A TALL Tale

Select and fit the perfect English tall boots for your type of riding and showing.

- ELIZABETH MOYER

While tall, well-polished, gleaming black boots are part of the classic equestrian look, they also serve an important function for riders. Tall English riding boots help support your leg in a proper riding position. The high leather shaft prevents pinching or rubbing from the stirrup leather. And of course, the boot's heel keeps your foot from sliding through the stirrup.

Shopping for tall boots can be tricky, especially if it's your first pair. In addition to your shoe size, the height of your lower leg and width of your calf also factor into the fit.

New boots may take some time and effort to break in, as well as good care and maintenance to help them last a long time. The price ranges can vary a lot, so try to have a budget in mind before you start shopping.

Here are some expert tips to help you find the perfect tall riding boots.

Style Notes

Tall boots come in a few different styles. Field boots have laces at the ankle to allow more flexibility. When broken in, field boots will have folds, or creases, at the ankle-perfect for that deep heels-down position hunter/jumper riders strive to achieve.

Dress boots have no laces, giving a more formal look. Dressage boots typically don't have laces and can be made stiffer to maintain the boot's shape and support the rider's leg. They develop fewer creases at the ankle to enhance an elegant, long leg position in the saddle.

"Hunter, equitation, jumper and eventing riders use a field or dress boot," says Kimberly Chick, owner of Fair Hill Saddlery in Elkton, Md. "We find that the choice is personal preference and/ or the preference of the trainer. Dressage riders use a dress boot with no laces.