Yeehaw, partner! Welcome to the wild and wonderful world of cowboy boots fit for riding horses like a true Texan. If you’re looking to up your equestrian game, then you’ve come to the right corral.
Here in the Lone Star State, we take our cowboy boots seriously, and we reckon there ain’t nothing better than a pair of trusty boots to keep you comfortable and in control while taming those magnificent beasts.
Now, when it comes to choosing the perfect pair of cowboy boots for riding horseback, there are a few key factors you gotta consider.
We ain’t talking about just any old boots you can find at the local store; we’re talking about the cream of the crop, the best of the best.
From the material they’re made of to the design and construction, each element plays a crucial role in providing you with the optimal blend of style, durability, and functionality.
In this here article, we’re gonna guide you through the intricate process of choosing the right cowboy boots for riding horses.
We’ll mosey on down the trail and provide you with all the tips and tricks you need to make an informed decision that’ll have you riding high in the saddle.
Plus, we’ve rounded up 7 of the finest cowboy boots out there, handpicked by our expert wranglers, to give you a taste of the finest footwear available on the market.
So, whether you’re a seasoned cowboy looking to replace your worn-out boots or a greenhorn just starting out, saddle up and get ready for a wild ride through our expert recommendations.
From the sturdy leathers to the intricate stitching and the comfort features that’ll have your feet singing with joy, we’ve got it all covered.
Don’t you worry, pardner, we’re here to make sure you’re armed with all the knowledge you need to make a wise investment in a pair of cowboy boots that’ll make you feel like a true Texan.
So, pull up a chair, grab yourself a cold beverage, and let’s dig in. It’s time to wrangle yourself the best cowboy boots for riding horses and embark on an unforgettable journey of comfort, style, and Texas pride. Let’s ride!
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What are the Best Cowboy Boots for Riding Horses?
Well, when it comes to finding the best cowboy boots for riding horses, we need to focus on one crucial factor: the harmony between the boots and the saddle stirrups. This here ensures both comfort and safety for riders.
Nowadays, there’s a whole mess of cowboy boot options out there, and it’s easy to get overwhelmed. But fear not, my friend. Stick with me, and I’ll give you some straightforward instructions to help you out:
These instructions are based on the sage advice of Kenny Stone – a true cowboy and professional horse trainer with years of experience. Kenny knows his way around cowboy boots and spurs like nobody’s business!
Kenny reached out to us one fine November day, sharing his invaluable insights. We owe him a big thanks for his wisdom! In case you stumble upon this article, Kenny, we appreciate you!
Narrow Toe Shape (Round Toe, Snip Toe, or Pointed Toe)
First and foremost, cowboy boots ought to have a narrow toe shape, making it easier to slide your foot in and out of the stirrup. That’s why you should opt for cowboy boots with round toes or pointed toes.
Whether you’re mounting or dismounting, you want your boots to cooperate with you. That’s why traditional cowboy boots come with round or pointed toes. You see, the original purpose of cowboy boots was to support cowboys while riding.
Nowadays, you’ll find some cowboy boots with snip toes and square toes (or broad square toes).
Snip toes are alright since they have a narrow end. However, if you fancy square toe boots, make sure you give them a try to see if they slip in and out of the stirrup easily before you commit.
By the way, I myself like cowboy boots with a narrow toe shape and a slight curl-up. These features help me slide my feet into the stirrup easily.
Slippery Outsoles
The next important thing to consider is cowboy boots with slippery outsoles. And when it comes to outsoles, leather is the way to go.
Leather soles have a smooth surface that glides into the stirrup like a dream! That right there is crucial!
As I mentioned before, the goal is to achieve perfect harmony between your boots and the saddle stirrup. Leather sole cowboy boots make that happen!
Think about it, when you’re jumping on a horse, you need your feet to slip right into the stirrup, and vice versa. Smooth transition is key. There ain’t nothing worse or more dangerous than getting your cowboy boots stuck in the stirrup.
