Kids Horseback Riding Boots What’s Important!
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Introduction to Kids Horseback Riding Boots What’s Important!
I specialize in teaching beginner horseback riding lessons to children 2-7 years old. One thing that comes up with lesson is horse riding gear for kids (Click here for horse riding gear I require for private lessons). But more specifically horse riding boots for kids. What’s so important about kids horseback riding boots? Does my child really need boots to ride? Are there better boots than others? These are all valid questions especially when you don’t know if your 3-year-old will ever want to ride again after their first ride!
Why are Kids Horseback Riding Boots Important?
Boots designed specifically for horseback riding are:
- balanced for the stirrup
- easy for sliding in and out of the stirrup quickly
- grippy enough to stay on the stirrup without getting caught when the foot is lifted
- keeping the foot from sliding too far in the stirrup
- supporting the foot and ankle
- protecting the foot and ankle
- zipped/laced on front, back, or outside
Children’s horseback riding boots are important # 1 for safety. They are specially designed to go in the stirrup easily and come back out easily when the foot is lifted. When falling off a horse it is best to get both feet out of the stirrups for a clean fall. Heavy tread on many non-horseback riding boots can keep feet trapped in the stirrup.
The small heel on kids horseback riding boots keep the foot from sliding too far forward in the stirrup. This makes riding easier and more balanced. Zippers and laces are always on the front, back or outside of the boot, so there is nothing extra between the rider and pony/horse.
Kids horseback riding boots are durable and provide support and protection to the foot and ankle. Stirrup leathers can pinch, so having protective boots are beneficial for comfort during mounting, dismounting, and riding.
Does My Child Really Need Boots to Ride?
For PAL Around Pony School (click here to find out more about Pony School), I do not require boots, but they are strongly recommended. Even a boot that is not specifically made for riding is better than a sneaker. Riding in PAL Around Pony School is about 5 minutes walking on a lead line. Private horseback riding lessons for kids (click here for more about private riding lessons) require children’s horseback riding boots. These one-on-one lessons have more riding time and work on advanced riding techniques.
Are There Better Kids Boots Than Others? Where to Buy?
For beginner riders, a paddock boot or cowboy boot is sufficient. Leather tends to last longer, but most children will grow out of their boots before they wear them out. (Click here for Dover Saddlery’s website)
Paddock boots are comfortable and cost less than tall boots. They are perfect for the beginner rider. (Click here for Amazon’s Kid’s Paddock Boots) Look for kid’s paddock boots that zip in the front.
Cowboy boots work well also and can sometimes be easier to find for tiny riders. As long as their heel is not too tall and there is appropriate tread a cowboy boot will work for most beginners. They can be appealing with their many colors and patterns. (Click here for Amazon’s Kid’s Cowboy Boots)
Boots With Problems
Conclusion and Why Should You Invest in Kids Horseback Riding Boots
If your child is ready for more horseback riding after their first ride, you need boots. It makes riding safer and easier for your young rider. You don’t have to buy the most expensive boot just a functional one! Sometimes Facebook marketplace has kids horseback riding boots. Amazon has a large selection of children’s horseback riding boots (Click here for Amazon’s Children’s Horseback Riding Boots!).