Finding the best riding boots for wide calves can be tricky – especially if you’re also looking for long riding boots that are smaller in the foot or not of regular length. Of course, short boots and half chaps or gaiters are an option in many cases – half chaps often have a larger range of wider fits, which are not limited by the size of your foot – but sometimes a pair of well-fitting long riding boots are exactly what you want.
Poorly fitting riding boots can have an effect on your safety, comfort and enjoyment while riding, but all the long riding boots for wide calves featured in this guide offer wide or extra-wide leg widths.
Best riding boots for wide calves
Rhinegold Luxus Long Leather Riding Boots
Colours: Black or brown
Foot Sizes: UK 3–11, in four calf widths (0, 1, 2 or 3) or UK 3–8 in a further extra-wide width
Reasons to buy
- Very soft leather
- Good value
- Range of calf and height options
Reasons to avoid
- If you are looking for a more rigid structure
Catering to a wide range of sizes, these boots are available in four calf widths as standard, but they are also available in extra-short (with four calf widths) and extra-wide in UK sizes 3–8. They feature a wider, smooth-feel zip pull and two pleated, elasticated leather sections at the back of the boot for a comfortable fit. With spur guards and a sure grip sole these boots are practical as well as smart.
I have a pair of these boots. They didn’t dig into the back of my knees and required no breaking in due to their super-soft leather. They clean up well after everyday riding and competitions, proving durable and great value for money.
Shires Moretta Ortona Riding Boots
Colours: Black
Sizes: UK 3½–8, with five calf width (extra slim, slim, regular, wide or extra wide) and three height options (short, standard or tall)
Reasons to buy
- Shape retaining leather
- Smart enough for competition
Reasons to avoid
- Only available in black
These boots are beautifully constructed in smooth shape retaining cow leather, smartly polished to a high sheen finish making them ideal for the arena.
Available in short, standard and tall heights, they also have a full YKK zip, square toe and stretch mock laces. They feature UltraFit panels for a close fit, dressage cut tops, leather grip spur rests and ActiveFlex shock-absorbing insoles.
DeNiro Salentino Riding Boots
Colours: Black, brown, grey or blue
Sizes: UK 2–11, with eight calf widths and five height options
Reasons to buy
- Customisable
- Super soft leather
Reasons to avoid
- Some sizes and colours have a long lead time for delivery
- More expensive than most
These DeNiro riding boots are part of DeNiro’s iconic Tricolore collection, and are handmade in Italy from high quality calfskin leather. The boot features a Vibram sole, lower zip guard with spur rests, YKK zip, sock saver and buffalo wear patch on the inside leg.
The DeNiro boots can be customised to perfectly match your own look with a huge array of options, and sizes you may have to special order your size so bear this in mind when ordering as they can take around eight weeks to arrive – but they are worth the wait.
LeMieux Field Riding Boots
Colours: Black or brown
Sizes: UK 4–9, in four calf widths (extra slim, slim, regular or full) and three height options (short, regular or tall)
Reasons to buy
- Comfortable ‘fit and flex’ leather
- Non-slip tread
Reasons to avoid
- Higher price tag, but features are worth the investment
Made from premium full-grain leather, offering an elegant, flexible fit, these boots feature a contoured ergonomic footbed, ensuring total support. The X-Grip rubber sole with linear tread enhances stirrup security.
Breathable, high-grade leather lining keeps your feet cool and comfortable, while a cushioned neoprene cover at the back of the knee ensures comfort during long wear. The streamlined, elasticated front lacing and concealed YKK zip offer a sleek finish. Also available in junior sizes.
Ariat Palisade Dress Tall Riding Boots
Colours: Black
Sizes: UK 4–8½, with five calf widths and four height options
Reasons to buy
- Smart design
- Removable cushioned insole
Reasons to avoid
- Only available in black
These boots offer a sleek, ultra-contoured fit through the ankle and are available with laces (field style) and without laces (dress style). They feature a Duratread outsole and utilise Ariat’s 4LR (4-Layer Rebound) technology for everyday comfort. The boots have a built-in stretch at the instep for a snug, custom-like fit, as well as a full-length elasticised panel and zip.