These days, many folks lean towards rubber sole cowboy boots due to their shock absorption, durability, and anti-slip properties. Rubber soles sure make walking, working, or standing all day more comfortable.
However, when it comes to horseback riding, leather soles should be your top choice. At the very least, go for rubber soles that provide enough slip.
Some folks still wear cowboy boots with rubber soles for riding, but you have to be extra cautious with your step!
Suitable Heel Style (High and Slanted)
Now, when you’re browsing through those e-commerce sites, you’ll come across a whole bunch of cowboy boot styles. Brands these days mix and match so much that it can give a newbie quite a headache!
One key feature to look out for when trying to identify a cowboy boot style is the heel! A slanted heel, standing at around 2 inches, is your best bet. We call this style the riding heel!
Why is the heel so important for riding horses? Well, it keeps your feet from slipping forward and out of the stirrup. That little nook in the heel helps the stirrup hook in securely, preventing any unwanted slippage.
Safety is the name of the game, and that’s why cowboy boots have heels in the first place.
In fact, many riders prefer placing the ball of their foot gently on the stirrup bar. It helps with balance and stability while riding. But you never know when something unexpected might happen, and your feet slip forward too much!
You might come across a variety of heel styles these days. Besides riding heels, you’ll find walking heels, stockman heels, roper heels, and more.
However, if you pay attention, you’ll notice that the main shape of a cowboy boot heel is blocky and slanted.
When it comes to riding horses, stick with a slanted heel. The ideal height should be around 1 ¾ inches, 2 inches, or 2 ¼ inches.
Some folks still wear cowboy boots with block-shaped heels for riding (I’ve seen it on YouTube).
I ain’t entirely sure about that, but if you decide to go that route, make sure you know what you’re doing or have proper guidance from an instructor.
Holding Up Well
Now, when it comes to cowboy boots, you’ll want to go for ones with a traditional height, usually around 11 inches to 14 inches, and a fit that snugly wraps around your calf.
I got myself a pair of cowboy boots where the leather hugs my calves just right—neither too tight nor too loose.
I love how they look, and they go mighty fine with my jeans. Plus, a proper fit ensures that cowboy boots hold up well.
It just makes sense. You can’t be riding a horse with boots that keep slipping off your feet.
Remember, your cowboy boots should also fit snugly around the instep, which is mighty important for keeping your feet in place.
In general, there are quite a few things to consider when it comes to the fit of cowboy boots. You can find more details right here!
Spurs (optional)
Press and release, press and release, and press and release! That’s how a cowboy uses spurs to communicate with a horse, coaxing it to spin, bend, or make other moves.
But let me tell you, a real cowboy knows how to ride a horse all day without ever touching the horse with a spur.
These days, not too many folks use spurs anymore, so they’re considered optional!
What Kind of Boots Should I Wear for Horse Riding?
When it comes to riding horses, cowboy boots with riding, buckaroo, or roper style are your best bet!
Just like I mentioned earlier, look for cowboy boots with slippery outsoles, a decent height (over 1.75 inches) and a slanted heel, and a narrow toe shape (pointed toe or round toe).
Now, roper heels may not have the same height, but they’re still suitable for riding.
By choosing the right boots, you ensure that they’ll easily slide in and out of the stirrup, keeping your feet from sliding forward too much or slipping out of the saddle stirrup.
Of course, you might come across other types of cowboy boots that people use for riding, like stockman boots with block heels measuring around 1 or 1 ½ inches, square toe shapes, and non-slip outsoles. But honestly, you’re gonna face a whole lot of trouble and won’t get the best riding experience.
So there you have it, pardner! Follow these guidelines, and you’ll be strapping on the perfect pair of cowboy boots for your horse riding adventures.
Happy trails!
7 Best Cowboy Boots for Riding Horses
Now we come to 7 awesome cowboy boots for true cowgirls and true cowboys.
Choose the best, coolest boots to help you tame fastidious horses!
1. The Quintin from Tecovas
Let us introduce The Quintin, an exceptional cowboy boot that not only exudes rugged style but is also well-equipped to handle the demands of horseback riding with utmost comfort and functionality.
