What Boots Do You Need for Horse Riding Lessons? A Beginner’s Guide

Going for your first riding lesson? You might be wondering what you're actually supposed to turn up in.

You do not need to replace everything. Focus on your boots instead. Normal trainers or thick outdoor boots usually do not work well for riding.

Try to get riding lesson boots that fit properly. They should have a low heel. They also need to feel good near the stirrups. When you shop, you will most often see jodhpur boots, paddock boots, and long riding boots.

What Boots Do Beginners Need?

Jodhpur or paddock boots are a popular choice for new riders. They're short, fairly easy to get on and off, and don't feel awkward when you're walking around the yard.

Long riding boots are fine too. They're taller and give more coverage around the lower leg, although you don't have to spend money on them just because you're starting lessons.

The important things are the fit, heel and sole. Avoid anything with a very thick sole or a large heel.

If your riding school has its own rules about footwear, follow those rather than relying on general advice online.

Are Jodhpur Boots Good for Riding Lessons?

For a beginner, they're a handy option.

You can walk around in them before your lesson, use them around the yard and then get straight on the horse. You won't feel as though you've bought something that only comes out once in a while.

Our Chepstow Women's Paddock Boots are a shorter style. The Elmsley Women's Leather Ankle Yard Boots are another ankle-height option, although you should check that any particular boot is suitable for riding before using it in the saddle.

For anyone buying their first pair of horse riding lesson boots, short boots are often the easiest place to start.

Do You Need Long Riding Boots?

No, some riders prefer long boots from the beginning, particularly if they like the traditional equestrian look. Others stick with jodhpur boots for quite a while.

Long boots can be useful if you're planning to ride regularly. Catesby England's Ascot Women's Zip Long Riding Boots are designed in this style.

There's little point buying a tall pair just because you think every rider needs one. Your riding school can tell you what it expects beginners to wear.

What Should You Wear for Horse Riding?

If you're looking up what to wear for horse riding, the basics are fairly simple.

For your first lesson, you can usually start with:

• Comfortable trousers or jodhpurs

• A comfortable top

• Suitable riding boots

• A riding helmet

• A jacket if it's cold or wet

Don't wear very loose clothing. You want to be able to move easily without sleeves, straps or other loose bits getting in the way.

You also don't need to rush out and buy expensive riding clothes. See how you get on with your first few lessons and build your kit from there.

Do You Need a Riding Helmet?

Yes, do not leave this part out.

Before your lesson, ask the riding school if they have helmets for students to use. If you plan to bring your own helmet, have it fitted by a proper person. Then make sure it meets the safety standards your riding school tells you to use.

When it is on, it should feel snug on your head. It should not shift when you move.

How Should Horse Riding Lesson Boots Fit?

They should not feel like they can slide, but they also should not press too hard on your feet. Your toes need some space up front. Your heel should not lift or slip much when you walk. If you are trying long boots, also check how they fit around your calf.

Put them on with the socks you plan to wear for riding. Take a short walk inside the house for a few minutes. Then try them in the yard.

If a boot starts rubbing after about ten minutes, it will likely bother you even more during the lesson.

Can You Wear Walking Boots or Trainers?

It might be best to avoid them.

Walking boots often have thick soles and a lot of grip on the bottom. Trainers also tend to miss the shaped heel you would expect in proper riding shoes.

When you look things up online, you may run into the term horseback riding shoes. Many people search for jodhpur boots, or they type paddock boots and riding boots.

If you want to use a pair you already have at home, ask your instructor before you wear them.

What Should You Wear When Riding a Horse in Winter?

Weather here can flip fast, so you might get surprised. When it turns cold, add a few layers. If you start getting warm, you can remove one.

If showers come through, wear a proper waterproof jacket. It does the job better than you expect. During the warmer months, pick lighter clothes. Aim for comfort and simple wear.

Before you head out for your ride, look at the forecast. Then sort your outfit.

Are Country Boots Suitable for Riding?

Not automatically.

A country boot might look very similar to a riding boot but be designed for walking or general outdoor use instead.

Catesby England's Burghley Women's Tall Country Boots have a country style, while the Ascot Women's Zip Long Riding Boots are a riding boot style.

Always check the product information before using country or yard boots for riding.

Which Boots Are Best for Beginners?

If you are new to riding, you usually do not need fancy or costly lesson boots. Focus on getting the fit right first. Check that the boots work for riding. Then follow the advice from your instructor.

At Catesby England, you can also choose shorter paddock boots or taller styles. This helps you switch up your pick as you gain more experience.