that you can adjust the fit of the boots around your calf – great for putting them on and off quickly and making for a slightly snugger fit around the leg, from narrow to wide. And the leather boot pull on the top of the boot at the back is reinforced with stitching – it’s useful for pulling the boots on, but I don’t think you’ll need that; I didn’t as the boots are very easy to get on and off. 

In terms of sizing, they are true to size, if not a little generous and the manufacturer recommends that if you fall between two sizes, choose the smaller. But I’m a definite UK7 (or EU40) and have wide feet, so that’s the size I plumped for. And what’s really helpful is that the manufacturers offer an over-the-phone fitting service to help match requirements to the perfect size and style of boot. 

They advised me, once the boots arrived, to try them on with a “normal” sock, which I duly did. At first, I thought they might have been too snug on the foot, but wearing them around the house for an hour or so convinced me that they were ideal. When people say “they’ll stretch to fit”, I never believe them but there were never any doubts with these boots – the leather is so beautifully soft that they’d moulded to my wide feet in no time at all, without any pinching or rubbing or having to squeeze my feet in. Then after a couple of days of wear, I tried them with a thick, woolly ski sock and they were just as comfortable.

What I particularly like about the Quebec is that the heel is wide, chunky, with a good bearing surface and being flatter to the floor provides better grip in slippery, wet, muddy conditions. I have wellies with a slightly raised heel that I feel less confident in when walking in muddy conditions. But the Quebec’s anti-slip, sturdy polyurethane and rubber sole gives reliable traction on all surfaces. What’s more, the boot is super-comfortable, thanks to a removable X-Comfort memory foam insole – again which provides support to the foot – and a gel insert in the footbed for cushioning and shock absorption.

If I had one criticism – and this is purely on a personal level – I’d have preferred the BareBack Footwear Quebec boots to be slightly snugger around the ankles with more support for the arches on the top of the foot, but then I do have a ‘clicky’ left foot which is the result of putting my foot down hidden rabbit holes on the chalk downlands where I live! But generally they are supportive – and are a great all-weather boot and wouldn’t look out of place in summer with a pair of shorts. But with a “normal” sock as the boots’ lining is toasty.

When it comes to maintenance for keeping the boots at their best, I’ve never had a leather boot that you can just pop under running warm water to get clean. But you can with the Quebec, thanks to the leather being waxed and waterproof. However, leather boots don’t look after themselves, so I have plastered mine with copious amounts of dubbin to help keep them looking at their best and in great condition. 

The Quebecs are available in a choice of four colours – I tested the chocolate brown, but there is also the option of mocha tan, black or navy. They are available in a good range of sizes – EU36/UK3 to EU46/UK12 – so should accommodate most people.

Verdict

H&H Approved: I had really high hopes for the BareBack Footwear Quebec boots before they arrived for testing and I wasn’t disappointed. To say they were everything I imagined them to be sounds really cheesy, but they are. They’re stylish, good-quality, easy maintenance, a great fit, comfortable, versatile and practical – I could go on! They are ideal for anyone with wider feet and I have no doubt that they’ll stand the test of time with some TLC with regular rinsing under the tap and coatings of dubbin to keep them clean and in good condition.

Who tested these boots?

Jane Gazzard is a sub-editor on Horse & Hound. She’s worked on a wide range of magazines, including another national equestrian title, and has written two books with Olympic riders. Over the years, Jane has owned and ridden a variety of horses and competed in a number of disciplines. She tested these boots with the help of her spaniel, Jed.

Find out more about how Horse & Hound tests products

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Horse & Hound magazine, out every Thursday, is packed with all the latest news and reports, as well as interviews, specials, nostalgia, vet and training advice. Find how you can enjoy the magazine delivered to your door every week, plus options to upgrade your subscription to access our online service that brings you breaking news and reports as well as other benefits. 

Le Chameau Iris Jersey-Lined Wellingtons

These wellington boots are available in a wide range of lovely colours – and for me this is their main selling point and reason to buy. In addition to the light blue (bleu clair) colourway that I tried, the Le Chameau Iris boots are available in black, light green, forest green, red, pink or dark blue.

They are Le Chameau’s lightest and cheapest full height wellington boot. Having previously tested the Le Chameau Vierzonords, I was intrigued to see how these would compare – and I found they were far more different than I expected.

While the Vierzonords are a highly technical boot designed for winter yard use, the Irises are less technical and aren’t designed to keep your feet warm in cold weather. They are quite thin in general and would offer really minimal protection if a horse was to stand on your foot. They are, however, far superior to a pair of wellies you might pick up on the high street.

I am UK 4½. When testing the Vierzonords, I found myself wondering whether I might have been dropping to UK 4, rather than sizing up to UK 5, so I tested these in a UK 4. I found these wellies to be a very different shape and, while they did fit comfortably and felt true to size, in hindsight I think a 5 would probably have been better, so I would suggest sizing up if you’re between sizes.

I loved the summery colour – it makes a nice change as most of the other wellies I have, while very smart, are in more working colours. I didn’t find them as flattering as other wellies I’ve tried. They are a bit shorter than others and I felt they looked a bit short on me (I’m only 5ft 3in).

As with the Vierzonords, I found the shaft to be incredibly flexible, which has its pros and cons. This made them very comfortable and easy to move around in, but you need to use two hands to get them on or off. They were very soft, and I would be very surprised if these wellies would cause any rubbing – they didn’t for me and I’ve even tried them with sports socks one day when I couldn’t find my trainers. They were also great for driving in – very flexible and I could really feel the pedals.

For me, if you’re going to invest in wellies for the yard or walking (and I’m a big believer of this) that you’re better off going for a more technical style at a higher price point than the Irises. However, if you’re looking for a pretty pair of wellies in a nice colour, for comfortable wear on a less regular basis, these are ideal.

Verdict

I don’t think these are your best option if you’re looking for winter yard boots, but I would say, of all the wellies I’ve tried so far, these are the best wellies to wear to a festival this summer. They’re so light to carry around and they would even fold up small if you wanted to pack them in a bag.

View now at rideawaystore.com, naylors.com or countryattire.com

Who tested these boots?

Georgia Guerin looks after Horse & Hound’s shopping, fashion and product content. She owns a Norwegian Fjord horse, is at the yard twice a day every day and wellies are her go-to footwear of choice. Georgia was even once stopped by a stranger on Henley high street who commented on how she wore her wellies like a second skin. The shopper then questioned about which wellies she’d recommend – it was her lucky day as this is exactly what Georgia does for her day job.

Find out more about how Horse & Hound tests products

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Le Chameau Vierzonord neoprene-lined wellingtons review *H&H Approved*

£190

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Horse & Hound magazine, out every Thursday, is packed with all the latest news and reports, as well as interviews, specials, nostalgia, vet and training advice. Find how you can enjoy the magazine delivered to your door every week, plus options to upgrade your subscription to access our online service that brings you breaking news and reports as well as other benefits. 

Le Chameau Vierzonord neoprene-lined wellingtons

The Le Chameau Vierzonord (and Le Chameaus in general) are widely considered to be some of the best wellington boots when you’re talking about long-term performance and are particularly popular with those in the agricultural sector. I’d never tried a pair of Le Chameau wellies before these as I’ve always been sceptical about how heavy they’d be – although I like my wellies to be sturdy and ready for hard work, I don’t like them to feel heavy. As it turned out, I was actually pleasantly surprised at how light these were.

When it comes to style, I think it really depends on what you’re wearing your wellies for. I would consider the Le Chameau Vierzonord wellies to be a smart-looking practical yard boot. They would not look out of place as part of an outdoor country outfit and you could wear them to the pub after a good walk, but these are not the sort of wellies you’d wear to a festival, for example. As practical wellies go, these have an elegant look and flattering shape.

The Vierzonords are available in sizes UK2–15 – they come in one calf width and half sizes are not available. I’m a UK4½ and chose to size up to a 5. They are comfortable, if a little roomy, so in hindsight I may have been better with a UK4 as I only ever wear one pair of normal socks. My mum (UK6) tried them on and she said they would probably be comfortable enough for her, so if you are truly between sizes I would size up or down depending on the socks you like to wear and fit you prefer. If you are not between sizes, I would recommend sticking to your normal shoe size – there is no need to go up or down.

The calf does have an element of adjustability, which I think would accommodate for most leg sizes that are not far from average. My calves measure 38cm at the widest point with breeches and long socks on and they felt great – I can slide four fingers comfortably down the side. With only one width available, I don’t think these are well suited to calves that are particularly wide. There is a very handy size guide on the Le Chameau website that should give you peace of mind when choosing.

One feature that I felt really stood out with these boots was how flexible the shaft is – you could easily fold it in half if you wanted to. They were not restrictive or uncomfortable in any way when I was crouched down doing things, such as cleaning hooves – it felt like they worked with me. If you’re looking for a pair of boots that will cope with an active yard life these could be the ones for you, but if you prefer a bit more support around the ankle, this particular style will not offer what you need.

The quality of these natural rubber boots feels fantastic and I have no doubt that they will last a long time. The sole has so far offered good grip as well as foot comfort, and although perhaps not as warm as I expected, my feet have definitely not been cold.

Getting these boots on isn’t difficult, but it does require two hands. These are not the sort of boots you can slip on while you’re carrying something out the door as the shaft is so flexible it will roll down inwards. However, once they’re on they’re not coming off until you take them off – of all the wellies I’ve tried I would expect these to stay on the longest if I was stuck in the mud or riding without stirrups. They can be a tricky to get off as they seem to create a kind of vacuum when you put them on. I forgive them this, however, as I’m sure it contributed to keeping my feet and legs warm.

These boots are really rather pricey, and I believe for good reason, but they are a fair step up price-wise from some other technical boots that in my opinion are just as good. However, they are built to last – and really will.

If you’re an everyday welly wearer then spending the extra money will get you a pair of boots that will last longer and you’ll appreciate every day. If you’re more of a ‘casual welly wearer’ then you will be able to find a pair that will do the job you need for less. If you like the brand, you could try the Le Chameau Iris wellies.

Verdict

These boots are ideal for someone who wears wellies day in, day out. I prefer a sturdier leg personally, but aside from this they are a fantastic pair of wellies that will see you through many a wet and cold winter.

