How to Choose Riding Boots?
Updated: June 2026 · Rincón del Valle Team
How to choose riding boots?
To choose riding boots, four aspects are considered: type (tall boots, paddock boots + half chaps, country boots), material (genuine leather or synthetic), correct sizing (foot length and calf circumference for tall boots), and intended use (beginner, training, competition).
Boot type
Tall boots reach the knee and are common in formal dressage and show jumping. Paddock boots with half chaps are more versatile and economical. Country boots are more informal, suitable for endurance riding and recreational use.
Material
Genuine leather molds with use, is breathable, and lasts for years with maintenance. Synthetic (PU) is more economical, waterproof from day one, and requires minimal care. For beginners, synthetic works well.
Sizing
Foot length in centimeters as a base. For tall boots, calf circumference is crucial. Each brand has its own chart. It is advisable to measure at the end of the day.
Discipline and use
Dressage or show: polished leather tall boots. Advanced jumping: tall boots with anatomical shaft. Daily training: any option. Endurance riding or recreational use: country boots or paddock boots.
Related resources
Extended information
Leather or synthetic
Genuine leather offers better aging, progressive fit, and greater durability. Modern synthetic materials better resist rain, mud, and chemicals, and are easier to maintain. For intense outdoor recreational use, synthetic is a valid alternative. For formal competition, leather remains the standard.
Care
Boots should be stored upright with wooden or plastic boot trees inside, in a dry place away from direct sunlight. Stored folded, they wrinkle and are irreversibly damaged. If they get wet, stuff them with paper and let them dry at room temperature. Leather should be cleaned with glycerine soap, not household soap.
Frequently asked questions
How long do riding boots last?
With regular use and maintenance, a good leather boot lasts 4-8 years. Synthetics last slightly less.
Can they be washed with water?
Yes, with a damp cloth and glycerine soap. Do not submerge them. If they get wet, dry them at room temperature with paper inside.
Should I buy the exact size or with some room?
The exact size, with room for a technical sock. Boots with excessive room do not provide proper support.
