Riding boots versus short boots and half chaps

Often a common question especially from new riders, is which is better; long riding boots or short riding boots and half chaps? In an ideal world, a pair of long leather riding boots made from boxed leather with a flexible ankle are ideal to ride in, but the price and functionality (having to change into them everythime you ride and out again after) is normally prohibitive!

The problem with long rubber riding boots, is although they often look and fit the calf as well as some leather boots the flexibility in the ankle is missing which can be a great hinderence especially for new riders struggling to attain the correct leg position. Riding instructors tend to prefer young children to wear jodhpur boots so they can see the position of the childs leg more easily (it is easy to draw your heel up inside a long rubber riding boot and yet from the outside it looks as if your heels are still level thus giving a false impression!) and teaches them the feel for the correct leg position more easily.

Usually the best solution is a pair of robust jodhpur boots, or even a good quality yard boot that is safe to ride in coupled with half chaps. This gives the riders calf protection from the stirrup leathers, but allows far more flexibility in the ankle which helps with achieving a natural leg position more easily. Suede half chaps also help the rider to grip with the calf more effectively with I always find a help, particularly on more lively horses! With a yard boot, it is simple to just put the chaps on before riding and remove them after, without the need to replace your footwear.