A Complete Guide to Competition Boots

Looking and feeling your best on competition day is vital to performing at your very best. As part of your outfit, the boots you wear are key to achieving a winning competition look. Choosing the right boots will ensure you move freely and securely in comfort and style. To help you choose your boots, we’ve collated our expert guide to competition boots, so you’ll find exactly what you’re looking for to perform and shine in the saddle. 

Rules Around Competition Boots

If you’re relatively new to competitive riding, you may be wondering ‘what are the requirements for competition riding boots?’. Competition boots have traditionally been black, making them sleek and consistent across all competitors. More recently, the rules now state that boots can have coordinating colours and accents, making the choice for competitions more varied and exciting. Many riders, however, still opt for the classic black tall riding boot, for a more polished and sophisticated look. 

Competition riding boots should have a distinguishable heel, no less than ½ inch. The heel acts to reduce the chance of a rider’s foot slipping from the stirrups, keeping them more secure. That being said, most competitions also require rider’s show boots to have a smooth sole so that, in the unlikely event of a fall, the rider’s feet can slip easily out the stirrup without getting caught. 

Although there are no regulations around the fit of the boot, riders should definitely consider the fit of the boot, or the half chap if preferable, for the ultimate comfort whilst competing. 

Boots vs Half Chaps for Competing

Although tall riding boots are the traditional competition choice, lots of riders actually prefer to wear short boots with half chaps for comfort. 

Some riders prefer boots and half-chaps because they can provide better mobility around the ankle so they can reach a better position in the saddle, but it’s individual to each rider – and both are allowed. In most cases, there are no regulations against wearing half chaps; the only must-have is that they match the colour of the rider’s short/paddock boot. 

Competition Boot Guide

Let’s now take a look at some of our top picks in our guide to the ultimate competition boot. 

The Palisade Show Riding Boot

The head turning design of the Palisade Show Riding boot is a real standout when it comes to show riding boots, which is why it’s one of our top picks. 

With innovative features like built-in stretch for flexible movement, full-grain leather for a sleek style, behind-the-knee mobility, and lightweight supportive design - this boot is designed to perform as well as you do. 

This sophisticated show boot is designed to perfectly compliment your show outfits. The detail of the croc-printed cuff adds a touch of unique style.

The Ravello Tall Riding Boot

The Ravello Tall Riding boot is another of our top competition footwear picks, helping riders to shine in the saddle. 

Exquisitely handcrafted in Italy, its quality is unmatched. The soft Italian calf leather makes for an incredibly comfortable fit, and the elegant high Spanish topline finishes off a competition look perfectly. 

Riders will also find features to keep them cool and collected, like the ATS® Luxe technology that allows for breathability, even when they’re under pressure in the ring. Elasticised panels and mobility notches allow for ease of movement. 

The Palisade Paddock Boot

For riders who prefer the freedom of half chaps, the Palisade Paddock Boot is a great competition choice. Its sleek silhouette makes this paddock boot like no other, elegant and competition worthy. 

The boot features a lightweight stablising shank, as well as shock absorbing technology in the heel, giving riders maximum performance paired with unbeatable comfort and support. The front zip is both stylish and practical. 

For days in the show ring, the Palisade Paddock Boot pairs perfectly with the Palisade Half Chap. 

Heritage Contour II Field Zip Tall Riding Boot

Our final pick is the Heritage Contour II Field Zip Riding boot. This particular design is perfect for all disciplines, made in a sophisticated, ultra-contoured design from full-grain leather. 

This particular design also features elasticised panels and gussets, so riders have flexible movement in the saddle, as well as moisture-wicking sock liners that keep feet cool and dry when competing. 

In the winter months, riders can upgrade to the waterproof and insulated design that is perfect for additional comfort and warmth, so that they can focus on performing at their very best. 

Find out a bit more about the perfect boot for you with our guide to horse riding boots, whether you’re out in the show ring or simply out in the yard.