8 Best Paddock Boots

Boots are an essential part of any horse rider’s gear. They should be comfortable and offer safety features, but they can also be stylish. Paddock boots can take you from casual horse-riding to the barn to a night on the town. Here is what you should know about paddock boots, including some of our favorite paddock boots that our customers also love.

How Do Paddock Boots Differ from Other Horse-Riding Boots?

Paddock boots are short boots worn by some riders for casual riding. While tall boots typically extend to just below a rider’s knee, a paddock boot extends only a few inches above the ankle. People often wear paddock boots with jodhpurs, which is why they are also called jodhpur boots. They are also worn with half chaps paired with breeches to prevent blisters. 

Children often wear paddock boots, and they are popular among riders for a number of reasons. They are usually less expensive to purchase, and require minimal care. They are also easier to fit than tall boots, as they wear more like casual shoes. And they are versatile: you can wear them in almost any setting.  

Paddock boots are ideal footwear for anyone of any age beginning down the path to English horseback riding. They’re available in leather or synthetic materials or a combination of both, and come with a zip-up or lace-up option. (Lace-up options are more popular with riders needing additional ankle support as you can adjust the support around your ankle.)

Paddock boots are often paired with matching-color half chaps, as half chaps allow flexibility in attire and protect the lower leg from chafing and pinching from the stirrup leathers.

What Makes a Good Paddock Boot?

When searching for a paddock boot, you’ll look for similar qualities as you would when choosing tall riding boots. The primary difference is that you don’t need to worry about calf fit, since the boot ends at the bottom of the rider’s calf. Another difference you will notice is that short riding boots zip up either on the side or in the back. Tall riding boots may pull on, or they may have a full-length zipper in the back.

Both tall and short riding boots are built with safety in mind. They all feature a sturdy toe to protect the rider’s foot, a lightly textured or smooth sole to help keep the rider’s foot from getting caught in the stirrup should they fall, and a small heel about one inch tall to prevent the rider’s foot from slipping through the stirrup. Any boots you wear horseback riding should fit you well, and they should be comfortable, safe, and durable. Even though paddock boots are a bit more affordable than tall boots, it’s essential to consider quality brands that will last, given the financial investment. 

8 Best Paddock Boots

There are a lot of options for paddock boots, and you’ll want to consider things like cost, safety, and design. You have a range of boot materials to choose from, including leather, synthetic fabrics, and even rubber. And you’ll also want to take into account the climate where you live and determine if you need waterproof, water-resistant, or insulated boots. . Here are our top picks for the best paddock boots.

1. Ariat Women’s Heritage IV Zip H2O Paddock Boot ($169.95) 

The Ariat Women’s Heritage is the go to gold standard, there are numerous reasons why this is a top paddock boot choice with our customers and our team. This boot has sophisticated styling and will take you from the trail to the street. These boots are rugged enough to hold up to heavy riding, and they offer stabilization for all terrains. You’ll love the full-grain waterproof leather upper, Duratread™ outsole, and rounded toe with toe cap design. When the competition heats up, the Heritage VI H2O will keep your feet comfortable and dry with its moisture-wicking and breathable lining. As always, with Ariat you can expect superior craftsmanship and advanced technology for peak performance. 

2. EGO7 Taurus Paddock Boot ($199.00)

This EGO7 paddock boot pulls out all the stops for style, safety, and comfort. It features advanced technology from top to toe, including a secure grip rubber sole with a quick release feature, and a double-stitched toe cap. You’ll love the ankle cushioning, while the anti-shock insole adds comfort and reduces fatigue, the Taurus also comes with an anti-bacterial polyurethane sole. EGO7 pair the latest paddock boot innovations with comfort and Italian style making this boot easy to wear all day or outside of the barn.

3. Ovation Quantum Ladies Zip Paddock Boot ($54.95)

Don’t be fooled by the price, the Ovation Quantum is packed with features and offers a high-quality paddock boot at a bargain price point. This paddock boot has quickly become our top selling budget paddock boot. Available in black or brown, this paddock boot is beautiful. Made from premium synthetic leather, lined with perforated calfskin around the ankle and tongue to wick moisture and keep your feet cool and dry. We love how comfortable this boot is, the ComforLast™ variable cushioning technology feels great underfoot, and the outer sole offers the perfect amount of ruggedness and grip while remaining lightweight.

4. Tredstep Donatello Front Zip Paddock Boots ($139.00)

We love these paddock boots because not only is the leather quality out of this world… but they are as comfortable as they are supportive, making it easy wear this paddock boot all day long. You get all of the best features of the Donatello Tall Boot rolled into a paddock book. This imported paddock boot features a full grain leather upper and leather lining, an advanced rubber sole and coolmax lined footbed. Topped with contrast stitching, this is such a great looking paddock boot.

5. Ovation® Tuscany Ladies Zip Paddock Boot ($89.95)

For a solid boot at a lower price point, we like this paddock boot by Ovation. It’s made of full-grain European cow leather, with a durable outsole that is lightweight and wear-resistant. The insole is made with cushioning technology for comfort, and the lining is designed to keep you dry and comfortable. If you want to save money without sacrificing quality, this is a great boot to consider.

6. Ego7 Libra Paddock Boot ($199.00)

Ladies, if you’re looking for an affordable splurge, these are the boots for you! These full-grain cow leather boots proudly boast the best of modern Italian design. They are sleek and elegant, balancing style with comfort and practicality. The Ego7 Libra paddock boot offers innovative features that encourage the correct heels-down position while maintaining comfort. They have the security and craftsmanship of double-stitched seams along stress lines, guaranteeing extreme wear resistance. These boots will be an investment you’ll love for years to come.

7. Ariat Men’s Heritage IV Zip Paddock Boot ($169.95)

The Heritage IV paddock boot is built to last, so you will enjoy them for years to come. We love the shock-absorbing built-in heel cushions designed for comfort, as well as the moisture-wicking breathable lining. You’ll be sure to stay dry and comfortable in these paddock boots. They are not only stylish and made with superior craftsmanship and advanced technology, but they are also built for stability and endurance. Look no further if you’re seeking a stylish boot with all of the bells and whistles. 

8. Ariat Kid’s Devon IV Paddock Boots ($109.95)

We love the Devon IV paddock boot for its remarkable comfort, stability, and durability, crafted in exquisite full-grain leather. Additionally, its moisture-wicking lining ensures superb breathability.

While choosing from the wide selection of paddock boots can be overwhelming, we hope that this list helps make your decision a little easier. Remember to choose a boot that offers you the most safety, functionality, and comfort, while fitting within your budget and style preferences.

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• Ariat Boot Guide: Sizing, Fit, and Styles
• 7 Best Horse Riding Boots
• How to Clean and Polish Your Tall Boots