Who tested these wellies?

Georgia Guerin looks after Horse & Hound’s shopping, fashion and product content. She owns a Norwegian Fjord horse, is at the yard twice a day every day and wellies are her go-to footwear of choice. She was even once stopped by a stranger on Henley high street who commented on how Georgia wore her wellies like a second skin. The shopper then questioned about which wellies she’d recommend – it was her lucky day as this is exactly what Georgia does for her day job.

Find out more about how Horse & Hound tests products

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6 of the warmest waterproof wellies with a neoprene shaft

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Horse & Hound magazine, out every Thursday, is packed with all the latest news and reports, as well as interviews, specials, nostalgia, vet and training advice. Find how you can enjoy the magazine delivered to your door every week, plus options to upgrade your subscription to access our online service that brings you breaking news and reports as well as other benefits. 

Brogini Warwick boots

The Brogini Warwick pull-on boots initially caught my eye as they’re a more original style than many country boots, which often look quite similar. The buffalo leather looked a really good quality, and for the price (RRP £120) they seem good value for money.

The first thing I noticed on taking these boots out the box was their moleskin lining all down the leg and through the foot. This was a really nice touch – it made them feel very luxurious and snug. They were significantly warmer than wellies, and these boots have become a favourite for cold winter dog walks and poo-picking for that very reason.

I wore these boots for the first time for a long coastal walk along the beach in rather wet and windy weather – the waterproofing was up to the job and they were easy to brush off afterwards. The sole was also very comfy and cushioned. However, perhaps rather naively, I wore thin socks for this outing and I did get rubbed at the top of my ankle on both legs. On further occasions I wore thick socks and had no problems with rubs, and after a few uses the boots did soften up.

The fit was great – I’m a EU41/UK7 and the 41 in these boots was perfect. I could wear thin and thick socks comfortably, and the boots were very easy to pull on and slip off. They come in two widths – regular and wide – I went for the regular which fitted me fine as a UK 12. As with other country boots, such as the Dublin River Boots that I have also reviewed, they only come in one leg length. At 5ft 10in and with long legs, I would have preferred the boots to be slightly taller on me, but it wasn’t a problem in terms of fit.

I really liked that these boots “wore in” nicely, and they continued to look smart with prolonged use. The leather is really easy to wipe down after trudging through muddy fields with the horses, and a quick going over with my usual leather conditioner while tack cleaning keeps them in good condition. While other country boots often include suede or nubuck on the leg, the fact that these are all leather makes these boots easier to keep looking newer for longer.

While the chunky sole gives great grip in the wet and muddy weather, and the moleskin lining feels nice and snug, I didn’t find myself reaching for these boots as often coming into spring and summer as my feet would get quite hot, so I would say they’re much more suited for the cold weather. They’re also smart enough to wear out and about, so are perfect for a pub lunch after a wet and windy dog walk!

Verdict

These are a smart and original pair of country boots, with a super-snug moleskin lining that gives a luxurious feel at a good price point.

In the UK? View standard fit now at amazon.co.uk, equus.co.uk or rideawaystore.com

What is a first look review?

These are our first impressions of a piece of kit or clothing based on spending some time with it. We will have had our hands on it and given it a really thorough going over before trying it on ourselves or our horses and using it. The information we can give you after this first look will give you some sense of what it’s like to use, even if it’s only an initial view. As soon as we’ve given it a more thorough test, we will update the review with a full scoring and additional thoughts – and possibly award it “Horse & Hound Approved” status.

• Find out more about how Horse & Hound tests products

Who tested these boots?

Victoria Rea is Horse & Hound’s chief sub editor. She lives a real country lifestyle, riding regularly and walking her German Shorthaired Pointer, Maple.

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Subscribe to Horse & Hound magazine today – and enjoy unlimited website access all year round

Horse & Hound magazine, out every Thursday, is packed with all the latest news and reports, as well as interviews, specials, nostalgia, vet and training advice. Find how you can enjoy the magazine delivered to your door every week, plus options to upgrade your subscription to access our online service that brings you breaking news and reports as well as other benefits.

Muck Boot Arctic Sport II Tall boots

I usually prefer the traditional-style wellingtons over wellies with a neoprene shaft, however, I really liked the style and colourway of the ladies’ Muck Boot Arctic Sport II boots. They are also available in black and I personally prefer the olive green. It doesn’t show so well in the pictures, but it looks really quite smart.

They were easy to put on and despite the shaft being neoprene, they didn’t flop over or close inwards, so you only need one hand to put your foot in. Plus, there is a helpful pull tab. I liked the colour of this and it matches the printed logo – a small touch, but definitely adds to the look in my opinion.

They feel quite like trainers to walk in, in that they are comfortable and supportive. The sole offered good grip in the mud – we’re on sand, so it’s not awful here – and I felt sure on my feet as the sole and footbed weren’t too thick that I couldn’t feel the ground. The comfy footbed also has an antimicrobial cover and benefits from odour control and moisture management technology. I haven’t had particularly sweaty feet while wearing them apart from when it was rather warm outside.

They have a soft fleece lining and 5mm neoprene lining throughout, which provides good insulation and makes them flexible to walk in. They were waterproof and certainly warm – I made the mistake of wearing them on a hotter day and I really felt it. But I was grateful for this in the winter.

I usually wear a UK 4½ and I would suggest sizing up if you’re between sizes – I had a size 5 and the fit was great. The calf fit was perfect for me, which was lucky as they’re not adjustable. The description says the maximum calf width in my size is 38cm – my calves measure 38cm at the widest point and I found these wellies snug but comfortable. I could fit my hand down the side of the boots comfortably, so you would probably be able to get a slightly wider calf in. The snug-ness also kept the warmth in. These wellies were neither noticeably tall or short compared to others, but it’s important to note that these are the women’s style rather than the unisex. They also have a nicer shape at the top for this reason.

These boots are mid-range when it comes to comparing them to other technical wellies. I’d say they’re fairly price and if you like the neoprene style these would be a good option. I’ve worn them for a few months now and they don’t show any real signs of wear. I’ve seen similar boots look really scruffy after one season’s wear, but I feel certain they’ll survive throughout next winter at the very least and probably beyond.

Verdict

These boots are warm and comfortable – I would recommend these to my friends at the yard or those with dogs if they were after a neoprene-style boot for the winter.

Who tested these boots?

Georgia Guerin looks after Horse & Hound’s shopping, fashion and product content. She owns a Norwegian Fjord horse, is at the yard twice a day every day and wellies are her go-to footwear of choice. Georgia was even once stopped by a stranger on Henley high street who commented on how she wore her wellies like a second skin. The shopper then questioned about which wellies she’d recommend – it was her lucky day as this is exactly what Georgia does for her day job.

Find out more about how Horse & Hound tests products

You might also be interested in:

6 of the warmest waterproof wellies with a neoprene shaft

7 pairs of the best wellies we’ve tried, tested and approved

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Rockfish Walkabout neoprene-lined wellington boots

I’ll start by saying these Rockfish Walkabout wellies exceeded my expectations. They are definitely workmanlike as wellies go – built for long days on your feet at the yard in bad weather. When I took them out the box I immediately noticed how much heavier they felt compared to other wellies I had tested recently (Le Chameau Vierzonords and Ariat insulated Burfords). I was cautious to try them, but actually as soon as they were on I didn’t notice that I was carrying more weight on my feet. My feet also felt more secure and protected than they did in the Le Chameaus as the outer material is thicker and more rigid.

Because of this rigid style, they were really easy to put on and take off. This is a real bonus in my opinion because it means when you’re heading out the door with your riding jacket in one hand and riding hat and keys in the other, you can just slide your foot in and continue on your way. Because of this, the Walkabouts became my go-to boots – I just knew they were no faff to get on, easy to take off when I got home cold, wet and muddy, and they could cope with being flung into my car boot.

I am a size 4½ but sized up to a 5 as they aren’t available in half sizes and Rockfish suggests sizing up. This is actually the smallest size they do in this style, so if your feet are on the small side, you’ll need to check out our selection of the best wellies to find another. They fitted well and allowed plenty of room around the calf – mine measure 38cm at the widest point. I had the adjustable side gusset at its tightest, but if you were to loosen it the boot will allow for a much wider calf – and I would say these are the widest I’ve tried so far.

They felt roomy around the ankles and the soles were quite rigid, but overall I found they were really supportive. I noticed they felt narrower in the foot than some of the other wellies I tested, but only when I put the other boots on straight after could I notice the difference. I was never uncomfortable – and I lent them to a friend for a walk who normally takes a size 6, and she agreed they were comfortable.

I wasn’t so sure about the logo on the front, but I reminded myself these are yard wellies not fashion wellies. I haven’t thought about this since, so it really wasn’t a bother – and I would say that they look smarter in real life than many of the images I’ve seen online. The Walkabouts are available in black, blue, green or otter, which is the colour I tried. I’ve had a few compliments from friends at the yard saying the shape suits me, too. I think this is the cut at the top of the boot – if you look at the front on picture you will see they are shaped rather than an equal height the whole way around.

These boots were worn throughout Storms Eunice and Franklin in February 2022. They were warm, waterproof and sturdy – definitely up to the job – and I look forward to continuing to wear them. So far they show no signs of wear and tear – and where I find that some wellies perish and crack at the front, I just can’t see that happening with this material.

The Walkabouts are a fair bit cheaper than competitor boots, such as the Le Chameau Vierzonords – and I think they are great value for money. You need to spend a fair bit for a decent pair of wellies – and this price seems more than fair, especially when I compare them to others.

Verdict

These boots took me by surprise. I found them to be sturdy, comfortable boots that are ideal for the yard. My favourite thing about them is how easy they are to put on and take off – now that I have such a large selection of wellies to choose from every day, I find myself opting for these more often than not because of this.

In the UK? View now at viovet.co.uk, gsequestrian.co.uk or ebay.co.uk

Who tested these boots?

Georgia Guerin looks after Horse & Hound’s shopping, fashion and product content. She owns a Norwegian Fjord horse, is at the yard twice a day every day and wellies are her go-to footwear of choice. Georgia was even once stopped by a stranger on Henley high street who commented on how she wore her wellies like a second skin. The shopper then questioned about which wellies she’d recommend – it was her lucky day as this is exactly what Georgia does for her day job.

