Winter riding boots guide
Riders spend most of their free time with their horse in the stable – regardless of the weather conditions. The cold and wet conditions in winter put special demands on footwear. Warm feet are particularly important for one’s own well-being, but the relevant safety aspects for riding and handling the horse must also be maintained. Winter riding boots address all these special needs, even in extreme weather conditions.
Lined competition riding boots and winter riding boots – what is the difference?
Winter riding boots can be divided into two different groups. Here you will find an overview of how the two types differ and which boot is best suited to your individual needs:
| Lined competition riding boot | Winter riding boot | |
|---|---|---|
| Suitability | Dressage work | Hacking and cross country |
| Outer material | Leather- or imitation leather | Mostly nylon with (synthetic) leather shoe |
| Lining | Fleece, wool, sheepskin or synthetic fur | Puffed polyester lining |
| Features | The light lining keeps out the cold but still allows close contact with the horse | The waterproof underboot reliably protects against wetness, while the thick lining keeps comfortably warm |
5 points to look out for when buying winter riding boots
1) Good thermal insulation protects the rider from freezing feet and lower legs. The following factors should be taken into account:
- Inner lining: Sheepskin has the best warming function, but is more expensive than e.g. teddy fleece (synthetic fleece lining)
- Sole: The thicker the sole, the more distance you have from the cold ground
2) The boots should be highly waterproof so that the feet stay pleasantly dry even in snow and wet conditions.
3) A non-slip treaded sole with a heel ensures a secure grip – both in the stirrup and in slippery ground conditions
4) Good visibility thanks to reflective strips
5) Enough space in the boot: In winter, people like to wear thicker socks or lined winter riding breeches. This should be taken into account when buying and the boot should be bought one size larger if necessary.