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
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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.
- CLASSIC COWBOY BOOT: Crafted in the full-grain leathe, these Ariat boots are built a little tougher than the rest. The six-row stitch pattern with center deco stitching adds a touch of Western flair for a classic cowboy look.
- ALL-DAY COMFORT: Built for stability and cushioned comfort, this western boot for men is designed with Ariat's exclusive ATS (Advanced Torque Stability) Technology. It features a composite forked shank to support the foot as you move to reduce foot fatigue.
- CUSHIONED INSOLE: Look after your hard-working feet for all-day comfort with western insoles. These pull-on boots are designed with Ariat's anatomically-engineered Pro Performance cushioning insole to provide balanced foot support and comfort.
- HEAVY-DUTY OUTSOLE: The Duratread outsole adds wear-resistance and flexibility to the design of these men's boots in addition to optimum grip and traction. It doesn't matter how rough the conditions are, the Heritage Roughstock boots won't give up on you.
- SCIENCE OF INNOVATION: Ariat excels in advanced technologies to deliver products that outperform in various conditions. Partnering with world-class biomechanical research groups and testing labs, Ariat strives to improve performance, comfort, and durability.
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.
- Snip-toe Western boot featuring deep-V entry and stitched scrollwork on shaft
- Overlay at ankle with brogue punches
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.
- LEATHER WORK BOOT: These ankle-length women's boots are designed in a traditional country-style to stay tough and keep you fashion-forward. The lace-up design and removable kiltie offer extra protection and classic styling.
- SUPERIOR CONSTRUCTION: Skillfully crafted from full-grain leather foot and upper, the western boot boasts of its robust construction. The moisture-wicking lining offers rugged performance even in harsh weather conditions.
- ATS TECHNOLOGY: For superior stability and all-day comfort, these boots for women have the highly effective ATS technology incorporated in them that supports and comforts the feet no matter how challenging your job is.
- DURATREAD OUTSOLE: Designed with a tough Duratread outsole, they provide maximum wear resistance, aggressive grip, and flexibility on a variety of surfaces even after years of use.
- SCIENCE OF INNOVATION: Ariat excels in advanced technologies to deliver products that outperform in various conditions. Partnering with world-class biomechanical research groups and testing labs, Ariat strives to improve performance, comfort, and durability.
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.
- Genuine smooth leather
- Pull on entry
- Hinged cushion insole
- Rubber outsole
- 1.5 inch cowboy heel
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.
- Premium full grain leather foot and upper, Oil and slip-resistant outsole, Leather or fabric lining
- 4LR Four-layer footbed for comfort
- Wide Square Toe Profile
- Leather Lining
- Performance riding boot approved for riding
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.
- Handmade Snipped toe Leather cowgirl boots
- Classic western stitching on shaft and foot with Genuine leather throughout
- 11” shaft height and 1.75” heel height
- Comfortable leather lining, Cushioned insoles, Leather soles and Goodyear welt construction
- Dual pull tabs for easy on/off
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!
- GENUINE LEATHER: These cowboy work boots for men are made from genuine full-grain leather, offering more than just style fit for any occasion, but also practical comfort; Whether you're out on a long drive, grinding at work, or just strolling around town, you'll look and feel great in these western ruff stock boots
- COMFORTABLE HANDCRAFTED FOOTWEAR: Dedicated to creating quality handcrafted footwear focused on comfort and innovation, every pair of these steel toe cowboy boots is created with comfort in mind and with all the components you expect from Twisted X
- CASUAL and TRENDY DESIGN: The Twisted X leather pull-on work boots provide all the comfort that you expect, while also adding a touch of style for a look that can be dressed up or down; these cowboy work boots offer a relaxed, cool, and casual appearance
- COMFORT and STYLE: Each pair of men's work cowboy boots offer you the perfect combination of comfort and style; Built for maximum stability with its moisture-wicking washable footbed, XSD insole, and a tall composite attached block heel, finished with a molded rubber heel cap
- GREAT FIT FOR ANY OCCASION: Look awesome when you step out on the town in these Twisted X pull up boots for men; with its combination of comfort, style, and modern technology, these western work boots for men are a great fit for any occasion
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!