Find out more about how Horse & Hound tests products

You might also be interested in:

7 pairs of the best wellies we’ve tried, tested and approved

6 of the warmest waterproof wellies with a neoprene shaft

Le Chameau Vierzonord neoprene-lined wellingtons review *H&H Approved*

£190

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Horse & Hound magazine, out every Thursday, is packed with all the latest news and reports, as well as interviews, specials, nostalgia, vet and training advice. Find how you can enjoy the magazine delivered to your door every week, plus options to upgrade your subscription to access our online service that brings you breaking news and reports as well as other benefits. 

Mark Todd country boots MKII

If there was a checklist of what makes the perfect country boot, these Mark Todd MKII boots would tick every box. They’re warm, waterproof, breathable, comfortable, supportive, have great grip and are stylish. They are now my go-to daily walking boots, and I can’t quite remember how I managed before I had them.

Made from full-grain and nubuck leather, these boots are soft to the touch, and on putting them on for the first time, they immediately felt comfortable and required no breaking in. The footbed is supportive, so these were great for all-day wear, and the chunky sole provided suitable grip. I find my heel gets rubbed quite easily when wearing new boots, but with these I had no problem at all. 

I first wore these boots for a walk on a cold January morning, with the temperature around -4°C – my feet stayed toasty warm the whole time (noticeably warmer than in my trusty wellies). They had no trouble with icy puddles; it was reassuring to know that the boots are fully waterproof, rather than only to a certain depth, as is the case with some other country boots. 

The boots are true to size – I took my normal size and had no problems, the fit was very comfy and with room for thicker socks. The boots come in two leg widths – I’m a size 12 and the standard calf was perfect. However, they also have laces and a stretch panel at the top, so there is the possibility to pull them in or for some extra stretch if needed. At 5ft 10in, I was also pleased with the length of the boot, as I often find they come up short on me. 

These Mark Todd country boots give great support through the foot and ankle – while some country boots can be wider through the ankle and leg, such as the Derby House long country boots that I have also reviewed, I felt more comfortable in these when out and about walking or while traipsing through rutted fields. 

Having now worn these boots nearly daily for several months, I am really impressed with how they have held up. They haven’t dropped through the leg – a pet peeve of mine! – and they have stayed comfy and waterproof. On wearing them for some long walks in the warmer spring weather I have found my feet have got a little too hot, so I would say they are better as an autumn/winter boot.

At £154.99, I thought these boots were very reasonably priced, especially as they are so versatile whether you’re at the yard, popping to the shops or going on a long walk.

Verdict

H&H Approved – A really great all-round country boot that ticks all the boxes.

View now at amazon.co.uk, viovet.co.uk or equus.co.uk

Who tested these boots?

Victoria Rea is Horse & Hound’s chief sub editor. She lives a real country lifestyle, riding regularly and walking her German Shorthaired Pointer, Maple.

Find out more about how Horse & Hound tests products

You might also be interested in:

10 pairs of country boots you’d like to be seen in

Brogini Warwick country boots review

£120

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Horse & Hound magazine, out every Thursday, is packed with all the latest news and reports, as well as interviews, specials, nostalgia, vet and training advice. Find how you can enjoy the magazine delivered to your door every week, plus options to upgrade your subscription to access our online service that brings you breaking news and reports as well as other benefits. 

Derby House long country boots

When I first took the Derby House country boots out the box I was rather sceptical, as they felt flimsier in the leg than other country boots I have been reviewing – such as the Brogini Warwick boots – and so I wasn’t sure how I’d get on with them. However, I can safely say that my first impressions were wrong!

At 5ft 10in, I often find that country boots and wellies come up rather short in length, which isn’t always a flattering look. These Derby House boots were noticeably a couple of inches taller, which I was very happy about. The soft leather that makes up the leg part was also very comfy, and meant the boots didn’t need too much breaking in. The boots only come in one leg width, but at a UK size 12 the width was spot on for me. The laces allow you to pull the top in if needed; however, while there is a small stretch panel at the top, I wouldn’t say this gives much extra room if you do have wider calves.

I found the foot sizing accurate in terms of fit, though the boots felt fairly narrow across the top of the foot. While I didn’t find this a problem in my initial testing, on further use of the boots I did find them too narrow when wearing thicker socks. The sole is sturdy enough, but does not look designed to be particularly grippy as the tread is fairly smooth compared to a wellie or other country boots. I did find myself slipping around when dog-walking through muddy fields; however these boots were perfectly waterproof through puddles, and they were certainly breathable as well.

The boots aren’t overly fitted through the ankle and leg, which doesn’t give a feel of support while wearing them. As a result, I mainly found I used these boots for slipping on and off at the back door when nipping out or for garden use, rather than for long walks or while on the yard.

At the top on the inside of the boots there are two pull-tabs, which is a nice touch if you’re trying to pull on mucky boots. And speaking of mucky boots, these were super-easy to wipe clean after I’d used them to keep them looking new.

The dark leather colour is smart and the boots are a traditional style – I felt like I could pop to the shops in these after riding without being scowled at! The style of these boots, combined with the non-chunky sole, makes them look smarter, rather than for rough country wear. I would definitely slip them on to go for a rainy stroll to the pub on a Sunday, or to change into after riding, but I wouldn’t use them for traipsing through muddy fields on a daily basis.

These boots are a cheaper alternative than many other country boots on the market, with an RRP of £89.99 – while they perhaps don’t have a luxurious feel, the boots feel appropriately priced and are more than up to the task.

Verdict

A good, value-for-money boot that looks smart and is easy to slip on and off.

View now at rideawaystore.com

Who tested these boots?

Victoria Rea is Horse & Hound’s chief sub editor. She lives a real country lifestyle, riding regularly and walking her German Shorthaired Pointer, Maple.

Find out more about how Horse & Hound tests products

You might also be interested in:

10 pairs of country boots you’d like to be seen in

Mark Todd country boots MKII *H&H Approved*

£154.99

Subscribe to Horse & Hound magazine today – and enjoy unlimited website access all year round

Horse & Hound magazine, out every Thursday, is packed with all the latest news and reports, as well as interviews, specials, nostalgia, vet and training advice. Find how you can enjoy the magazine delivered to your door every week, plus options to upgrade your subscription to access our online service that brings you breaking news and reports as well as other benefits.

Dublin River boots III

Country boots are a versatile item for any equestrian – a step up in style from wellies, they can take you from the yard to a dog walk and a pub lunch. The Dublin River boots III (an upgrade to the River boots II that also offers a wider colour selection) are a traditional style of country boot, and on first look I was impressed with the chunky sole that seemed as if it would cope with the slippery state of our field gateways at the moment.

On trying them on, they felt a little small in the foot – I normally wear a 41, and at 41 these were slightly snug, so I would probably have sized up. The boots come in a variety of leg widths, and the regular width was perfect for me – the size guide for widths is very accurate, so it’s definitely worth checking that before you order. As with most country boots, there is only one leg length – I’m 5ft 10in (shown modelling in black jeans) and they were by no means too short, but the length and shaped fit of the boot leg looked much more tailored to my mother, who is 5ft 6in (shown modelling the boots in blue jeans).

The boots are wide through the ankle and calf which gives plenty of room for thick winter socks, and makes them super-easy to get on and off – perfect for when they’re covered in mud and you don’t want to wrestle them off. The material is a brushed type of leather, so while they were easy enough to hose or wipe clean after use, I tend to stick to wellies for the really muddy jobs, and prefer to keep these for smarter day-to-day use. This has kept them looking their best, and I find them a very versatile boot that can also be worn into pubs or shops.

The boots seem sturdy and good quality – I felt comfortable bringing in and turning out horses in them, as the leather offers better protection in the foot than wellies if you’re unfortunate enough to be trodden on. On first wear they were slightly stiff, but they started to soften with more use.

These boots were warm enough for frosty November morning dog-walks – no numb toes here – and they gave great grip in the mud. While traipsing across the countryside, they were waterproof through puddles and mud. I also like that the boots “stand up” well by themselves when not in use without needing boot trees – as well as keeping the utility room tidier (I hate floppy boots!), I find this helps prevent cracks in the leather when the boots aren’t being worn.

Verdict

A smart, multipurpose pair of boots that are ideal for dog walks and yard chores.

View now at viovet.co.uk, amazon.co.uk, naylors.com, equus.co.uk or rideawaystore.com

Who tested these boots?

Victoria Rea is Horse & Hound’s chief sub editor. She lives a real country lifestyle, riding regularly and walking her German Shorthaired Pointer, Maple.

Find out more about how Horse & Hound tests products

You might also be interested in:

10 pairs of country boots you’d like to be seen in

Mark Todd country boots MKII *H&H Approved*

£154.99

Dublin River Grain boots: ‘good quality leather and kept my feet really dry’ 8/10

Find out how the team at Lakeside Equestrian rated these winter yard boots for riding in Horse & Hound’s independent

£169.99

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Horse & Hound magazine, out every Thursday, is packed with all the latest news and reports, as well as interviews, specials, nostalgia, vet and training advice. Find how you can enjoy the magazine delivered to your door every week, plus options to upgrade your subscription to access our online service that brings you breaking news and reports as well as other benefits.

Just Chaps Saltos leather half chaps

These Just Chaps Saltos half chaps are beautiful and made of lovely supple leather – they are the best leather chaps I’ve tried.

They’re smart enough to compete in and fit beautifully; Just Chaps said they had to be tight at first wear and they were, but have given a bit since to be the perfect fit. They do up top to bottom, with a sturdy zip, and a popper at top and bottom to keep them secure. There is a panel on the leg with more give in it, for a better fit, and a similar vent-shaped panel at the front of the foot, which I think contributes to the fact you can do your spurs up over the top of the chaps with no wrinkling or folding of the chaps’ fabric.

They’re very comfortable, so you forget you’re wearing them when you’re riding, and there’s no pinching or wrinkling of the material once you’re on board.

There are lots of sizes available and they fit as expected; my calves measure 35cm at the widest part (and 42cm from floor to knee) and the small is perfect.

