Tips when choosing a pair of short jodhpur boots

View our collection of short jodhpur boots

When there is so much choice out there, where do you begin? Whether you are just starting out on your horse riding journey or you are a seasoned rider, here is our guide to choosing the right short riding boot.

Start with the sole

The sole is one of your main points of contact while riding, so it is one of the best visual guides to how a riding boot will perform.

Your tread should be shallow and compact to help prevent catching in the stirrup. Avoid deep, chunky treads for riding.

A rubber sole, like the sole on our Kentucky paddock boots, gives grip while staying compact and suitable for riding and walking.

Rubber or wood composite?

Some riders prefer a wooden composite sole because it feels stiffer and can provide extra support under the forefoot. Many wooden composite soles still have a rubber tread for grip, like our Dallas ankle boot.

Added sole technology

Steel shanks

A steel shank is a lightweight arch support built into the sole. It helps support the foot during long days and can improve stability while riding and walking.

Our Idaho Jodhpur Riding Boot includes added shank support.

Air flow systems

Air flow systems use an air pocket in the sole to absorb shock under impact. They can also help keep feet more comfortable on warm days.

Our Windsor Short Riding Boots use air flow sole technology.

Zip up, lace up or pull on?

Narrow feet or skinny ankles? A lace-up boot gives more adjustment. Try our Windsor Short Riding Boots or Kentucky Short Riding Boots.

Want more ankle support? Choose something slightly higher up the ankle with laces, so you can adjust the fit.

Want something easy to pop on and off? A front zip is a practical choice. Our Idaho Short Riding Boots front zip goes right down to the instep.

Traditional pull-on boots are robust, easy to maintain and often a good budget option. Try our Ohio Jodhpur Boots.

Insoles

An insole has a big effect on how paddock boots feel. Most insoles are removable, so you can adjust cushioning or replace tired insoles over time.

Foam cushioned insoles offer standard shock absorption and are slim enough for many high insteps or wider feet.

Memory foam insoles

Memory foam insoles mould to the shape of your feet. Our x-comfort insoles use supportive memory foam and can help reduce slipping or rubbing.

Leather insoles

Leather insoles are traditional, hard wearing and supportive, although they offer less cushioning than foam options.

Types of leather and how to care for them

Waxed leather is smooth or slightly waxy and often creases naturally across the foot. For Bareback waxed leather styles, use the Waxed Leather Boots Care Package: clean with Leather Cleaner foam, protect with Leather Protector and Waterproofer, then condition with Luxury Dubbin.

Suede, nubuck and crushed nubuck have a nap or textured surface. Do not use dubbin, wax polish or heavy creams on these finishes, as they can darken or flatten the surface. Use a suede/nubuck brush and a suitable nubuck or suede protector instead.

Polished leather can be refreshed with a suitable polish to help reduce the appearance of scuffs.

A few extra points

Spur rests. If you plan on riding with spurs, look out for spur rests to help prevent spurs rubbing and damaging the leather.

Leather is naturally water resistant but not fully waterproof unless the boot has a waterproof membrane. If you need boots for very wet conditions, our Storm collection is well worth considering.

Still confused?

Do not worry, there is lots to process. We are experts when it comes to pairing customers with the right boot, and we are just on the other side of the telephone or email.

Bareback Footwear HQ: 01886 888873

Bareback Footwear Online: info@barebackfootwear.com

We also offer free returns, so there has never been a better time to try a few different styles.

View our collection of short riding boots.

Happy riding!