Fashion
10 Classic Riding Boots for Sophisticated Equestrians
The hunt continues for that perfectly curated wardrobe of staples. We rounded up the most gloriously simple white t-shirts and the most party-perfect little black dresses. But it's getting chilly outside, so let's turn our attention to something a little more seasonal: the boot.
Every woman should have a riding boot. Ankle boots, platform boots, combat boots, and rain boots are all great, too, but there's something endlessly classy about a sleek leather knee-length boot with a flat sole. Riding boots originated, as the name implies, from horse riding: they protected the rider's legs, and the stacked heel kept the rider's foot from slipping from the stirrup. Maybe their sophistication stems from the fact that they conjure up images of English countryside mansions with stables in the back.
These 10 amazing boots don't shy very far from their equestrian roots (no thick rubber soles here), though you will find a number of polite variations on the original. Variety is the spice of a refined life, after all.
Frye Riding Boot
We can’t talk boots without talking Frye, the masters of the boot form. They make a million classic styles, but the Melissa Button Boot is just perfection (and the adorable button tabs make it easy to pull on).
Frye Melissa Button Boot , $132, Amazon
Tory Burch Riding Boot
A knee-high leather boot is always going to be an investment, but a good boot will get better with age as it softens, creases, becomes totally yours. This Tory Burch number is pricey, but so classic.
Franco Sarto Riding Boot
Here’s a gorgeous option for wider calves. Love this grey, but it comes in three other colors, too.
Franco Sarto Trooper 2 , $105, Amazon
MIA Riding Boot
Vegan? There are tons of riding boot options in faux leather, and they’re significantly cheaper, too.
MIA Cammi , $35, amazon .com
Sam Edelman Riding Boot
Look at this gorgeous burnished leather! These boots zip up the back for easy access, and the slightly higher stacked heel is exactly what you’ll need if you’re planning to actually use a stirrup.
Sam Edelman ‘Penny’ Boot , $150, Amazon
Frye Riding Boot
And one more Frye boot, because we really couldn’t end any other way. This is an over-the-knee boot, and it’s statement-making, sexy, soft, and polished to perfection.
Frye Lynn Logo Otk , $349, Amazon
Lace Up Moto Boot
Like your laces? These boots are a little more “combat” than “riding,” but they still maintain that classic riding-boot shape, and the laces are undeniably awesome.
Women's Magda Lace Up with Full Zip Tall Boots - Mossimo Supply Co., $44.99, Target
Timberland Riding Boot
A scuffed leather look make these moto-esque boots the last word in cool.
Timberland "Wheelwright" Waterproof Moto Boot, $259.95, Nordstrom
Free People Riding Boot
Looking for something a smidge shorter? These distressed boots are slouchy enough to scandalize your proper English grandmother, but you can still ride with the best of them.
Riley Tall Boot, $448, Free People
Torrid Riding Boot
When it comes to taller boots, a wide width option can be of utmost importance for a comfy fit.
Multi Buckle Strap Gore Tall Boots (Wide Width & Wide Calf), $74.90, Torrid