At £55 for quality leather chaps, these are very good value. I tested them with the Harry Hall Harrow jodhpur boots and they were a perfect match.

Verdict

These are beautiful chaps and I’d definitely recommend them.

View now at ebay.co.uk

What is a first look review?

These are our first impressions of a piece of kit or clothing based on spending some time with it. We will have had our hands on it and given it a really thorough going over before trying it on ourselves or our horses and using it. The information we can give you after this first look will give you some sense of what it’s like to use, even if it’s only an initial view. As soon as we’ve given it a more thorough test, we will update the review with a full scoring and additional thoughts – and possibly award it “Horse & Hound Approved” status.

• Find out more about how Horse & Hound tests products

Who tested these boots?

Eleanor Jones is Horse & Hound’s news editor. She has two warmblood mares who she competes at British Showjumping events. She has made some exploratory forays into dressage but since her mark sheets have contained phrases such as “unexpected manoeuvre between C and M” and “well sat”, tends to stick to the jumping.

You might also be interested in:

Best short riding boots for riders of all ages and abilities

The best half chaps and gaiters to pair with your favourite short boots

Subscribe to Horse & Hound magazine today – and enjoy unlimited website access all year round

Horse & Hound magazine, out every Thursday, is packed with all the latest news and reports, as well as interviews, specials, nostalgia, vet and training advice. Find how you can enjoy the magazine delivered to your door every week, plus options to upgrade your subscription to access our online service that brings you breaking news and reports as well as other benefits. 

Harry Hall Harrow zip jodhpur boots

The Harry Hall Harrow zip jodhpur boots are beautiful short boots. They’re traditionally smart, with a brass zip and lovely stitching detail on the toes, but modern in terms of comfort.

They’re smart enough to compete in, or for non-horsey activities, and although they are a bit stiff to start, they don’t need too much breaking in, and were comfortable to ride in from the start.

They do up at the front, with a sturdy-looking zip and a padded tongue that makes them feel luxurious and they fit as expected. My one personal con on these boots is that they don’t come in half-sizes. My feet are usually a 6½ and Harry Hall advised to go for the 7, which felt a bit roomy but not too big, so I’d recommend going for your usual size, or the one above if you’re between sizes.

The boots retail at £89.95, which isn’t cheap but seems good value if they last as expected. Update, March 2023: No real signs of wear or damage after a full winter of riding in them most days.

I tested these with the Just Chaps Saltos half chaps, and together they were perfect to ride in.

Verdict

Lovely boots and I’d definitely recommend them.

View now at amazon.co.uk

What is a first look review?

These are our first impressions of a piece of kit or clothing based on spending some time with it. We will have had our hands on it and given it a really thorough going over before trying it on ourselves or our horses and using it. The information we can give you after this first look will give you some sense of what it’s like to use, even if it’s only an initial view. As soon as we’ve given it a more thorough test, we will update the review with a full scoring and additional thoughts – and possibly award it “Horse & Hound Approved” status.

• Find out more about how Horse & Hound tests products

Who tested these boots?

Eleanor Jones is Horse & Hound’s news editor. She has two warmblood mares who she competes at British Showjumping events. She has made some exploratory forays into dressage but since her mark sheets have contained phrases such as “unexpected manoeuvre between C and M” and “well sat”, tends to stick to the jumping.

You might also be interested in:

Best short riding boots for riders of all ages and abilities

The best half chaps and gaiters to pair with your favourite short boots

Ariat Ascent H2O waterproof paddock boots *H&H Approved*

£130

Subscribe to Horse & Hound magazine today – and enjoy unlimited website access all year round

Horse & Hound magazine, out every Thursday, is packed with all the latest news and reports, as well as interviews, specials, nostalgia, vet and training advice. Find how you can enjoy the magazine delivered to your door every week, plus options to upgrade your subscription to access our online service that brings you breaking news and reports as well as other benefits. 

Ariat Palisade Tall riding boot

I was really impressed with the look and feel of the Ariat Palisade long riding boots when I opened the box. I’m not a fan of big logos or obvious branding, so I was worried that the white ‘Ariat’ on the top of the boot would put me off but I actually found it smart and discreet. The leather felt lovely and supple, with sturdy fastenings and a clever spur guard design which compared to other boots without any spur support is a really great feature.

The boots arrived loose in the box with boot trees in. The trees are a little tricky to use with no handle and so are a bit of a fiddle to get in and out but a nice addition to ensure the boots stay upright when storing. I’ve had Ariat boots before and struggled with the fit, so I was intrigued to see how this model would be. I followed the Ariat sizing guide online to get the most accurate measurements I could.

My first thought when I put them on was how comfy the soles were. The “4LR technology for support and cushioning” and “Duratread outsole with rider tested traction zones” were definitely an evident feature of the boots from the moment I took a step. They felt super-supportive on the foot and comfy to walk in. The zips went up smoothly with the boot slide, a nice feature to stop the zipper rubbing your heel as you do them up. The zip keeper at the top is also a bit fiddly to get the zip into but once secured holds it neatly in place and doesn’t move.

However, despite being the perfect fit on the foot and the the perfect height, they felt quite gappy around parts of the leg. This was my only bugbear with the boots – the leg fit from an aesthetic view. I found them too loose around the ankle, a good fit on the calf, but again too loose at the top just below the knee. I prefer a tailored boot that fits snugly around the ankle so this put me off using them for competitions.

I found that for the first few rides they dug into the top of my foot and the back of my ankle where the leather was already folding but still quite stiff. However, they have now softened up beautifully and are a really lovely, comfy fit for jumping, flatwork and hacking as well as yard chores.

I was worried that as the boots softened they would get increasingly baggy around the ankle, but the loose initial fit hasn’t become any more obvious and they are still a perfect height for me. I would recommend these boots to anyone looking for a smart, comfy and stylish boot that suits both home and competition riding, but I would suggest trying them on before you buy if you can to make sure the leg width is correct for that perfect fit.

The RRP is £290, which I think is definitely a fair price for the quality, look and durability.

Verdict

Horse & Hound Approved – While my initial concerns about the aesthetic fit of these boots are still evident, for home riding I am really happy with them and would definitely choose them over any other boots for all-day comfort and ease of use. My favourite feature is the spur rest on the leather zip guard – it supports the spur in the perfect place and prevents any pressure on the heel from having to have them too tight.

View now at ariat.com, amazon.co.uk, rideawaystore.com or naylors.com

Who tested these boots?

Sophie Cheeseman is Horse & Hound’s deputy art editor. She has a four-year-old Connemara mare with Glencarrig and Coosheen lines, imported from Ireland, who she bought to produce for dressage. Together they also hunt regularly with The South Downs Bloodhounds alongside doing low level dressage. Sophie also rides for other people, producing young horses and gaining further experience on a variety of rides.

Find out more about how Horse & Hound tests products

You might also be interested in:

16 of the best long leather riding boots for every budget

Ariat Ascent H2O waterproof paddock boots *H&H Approved*

£130

Ariat Burford Insulated boots *H&H Approved*

£155

Subscribe to Horse & Hound magazine today – and enjoy unlimited website access all year round

Horse & Hound magazine, out every Thursday, is packed with all the latest news and reports, as well as interviews, specials, nostalgia, vet and training advice. Find how you can enjoy the magazine delivered to your door every week, plus options to upgrade your subscription to access our online service that brings you breaking news and reports as well as other benefits. 

Ariat Ascent half chaps

I tested these Ariat Ascent half chaps with the matching paddock boots. Like the boots, the half chaps are unusual, in that they’re “knitted” and made of a soft fabric that helps with the fit. They’ve got a reinforced panel on the inside of the calf and are very comfortable and light, so you hardly know you’ve got them on when you’re riding, but they provide all the support you want from a pair of chaps.

In fit, I’ve always found Ariat long boots to come up on the small size in width and these chaps are the same. I’m as XS/UK8 in leggings but using the size guide I chose these in the medium and they fitted perfectly. I’d measured my calves as 35cm at the widest point, and 42cm from floor to knee. They were almost uncomfortably tight when I first tried them on but Ariat said that’s how they should be, and they seem to have given slightly after a couple of rides.

Worn with the Ascent paddock boots, these would be smart enough to wear for competing. The only downside I can see to the knitted fabric is that they might be harder to keep clean. The chaps also do up from the bottom, which means they’re awkward to get done up, especially as they have to be tight, until you get the hang of it, but the zips seem chunky and sturdy.

After full use for many months, I can confirm these are great chaps. They are of course muddy, having been ridden in all winter, but they still look smart, the fit hasn’t changed and there are no signs of wear anywhere. I would have these again but can’t see them needing to be replaced any time soon.

Verdict

Slightly unusual looking but very comfortable, durable and practical chaps.

View now at ariat.com, amazon.co.uk, sportsdirect.com or rideawaystore.com

What is a first look review?

These are our first impressions of a piece of kit or clothing based on spending some time with it. We will have had our hands on it and given it a really thorough going over before trying it on ourselves or our horses and using it. The information we can give you after this first look will give you some sense of what it’s like to use, even if it’s only an initial view. As soon as we’ve given it a more thorough test, we will update the review with a full scoring and additional thoughts – and possibly award it “Horse & Hound Approved” status.

• Find out more about how Horse & Hound tests products

Who tested these boots?

Eleanor Jones is Horse & Hound’s news editor. She has two warmblood mares who she competes at British Showjumping events. She has made some exploratory forays into dressage but since her mark sheets have contained phrases such as “unexpected manoeuvre between C and M” and “well sat”, tends to stick to the jumping.

You might also be interested in:

The best half chaps and gaiters to pair with your favourite short boots

Subscribe to Horse & Hound magazine today – and enjoy unlimited website access all year round

Horse & Hound magazine, out every Thursday, is packed with all the latest news and reports, as well as interviews, specials, nostalgia, vet and training advice. Find how you can enjoy the magazine delivered to your door every week, plus options to upgrade your subscription to access our online service that brings you breaking news and reports as well as other benefits. 

Ariat Ascent H2O waterproof paddock boots

I’ll start by saying these Ariat Ascent paddock boots are possibly the best short boots I’ve had. They are unusual in appearance; something between jodhpur boots, trainers and muckers, and not traditionally smart boots. But this may be why they work so well.

