Gear Guide Tried & Tested

Short boots and chaps

Searching for boots that are comfortable and practical both on the yard and in the saddle? Look no further than H&R’s selection of short riding boots

Our testers: You can trust Horse&Rider tried and tested features to rigorously put products through their paces in real-life situations to help you make an informed decision on the right purchase for you. The boots were worn in a variety of different environments both on the yard and in the saddle. Testers paid special attention to the fit, comfort, grip and durability of the boots.

The products

Cavallo Chelsea Slim boot
RRP
£150

Cavallo Chelsea Slim boot

Breathable lining with technical antibacterial comfort sole and anti-slip grip.

  • Available in black and brown
  • Pull-on style
  • Matching chaps available

We say…

Traditional style of boots that are easy to slip on and off. The supple leather and elastic sides allowed total freedom of movement while fully supporting the ankle. The sole offered great grip and the lining was breathable so feet didn’t get too hot. They’ve been worn daily for yard work and riding and still look smart with a quick clean. Felt a bit pricier than similar styles on the market but they’re versatile. 

Toggi Abbot boot
RRP
£90.00

Toggi Abbot boot

Elasticated gussets with breathable fabric lining and removable shock-absorbing gel footbed.

  • Available in black and brown
  • Zip-up style
  • Matching chaps available

We say…

Great looking boots that are true to size, but needed a little bit of breaking in. The zip was sturdy and made getting the boots on and off easier. They’ve kept their shape well. Smart enough for competitions as well as everyday use. Offered good ankle support due to the high elasticated sides. Comfortable enough to be worn on the yard. Have worn well and clean up like new. 

Tonics Space II boot
RRP
£227.50

Tonics Space II boot

Breathable lining with technical antibacterial comfort sole and anti-slip grip.

  • Available in black and brown
  • Zip-up style
  • Matching chaps available
  • Waterproof

We say…

These super stylish boots only needed a very short break-in period and the cushioned footbed made them really comfy after that. The supple leather and double front zips offered a close fit and made it very easy to get the boots on and off. The breathable lining kept feet cool, yet the waterproof outer was a bonus for staying dry when doing everyday yard jobs. Built to last – have worn very well and still look like new.

Brogini Assisi Premium boot
RRP
£65.00

Brogini Assisi Premium boot

Sleek design featuring a shock-absorbing sole. Large elasticated side panels and leather heel pull.

  • Available in black and brown
  • Pull-on style

We say…

Super comfy with no need to break in. The handy leather heel pull was brilliant for getting the boots on and off easily. The sole had sufficient grip for use on the yard without affecting the feel in the stirrup. The elasticated sides allowed for a close fit that ensured there were no pressure points around the ankle. An everyday boot that’s smart enough for competitions.

Dublin Rapture boots
RRP
£64.99

Dublin Rapture zip boots

Full-grain leather with breathable mesh lining and memory foam footbed.

  • Available in black and brown
  • Zip-up style

We say…

Nice looking boots with stylish side and toe detailing. Didn’t need breaking in and were comfortable to wear on the yard and in the saddle, offering good ankle support without being restrictive or uncomfortable. Front zip design allows you to easily get the boots on and off and the zip is sturdy enough to stand up to everyday use. Smart enough for competition use, too.

HY Equestrian fleece lined boots
RRP
£44.99

Hy Equestrian fleece lined wax leather

Water-resistant leather outer with fleece lining. Pull-on design with elasticated side gussets.

  • Available in black and brown
  • Fleece-lined
  • Pull-on style

We say…

Perfect for long days at the yard. Used for riding, yard work and dog walking. The fleece lining kept feet warm on the colder days, but didn’t make them too hot either when the temperature rose. Tight to get on to start with, but improved with use. Offered great grip on the yard and in the saddle. Good quality for the price and would recommend them for someone looking for a pair of sturdy, warm all-round boots. 

Harry Hall Harrow boot
RRP
£87.50

Harry Hall Harrow boot

Featuring a front zip fastening with elasticated panels and brogue detailing on the toe.

  • Available in black and brown
  • Zip-up style

We say…

Impressed with the smart look of the boots. Proved very versatile – suitable for riding and yard work. The soft leather was comfortable and didn’t rub. The front zip was sturdy and made getting the boots on and off easier. Easy to clean even after a day of chores on the yard. They are smart enough for competitions but comfortable and durable enough for everyday use in and out of the saddle.

Mountain Horse Aurora boot
RRP
£129

Mountain Horse Aurora boot

Made from soft full-grain leather. Ergonomically designed with cushioned footbed for comfort and non-slip sole. 

  • Available in black and brown
  • Zip-up style
  • Matching chaps available

We say…

Very stylish boots that are true to size. Great for everyday use but would be smart enough for competition, too. Needed a minimal break-in period, however super comfortable after this point – could wear them all day long. Offered excellent grip in the saddle and on the yard and now my go-to boots. A fairly high price point, but the quality justifies the cost.

Ariat Ascent boot
RRP
£110

Ariat Ascent boot

Sporty, flexible and lightweight design with a sock like fit. Breathable knit collar and technology for comfort.

  • Available in black
  • Pull-on style
  • Matching chaps available

We say…

Very different in design and appearance to classic short riding boots. The knitted cuff needed a bit of effort to pull over your foot, but once on they were very comfortable. No breaking in needed due to the close fit of the material. Cushioned sole made them feel like trainers. Stable and secure in the stirrup while riding, though we’d recommend pairing with chaps.

Just Togs Shoreditch boot
RRP
£65.00

Just Togs Shoreditch boot

Made from premium grain leather for durability with a comfortable, supportive sole.

  • Available in black and brown
  • Zip-up style

We say…

Smart looking boots with a comfortable sole. Made from a soft leather that didn’t need a breaking in period. You can wear them for long periods of time. Great for riding and around the yard. The zip design made them easy to get on and off while the padding behind the zip ensured a close and secure yet non-restrictive fit. They would be great for competition use, too. 

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