If your daughter is starting horse riding lessons, choosing the right boots is crucial for safety and comfort. Here's everything you need to know.
Why proper riding boots matter
Regular boots can slip through stirrups — a genuine safety risk. Riding boots need:
- 2-3 cm heel to prevent the foot sliding through the stirrup
- Smooth sole for clean release if you fall
- Ankle support to protect from twists
Size guide by age
| Age | EU Size | UK Size |
|---|---|---|
| 4-5 years | 26-27 | 8-9 |
| 6-7 years | 28-30 | 10-11 |
| 8-9 years | 31-33 | 12-1 |
| 10-11 years | 34-35 | 2-3 |
| 12-13 years | 36-38 | 4-5 |
Tip: Always measure at end of day when feet are slightly swollen. Leave 0.5-1 cm growing room.
Leather vs synthetic for growing kids
For children who change size every season, synthetic boots are the smarter choice:
- Lower cost (kids outgrow them fast)
- Easy to clean after muddy lessons
- No break-in period needed
Leather makes sense from age 12-13 when foot size stabilises.
Tall boots vs paddock boots + half chaps
Tall boots (knee-high): Better for shows and formal lessons. More stable but harder to put on.
Paddock boots + half chaps: Perfect for daily lessons. More comfortable, easier to adjust separately for calf width.
Top brands for young riders
- HKM: Best value for money, wide fit, great for beginners
- Waldhausen: Durable with fun colours for younger kids
- Harry Hall: Classic British brand, excellent quality-price ratio
Full guide with more tips and brand comparisons: rincondv.com/blogs/news/botas-equitacion-nina-guia
