Horse riding boots are essential gear for riders of all ages, including kids. Good kids’ riding boots are designed to keep young riders safe and confident in the saddle. Fortunately, quality children’s riding boots are available at a variety of price points, so you can find a great pair within your budget. This guide will help you find the right boots for your young equestrian.
What Makes a Good Riding Boot for Kids?
The qualities that make a good riding boot are the same for adults and children. Though falls don’t happen often, equestrian boots are designed with safety in mind. Equestrian boots generally have a small heel around an inch high to keep the rider’s foot from sliding through the stirrup. And they have either a smooth or a lightly-textured sole so the rider doesn’t get their foot caught in the stirrup should they fall off the horse. Riding boots should fit comfortably without pinching or chafing, so it’s important to keep an eye on the fit as your child grows. We don’t want to spill the beans, but one of the boot brands listed below actually has a hidden feature designed to extend the life of the boot for growing feet. You won’t want to miss it!
Styles of Kids’ Riding Boots
Kids’ riding boots are available in two styles based on the length of the boot: short boots and tall boots. Short boots are often called paddock boots or jodhpur boots, and they are often a popular choice for child riders for a number of reasons. They are generally easy to care for, and they are easier to fit than tall boots. Paddock boots are often styled like regular casual shoes and can be worn while riding and on other occasions, so kids can get a lot of use out of them. And they usually come with a lower price tag, making them more economical, especially for growing kids. For kids just starting out riding, paddock boots will provide what they need.
The tall boot is the traditional equestrian standard that extends up the leg to just below the knee. Tall boots are generally required for competition for all ages. So, if your child is at a level to compete, they may need a pair of tall boots. These are typically more expensive than short boots, so they are often not purchased for children who are not competing. Tall boots are also more challenging to fit than short boots, as you need to know the calf length and circumference as well as the foot size to find the right fit.
6 Best Kid’s Riding Boots
There are a lot of things to consider when choosing riding boots for kids. Not only are you evaluating the comfort, fit, and quality, but you’re also balancing the value they offer since your child may only end up wearing the boot for a short time as they grow. With that in mind, we’re thrilled to share with you our picks for the best horseback riding boots for kids.
1. Ovation Child's Quantum Zip Paddock Boot ($42)
You can’t beat this affordable price point for such a great quality child’s boot. It’s the most affordable child’s riding boot that we carry, and the Ovation Child’s Quantum Zip Paddock Boot doesn’t skimp on quality. It has a lightweight and wear-resistant sole with a synthetic leather upper that’s easy to clean, and a moisture-wicking lining and well-cushioned insole for comfort. This boot comes in black and brown.
2. TuffRider Child's Starter Lite Paddock Boot ($47.95)
We love this boot for its elegant look and the way it forms around the ankle and foot for a relaxed fit. It’s extremely comfortable, and the synthetic leather is really easy to clean with a quick wipe. This boot has a front zipper, elastic side gussets, and spur rests. TuffRider children’s boots are nice and light with a thin sole to give kids a better feel of the stirrup to be more secure in the saddle. They are also water-resistant and hold up to weather and muddy conditions. These boots also come in black and brown.
The TuffRider Children’s Starter Front Zip Paddock Boots are also available at the same price point with a slightly different fit around the ankle and foot.
3. Ariat Kid's Devon IV Paddock Boot ($99.95)
Ariat has been a trusted brand of equestrians for several decades, and they don’t mess around when it comes to quality. This Ariat Kid’s Devon IV Paddock boot is one of the best premium children’s boots available. It’s made of full-grain leather, offering outstanding comfort, durability, and stability. A moisture-wicking lining provides breathability, and the boots have lovely support and cushioning. But the unique superpower these boots have is their removable insole that provides an additional half-size of extra room for kids’ growing feet. These thoughtful touches make this one of the best boots for kids.
4. Ovation Child's Sofia Field Boot ($125)
These tall boots offer all of the stylishness required for competing at a fraction of the cost of other brands. The foot of the boot is made of full-grain cow leather and has a moisture-wicking mesh lining to keep your child’s feet dry and comfortable. The shaft of the boot is made from a technical synthetic leather that is breathable, durable and has a hint of stretch for a great fit.
Also, check out the Ovation Sofia Grip Black Field Boot with a silicone horseshoe grip pattern to provide an even more secure ride.
5. Ariat Kid's Heritage Contour Field Zip ($269.95)
The creme de la creme of kid’s competitive boots, these hand-crafted premium full-grain leather boots are where it’s at! This kid’s tall boot has a high Spanish cut topline and a contoured ankle design for a gorgeous look. The Heritage boot also has a full-length back zipper, so it’s easy to pull on. Ariat didn’t skimp on technology with this boot, either, as it has first-class features like a moisture-wicking sock liner and a Duratread outsole for comfort, stability, and peak performance. This boot also has the Ariat signature removable insoles for an extra half-size to maximize the wear time for your growing child.
6. EGO7 Orion Field Boot ($499)
Before you say "wait a minute, EGO7 only make adult boots?" we know. EGO7 boots are very popular with adult riders and they offer a wide variety of size combinations. However, we have found that several of the smaller size configurations offered by Ego7 fit many youth riders quite nicely.
Only the Best for Your Young Equestrian
A good equestrian boot helps contribute to a great riding experience. The kids’ riding boots featured here are loved by our customers, so we’re sure any of these boots will be a winner for your young rider!
Explore our collection of girls’ and boys’ riding boots that have been tested by our staff and customers. If you have questions about any of our products, give us a call at 864-457-3557. We’re happy to help!
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