They’re made of “mixed materials” rather than leather, which I’d hope will mean they’re not as prone to splitting as some traditional jodhpur boots, and means they can be hosed off when they get dirty. They have a close-fitting neoprene-like material at the ankle, which not only helps with how comfortable the boots are from the first wear; it feels like you’re wearing slippers when you’ve got them on, but also gives them the huge positive that you can muck out in them, including shaking up new bedding, without a single piece of straw ending up inside your boots. That would make them worth buying on their own, in my opinion.

They’re true to size; Ariat helpfully makes half sizes and my feet are between a six and a seven, and the 6½ fitted perfectly. The material they’re made of also means they’re waterproof, and coped perfectly walking across waterlogged fields. These waterproof ones are £10 more than the non-waterproof version but I think the extra is worth it for general yard boots. Ariat also makes Ascent long boots, which I’d be very keen to try given how well these work.

The boots are pricey, and more than I’d usually pay for short boots, but they seem to be worth the money They were used all last summer for riding and yard work every day and the only sign of wear is a slight hole in the top layer of the top of one boot, but as it’s the fabric bit on the top, it doesn’t affect their waterproof-ness or performance. They’re so comfortable, it’s almost like wearing slippers all day. I tested them with the Ariat Ascent half chaps – I thought they fitted well together and would be smart enough for competing.

Verdict

Pricey boots but very comfortable, durable and practical.

View now at ariat.com, amazon.co.uk, equus.co.uk, sportsdirect.com, naylors.com or rideawaystore.com

View the non-waterproof version at ariat.com, amazon.co.uk, rideawaystore.com, naylors.com or sportsdirect.com

Who tested these boots?

Eleanor Jones is Horse & Hound’s news editor. She has two warmblood mares who she competes at British Showjumping events. She has made some exploratory forays into dressage but since her mark sheets have contained phrases such as “unexpected manoeuvre between C and M” and “well sat”, tends to stick to the jumping.

You might also be interested in:

Best short riding boots for riders of all ages and abilities

The best half chaps and gaiters to pair with your favourite short boots

Subscribe to Horse & Hound magazine today – and enjoy unlimited website access all year round

Horse & Hound magazine, out every Thursday, is packed with all the latest news and reports, as well as interviews, specials, nostalgia, vet and training advice. Find how you can enjoy the magazine delivered to your door every week, plus options to upgrade your subscription to access our online service that brings you breaking news and reports as well as other benefits. 

Brogini Trieste laced paddock boots

The Brogini Trieste boots are very, very traditionally smart short boots. They would be suitable for competing in (Brogini also makes leather gaiters) as well as wearing for non-horsey occasions, with the lacing on the front adding to the style. I didn’t have a pair of half chaps or gaiters in a matching colour to test them with, so I tested them with the Brogini Vicenza leather gaiters.

I like the fact they zip up at the back, so there’s no temptation to leave them gaping, as I’ve found before with front-zip boots, and there’s a tab with a popper to make them look tidy. The moulded soles look smart and are very comfortable.

They fit as expected; Brogini does half-sizes, which is handy as my usual 6½ fitted perfectly. They are comfortable and sturdy to ride in, and have spur rests if you need them, which actually I think also adds to the look as they’re where the logo also sits.

I found that they do take some breaking in; they were a bit stiff to start with, although that did not last long, and then felt a bit pinchy for a couple of days, on the top of the foot in one boot and near the toes in the other. Leather boots can take a while to feel comfortable so don’t plan a long dog-walk in them on the first day you’ve had them.

These are not cheap boots, but for a smart pair that could be worn to compete in, do not seem overly expensive.

Verdict

Initial thoughts – beautifully smart boots, but they take some breaking in

View now at amazon.co.uk, rideawaystore.com, equus.co.uk or naylors.com

What is a first look review?

These are our first impressions of a piece of kit or clothing based on spending some time with it. We will have had our hands on it and given it a really thorough going over before trying it on ourselves or our horses and using it. The information we can give you after this first look will give you some sense of what it’s like to use, even if it’s only an initial view. As soon as we’ve given it a more thorough test, we will update the review with a full scoring and additional thoughts – and possibly award it “Horse & Hound Approved” status.

• Find out more about how Horse & Hound tests products

Who tested these boots?

Eleanor Jones is Horse & Hound’s news editor. She has two warmblood mares who she competes at British Showjumping events. She has made some exploratory forays into dressage but since her mark sheets have contained phrases such as “unexpected manoeuvre between C and M” and “well sat”, tends to stick to the jumping.

You might also be interested in:

Best short riding boots for riders of all ages and abilities

Brogini Tivoli Zipped Boots: ‘comfortable and very, very good value’ 9/10

£45

Brogini Vicenza leather gaiters: first look

£59.95

Subscribe to Horse & Hound magazine today – and enjoy unlimited website access all year round

Horse & Hound magazine, out every Thursday, is packed with all the latest news and reports, as well as interviews, specials, nostalgia, vet and training advice. Find how you can enjoy the magazine delivered to your door every week, plus options to upgrade your subscription to access our online service that brings you breaking news and reports as well as other benefits. 

Brogini Vicenza leather gaiters

The Brogini Vicenza leather gaiters are very attractive gaiters, made of lovely supple leather with a soft inside for extra comfort.

They are a different shade of brown to the Brogini Trieste boots I tested them with, which isn’t a problem for riding at home – it would look odd in competition like this, but with a matching colour boot they would definitely be smart enough.

Getting the right size was a bit tricky; I’m usually an XS in leggings but my calves measured 35cm at the widest part (and 42cm from floor to knee) so going by the size guide, I went for the medium.

They fitted, although they were quite tight over the boots, but when being ridden in they seemed to have some excess material that caused some wrinkling. They were comfortable to ride in, but there was some pinching to my leg going on in the stirrup-leather area in canter.

You can use them with spurs, but the spurs had to go on after the chaps, which meant some more wrinkling. I liked the fact they do up from the top down, which is less awkward than the other way round, and there’s a tab with a popper to keep them done up and looking smarter. They’re good value too with an RRP of £59.95.

Verdict

Initial thoughts – very smart and not expensive but the fit could have been better.

View now at rideawaystore.com or equus.co.uk

What is a first look review?

These are our first impressions of a piece of kit or clothing based on spending some time with it. We will have had our hands on it and given it a really thorough going over before trying it on ourselves or our horses and using it. The information we can give you after this first look will give you some sense of what it’s like to use, even if it’s only an initial view. As soon as we’ve given it a more thorough test, we will update the review with a full scoring and additional thoughts – and possibly award it “Horse & Hound Approved” status.

• Find out more about how Horse & Hound tests products

Who tested these boots?

Eleanor Jones is Horse & Hound’s news editor. She has two warmblood mares who she competes at British Showjumping events. She has made some exploratory forays into dressage but since her mark sheets have contained phrases such as “unexpected manoeuvre between C and M” and “well sat”, tends to stick to the jumping.

You might also be interested in:

The best half chaps and gaiters to pair with your favourite short boots

Brogini Tivoli Zipped Boots: ‘comfortable and very, very good value’ 9/10

£45

Subscribe to Horse & Hound magazine today – and enjoy unlimited website access all year round

Horse & Hound magazine, out every Thursday, is packed with all the latest news and reports, as well as interviews, specials, nostalgia, vet and training advice. Find how you can enjoy the magazine delivered to your door every week, plus options to upgrade your subscription to access our online service that brings you breaking news and reports as well as other benefits. 

Ariat Burford Insulated boots

This particular pair of wellington boots have a really smart look – the first time I wore the Ariat Burford boots to the yard everyone noticed and I got quite a few compliments. I’ve been giving them a really thorough test at the yard, but I also wore them with a smart-casual camel-coloured long coat for a walk with friends and to the pub for lunch, and they really looked the part.

The buckle, which is a nice detail, sits over a gusset. If you loosen it to the widest setting it does give you a bit more room if you need it, but I don’t think tightening it to the first hole makes it any tighter.

I found these very easy to get on and fairly easy to get off, too. If you like the sound of these boots, but know you struggle to get wellies on and off, Ariat do have a zipped version of the Ariat Burfords, which I think would be worth a look at. They also do a non-insulated version of the Burford (RRP £125), which is available in a wider range of colours.

One great thing about Ariat boots is that they’re all available in half sizes, which can make all the difference if you’re between sizes. I’m a 4½ – if pushed, I would usually size up in wellies and running trainers, but down in heels and casual shoes – so having the option of a 4½ was great, and they fitted really well. They were comfortable around the calf (I measure 38cm at the widest point with breeches and long socks on). They also sat at a nice height – I’m 5ft3in, but I don’t think they would look abnormally short on anyone taller than me unless you had particularly long legs.

Although I live in wellies, I haven’t had an insulated pair in a while so I was intrigued to see how they fared. The first thing I noticed when walking around in the Ariat Burford boots is that the leg section was quite rigid. This isn’t necessarily a bad thing – I think it depends on what kind of support you want from your boots. I don’t ride in wellies (or recommend it) but the easiest way to explain this is you wouldn’t easily be able to get your heel down or fold them in half. You can comfortably bend down in them, but if you’re looking for boots that are particularly flexible at the ankle then I would recommend reading my review of the Le Chameaus. If you like the support and the feeling of a firmer boot, then these could be for you.

Their first real test came when I wore them for a walk with a friend who is at least a foot taller than me and doesn’t know how to walk slowly. My first thought when I got out the car was that I should have known better and stuck to my trainers – but it wasn’t the driest day and I was really keen to put these wellies to the test. Sure enough, we were out for over an hour and I walked briskly the whole way, jogged to catch on many occasions, and scrambled up a bank.

I felt comfortable and sure-footed throughout the walk – the footbed and the grip did their job. I was pleasantly surprised that not only did these wellies not rub at all on what was only their second wear, but my feet also weren’t that sweaty. I didn’t even think about whether my feet were too warm while I was on the go – they definitely weren’t too cold – so I must have been comfortable as I remember being too warm in my body. My feet were kept at a nice temperature and remained dry – I put this down to the moisture-wicking lining. The tread looks good and has provided good grip so far – but this will have to stand the test of time and I’ll update the review once they’ve had a longer wear.

