H&H loves: Ariat Volant boots
In the latest update of our occasional series in which H&H staff talk about products they simply couldn't live without, H&H editor Lucy Higginson explains why she has fallen in love with her Ariat Volant long riding boots
My last pair of long riding boots were a wedding present from my uncle, and my 10th anniversary was some time ago! They are proper old-fashioned, tough-as-can-be leather, and still go hunting regularly.
But I long ago gave them up for day-to-day riding, preferring instead to wear more flexible boots and half chaps. Then I was persauded to try some of the relatively new Ariat Volant boots — close-fitting riding boots with a rear zip and what appears to be ‘trainer technology’ in the construction of the foot.
There were some panics in the first few weeks as they took a while to stretch and mould to my less than svelte calves, giving me some crampy twinges. But thereafter they have fitted like a second skin, and once I’m off the horse, I can run around in them as comfortably as I can in my Nikes.
I am addicted now to the close feeling fit around my ankle and foot — which seems to increase the connection with the horse — and fear I have not put my half chaps on once since acquiring these.
While I wouldn’t wade through mud in them as I would my hunting boots, I love to the comfort and feel of them on a horse.
Ariat Volant boots fact file
Brand: Ariat
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Product: Volant tall riding boots (rear zip)
Colour: Black
Sizes: 3-8.5
RRP: £395
Do you have a pair of long riding boots that you really rate? Tell us about your favourites via the comments box below…
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Lucy edited Horse & Hound from March 2002 until June 2014 and never had a dull day. She events (very badly) for fun, hunts whenever she can, and has written on topics ranging from embryo transfer to fall simulators. She’s reported from the 2006 Aachen World Equestrian Games and 2011 European Eventing Championships.