Don’t let cold winter weather keep you from riding! You can ride all winter long with some additional preparation and gear, including winter riding boots designed specifically for the season. The best winter riding boots are a waterproof and insulated version of your everyday riding boot, offering extra protection for cold and wet climates. Here is what you want to look for in a quality boot and some great options we highly recommend.
What to Look for in Winter Riding Boots
Winter riding boots are specifically designed to keep your feet dry and warm in colder winter temperatures. They also should offer the same safety features as your regular boots provide, including a sturdy toe and a small heel (of around an inch) to protect your foot from sliding through the stirrup. And just like with all riding boots, they should be comfortable and fit well.
Winter riding boots feature a variety of different materials, such as leather, synthetic leather, and rubber. Though they should be water-resistant or waterproof, they also need to be breathable and just as comfortable as any other boot.
9 Best Winter Riding Boots
Winter riding boots have a tall order to fill. They must meet standard horse-riding boot requirements and offer added protection for winter riding. The boots in this list rise to the challenge.
1. Ariat Women’s Ascent Waterproof Paddock Boot ($179.95)
If you’re wanting to turn heads the revolutionary Ariat Ascent will do it. This expertly designed paddock boot just got a waterproof upgrade making it perfect for winter. The Ascent isn’t just fashion-forward, it features Ariat’s Waterproof PRO™ construction, FLX Foam™ midsole, and a rider tested Duratread™ sole. Pair this paddock boot with the Ascent half chap for a tall boot look and feel.
2. Ariat Women's Tall Wythburn Waterproof Boot ($269.95)
Another great boot in the Ariat line, the Wythburn waterproof boot is a solid multi-purpose offering. This boot features luxuriously handcraft nubuck that gets even more beautiful with wear. The Ariat Wythburn has a breathable and waterproof membrane to keep your feet dry and comfortable. The elegant plaid lining makes this boot ideal for early or late-winter or more temperate winter climates.
3. Ariat Keswick Waterproof Boots ($179.95)
The Keswick is our anytime, anywhere boot every English rider should have at their front door. It’s waterproof, super durable and slips on in seconds – perfect for walking the dog, getting the mail, and strolling the barn.
4. Women’s Terrain H20 Waterproof Boot ($129.95)
If you need a paddock boot and want it to stand up to harsh winter conditions, these boots are ideal. Top-performing, these are the perfect all-terrain boots. Updated for 2021/22 the Ariat Terrain H20 features a moisture-wicking lining and is made from waterproof leather with an impermeable barrier. These will keep your feet dry and warm, even in the coldest of winters. Check out the Ariat Men's Terrain H20 here.
5. Ariat Moresby Waterproof Boot ($199.95)
Perfect for chilly or wet days, the Ariat Moresby Boot is going to be one of your favorites for this winter. These super cute waterproof boots go great with jods, breeches, or your favorite jean, and the front can be flipped up or down for different looks. The Moresby boot has a cozy lining and features a waterproof membrane that ensures lasting all weather comfort. The flexible yet rugged grip sole is ideal for those frosty mornings or even a snow day.
6. Ariat Women's Wexford Waterproof Boot($189.95)
High-performing and protective when you’re maneuvering in the elements outdoors, these waterproof boots take it a step further with a beautiful and supple design that places them on equal footing for an evening out with friends.
7. TuffRider Child's Lexington Waterproof Tall Boots ($157.95)
These children’s boots are a huge hit with our younger equestrians. They may just be the perfect barn boots for children! These boots offer full waterproofing at a great price point, protecting your child from all weather conditions. They are attractive and include a comfortable rubber sole and a drawstring top.
The TuffRider Lexington boot is also available for women ($199.95). TuffRider offers a great boot your whole family of equestrians will love.
8. Kerrits Women's Element Insulated Paddock Boot ($189.00)
We'd be amiss if we didn't include these insulated paddock boots from Kerrits. Snow? Ice? Mare that insists on a tromp through both to catch her? No problem. Featuring Kerrits RideWarm&Dry™ technology your feel will stay warm, dry, and happy. The waterproof membrane keeps moisture out and the insulated lining keeps the heat in. This is the perfect paddock boot for those chilly winter days. You're also going to enjoy the cushioning and stability this boot offers, say goodbye to fatigue after a long day in the barn.
9. Dublin River Boots III ($174.95)
All day comfort and waterproof – the Dublin River Boot III is a favorite! This boot is comfortable and fashionable, you'll wearing it around town with jeans or pair it with breeches while working in the barn. The Dublin River book features their moisture-wicking RCS footbed system with heel and a durable but lightweight Tough-Tec rubber outsole. It's made from waterproof and breathable full grain leather making it the perfect country boot for a cold and wet winter day.
Ariat Bromont Pro Tall Waterproof Insulated Tall Riding Boot
If you’ve been a long-time fan of the Ariat Bromont you might be thinking why is it not on the list? This has been one of our favorite winter boots because of the fantastic waterproofing and thermal insole. The PrimaLoft® insulation kept our feet warm in the harshest cold-weather conditions. That all said the Ariat Bromont Pro boots have been discontinued. However, before you panic, Ariat is bringing onboard the Heritage Insulated Tall Boots to take it's place. As soon this boot arrives you can be sure it will make our list. Ariat has a great line of tall all-weather boots and paddock boots.
Choosing a Good Boot Will Increase Your Riding Enjoyment
Riding in the winter can pose some challenges with cold and wet weather, but you can ride all year round if you’re prepared with the right gear. This means getting a great pair of winter riding boots. We hope this list is helpful for you, and of course, feel free to reach out to ask us questions about any of these products.
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