Benefits of Rubber Riding Boots

There are two main types of rubber riding boots available on the market – short riding boots, usually referred to as ‘jodhpur boots’, and long riding boots. The former are designed to be worn with jodhpurs, a type of riding trouser that ends below the ankle, and the latter is designed to be worn with breeches – a shorter type of trouser that finishes above the ankle.

 Whilst traditionalists may hark towards leather riding boots, rubber boots actually offer many advantages over the leather alternatives. Primarily perhaps is the price; synthetic riding boots are much more economical than leather riding boots. For this reason they are particularly suited to riders on a budget, those who have just started out and for children whose feet are still growing.

 As well as the initial outlay being less, rubber riding boots are far easier and cheaper to care for than leather riding boots. Basic rubber boots can be simply washed down with water and a sponge – you should receive further cleaning details from the manufacturer.

 The rubber material is waterproof; any water will simply drop off the surface, making these boots ideal for wet weather, whether you are in or out of the saddle.  They will also dry quickly – ready for the next time you put them on.

 However there are also disadvantages to rubber riding boots when compared to leather riding boots. The main one being that they do not look as smart as leather boots and hence they are rarely seen in competition.

Rubber riding boots are also less durable than correctly cared for leather boots and therefore they will need to be replaced more often; however their price does allow for this. Perhaps more importantly they will not mould to the shape of your leg in the same way as a pair of leather riding boots would. This may prevent you from riding to the best of your ability.

 Another option which is often considered to be the mid-point between rubber and leather riding boots is ‘equi-leather’ boots. These are boots made from a synthetic material that is designed to resemble real leather. They are more refined than rubber riding boots and are usually more expensive. Nevertheless they offer a similar appearance to leather riding boots without the same price tag.

 It is of utmost importance that the boots you buy fit you and are comfortable to wear. When purchasing long rubber riding boots you will be astounded by the variety of sizes available on the market, covering foot size, calf size and height. This will help you to get the perfect fit. Short rubber jodhpur boots are also available in various sizes from the smallest child’s sizes to men’s sizes.

 A huge variety of rubber, equi-leather and leather riding boots at great prices from Mark Todd, Just Togs and Dublin, as well as other brands, are available from Equestrian Clearance.