Our deputy art editor Sophie Cheeseman tested the original version of these boots and she found the boots to soften up really well and were really supportive in the foot. They are a great option for riding at home as well as at competition.
Sophie said she “would definitely choose these boots over any other for all-day comfort and ease of use”. One of her favourite features is the spur rest on the leather zip guard – it supports the spur in the perfect place and prevents any pressure on the heel from having to have them too tight. Read Sophie’s Ariat Palisade boots review.
GS Equestrian Original Tall Riding Boots
Colours: Black
Sizes: UK 3–8, in four calf widths (slim, standard, wide or extra wide)
Reasons to buy
- Structured yet supple upper for comfort and close-contact feel
- Suitable for competitions and everyday riding
Reasons to avoid
- Only available in one height option
These are great value everyday boots, but smart enough for competition use, too. If you’re new to long boots or have a smaller budget these might be the pair for you.
Crafted from a smooth, leather upper, these boots offer a sleek silhouette while also being comfortable. The structured yet supple upper provides a close-contact feel, while offering a secure and supportive fit.
Premier Equine Maurizia Ladies’ Lace Front Tall Leather Riding Boots
Colours: Navy, cognac, black or brown
Sizes: UK 4–8, in two calf widths (regular or wide)
Reasons to buy
- Classic lace style provides a custom like fit
- Discreet comfort fit elastic stretch panel
Reasons to avoid
- Only offer one height option
A lace style tall riding boot that provides a custom like fit. These ladies tall riding boots have been hand crafted with a superior cut and sculpted fit to provide you with contoured support.
Crafted from leather they are supple from the very first wear, and the boot provides flexibility in the ankle for a soft and easy heel down position. A discreet elastic panel runs along the rear zip for a custom feel fit.
Toggi Easton Long Riding Boots
Colours: Black or brown
Sizes: EU 37–42, with two calf widths (regular or wide)
Reasons to buy
- Elasticated back panels for comfort
- Available in regular and wide calf options
Reasons to avoid
- Not suitable if you are looking for a bespoke fit
These tall riding boots from Toggi are available in black and brown with regular and wide calf options. They are handcrafted from premium waxy leather with a classic, sleek design.
They also feature a full length YKK zip and elasticated panels that provide more flexibility when riding, as well as a durable, shock-absorbing rubber outsole for added comfort and support.
Brogini Modena Riding Boots
Colours: Black
Sizes: EU 36–43, with two calf widths (wide or extra-wide)
Reasons to buy
- Perfect entry level long riding boot
- Easy care vegan synthetic leather
Reasons to avoid
- If you are looking for a leather boot
These riding boots are made from easy-care and durable synthetic leather, which makes them suitable for vegans. They are available in two calf widths – wide or extra-wide – and are a great option if you’re on a budget.
How to choose riding boots for wider calves
Most close-fitting tall riding boots will have a full-length zip at the rear, which makes them easier to get on and off, but also ensures a snug fit. Some boots will have elasticated panelling to help improve the fit – some styles do this in a smarter way, so this may be something you want to consider. You’ll also be able to choose between field boots (with laces) and dress boots (without) – this is usually a matter of preference, but dress boots tend to be favoured by dressage riders.
Always check the size guides when choosing between different pairs of boots – each brand will have slightly different measures for regular, wide and extra-wide, and while your size might not be catered for by one, it may be by another. It’s also important to know that boots should feel tight when you first buy them as they’ll soften and drop with wear – it’s not unusual to need help from a friend or shop assistant to get you into a new pair.
Trade stands at big shows, such as Badminton Horse Trials, are a great place to shop for boots with a wider calf – there will be a wide selection to choose from in one place, and the stand holders will be able to help you put them on. If you still have no luck finding long riding boots for wide calves, your next option is to try made to measure boots.
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You might also like:
16 of the best long leather riding boots for every budget
Best short riding boots for riders of all ages and abilities
The best half chaps and gaiters to pair with your favourite short boots
10 pairs of country boots you’d like to be seen in
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