What’s up with the zipper on the outside of the gorgeous boot? Did someone make a ghastly mistake in design? 

Not at all, in fact, someone was paying attention!  It’s all about safety and comfort, for both the horse and rider.  Interestingly, while shopping under boot classifications, especially the fashionable “Tall Boots”, you’ll discover that not all “riding boots” are ideal for riding horses.  Not all “cowboy boots” are proper riding boots either.  Many are designed simply as fashion boots and have no place anywhere near a barn, much less a horse.

TALL BOOTS $80 – $489

A beautiful, tall western boot may have side zippers, which are likely not optimal for riding.  In fact, a true riding boot will usually not have a zipper. If there is a zipper, it would be placed on the back of the boot to prevent rubbing against the horse, or on the outer sides where it will have no contact with the horse.  Additionally, many fashionable heels are not suited for safe use in a stirrup.  A good riding boot sole should be smooth, or have low profile tread, and a heel that is about 1 to 1 ½ inches high for an English Boot.  For Western Boots, lower heels (around one inch) are usually found in ropers and are easiest to walk or work in; higher heels (around two inches) are best for riding. This will help prevent your boot from slipping through the stirrup.  Safety first!

We all love boots, most of us have at least one or two pair, while many of us are absolute collectors, having a different boot for every imaginable situation.  New boots, old boots, and everything in between.  At this time of year while the frosty mornings and chilly evenings rage against us, a nice tall pair of boots are extremely inviting.  Maybe it’s time to add to our collections?

We did some shopping and put together a list of tall boots we consider worthy of a look or two.  Oh there were many, many more… beautiful, fancy, tall, some packed with beckoning sheepskin linings or sparkling bling and intricate carvings.  But, our search was for sure enough using boots, at reasonable prices.  And if you could wear them just as appropriately to the barn, trail, hunt or dress-up, all the better.

Who knows, perhaps the boot you’ve been searching for is right here.  We’d love to read your comments on the boots presented, or post a link to your dream tall boot, we’d love to see!

 

 

#1 Liberty Black American Tan

Tall Bovine Leather Boots has a 15″ stove pipe shaft, round toe, and a medium fashion heel.  We love the classic, distressed look of these Mexican made boots. LB-71111 American Tan, also available in Delano Camel.  According to Liberty Black, this boot will be available the end of January from Cody and Sioux >  

Check out Liberty Black Boots website >

 

 

 

#2 PAIGE TALL RIDING by Frye

Tall Italian Leather Boots have a 16″ shaft height.  We love the antiqued leather, simple design, low riding heel and classic style.  Elegant, yet ready for anything!

We found these for sale at $398.00 on Frye’s website:  Paige Tall Riding Boot

 

 

 

#3 Dublin Clyde Boot

Full grain leather that is waterproof to the first ring to eliminate wet toes and a memory foam insole for comfort.  These boots seem to be a great all around boot with good looks ‘to boot’.

We found this boot retailing for $199.95 at Adams Horse and Pet Supplies >

 

 

#4 Coniston Pro GTX Insulated by Ariat

We are in love with absolutely everything about these boots!  17″ tall (shaft varies by size), insulated,  rideable Duratred outsole with rider tested traction zones keeping you safe in the saddle.  Waterproof, 200g Thinsulate Insulation, Full length YKK back zipper, front lace system includes both elastic and cotton laces.  We’ve got to have a pair!

We found the most sizes available at SmartPak for $399.95 >

 

15″ Shaft height and 2.5″ heel, distressed turquoise leather, navy blue inlay designs, studs, and a chic square toe make this style both unique and timeless.  These artistically designed beauties are simply magnificent!  Those providing reviews claim the craftsmanship is outstanding and you don’t have to wonder if they are beautiful.  Wow!

We found them at Rivertrail Mercantile for $310.00

 

 

#6 Ariat Women’s Chocolate Farrah Sassy Boots

These boots are made with full-grain leather and have a stylish zipper along the side for easy entry and exit. The Duratread outsole provides maximum wear resistance with flexibility so that you can enjoy the boots for years to come. Grab your favorite skirt, pull on the boots, and hit the town for the night of your life.  The side zipper appears to be positioned just above the ankle, which may not rub your horse, but should be a consideration if choosing this boot for riding in.  Otherwise, the boot is simply gorgeous!

We found these boots at Country Outfitter for $229.99

 

 

#7 Ovation Cora Country Boots

The utilitarian canvas upper is softened and beautifully accented by the oiled leather foot, top cuff, and accent bands. The Freudenberg German-made waterproof/breathable membrane assures all weather comfort that lasts, rather than a waterproof coating that can wear out. We love this boot, hugely popular for obvious reasons; it performs its job well with a classy yet down-to-business look.  Bravo!

We found this boot at Horse Loverz ON SALE almost half off!  $80.00 (at that price, you can get two!)

 

# 8 DAN POST WOMEN’S MISSTAKEN

18″ SANDED BROWN TALL SQUARE TOE BOOTS DP3296.  These boots are awesome and would look just as appropriate socializing after a cattle drive or dancing at a wedding.  The inner zipper may require consideration before using this boot as a riding boot, but it is definetly a handy feature for dressing.  Durable Vintage Leather outsole, leather walking heel, leather lining, and broad square toe. Fits very true to size.  Simply gorgeous!

We found these at the Painted Cowgirl Western Store for $249.00

 

#9 OLD GRINGO MAYRA BOOTS

Distressed leather finish with textured stitching on an 18″ shaft and a side ankle zipper.  No list of classy boots would be complete without a pair of Old Gringos!

We found these on sale at D and D Texas Outfitters, regularly priced at $455.99 now on sale for $296.39 (only size 7 available).  We also found them at the Pinto Ranch in a variety of sizes for $489.00

 

# 10 CORRAL TAN FRINGED BOOTS

Tan leather fringe boot with turquoise and tan decorative stitching and multi-colored crystals with brass studs and a 14″ shaft.  Barely weighing in as a “tall boot”, we decided to include this pair as what they lack in height, they abundantly make up in playful beauty!  Oh-so-feminine yet tough enough to rope, ride and hit the barn dance all in a day’s adventure.

We found this boot ON SALE at West of Texas for $272.97 in sizes 6 – 9.5

Photo credit: https://cowgirlmagazine.com/corral-boots-feature-article/