10 Best Western Boots for Riding Horses (Expert’s Review)

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Many so-called best western riding boots for sale in shoe stores are made for street wear and not for horseback riding. They do not have the heel height necessary for a safe riding experience.

The TRUE best boots for western horseback riding have soles that prevent the rider’s foot from slipping from the stirrups and help keep the rider’s foot in place.

Below, I have 10 great picks for men and women that are actually appropriate.

Start with a quick look at my favorites, then read on for all of the details and the full list.

READ MORE: Best Boots for Working With Horses

This post contains affiliate links. I earn a commission if you make a purchase through my links, at no extra cost to you.

Don’t have time? Here is a quick comparison of our favorites!

10 Best Western Riding Boots (Review Guide)

1. ARIAT Men’s Heritage Roughstock Western Boot (Winner!) (MEN)

ARIAT is a well-known brand in men’s and women’s western riding boots. Not only are these authentic and unique styles of western boots, but they are also designed for maximum comfort.

Ariat boots are tough, durable, and long-lasting. The brand’s Duratread™ soles ensure oil and slip resistance, while their 4LR technology promises optimum cushioning, support, and stability for the feet.

Here are the features that make this a winner in our books:

Physical features

• Made with 100% full grain leather.
• Western stitch pattern in true cowboy style
• Goodyear welt ATS technology (this means that there is a leather strip running along the seams that lets you re-sole the boot numerous times as needed without spoiling the boot’s shape).

Benefits & Drawbacks of ARIAT Men’s Heritage Roughstock Western Boot

Benefits	Drawbacks
True to width	A few sizing issues especially for men with wider feet
Excellent arch support	Some styles/sizes are a lot pricier than others
Can be re-soled several times

How they compare with others

ARIAT is known for high-quality riding shoes. Their 100% leather construction and Goodyear welt technology allow you to resole the boots without destroying the shape.

Ariat’s EVA mid-soles also ensure comfort so you can wear the boots for hours without hurting your feet. Price-wise, these boots are affordable and will last long, so they pay for themselves.

2.      Justin Boots Women’s Stampede Western Boot (Women’s)

You can walk in this pair of western riding boots in knee-high water and still keep your feet dry and warm! Justin boots have the classic western v-style entry and they are ideal for barn chores as well.

Physical features

• 100 % leather construction
• Available in several attractive colors and designs
• Snip toe western boot with V-entry
• Ornately designed shaft

Benefits & Drawbacks of Justin Boots Women’s Stampede Western Boot

Benefits	Drawbacks
Long-lasting – women have used Justin boots for years as work and riding boots	Color is different than seen on the screen
Stylish- can be paired with any attire	Some customers say they run a bit large
Waterproof
Comfortable boots for plantar fasciitis sufferers

How they compare with others

They’re made with a “|patented J-Flex® Comfort System” for ultimate comfort while wearing them.  

3.      ARIAT Heritage Lacer-II Ankle Boots (Women)

Ariat Heritage roper toe round boots are ideal for equestrian women who do not prefer calf-or-knee-length riding boots.

These are perfect for country or town riding and feature the ARIAT brand’s innovative technology. They are also designed for stability, support, comfort, and style on the ground and in the saddle.

Physical features

• 100% quality leather with Duratread rubber outsole- the latter protects against acids, oils, and barn muck while also preventing slips and falls.
• Moisture-wicking lining.
• Advanced Torque stability that cushions the feet and arches for all-day support.

Benefits & Drawbacks of ARIAT Heritage Lacer-II Ankle Boots

Benefits	Drawbacks
True to size	Design flaw- tongue slides to the left and does not stay under the laces
Moderate arch support	They run a bit large
Innovative technology from a beloved boots brand

How they compare with others

Ariat’s hard-working boot has received many positive reviews from hundreds of women. The boots are also affordable, and they last longer so you get value for money.

4.      Laredo Maddie Round Toe Western Riding Boots (Women’s)

Laredo boot brand has been around for nearly 5 decades and their western cowboy boots are well-received by equestrians.

The Maddie round-toe tall boots are a distinctive cowgirl boot style perfect for western horseback riding.

Physical attributes

• Traditional cowboy boots made with 100% distressed leather.
• The round-toe style is classic and comfortable
• The boots contain a removable orthotic insert
• Available in two attractive colors

Benefits & Drawbacks of Laredo Maddie Round Toe Western Riding Boots

Benefits	Drawbacks
Comfortable, stylish, long-lasting	Have a weird smell
Complement different types of attire	Some color differences were reported within two boots of the same pair
Perfect for western riding

How they compare with others

Laredo Maddie round-toe boots are affordable boots under $200. They last long so you get a good return on your investment. The removable orthotic insert feature is definitely unique and not many boots have it.

5.      Ariat Hybrid Rancher Western Boots – Square-Toe Leather Work Boot (Women’s)

Whether you need boots for barn chores or for western-style riding, these are the boots for you! They are stylish, comfortable, and fit well – as reported by most users.

