What should I look for when purchasing tall boots?

Question

I will be riding in IHSA this year and need my first pair of show boots. Is there anything I should avoid? I am looking in the price range of $100-$200 since that is all I can afford at this time. Are there any brands you recommend?

Answer 1

try to find ariats if possible.

i know most people recommend zippers, but they don't last as long, and pull on boots are stiffer in the back = better leg position.

pull ons are harder to find because they are being fased out but i found my ariat pull on boots for 99 on closeout, even though they were orinally $299

also, i field boots (laced) = jumpers/hunters

dress boots (plain tall boots) = dressage

Answer 2

I rode IHSA in college on 03.  It really doesn't matter which ones you get.  All of those in that range are pretty much the same.  These are nice http://www.doversaddlery.com/devon-aire-...  I also like the dublin zip.  As suggested above, the Ariats are awesome!  You can probably find some in your range on ebay.

When I did IHSA, I was on a super-budget.  I got all of my stuff on ebay--helmet, boots, etc.

On another note, my team was picky.  I HAD to wear the green-beige tailored sportsman breeches and a colored or striped shirt.  You also must have your hair in a net in your helmet, etc.

You probably know this arleady, but I just thought I'd tell you just in case.  Basically, you are expected to dress like you are on the A-circuit.   Most of the girls have GPA's, but an IRH will do just fine.

Again, ebay, all the way!!!  Also, if you don't have something, a lot of the girls have extras that you should be able to borrow.  Good luck!  It is soooo much fun!  I loved every minute of it.  I loved being on an even playing field, and I cherish my college ribbons.

Also, don't be scared to ask the seasoned girls on your team.  They can offer you a wealth of advice and probably may be picky about what you wear.

P.S., if you don't get zip-ups, you will need boot pulls to get your boots on (long metal hooks with wooden handles).  Also, you will need to wear zocks or knee highs (boot socks) over your breeches and under your boots, which helps them slide on easier.  If you are in hunter, you need field boots.  For dressage, you need dress boots.  I'm so jealous.  :(  I wish I was in your shoes!.  How exciting!!!!

Enjoy every minute of it!

Answer 3

although these are a little over you price limit, they' re WELL worth it.

http://www.doversaddlery.com/product.asp...

ariat is a trusted brand, and these boots are darn comfortable.. easy to break in and just all around nice.. They also have zippers which is good, and spur rests which are important for IHSA since you never know what your going to get.  I had these boots for 3+ years until i grew out of them, and out of ariat sizes.. but i wish they still fit!

But, the most important thing is to find a boot that fits you, and looks good... since its no good to have a nice brand boot that hurts when you where it since its the wrong size...

remember, they'll hurt in the beginning.  They'll be to far up at the back of you knee and very stiff at the ankle, but all boots relax eventually.