Constructed with a shark hide vamp and counter, The Quintin offers a durable and resilient exterior that can withstand the rigors of equestrian activities.
The shark hide material provides enhanced protection and durability, making it ideal for riders who require boots capable of withstanding the challenges of the saddle.
Featuring a round toe, The Quintin maintains a classic cowboy boot shape that ensures ample room for your toes and a comfortable fit throughout your rides.
The round toe design allows for natural movement and flexibility, preventing discomfort or restrictions while in the stirrups.
With its 12″ shaft height, The Quintin offers excellent leg coverage and support. This height helps protect your lower legs from potential scrapes, scratches, or other hazards you may encounter during your rides.
The 1 ½” angled heel of The Quintin is specifically designed to provide optimal stability and control while in the saddle.
This heel height allows your feet to comfortably rest in the stirrups, preventing your foot from sliding forward and ensuring a secure grip.
The Quintin boots feature a leather sole that provides a smooth surface, allowing for easy and effortless sliding into the stirrups. This unique characteristic enhances the rider’s ability to mount and dismount their horse with ease.
The leather outsole’s durability and flexibility enable ease of movement and facilitate effective communication with your horse through subtle shifts and cues.
Built with a Goodyear welt construction, The Quintin ensures long-lasting performance and the ability to be resoled when necessary.
This feature adds to the boot’s longevity, allowing you to enjoy its exceptional qualities for years to come.
2. Ariat Men’s Sport Square Toe Western Cowboy Boot
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Saddle up with confidence and style with the Ariat Men’s Sport Square Toe Western Cowboy Boot, a true companion for riders seeking comfort and performance.
Crafted with 100% leather, these boots are designed to excel in the equestrian world, offering features that make them a top choice for horseback riding.
The narrow square toe design not only adds a touch of Western charm but also provides ample room for your toes, ensuring a comfortable fit while riding.
The high shaft offers just the right amount of support, keeping your lower legs protected without hindering your mobility.
When it comes to riding, traction and stability are paramount. The Ariat Men’s Sport Square Toe Western Cowboy Boot is equipped with an oil and slip-resistant Duratread outsole.
This advanced outsole technology provides excellent grip on various surfaces, allowing you to confidently navigate through different terrains and maintain control over your horse.
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Ariat’s commitment to innovation is evident in the incorporation of their 4LR technology into these boots.
The 4-layer footbed provides all-day comfort and reduces fatigue during long rides. This technology ensures proper alignment and support, allowing you to focus on the ride without distractions.
The durability of these boots is unparalleled. Constructed with a full-grain leather foot and upper, they can withstand the demands of horseback riding and daily wear.
The reinforced pull holes not only make it easy to slip these boots on and off but also add to their overall durability, ensuring they can withstand the rigors of your equestrian adventures.
Ariat is a brand known for its commitment to performance, comfort, and durability. When you choose Ariat, you’re choosing a brand that understands the unique needs of riders.
3. ARIAT Women’s Round Up Square Toe
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Here comes the ARIAT Women’s Round Up Square Toe, a stunning combination of style and functionality that will elevate your horseback riding experience.
Crafted with 100% leather, these boots are designed to withstand the rigors of riding while keeping you comfortable and supported.
The 11.5″ shaft height provides excellent support and protection for your lower legs, ensuring a secure fit while riding.
The narrow square-toe design offers ample room for your toes, promoting comfort and preventing any pinching or discomfort during long rides.
ARIAT’s 4LR technology takes center stage in these boots, providing superior support and cushioning for your feet.
With each step, you’ll feel the stability and comfort that this innovative technology offers, allowing you to focus on your riding performance without distractions.
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The rich texture of the leather adds a touch of elegance, while the synthetic air mesh lining promotes breathability, keeping your feet cool and dry even during intense riding sessions.
The traditional six-row stitch pattern adds a classic Western touch to these boots, showcasing attention to detail and craftsmanship.
