How to Measure English Riding Boots

Correctly fitting boots, whether field or dress boots, for English riding are one of the most important investments you can make for competing in the sport. Boots that are too big around the calf drop too much and the leather will begin to slouch. Boots too long in the foot make it hard to put your foot on the stirrup correctly. Boots that are too small are horribly uncomfortable and may be impossible to get on or off.

Things You'll Need

• Helper
• Cloth measuring tape
• Boots and socks

Instructions

1. Wear your breeches and the socks you most often wear with your breeches, and sit in a chair so that your feet are flat and your knees make a 90-degree angle.

2. Have your helper measure your leg around the widest part of your calf. Be sure to measure both legs and go with the bigger measurement.

3. Measure the back of your leg from the floor to behind your knee. Add 1 1/2 or 2 inches to get the measurement you will need for your boots. This accounts for the drop, where the leather settles around your ankle, that will happen as your boots break in.

Tips & Warnings

• Your boots will be uncomfortable when you first put them in. You will have trouble pulling them on and off, and they will be very tight around your calf. They should not be impossible to pull on and off, though; that usually means the calf is not wide enough for your leg.

References

• "Dover Saddlery;" 2009-2010 Catalog