[Morg93]

Hi there! I'm a beginner rider. I was riding western for awhile but now I have switched to English. I was wondering if anyone has recommendations for high top English boots that wont be too tall for a very short rider. I am 5 foot 1. All of the ones I have tried so far are waaaay too tall for me. Any suggestions would be most appreciated!

 

[Whinnie]

As a beginner rider, I would lean toward paddock boots with half chaps. This combination is suitable for showing at lower levels. The half chaps can be shortened if needed. I am 5 foot tall and have Ovation (leather) brand half chaps. I didn't need to shorten them, but did need the elastic loop that goes under the sole adjusted tighter.

 

[Morg93]

As a beginner rider, I would lean toward paddock boots with half chaps. This combination is suitable for showing at lower levels. The half chaps can be shortened if needed. I am 5 foot tall and have Ovation (leather) brand half chaps. I didn't need to shorten them, but did need the elastic loop that goes under the sole adjusted tighter.

Thank you! I'm currently wearing Ariat Terrains hiking boot style so maybe it would just be best to get some half chaps for now.

 

[Whinnie]

Thank you! I'm currently wearing Ariat Terrains hiking boot style so maybe it would just be best to get some half chaps for now.

You will have to try on the half chaps with those boots, they may be too thick at the ankles for the chaps to go over them.

 

[horselovinguy]

Your height also dictates a shoe size so instead of looking at adult look at child sizes

True paddock boots will work with 1/2 chaps, look appropriate and fit correctly....
Most websites have measurements available for the manufacturer and style as each can be different.

If you are really set on tall boots they too come in short, average and tall sizes and again, each manufacturer and style do fit differently.
If you are going to do tall boots I would suggest field boots as they have ankle laces that can snug a bit of excess from the ankle area you don't accumulate in paddock boots.
If you wear adult size shoes and find the boots still to tall for your leg then they can be cut down by a shoemaker, aka cobbler or by who does saddle repair at a good saddle shop.
Remember tall boots must be higher than your knee joint bend to start or when they break in and "drop" they will be to short and uncomfortable when riding.
Good luck in your search.
🐴...

 

[Dreamcatcher Arabians]

I can empathize with you as a short rider. The tall boots are miserable for a little while but they do break in and the tops will drop and become comfortable and quit cutting you in two at the knee. You just have to put them on and wear them constantly for several days. You'll hate life until they break in for you but once they do they'll be very comfortable.

 

[updownrider]

Dover saddlery has tall boots in junior (kids, children) length. I’m sure other tack shops would, too. At your height I’d think that is what you would need. I know I prefer to ride in tall boots over half chaps even though I love my half chaps. I always suggest to wear heel lifts and use mole skin padding while breaking in tall boots. Both can be found where Dr. Scholl’s is sold.

 

[Whinnie]

I wonder if junior size tall boots would not be wide enough through the calf.

 

[SarahPudlo]

I have a pair of HorseHaus riding boots.

OMG I love them. At first they were a little stiff, but after about three wears with thick socks, they are my go to. I love how they look really nice (I often wear them to the store or something after riding) but are also very functional. They are made of real leather and very well constructed! I've had them for over a year now and they look just as nice as when I got them - with the occasional leather conditioning of course. I do also have the matching half chaps for them, but don't always ride in them if just doing flat work or a trail ride and they're still great.

 

[Joyce L.]

I’m a 5’ sturdily built woman with damaged feet, so I need a wider footbed. I feel your “vertical challenge pain.” It has helped me to shop at a place where there’s an expert boot person and a large assortment of boots. I discovered that the more expensive boots fit better- of course. 🙄 Ego 7 and Mountain Horse have had tall boots in a short size that fit me well, but I wasn’t ready to commit to $500+ boots yet, and also wanted the ability to change up half chaps according to the weather. I settled on a pair of Greywal lace up paddock boots and Ariat Close Contact half chaps in a short size. Minimal breaking in time has been needed, they’re comfortable and I didn’t need to break the bank. I’m now considering buying tall boots and know what fits. Hope that helps!