Barn Boot Basics for Horse Rookies
Boots might seem like a simple thing, but there is a lot to consider when choosing the right pair of boots for working with horses.
Most avid equestrians have two pairs of boots: one for working/mucking and one for riding. If you wear your work or muck boots for riding, make sure they have a one-inch heel to keep you safe.
When choosing your next boots, there are several factors to keep in mind: safety, comfort, budget, durability, and waterproofing. Plus, you’ll want to choose Western or English-style boots that are best suited to your discipline.
Boot Basics: Appropriate Footwear for Spending Time Around Horses
Choosing a pair of boots can be overwhelming, but there are several factors to consider that can help narrow down your options.
Boot Considerations
- Safety
- Comfort
- Budget
- Durability
- Waterproofing
Boots for Working Around Horses
Horses are a lot of work, which means you need a pair of boots that’s up to the task. Work boots should be waterproof, durable, and comfortable.
Depending on your needs (and the clumsiness of the horses you work with), you may also need a boot with a steel toe.
Source: Canva
Boots for Riding Horses
There are two main styles of riding, each of which requires a different style of boot.
- English Boots
- Western Boots
While you can wear English boots for a Western ride (and vice versa), it’s best to invest in a pair that’s right for your chosen discipline.
Best Barn & Stable Footwear
| Category | Option | Price Point* |
| Best For Beginners | TuffRider Starter Front Zip Paddock Boot | $ |
| Best English Riding Boot | Ariat Heritage Contour II Field Zip | $$$$$ |
| Best Western Riding Boot | Dan Post Men’s Albuquerque Work Boot | $$$ |
| Best Muck Boot | Servus MAX Soft Toe Work Boot | $ |
| Best Work Boots | Wolverine DuraShock High-Performance Work Boot | $$$ |
*Relative to other items on the list
Best Beginner Riding Boot:
TuffRider Starter Front Zip Paddock Boot
While many seasoned equestrians swear by
TuffRider offers an affordable alternative for beginners or for those who only saddle up occasionally.
Click to see them at Amazon
- Very affordable
- Front zipper makes for easy on & off
- Elastic side gullets add increased flexibility
- Two beautiful colors (mocha or black)
CONS:
- Synthetic leather (lower quality, won’t last as long)
- No back pull-on strap
- Minimal cushion/arch support
Where to buy it: Amazon
Want to read up on more beginner riding boot options? Check out this article.
Best English Riding Boot:
Ariat Heritage Contour II Field Zip
Ariat dominates in the English riding ring, and for good reason.
This brand emphasize comfort—and this boot is no exception.
Click to see them at Amazon
- Ariat 4LR footbed system (maximizes comfort and support)
- Duratread outsole (shock absorption)
- Minimal break-in time due to supple leather
- Wide range of sizes
- Designed to “give” for maximum flexibility in the saddle
CONS:
- Sizing chart can be challenging to navigate
- Can be snug at the ankles
Where to buy it: Amazon
Want to read up on more English riding boot options? Check out this article.
Best Western Riding Boot:
Dan Post Men’s Albuquerque Work Boot
Western riders are all about quality gear because they can’t afford breakdowns in the middle of a slide-stop.
This simple shoe gives riders everything they need for long days in the saddle.
Click to see them at Amazon
- Great shock absorption
- Four simple, classic color options
- Perfect heel size for safety
- Easy pull-on loops
- Fully waterproof
CONS:
- Can run narrow, so may need to order a size up
- Not much in the way of design/stitching if you want a traditional-looking Western boot
Where to buy it: Amazon
Want to read up on more Western riding boot options? Check out this article.
Best Muck Boot:
Servus MAX Soft Toe Work Boot
It’s easy to overlook the importance of a good muck boot, but they really can make your barn life so much easier.
These simple, lightweight work boots will help you get the job done.
Click to see them at Amazon
- Waterproof
- Lightweight & flexible, perfect for long days
- Great traction
- The shaft is tall, so you don’t have to worry about mud/water getting in when you walk
- In a pinch, you could ride in these (the heel is safety-size)
CONS:
- Calf fit is loose, so may feel strange if you’re used to neoprene or tall boots
- Can be difficult to pull on (no tabs or finger holes)
Where to buy it: Amazon
Want to read up on the best boots for mucking out horse stalls? Check out this article.
Best Work Boot:
Wolverine DuraShock High-Performance Work Boot
Long days on your feet can be a challenge. The last thing you want is to have sore feet after chores that keep you from riding!
Whether knee pain or foot pain is your problem, these boots are your answer.
Click to see it at Amazon
- DuraShock outsole (shock absorption)
- Dual-density removable footbed
- Long-lasting PU midsole
- Super comfortable
- Both soft- and steel-toe options are available
CONS:
- Not waterproof (though can be waterproofed)
- May not be the best fit for wide feet
Where to buy it: Amazon
Want to read up on more work boot options? Check out this article.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What kind of shoes do you wear to ride a horse?
You always want to ride in a boot with a one-inch heel, a closed toe, and a hard sole. This prevents your foot from slipping through the stirrup (and prevents you from getting dragged if your horse spooks and you fall).
Q: Are cowboy boots good for riding horses?
Yes! While fashion cowboy boots may not fit the bill (the heels can be too tall and they’re not designed for comfort in the saddle), many brands of cowboy boots are perfect for riding.
Q: Are muck boots good for riding horses?
This depends on the muck boot. Many don’t have a proper heel, so they wouldn’t be safe for riding. If the muck boot has a heel, you’d be OK to hop on once in a while, though they likely aren’t designed for comfort in the saddle.
If you’re looking for a muck boot that can double as a riding boot, check out the Ariat Ladies Terrain Pull-On H2O.
Q: Can you wear rain boots to ride horses?
No, generally rain boots are not appropriate for riding horses. Read why here!
Parting Thought
Riding and working around the barn are a whole lot easier when you have the right boots for the job. We hope this article helps you find the right fit.
Looking for more? Trot on over to:
- Most Comfortable Cowboy Boots for Walking All Day
- Most Comfortable Work Boots for Hurt-Free Feet
- Best Boots for Western Horseback Riding
- Best Boots for Working Hard & Playing Hard
- 12 Best Everyday Horse Riding Boots for Happy Feet
- Best Short Cowboy Boots
- 5 Best Square Toe Cowboy Boots
- Best (Snake) Bite-Proof Cowboy Boots
