How Do You Measure English Riding Boots?
Correctly fitting boots, whether field or dress boots, for English riding are one of the most important investments you can make for competing in the sport. Boots that are too big around the calf drop too much and the leather will begin to slouch. Boots too long in the foot make it hard to put your foot on the stirrup correctly. Boots that are too small are horribly uncomfortable and may be impossible to get on or off. Wear your breeches and the socks you most often wear with your breeches, and sit in a chair so that your feet are flat and your knees make a 90-degree angle. Have your helper measure your leg around the widest part of your calf. Be sure to measure both legs and go with the bigger measurement. Measure the back of your leg from the floor to behind your knee. Add 1 1/2 or 2 inches to get the measurement you will need for your boots. This accounts for the drop, where the leather settles around your ankle, that will happen as your boots break in.