The label on the boots suggests they have a comfort range of +10°C for low activity to -10°C for high activity. I’ve worn these boots in a range of temperatures, probably down to about -2°C and have not yet felt cold feet.

I’ve since worn these wellies for many months and have found them to be really rather durable. I expect they’d last me a couple of years but the trim is unlikely to look as smart as it did when I first put them on. As for the value, there are plenty of options both more expensive and cheaper – I think these are fairly priced as you get a smart look as well as a good boot.

Verdict

H&H Approved – The Ariat Burford boots are perfect for looking the part and staying comfortable on a country walk.

Who tested these wellies?

Georgia Guerin looks after Horse & Hound’s shopping, fashion and product content. She owns a Norwegian Fjord horse, is at the yard twice a day every day and wellies are her go-to footwear of choice. She was even once stopped by a stranger on Henley high street who commented on how Georgia wore her wellies like a second skin. The shopper then questioned about which wellies she’d recommend – it was her lucky day as this is exactly what Georgia does for her day job.

Find out more about how Horse & Hound tests products

You might also be interested in:

7 pairs of the best wellies we’ve tried, tested and approved

6 of the warmest waterproof wellies with a neoprene shaft

Subscribe to Horse & Hound magazine today – and enjoy unlimited website access all year round

Horse & Hound magazine, out every Thursday, is packed with all the latest news and reports, as well as interviews, specials, nostalgia, vet and training advice. Find how you can enjoy the magazine delivered to your door every week, plus options to upgrade your subscription to access our online service that brings you breaking news and reports as well as other benefits. 

Hy Waterford Winter Country Riding Boots

Welcome to our group test of winter yard boots for riding. All of the boots in this group test have been put through their paces by Jamie and Georgi Broom, with the help of their team at Lakeside Equestrian. Find out what they thought below.

Official description: Hy Waterford Winter Country Riding Boots

The HyLand Waterford winter country riding boots are made with water-repellent oiled leather. They are robust yet lightweight and are lined in a technical fabric for added comfort. They feature a full-length zip at rear and integrated stretch panels on the calf.

In the UK? View now at viovet.co.uk, gsequestrian.co.uk, equus.co.uk or ebay.co.uk

First impressions

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.

Overview of performance

These boots were good for wearing on the yard and in the saddle. Despite having no laces, I found these a really good fit and I liked the zip up the back. I also liked that there was no popper as I find these are prone to breaking. I wore these for going across fields, as well as mucking out and riding — they were really easy to clean and stood up really well to everyday wear. I found them comfortable and very warm.

Georgi’s likes and dislikes

These boots fitted really well, did the job and stayed looking great.

Verdict

*H&H APPROVED* A great pair of boots, and really good value for money

In the UK? View now at viovet.co.uk, gsequestrian.co.uk, equus.co.uk or ebay.co.uk

You might also like:

7 pairs of winter riding boots designed to keep your toes warm

10 pairs of country boots you’d like to be seen in

Subscribe to Horse & Hound magazine today – and enjoy unlimited website access all year round

Horse & Hound magazine, out every Thursday, is packed with all the latest news and reports, as well as interviews, specials, nostalgia, vet and training advice. Find how you can enjoy the magazine delivered to your door every week, plus options to upgrade your subscription to access our online service that brings you breaking news and reports as well as other benefits.

Welcome to our group test of winter yard boots for riding. All of the boots in this group test have been put through their paces by Jamie and Georgi Broom, with the help of their team at Lakeside Equestrian. Find out what they thought below.

Official description

The Ariat Coniston Pro GTX Insulated boots are versatile enough for year-round wear and they tick all the boxes when it comes to fashion, function and comfort. Utilising Ariat’s ATS Pro technology, the Coniston Pro GTX boots support hard-working feet to ensure all-day comfort and reduced foot fatigue both in and out of the saddle. The waterproof full-grain leather and the waterproof, breathable Gore-tex membrane construction keeps you protected from the elements. These boots are packed with features, including a Duratread outsole with rider-tested traction zones, a full-length zip for convenience and front lace system for calf adjustability, as well as featuring 3M Thinsulate insulation, which will keep your feet toasty even in the winter weather. The stirrup-friendly design means they feel just as stable when riding as they do on the ground and the non-bulky design lends itself to schooling, hacking or just looking great out walking.

View at ariat.com

First impressions

These boots looked really lovely — definitely looked as if they would be good for both riding and working on the yard.

Overview of performance

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. I found them quite narrow on the foot, which I think contributed to them being the best to ride in. The only downside I found was that you wouldn’t want to go through wet field with them as water can get in at the laces. Otherwise, they were really tough and hard-wearing.

Georgi’s likes and dislikes

I absolutely love the style — I would say they were more of a fashion and riding boot than yard boot, as they were almost too nice to wear! They were the hardest of all I tested to keep clean, but despite this you can barely tell they’ve been worn — they still look great.

You might also like:

7 pairs of winter riding boots designed to keep your toes warm

10 pairs of country boots you’d like to be seen in

Verdict

*H&H APPROVED* These boots were fantastic and beautiful — I would definitely recommend!

Official description: Brogini Winchester lace-up country boots

The Brogini Winchester lace-up country boots are designed to be a seamless transaction between a riding boot and a country boot — it is 2cm taller than Brogini’s usual country boots to stop the top catching on your saddle. The lace-up sides allow you to adjust the boot easily depending on your choice of legwear and socks, and the foot and ankle is lined with a breathable, waterproof membrane and perspiration-control lining.

Review

I really liked the look of these boots from the moment I saw them. I wore them for riding and yard work and found them to be suitable for both.

They took a while to break in — the leather is quite tough, so not the most comfortable. They fitted well in the foot, but I found they had quite a wide calf for me as I have quite a narrow leg. The were very warm and easy to clean — I just stuck them under the hose and occasionally applied conditioner.

­I really liked the style of these boots and found them quite versatile.

Verdict

These boots are great value and I would recommend them.

View now at amazon.co.uk, viovet.co.uk, rideawaystore.com, equus.co.uk, naylors.com, gooutdoors.co.uk or ebay.co.uk

You might also like:

7 pairs of winter riding boots designed to keep your toes warm

10 pairs of country boots you’d like to be seen in

Subscribe to Horse & Hound magazine today – and enjoy unlimited website access all year round

Horse & Hound magazine, out every Thursday, is packed with all the latest news and reports, as well as interviews, specials, nostalgia, vet and training advice. Find how you can enjoy the magazine delivered to your door every week, plus options to upgrade your subscription to access our online service that brings you breaking news and reports as well as other benefits.

Welcome to our group test of winter yard boots for riding. All of the boots in this group test have been put through their paces by Jamie and Georgi Broom, with the help of their team at Lakeside Equestrian. Find out what they thought below.

Official description

The Dublin River Grain boots are classically styled waterproof and breathable country boots. They feature a full-grain leather upper, RCS (rider comfort system) footbed with heel, arch support and double cushioning layer for great comfort. The breathable nylon lining makes them suitable for wear all year round. They also feature an elastic top gusset and adjustable lace for a comfortable fit.

View at viovet.co.uk

First impressions

These boots looked quite chunky, but like they could be pretty comfortable so I was keen to try them on.

Overview of performance

I found the foot fits well but the calves were quite big and quite rigid. I’ve worn them for everything, but found them too chunky for schooling, especially sharper horses. They 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.

Georgi’s likes and dislikes

I thought the colour was beautiful, and the leather was really good quality. They were so easy to clean. I didn’t find the lace to be adjustable as described, it was more just for show.

You might also like:

7 pairs of winter riding boots designed to keep your toes warm

10 pairs of country boots you’d like to be seen in

Verdict

These are great boots if you’re wearing them predominantly for yard work and light riding.

Welcome to our group test of winter yard boots for riding. All of the boots in this group test have been put through their paces by Jamie and Georgi Broom, with the help of their team at Lakeside Equestrian. Find out what they thought below.

Official description

The Muck Boot Unisex Colt Ryder Tall boots are great in all conditions, keeping you both warm and dry as they as 100% waterproof. The taller stretch top-line keeps cold out, while the air mesh liner with 5mm neoprene ensures air circulation on warmer days. As well as their weather protection, these tall riding boots comfortably pull over the calf and offer great coverage when riding. They also feature a durable outsole, reinforced arch support, a steel shank for structural support and a reflective pull-tab for easy on and off.

View at amazon.co.uk

First impressions

I didn’t like these boots to look at, but I was willing to give them a go.

Overview of performance

These boots were fantastic to wear on the yard. They were really versatile in this respect — ideal for mucking out and walking around fields. I was covering around 15 miles a day in these boots and getting really mucky, but they seemed to last forever. I found them really warm, comfortable and waterproof. I didn’t like wearing these for riding, but for everything else they were ideal — if you need a good pair of warm, welly-type boots, I would go for these over wellies. If I was rating them as purely a yard boot I would give them a 10.

Georgi’s likes and dislikes

I found the calves to be quite large, and I wouldn’t ride in them, but for everything else they were very practical.

You might also like:

7 pairs of winter riding boots designed to keep your toes warm

10 pairs of country boots you’d like to be seen in

Verdict

A great pair of boots on the yard, but I wouldn’t ride in them.

Welcome to our group test of winter riding boots. All of the boots in this group test have been put through their paces by professional event rider Sam Jennings. Find out what she thought below.

Official description

The Ariat Bromont Pro Tall H20 Insulated boots are made with a durable, waterproof, full-grain leather with a suede inner leg panel and a waterproof membrane construction. To keep you warm in the winter months, the boots are made with Primaloft insulation, which is engineered for maximum warmth and comfort, using fibres made with post-consumer recycled materials to make a thermally efficient insulation. The boots has an elegant plaid lining, elasticised panel on the lateral side, elastic gusset on the inside knee and a full length YKK back zipper for added elegance and ease. The Duratread outsole has updated traction zones, rider tested for maximum wear resistance and with the ATS Pro technology, providing comfort and a heightened performance in and out of the saddle, there is no other boot better prepared to get you through the elements.

In the UK? View now at ariat.com, naylors.com or equus.co.uk

In the US? View now at ariat.com

First impressions

These boots just looked lovely!