Not only do they look stylish, but they also boast the durability to withstand the demands of riding.
The ARIAT Women’s Round Up Square Toe is equipped with a Duratread outsole, providing excellent traction and stability on various surfaces.
This advanced outsole technology offers exceptional wear resistance, ensuring that your boots can handle the challenges of riding while offering flexibility and comfort.
Whether you’re a seasoned rider or just starting out, the ARIAT Women’s Round Up Square Toe is an ideal choice for equestrian enthusiasts.
From its supportive 4LR technology to its durable leather construction and stylish design, these boots offer the perfect blend of comfort, style, and functionality.
Experience the difference that ARIAT brings to the table with their dedication to innovation and performance.
Ride with confidence and grace in the ARIAT Women’s Round Up Square Toe, knowing that you have the best gear to support your equestrian adventures.
Choose quality, choose style, and choose ARIAT for your riding needs.
4. The Earl from Tecovas
The Earl Cowboy Boots are not only stylish but also designed with the needs of riders in mind.
The 1 ⅛” stacked leather heel with a rubber end cap provides the perfect balance between height and stability.
This feature allows riders to maintain a secure and comfortable position in the stirrups, promoting better control and balance while riding.
The ¾ Goodyear welt construction enhances the durability and longevity of these boots, making them reliable for long hours in the saddle.
With reinforced pull straps, The Earl Cowboy Boots allow for easy on and off, saving riders valuable time and effort.
The shorter 10″ shaft reduces bulkiness around the calf, preventing interference with leg movement and providing greater flexibility while riding.
While the vamp and shaft of The Earl Cowboy Boots are left unadorned, the focus is on the premium materials used.
The fine calfskin, bovine, or goat leather options not only exude quality but also offer a smooth and comfortable feel against the horse’s sides, reducing friction and discomfort during extended rides.
Whether you’re on the ranch or hitting the trails, The Earl Cowboy Boots are a reliable and stylish choice for riders.
They provide the necessary stability, grip, and comfort to enhance your riding experience and keep you at ease in the saddle.
5. The Sadie from Tecovas
The Sadie, a stunning cowgirl boot that effortlessly combines style and functionality, making it a fantastic choice for horseback riding adventures.
With its 11″ shaft height, The Sadie offers excellent leg coverage and support, providing a protective barrier against brush, debris, and the elements during your rides.
Featuring a snip toe, The Sadie adds a touch of flair to the classic cowgirl boot silhouette.
The snip toe design not only enhances its fashionable appeal but also allows for increased flexibility and freedom of movement while riding.
The Sadie boasts a 2″ leather-wrapped angled heel, specifically designed to provide stability and balance in the stirrups.
The heel’s leather wrapping adds a stylish touch, while its lighter weight ensures optimal comfort, allowing you to spend more time on the saddle.
Embellished with a retro-inspired stitching pattern on the 11″ shaft, The Sadie exudes a timeless charm that captures the essence of classic western style.
The stitching details add a subtle yet distinctive element to the boot’s overall design.
Constructed with high-quality materials, The Sadie offers multiple options to suit your preferences.
From supple bovine leather to luxurious suede and exotic Varanus salvator lizard leather, each variation presents its own unique aesthetic appeal.
The handcrafted construction incorporates a ¾ Goodyear welt, enhancing the boot’s durability and allowing for potential resoling when needed.
Experience the perfect blend of style, comfort, and craftsmanship with The Sadie. Whether you’re riding through open fields or stepping onto the dance floor, these boots will accompany you with confidence and elegance.
6. The Prescott from Tecovas
The Prescott, a remarkable riding boot that combines timeless style with exceptional functionality. Crafted with care and precision, these boots are designed to enhance your horseback riding experience.
The elongated 13 ½” bovine shaft of The Prescott provides excellent coverage and support, ensuring optimal stability and protection while riding.
The reinforced pull holes make it effortless to slip into these boots, allowing you to get in the saddle quickly.
One of the standout features of The Prescott is its butyl-treated leather sole.