They also come from a dependable brand that is well-known for innovation in their products.

Physical features

• 100% quality leather footwear
• 4-stripe embroidered stitch pattern on the shaft.
• Also features 4LR technology
• Duratread non-slip sole

Benefits & Drawbacks of Ariat Hybrid Rancher Western Boots – Square-Toe Leather Work Boot

Benefits	Drawbacks
Stylish and all-day comfort	Not waterproof
Great for barn chores	Not entirely slip-resistant
Classic cowboy style boot – perfect for western discipline

How it compared to others

Ariat boasts of their Duratread™ no-slip outsole but despite it, these boots weren’t as slip-resistant as they ought to be. Some users also experienced their feet sliding inside the boots – probably due to sizing issues. Price-wise, they are comparable to other entries here –they are boots under $200.

6.      Durango Rebel Boot (Women’s)

Your search for the best boots for western horseback riding ends here. Durango’s light and flexible cowgirl boots will keep your feet safe in the stirrups thanks to their heel height.

Physical features

• 100% full grain leather construction with a durable, abrasion-resistant synthetic sole
• Available in nearly 5 attractive colors.
• Beautiful embroidery on the shank area.
• Square-toe
• Contoured ventilated, removable cushion footbed.

Benefits & Drawbacks of Durango Rebel Boot

Benefits	Drawbacks
Square-toe design accommodates wide feet easily.	Leather softens and creases over time
Comfortable boots	Some sizes and colors go out of stock quickly
Stylish – can be paired with a skirt, jeans, or shorts	They wear out faster than other boots
Excellent arch support
True to size

How they compare with others

Durango boots might not last as long as some other boots here. They are fashionable and their contrasting colors make them very stylish. Good boots overall if you don’t mind shopping again after a few months.

7.      Soto Boots Cheyenne Leather Snipped Toe Cowgirl Boots (Women)

Soto makes some excellent western riding boots for women. They have classic cowboy styling and embroidery.

They are also versatile enough – so you can use them for riding during the daytime and go dancing in them at night.

Physical features

• Genuine Leather construction; excellent leather smell!
• Premium Goodyear welt technology and double stitching.
• Timeless classic styling

Benefits & Drawbacks of Soto Boots Cheyenne Leather Snipped Toe Cowgirl Boots

Benefits	Drawbacks
Fashionable dancing and riding boots	Sizing issues – especially in the toe box area – were reported.
High-quality boots that will last a lifetime

How they compare with others

You can tell that these Soto women’s western riding boots are made of pure leather because of their distinctive smell.

A vast majority of women found that these boots fit comfortably – a few reported size issues in the toe-box area. The boot’s western embroidery stitching gives them the classic cowgirl appearance.

8.      Twisted X Men’s Ruff Stock Boot (Men)

These Western Ruffstock boots from Twisted X are sure to look stylish and classy. They are also functional – whether you are walking in cowboy boots on the road, driving in town, or horse riding western style – they will turn heads.

Their genuine, full-grain leather construction offers optimum comfort, flexibility, and durability as well. Ruffstock boots also have steel toe reinforcement to protect your toes while riding or performing barn chores. 

Twisted X also has a line of cowgirl boots for women equestrians.

Physical features

• 100% genuine leather construction
• Steel-toe reinforcement
• Floral embroidery adds to the boot’s style
• Attractive colors

Benefits & Drawbacks of Twisted X Men’s Ruff Stock Boot (Men)

Benefits	Drawbacks
Moisture-wicking, removable insoles. This helps prevent blisters and fungal toe infections.	Scuff easily
Attractive, hand-crafted, ornately designed boots	Some customers had issues with the seller.
Versatile- can be paired with a variety of clothing	Looser fit than other boots on this list
Slip-resistant rubber outsole
Optimum support and cushioned footbed

How they compare with others

The price could be a deterrent. These boots are slightly more expensive compared to other entries here. This could be due to the high-quality materials, not to forget that they are handcrafted.

The colors are gorgeous and we love the fact that they have a line for women too. The brand also promotes sustainability by planting trees and supporting afforestation. That wins brownie points from me!

Related: Why Are Cowboy Boots Expensive?

9.      ARIAT Sport Western Wide Square Toe Boot (Men’s)

ARIAT men’s boots will add style, sophistication, and glamour to your riding experience.

As with all ARIAT boots, this sporty western offering is ideal for participation in rodeos, cutting, and other competitive western horse events.

They are also designed for stability, support, comfort, and style on the ground and in the saddle.

Physical features

• 100% full-grain leather upper construction
• The wide-square toe boots also have a synthetic air mesh lining that keeps them breathable.
• ARIAT’s rubber sole keeps water and moisture out.
• ARIAT’s 4LR technology and Duratread™ technology offer support, cushioning, and slip-resistance respectively.