Overview of performance

Of all the boots I tested, these were the most comfortable to ride in. The fit was great — perfect around the foot, ankle and calf. I would say they were slightly generous on the height, but they will drop slightly with more time. They were both warm and waterproof, so ideal for all types of winter riding. They also had spur rests, which was handy.

Sam’s likes and dislikes

The boots are cushioned on the inside, which was a nice touch for added comfort. They are great value if you can afford them — they are expensive, but performed really well.

You might also like:

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Verdict

*H&H APPROVED* A fantastic pair of boots for all kinds of winter riding!

Welcome to our group test of winter riding boots. All of the boots in this group test have been put through their paces by professional event rider Sam Jennings. Find out what she thought below.

Official description

The Brogini Forte boots have been created to withstand the coldest and wettest winter weather. A waterproof membrane within the foot keeps rain, sleet and snow out whilst the insulated calf and faux fur lining keeps body heat in. The boot has been rigorously tested to ensure maximum durability and the durable sole features a sturdy steel shank to enhance stability when walking and when in the saddle.

View at amazon.co.uk

First impressions

I couldn’t wait to put these boots on! I thought they looked really warm and stylish.

Overview of performance

These boots became my go-to boots for teaching and course walks — I loved them! I have also ridden in them, but preferred to wear them hacking rather than schooling as they were quite thick, which isn’t ideal for finer aids or sharp horses, and the ankle area isn’t as supportive as traditional leather riding boots. They were, however, really comfy to ride in; I’ve worn them loads and they are still looking great.

Sam’s likes and dislikes

I loved how stylish they are, and how comfy. I didn’t mind that they weren’t ideal for top-level schooling as they were so great in every other area. I was also astonished at the price — these boots are fantastic value for money!

You might also like:

7 pairs of winter riding boots designed to keep your toes warm

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Verdict

*H&H APPROVED* If you’re out in the rain and cold, these are the boots for you!

Welcome to our group test of winter riding boots. All of the boots in this group test have been put through their paces by professional event rider Sam Jennings. Find out what she thought below.

Official description

The Dublin Calton boots are made with a full-grain leather upper, and a moisture-wicking RCS footbed system, with heel and arch support. They feature a double cushioning layer for great comfort and breathability and have a breathable nylon patterned lining and durable rubber outer sole. They feature a stylish side buckle for a sophisticated look, a full-length back zip and elasticated hidden stretch panel for perfect fit.

View at amazon.co.uk

First impressions

These boots looked quite “blocky” and workmanlike in style, like a good sturdy pair of winter boots.

Overview of performance

These boots turned out to be a great pair of hard-wearing everyday long riding boots. They had quite a snug fit and kept my feet pretty warm. They had thick soles and were really sturdy, so I was quite happy and comfortable walking around in them, too.

Sam’s likes and dislikes

They were really comfortable. I would recommend these are a good pair of everyday riding boots — they are great value for money.

You might also like:

7 pairs of winter riding boots designed to keep your toes warm

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Verdict

A hard-wearing pair of everyday boots.

Welcome to our group test of winter riding boots. All of the boots in this group test have been put through their paces by professional event rider Sam Jennings. Find out what she thought below.

Official description

The Mountain Horse Snowy River High Rider boots are the perfect winter boots with a fully waterproof construction up to a third of the shaft, and cosy faux fur lining that are sure to keep your feet warm and dry come rain or snow. They also feature a built in steel shank for stability when riding and walking, adjustable strap at the top, removable insole, hidden elastic at the calf for a better fit, back zip with protective cover, ride grip tread for improved contact with stirrups, and non-dirt-collecting outsole.

In the UK? View now at amazon.co.uk

In the US? View now at statelinetack.com or smartpakequine.com

First impressions

These boots looked chunky but smart, had nice detailing, and the lining looked inviting.

Overview of performance

These boots were great in the cold weather — the lining was lovely and the boots were great at keeping my feet warm. They were waterproof and wore really well, and the tread was great for walking around in the snow and ice — although, this is something to consider when you’re riding. The material inside the zip to prevent it catching was also handy.

Sam’s likes and dislikes

These boots came up large, slightly so on the foot, but especially around the calf and ankle. They were also more expensive than I expected.

In the UK? View now at amazon.co.uk

In the US? View now at statelinetack.com or smartpakequine.com

You might also like:

7 pairs of winter riding boots designed to keep your toes warm

16 of the best long leather riding boots for every budget

Verdict

Great for swapping between riding and yard work in winter weather.

Welcome to our new independent group test of short boots for horse riders. All of the boots in this group test have been put through their paces by five-star event rider and BE coach Jo Rimmer. Find out what she thought below.

Official description: Tredstep Medici Front Zip

The latest generation in Tredstep’s Renaissance Collection, the Medici front-zip short riding boot combines high-class European styling and precise elegance with exquisite aniline calfskin leathers giving a timeless edge to unrivalled refinement and enduring comfort. These boots are perfect for schooling and competition.

View now at equus.com

First impressions

These boots looked very smart and were soft to wear from the moment I tried them on. I also thought they were very sturdy, but comfortable to wear around the yard all day.

Overview of performance

These boots were very comfortable and hard wearing to use all day long, but were also very stylish to wear on smart occasions. There were very easy to clean and to look after and the colour didn’t fade at all after multiple cleanings. I was also very impressed at how watertight they were. They gave me 100% comfort without being flimsy.

Likes and dislikes

I really like how soft and comfy these are to wear, plus the fact that they are both practical around the yard while also being very smart for showjumping, dressage and eventing competitions as well as hunting.

Verdict

I would recommend these boots to friends for any discipline. Although not cheap, they are worth the investment.

View now at equus.com

You might also be interested in:

Tredstep Medici Air Half Chap: ‘I barely knew I was wearing them’ 9/10

£119.99

Best short riding boots for riders of all ages and abilities

Subscribe to Horse & Hound magazine today – and enjoy unlimited website access all year round

Horse & Hound magazine, out every Thursday, is packed with all the latest news and reports, as well as interviews, specials, nostalgia, vet and training advice. Find how you can enjoy the magazine delivered to your door every week, plus options to upgrade your subscription to access our online service that brings you breaking news and reports as well as other benefits. 

Welcome to our new independent group test of short boots for horse riders. All of the boots in this group test have been put through their paces by five-star event rider and BE coach Jo Rimmer. Find out what she thought below.

Official description: Brogini Tivoli

The Brogini Tivoli Zipped Boots are elegantly designed short paddock boots that are hand-crafted from the finest leather. These boots are extremely soft allowing them to quickly mould to the shape of the foot. The anti-slip grip rubber sole is hard wearing and long lasting. These boots are created with a front zip and elasticated side panels for ease of use.

In the UK? View now at amazon.co.uk, viovet.co.uk, naylors.com, equus.co.uk, sportsdirect.com or gooutdoors.co.uk 

First impressions

I really liked the style of these boots, which reminded me of a very popular brand but with a much smaller price tag. They were really comfy from the moment I tried them on and I like the single zip.

Overview of performance

These boots didn’t take long at all to wear in, had a good fit and didn’t rub anywhere. I also found that they worked really well under any type of half chaps. They were secure and comfortable in the stirrups as well as being sturdy while wearing around the yard. I have worn them all day nearly everyday, they have needed minimal looking after and have not split anywhere.

Likes and dislikes

I really like the style and the fact they are very good to wear around the yard, but also look good at competition. If I had a complaint, it is that they are not particularly warm and my feet did get quite cold on chiller days.

Verdict

These boots are very, very good value for money, and are suitable to be worn anywhere by anyone.

You might also like:

Best short riding boots for riders of all ages and abilities

The best half chaps and gaiters to pair with your favourite short boots

Subscribe to Horse & Hound magazine today – and enjoy unlimited website access all year round

Horse & Hound magazine, out every Thursday, is packed with all the latest news and reports, as well as interviews, specials, nostalgia, vet and training advice. Find how you can enjoy the magazine delivered to your door every week, plus options to upgrade your subscription to access our online service that brings you breaking news and reports as well as other benefits.

Welcome to our new independent group test of short boots for horse riders. All of the boots in this group test have been put through their paces by five-star event rider and BE coach Jo Rimmer. Find out what she thought below.

Official description

The Kendron Pro Paddock boot is part of the iconic collection of short boots created by Ariat. A slightly varied twist on other styles, the Kendron Pro Paddock is made from a premium calf leather upper with leather lining and includes a European-inspired double zip functionality with high quality YKK zippers and a rounded square toe with plain toe cap for a classic and elegant look. Additional features include a padded collar at the topline, a dual stretch gore fit system and a leather spur rest. Utilising ATS Pro technology and a Duratread outsole with rider tested traction zones, the Kendron Pro Paddock provides long-lasting support, comfort and stability in and out of the saddle.

View at ariat.com

First impressions

I was a bit skeptical at first about the two zips as this wasn’t what I have used in the past. They did look very comfortable and durable.

Overview of performance

These boots were very comfortable as the combination of the soft sole and the flexible leather meant they didn’t need any wearing in and lasted well. The two zips made them stylish, but were as quick to take on and off as a one zip would be.

Likes and dislikes

I really like how comfortable they are from the off and yet they still tough enough to do the job. They are quite expensive though.

NB: These boots were paired with the half chaps below for testing purposes.

Ariat Kendron Half-Chap: ‘these earnt lots of admirers’ 10/10

Find out how international event rider Jo Rimmer rated these half chaps in Horse & Hound’s group test

£150

Verdict

I had so many complements on how smart and professional they look, particularly when they are combined with the chaps.

Welcome to our new independent group test of short boots for horse riders. All of the boots in this group test have been put through their paces by five-star event rider and BE coach Jo Rimmer. Find out what she thought below.

Official description

Made from full grain European leather, the Dublin Evolution Double Zip Front Paddock Boots feature a luxuriously comfortable RCS memory foam PU foot-bed for ultimate comfort and moulded side wall for extra ankle support and protection. The Leather lining and hard wearing double YKK zip provide durability and easy access, while the rubber outsole is designed for grip and endurance. They are finished with a leather branded pull.

View at amazon.co.uk

First impressions

A smart looking boot and I was looking forward to using the duel zip design. I was also interested to find out how the leather was going to stand up to wear.

