Horseback riding is a popular pastime and sport enjoyed by many all over the world. It can be a challenging experience, and it takes time to properly learn how to ride and control a horse.
Many riders know that proper safety equipment and clothing is essential for the best riding experience. But when it comes to footwear, many are unsure of which type of shoe they should wear while horseback riding.
When it comes to horseback riding, there are certain types of shoes that are ideal for the activity. These include riding boots, paddock boots, chaps, and half-chaps.
Riding boots are designed specifically for horseback riding and offer support and protection for the foot while in contact with the stirrups. Paddock boots are similar to riding boots but have shorter shafts that cover only part of the leg. Chaps and half-chaps provide additional protection for the leg from rubbing against the saddle.
Although these types of shoes are ideal for horseback riding, some riders opt to wear hiking boots instead. While hiking boots may provide comfort and support while on foot, they do not offer the same level of protection as dedicated equestrian footwear. Hiking boots do not provide the necessary heel height or arch support required for proper safety while mounted on a horse.
Hiking boots also lack any type of reinforced toe box or ankle support which can be essential when your feet are in contact with stirrups for long periods of time. Furthermore, hiking boots typically have lugged soles which can be hazardous when making contact with a horses’ hooves as they can cause them to slip.
In conclusion, it is not recommended to wear hiking boots while horseback riding as they do not provide adequate protection or support required for safe equestrian activities. For optimal safety, comfort and performance dedicated equestrian footwear should always be worn when engaging in any type of horseback riding activity.
