Riding Boot Help - Finding the Right Fit
Finding the right riding boots involves more than choosing your usual shoe size and calf height. The fit is also affected by the shape of your calf, the circumference below the knee, your ankle and the shape of your foot. Sizing and measuring methods can also vary between brands.
We are always happy to help you find the right style, size and options, whether you visit us for a professional fitting or take your measurements at home.
Fitting & Measuring at Hogsta
If you would like us to measure and fit your riding boots, we recommend booking an appointment before visiting the store. This ensures that a member of staff experienced in riding boot fitting is available and has plenty of time to help you with sizing, fit, measurements and any custom options.
To book a fitting, contact us at
info@hogstaridsport.com or call
08-759 05 07.
Ordering Riding Boots Remotely
You can also order riding boots without visiting our store. The Size Guide for each boot includes the relevant size chart and measuring guide to help you find the right size.
Before placing your order with the supplier, we will review the details and contact you to double-check your measurements, size and chosen options.
Which Measurements Matter?
Shoe size, boot height and the circumference around the widest part of the calf are the measurements most commonly shown in standard size charts. However, several other measurements can be important when determining how a riding boot will actually fit.
Below the knee
The circumference just below the knee is important because the boot shaft becomes narrower towards the top. On a standard riding boot, the circumference below the knee is usually around 1.5–2 cm smaller than at the widest part of the calf.
If you have slim or relatively straight lower legs, there may be very little difference between these two measurements. In this case, a standard boot can be too narrow at the top even when the calf measurement itself is correct.
With a more defined calf, the opposite can happen and the boot may be slightly roomier above the widest part of the calf. The top of the shaft cannot always be made considerably narrower, as the outer curve of the boot still needs to sit correctly against the leg.
Ankle and lower leg
For boots with a particularly close fit around the ankle, measurements further down the leg are also important. These affect both the overall fit and how easily you can get your foot in and out of the boot.
Many jumping boots have a rear zip, as this provides a larger opening when putting the boot on. This is particularly important for styles that fit closely around the ankle.
Instep
A high instep can also affect which riding boot styles will fit well. For this reason, we consider more than just the calf and height measurements when fitting riding boots.
Boot Height - How Different Brands Measure
One important point to remember when comparing riding boots is that not all manufacturers measure boot height in the same way. Always refer to the size chart for the specific style you are interested in.
Cavallo
Cavallo measures boot height from the centre of the kneecap down to the floor along the outside of the heel. This measurement is usually around 2 cm longer than a measurement taken from the crease at the back of the knee to the floor. Cavallo dressage boots have an 8 cm outer curve above the height of the knee crease.
De Niro
De Niro measures boot height from the crease at the back of the knee to the floor. The outer curve is 8 cm on dressage boots and 6 cm on jumping boots.
Need Help?
Riding boots can fit very differently even when the measurements look similar on paper. If you are unsure which style or size to choose, or how to interpret your measurements, we are happy to help before you place your order.
For advice or to book a fitting, contact us at
info@hogstaridsport.com or call
08-759 05 07.