Overview of performance

These proved to be a smart pair of boots that stood up to hard everyday use well. I did find the leather quite hard to start with but once they had been worn a few times, they broke in well. I also found the double zip fitted more comfortably than a traditionally designed single fastening would. They remained waterproof throughout the test period and kept my feet warm on the colder mornings.

Likes and dislikes

I liked how comfortable and smart these boots are, plus how well they coped with everyday use. I thought they were great value.

NB: These boots were paired with the half chaps below for testing purposes.

Dublin Evolution Rear Zip Half Chaps: ‘smart and good value’ 8/10

Find out how international event rider Jo Rimmer rated these half chaps in Horse & Hound’s group test

£74.99

Verdict

These are a great value pair of boots that are comfortable, hard wearing and smart

Welcome to our new independent group test of short boots for horse riders. All of the boots in this group test have been put through their paces by five-star event rider and BE coach Jo Rimmer. Find out what she thought below.

Official description

The Paddock Boots Venezia from Felix Bühler are sporty paddock boots in full-grain Italian cowhide. The footbed is very comfortable thanks to the Comfort Footbed Technology, which includes several insole layers and an intricate outer sole, and provides a great grip in the stirrups as well as excellent impact protection. The sole and the uppers are sewn together, while the lining is made of soft pigskin. The back zip makes it simple to get the boots on and off fast. Made in Europe.

First impressions

These boots looked so smart and sophisticated. I felt that they could definitely be worn at the smartest events when the rider wants to look their best.

Overview of performance

These were really comfortable, especially in the sole. They were flexible and didn’t need any wearing in. They also fitted really nicely. I did find that the laces mean they take up some time to put on, but once on they were great.

Likes and dislikes

I like how smart and comfortable these are. They were great when walking around at events. I thought they were almost too smart to use a simple yard boot.

Verdict

They are very smart and comfortable. I would suggest keeping them for competition use. They look very smart to walk around in too.

Welcome to our new independent group test of short boots for horse riders. All of the boots in this group test have been put through their paces by five-star event rider and BE coach Jo Rimmer. Find out what she thought below.

Official description

The Balmoral leather paddock/riding boots from Premier Equine is a refined modern take on the classic ‘Chelsea’ boot. The elegant close ankle fit provides support to the ankle and the sole is shaped to offer arch support. The front zip function provides ease of use, while sleek ergonomic cut side elastic allows for flexibility and comfort.

First impressions

These boots looked smart with a lovely fit and were comfortable to wear everyday.

Overview of performance

These boots had a really good padded ankle and cushioned sole at the back that made them comfortable to wear without affecting my movement off the horse or my feeling when on the horse. They fitted really well and didn’t rub at all.

Likes and dislikes

I liked how padded and comfortable they were and how well they worked with the Premier Equine half chaps. The boots I tried were quite a light brown and so might be difficult to match with a different brand of half chap that is a different shade.

NB: These boots were paired with the half chaps below for testing purposes.

Premier Equine Windsor Ladies’ Half Chaps: ‘stylish and very flexible’ 7/10

Find out how international event rider Jo Rimmer rated these half chaps in Horse & Hound’s independent group test

£59.99

Verdict

These boots are comfortable, hardwearing and do exactly what they need to.

Welcome to our group test of country boots. All of the boots in this group test have been put through their paces by event rider and BHSII Lisa Spence. Find out what she thought below.

Ariat’s official description

Versatile enough for all-year-round wear, the Coniston Pro GTX Insulated boots support hard-working feet to ensure all-day comfort and reduced foot fatigue both in and out of the saddle. The premium, waterproof full-grain leather and the waterproof, breathable GORE-TEX membrane construction keeps you protected from the elements. These boots are packed with features, such as a Duratread outsole with rider tested traction zones, a full length YKK back zipper for convenience and front lace system for calf adjustability as well as featuring 3M Thinsulate insulation, which will keep your feet toasty even in the winter weather. The stirrup-friendly design means they feel just as stable when horse riding as they do on the ground and the non-bulky design lends itself to schooling, hacking or just looking great out walking.

View at ariat.com

Lisa’s first impressions

Wow! I loved the look of these boots.

Overview of performance

These boots were really great, comfy and supportive. I teach and ride all day and didn’t take them off from dawn till dusk.

Lisa’s likes and dislikes

The only negative I could find was that the zips slipped down while I was jumping one of my horses. And the price.

Verdict

I loved these boots, but wouldn’t be able to afford to buy a pair myself.

Welcome to our group test of country boots. All of the boots in this group test have been put through their paces by event rider and BHSII Lisa Spence. Find out what she thought below.

Caldene’s official description

The Buckland long waxed leather boots have a Sympatex waterproof membrane in the foot area, with fully taped seams, ensuring feet stay warm and dry. The boots have fully elasticated calves with full length side zips for a perfect fit, while the removable canbrelle insole and rubber sole provide extra comfort and support. These stunning boots are finished with an Oxford styled toe, and knee gaiter with a subtle embossed Caldene logo.

Lisa’s first impressions

I liked the colour of the boot when first seeing them and was impressed with the design.

Overview of performance

I’m really chuffed with these boots. They are comfy and practical when worn all day grooming at events.

Lisa’s likes and dislikes

My only dislike was having a zip and a buckle to do up made them a little more time consuming to put on than some of the other boots in the group test

Verdict

I would definitely recommend these, they are a great pair of boots.

Welcome to our group test of country boots. All of the boots in this group test have been put through their paces by event rider and BHSII Lisa Spence. Find out what she thought below.

HKM’s official description

The Belmond boot is breathable and water repellent thanks to its oiled leather. It also includes a waterproof membrane for the entire foot area to ensure your feet stay dry. Additionally these boots feature a hard wearing non-slip, waterproof sole, plus soft padding and a fur lining for maximum comfort and warmth.

View at amazon.co.uk

Lisa’s first impressions

These boots looked smart and good for going to events in.

Overview of performance

These boots were brilliant and suitable to wear frequently. They are a good smart pair of boots to walk around in all day.

Lisa’s likes and dislikes

These boots are really comfortable, although the laces have a tendency to become untied.

Verdict

I would recommend these smart boots as they are comfortable to walk around in all day.

Welcome to our group test of country boots. All of the boots in this group test have been put through their paces by event rider and BHSII Lisa Spence. Find out what she thought below.

Rhinegold’s official description

Made from waxy leather with a suede cuff and drawstring detail, the Rhinegold Brooklyn country boots are great for everyday wear at the yard, out in the country or around town. They are designed to combine great style with performance. These boots have a subtle calf gusset to allow a more individual fit and improved comfort, plus Rhinegold embossed branding to the side of the heel. They have a durable yet lightweight, non-slip energy return rubber sole.

View at amazon.co.uk

Lisa’s first impressions

I thought these were a smart pair of boots, although they look slightly cumbersome.

Overview of performance

I found these boots quite heavy to walk in and there are not waterproof. The insole was good and it stopped the lining coming out.

Lisa’s likes and dislikes

These boots are smart enough to wear at events, but I was disappointed they let water in.

Verdict

I would recommend these boots for casual wear as they are comfy and smart

Welcome to our group test of country boots. All of the boots in this group test have been put through their paces by event rider and BHSII Lisa Spence. Find out what she thought below.

Brogini’s official description

The calf of the Brogini Derbyshire country boots are crafted from a soft and flexible synthetic leather, which needs minimal aftercare and provides a water resistant barrier, while the foot is made from a natural nubuck leather. The Derbyshire boots are fully waterproof up to the middle of the calf thanks to a specially engineered waterproof membrane and waterproof insole. They have been thoroughly tested to ensure your feet stay dry even in the wettest weather. They are available in both children and adults sizes.

View at amazon.co.uk

Lisa’s first impressions

Quite smart and I really liked the individual two tone design.

Overview of performance

Not suitable for all day wear as I found they were rather uncomfortable.

Lisa’s likes and dislikes

I found them too tight at the toe and too hard at heel.

Verdict

I couldn't recommend these to a friend as I found them uncomfortable.

Welcome to our new group test of waterproof Wellington-style boots. All of the boots in this group test have been put through their paces by international event rider and BE coach Jo Rimmer. Find out what she thought below.

Le Chameau’s official description

The Vierzon jersey lined boot is an iconic field and country tall rubber boot. Handcrafted from natural rubber, it has a polycotton, tartan patterned jersey lining making the boots comfortable for use in warmer seasons. The boots feature an adjustable waterproof gusset with snap-fastening buckle to ensure a comfortable fit around the calf and leg. The shock absorbing dual-density grip outsole prevents fatigue, resists abrasion and is suitable for all terrains.

View at philipmorrisdirect.co.uk

Jo’s first impressions

As soon as I saw these boots I thought they looked very sophisticated and stylish.

Overview of performance

Overall, these boots were excellent for me. They were very comfortable to wear around the yard and especially when I was walking cross-country courses while out eventing.

Jo’s likes and dislikes

They were quite thin which made them very flexible and cool in the hot weather, but also meant I felt they did not offer the greatest support.

Verdict

I would definitely recommend the Le Chameau Vierzon jersey lined boot to a friend

Welcome to our new group test of waterproof Wellington-style boots. All of the boots in this group test have been put through their paces by international event rider and BE coach Jo Rimmer. Find out what she thought below.

Caldene’s official description

The Caldene Westfield Wellington is ideal to keep your feet warm and dry during those cold winter months and wet summers. This unisex neoprene wellington boot has a 3mm neoprene lining for the ultimate levels of comfort no matter how many hours you spend stood in a muddy field. The textured, embossed matte finish will add a sense of style to your winter outfit. A steel shank ensures many years of support.

View at amazon.co.uk

Jo’s first impressions

Not the sort of boot I would naturally go for in terms of the colour and overall look, but they do look high quality.

Overview of performance

Excellent, these boots have lasted really well, they are very comfortable and have kept my feet very warm without causing them to sweat.

Jo’s likes and dislikes

I was really impressed by these boot and am struggling to fault them, although I found the sizing came up quite wide so would suggest ordering a size down if your feet are narrow.

Verdict

These boots were great value, comfortable and tough