This specially treated sole offers exceptional toughness and durability, making it resistant to wear and tear even during rigorous riding activities.
The Prescott’s butyl-treated leather sole offers a smooth surface, allowing riders’ boots to easily slide into the stirrups for effortless mounting and dismounting.
This smoothness enhances the rider’s experience by providing ease of movement and flexibility while riding.
In addition to the smooth butyl-treated leather sole, The Prescott’s round toe design further facilitates easy slipping into the stirrups.
The round toe provides a comfortable fit and allows for quick and effortless placement of the foot in the stirrup, ensuring a smooth and hassle-free riding experience.
The 2″ pitched riding heel with a spur ledge is a key element of these boots. It offers the perfect height and positioning for comfortable and effective use of spurs, allowing you to communicate with your horse with precision and control.
Comfort is paramount, and The Prescott delivers with a removable polyurethane insole. This cushioned insole provides all-day comfort, reducing foot fatigue and ensuring you can focus on your ride without discomfort.
Whether you’re on the trail or in the arena, The Prescott is a reliable and stylish companion for your equestrian pursuits.
Its elongated shaft, reinforced pull holes, butyl-treated leather sole, pitched riding heel, and removable polyurethane insole all contribute to its suitability for horseback riding, making it an excellent choice for riders seeking comfort, durability, and style.
7. Ariat Women’s Magnolia Western Cowboy Boot
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Ariat Women’s Magnolia Western Cowboy Boot, is a perfect combination of elegance, durability, and support, making it an excellent choice for horseback riding enthusiasts.
Crafted from 100% premium leather, these boots exude a classic western style that is both timeless and captivating.
The intricate embroidered design on the handcrafted leather shaft adds a touch of sophistication, elevating the overall aesthetic appeal.
Built to withstand the rigors of equestrian activities, the Magnolia boot features Ariat’s Duratread outsole.
This innovative outsole is not only longer-lasting than traditional rubber soles but also provides exceptional wear resistance. It is designed to be durable yet flexible, ensuring optimal traction and stability in various terrains.
Click image for more info on Amazon
Additionally, the Duratread outsole is oil- and slip-resistant, offering reliable grip and safety while navigating through different riding conditions.
The Magnolia boot is carefully crafted to provide exceptional comfort and support in any situation.
Engineered with ATS Max footbed technology and a Pro Performance cushioned insole, these boots guarantee optimal stability and performance, whether you’re conquering the saddle or enjoying a leisurely walk around town.
These features provide excellent support to your feet, reducing fatigue and enhancing overall comfort during long rides. The EVA midsole further enhances shock absorption, ensuring a smooth and comfortable stride.
Whether you’re out on the trail or enjoying a night out, the Ariat Women’s Magnolia Western Cowboy Boot offers the perfect blend of style and functionality.
With its exceptional craftsmanship, durability, and superior support, these boots are a reliable companion for any cowgirl seeking comfort and performance while riding horses.
Conclusion
In conclusion, if you want a comfortable ride on horseback, it’s crucial to choose the right cowboy boots with these features:
- Opt for a narrow toe shape such as a pointed toe, snip toe, or round toe. These designs make it effortless to slip your boots into the stirrup, ensuring a smooth ride.
- Look for boots with smooth outsoles that allow for easy sliding of your feet into the stirrups. This feature saves you time and hassle when mounting your horse.
- Select boots with heels that are of adequate height to securely hook into the stirrup. This provides the necessary support for maintaining balance and prevents your foot from sliding too far forward.
- Lastly, remember that a good pair of cowboy boots should fit snugly at the instep, ensuring they hold up well during your horseback adventures.
Wishing you a delightful journey in the saddle!
Howdy y’all, and welcome to From The Guest Room, your ultimate guide to all things Western! I’m Jay Gatz, a lifelong cowboy boot enthusiast with over 5 years of experience in the Western style world. I’m excited to share my knowledge with you and help you discover the perfect cowboy boots and western gear to elevate your style. Let’s explore the rich history and timeless appeal of Western fashion together!