Benefits & Drawbacks of ARIAT Sport Western Wide Square Toe Boot (Men’s)

Benefits	Drawbacks
Stylish, functional, comfortable	Some boots scuffed easily
Slip-resistant
The wide-square toe design makes it ideal for men with wider feet

How they compared with others

Budget-wise, these boots are comparable – ideal for people looking for men’s western horse riding boots below $200. Stylish and functional boots that you simply can’t go wrong with!

10. Smokey Mountain Pueblo Western Boots (Women’s)

Smokey Mountain’s genuine leather western riding boots for women are designed to prevent the rider’s feet from slipping from the stirrups.

Their stylish embroidered shaft and true cowgirl style classic design will make them an excellent addition to your wardrobe.

Physical features

• The heel is designed for comfort while walking and horseback riding.
• Pueblo western riding boots feature high-quality materials that combine style, fashion, and function. Their man-made leather lining offers excellent cushioning and the Steel shank protects the legs from shocks and injuries.

Benefits & Drawbacks of Smokey Mountain Pueblo Western Boots (Women’s)

Benefits	Drawbacks
Stylish	Sizing issues – The calf size was huge and some women could not wear them with skinny jeans.
Classic comfort of true traditional cowboy boots for women

How they compare with others

If you are looking for western horseback riding boots under $100, look no further than Smoke Mountain’s Pueblo style.

They are comfortable and stylish and can be used for walking, riding, and dancing. A few sizing issues apart, this boot was well received by most buyers.

4 Things to Look for When Buying the Best Western Riding Boots

Use the following criteria while buying western style riding boots:

1. Style

Western riding boots are available in various styles. The main differences in styling are in the following aspects:

Heel

You can go in for heels that are cowboy style or special riding heels. Both these styles are higher than English riding, paddock, or Roper style boots.

Toes

You can get a boot with a round or square toe. The round style is ideal for showing while the square one is more casual. You can choose the toe style based on your toe-box width.

Tops

Cowboy or cowgirl boot tops have ornate designs and decorations. If you choose the tall styles, these typically go up to the knee.

The mid-calf style, as the name indicates, reaches to the middle of the calf. They can prevent the western saddles’ fenders from hurting the rider’s legs.

2. Material

Apart from the style, the material of the western equestrian boots can also play a role in your comfort. These days, high-quality boots for riding are made using leather obtained from alligators, ostrich, and snakeskin.

You can also choose suede boots that are very comfortable but may not offer much in way of protection from the rain and snow.

Many full grain genuine leather boots come with a moisture-wicking breathable lining that makes them suitable for riding all year round.

3. Purpose of Riding

Both the above factors depend on the purpose for which you are riding. If you ride casually, then, you can simply look for western-style riding boots that are stylish, fashionable, and comfortable.

For show riding, you’d need to consider square toe and higher-heel options only.

4. Comfort

Finally, never compromise on your comfort. If you want a great riding experience, then always select fit cowboy boots that won’t cause chaffing, hot-spots, or pain. 

Measure your calf properly before buying tall boots. You can use the guide here so you know exactly the size to buy.

It helps to select boots with removable orthotic insoles, cushioned footbeds, and also rubber outsoles with superior traction to prevent slips and falls.

You may check here how to stretch out cowboy boots if you have one already in a smaller size.

In addition to riding, the boots should also let you walk comfortably and, if needed, even dance in them!

Related: What is English Riding?

What is Difference Between Western and English riding?

The main difference between Western and English riding is the activities and sports in each discipline.

In Western style, you have activities like rodeo, penning, cutting, roping, etc. In English style, you have jumping, dressage, polo, and hunting.

Western riding basic principles are also different than English riding because their tack differs. For one, the English saddle is shorter and lighter than the western saddle.

Also, English riders hold the reins differently – one in each hand – while Western riders take both reins in one hand and casually allow the other hand to lay on their thigh or by the side.

The types of western bits and their uses and types of English bit also differ.

FAQs

Conclusion and Final Recommendation

High-quality western riding boots can protect your feet in case they get stomped on by a horse. They also feature a high heel which prevents the riders’ feet from slipping out of the stirrups.

Western riding boots differ slightly from English riding boots because of the different body positions, differences in tack, and also differences in riding principles between the two disciples.

We recommend ARIAT’s Roughstock Western Equestrian boots which feature innovative technologies in all aspects.

Their Goodyear Welt construction also allows you to re-sole the boot without changing its shape. Their classic cowboy style will make a great addition to your wardrobe.

The brand’s Duratread™ soles ensure oil and slip resistance while their 4LR technology promises optimum cushioning, support, and stability for the feet.

On the above list, what are your favorite best western riding boots? Please share with us below!

References

• Horse Racing Sense. 2021. “13 Best Horse Riding Boots: English and Western.” Horse Racing Sense. March 25, 2021. https://horseracingsense.com/best-horse-riding-boots-english-western/.
• Martina. 2017. “The Difference between Western and English Riding.” Equestrian Boots and Bridles. August 15, 2017. https://equestrianbootsandbridles.com/difference-between-western-and-english-riding/.