- CLASSIC COUNTRY BOOT: These Ariat boots for men are riding approved, made with a full grain leather foot to be your go to, comfortable, everyday footwear. They are classically styled with a square toe and four-row stitch pattern.
- DURATREAD OUTSOLE: Ariat's Duratread outsole is longer-lasting than traditional rubber soles to provide maximum wear resistance while being durable, yet flexible. It is also oil- and slip-resistant and highly resistant to barnyard acids.
- EVERYDAY COMFORT: Designed with Ariat's 4LR (4-Layer Rebound) Technology, these boots have a moisture-wicking liner and a contoured cushioning insole for added comfort. The stabilizing shank and outsole provide extra support and maximum wear resistance.
- ADDITIONAL FEATURES: These men’s casual boots are complete with additional features like a full-grain leather foot, synthetic air mesh lining, square-toe shape, and pull tabs for easy entry.
- SCIENCE OF INNOVATION: Ariat excels in advanced technologies to deliver products that outperform in various conditions. Partnering with world-class biomechanical research groups and testing labs, Ariat strives to improve performance, comfort, and durability.
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.
- DURABLE LEATHER BOOTS: Add style to your wardrobe with the Pueblo series that are made of leather material for reliable and durable boots.
- SQUARE TOE DESIGN: The Pueblo boot features a square toe, steel shank, man-made lining and leather upper with a traditional style for a vintage, country appeal that can be dressed up or down on the occasion.
- COMFORTABLE WALKING HEEL: These cowgirl boots for women are made with a walking heel that provides comfort no matter how long you are on your feet. They include a textured and casual, crepe sole that is ideal for all day wear.
- CRAFTSMANSHIP: Combining genuine craftsmanship, fashion, and durability together for an affordable price that cannot be beat. Smoky Mountain Boots has selections available for men, women, and children for the whole family to mix or match their footwear.
- FAMILY OWNED & OPERATED: Smoky Mountain Boots is a family-owned business based out of the US that began in 1992. With a large selection of boots available, they offer the service and genuine made western products you deserve.
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
Can you wear a western riding style boot for English riding and vice versa?
You can wear western attire for English riding and vice-a-versa unless you are competing. However, western boots are designed to hold spurs if you need to wear spurs. Also, if you have a western saddle on your horse, then western traditional boots can protect your legs from the heavy saddle.
Can you wear paddock boots for horseback riding?
Yes, you can wear paddock riding boots that extend only a few inches above the ankles. They are perfect for summer and dry weather riding when you do not want to wear knee or calf-high boots. They are also easier to wear and remove compared to tall riding boots.
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.
- CLASSIC COWBOY BOOT: Crafted in the full-grain leathe, these Ariat boots are built a little tougher than the rest. The six-row stitch pattern with center deco stitching adds a touch of Western flair for a classic cowboy look.
- ALL-DAY COMFORT: Built for stability and cushioned comfort, this western boot for men is designed with Ariat's exclusive ATS (Advanced Torque Stability) Technology. It features a composite forked shank to support the foot as you move to reduce foot fatigue.
- CUSHIONED INSOLE: Look after your hard-working feet for all-day comfort with western insoles. These pull-on boots are designed with Ariat's anatomically-engineered Pro Performance cushioning insole to provide balanced foot support and comfort.
- HEAVY-DUTY OUTSOLE: The Duratread outsole adds wear-resistance and flexibility to the design of these men's boots in addition to optimum grip and traction. It doesn't matter how rough the conditions are, the Heritage Roughstock boots won't give up on you.
- SCIENCE OF INNOVATION: Ariat excels in advanced technologies to deliver products that outperform in various conditions. Partnering with world-class biomechanical research groups and testing labs, Ariat strives to improve performance, comfort, and durability.
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/.
Siun is an all-around animal lover, with a passion for horses. She grew up in the United States, competing in the hunters, equitation, and jumpers. Now living in Ireland, she competes with her own showjumping horses. She is experienced in the care and training of horses, as well as teaching riding lessons. She loves to combine her love for horses with her work. When not working, Siun will be found at the stables, rain or shine.
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