Horse glossary
Boot
Footwear that protects your feet and works safely with stirrups.
In Spanish: Bota
What it means
Riding boots are sturdy, closed-toe footwear with a smooth sole and a small, defined heel, made to work safely with stirrups. Riders wear tall boots, or short paddock boots with half chaps, and western riders often wear cowboy boots. In stable talk, "boots" can also mean protective leg wraps worn by the horse.
Why it matters
The heel stops your foot from sliding all the way through the stirrup, which could leave you caught and dragged if you fall. Hard toes and thick leather also protect your feet if a horse steps on them.
Example
Wear boots with a heel for riding.
Try this
Choose boots with a heel of about an inch (2 to 3 centimeters) and a sole that isn't deeply treaded, so your foot can slip out of the stirrup easily. Wear closed-toe boots at the barn even on days you don't ride.
Common mistake
Sneakers and rain boots are common but risky choices: sneakers have no heel, and chunky treads can grip the stirrup. Sandals and open shoes should never be worn around horses.
Topics
Where this word comes up
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