Leather Riding boots are boots made to be used for horseback riding. The classic boot comes high enough up the leg to prevent the leathers of the saddle from pinching the leg of the rider, has a sturdy toe to protect the rider's foot when on the ground, and has a distinct heel to prevent the foot from sliding through the stirrup.
The sole is smooth or lightly textured to avoid being caught on the tread of the stirrup in the event of a fall. Traditionally, riding boots are made of smooth leather, usually cowhide, or occasionally pigskin. However, synthetic leather, vinyl and other materials are becoming more common.
Quality of leather varies, with softer, finer-quality increasing the value of the boot. The modern riding boot is relatively low-heeled, with a heel of less than one inch, though historically a higher heel was common. Today, only some styles of cowboy boot retain a higher heel than other modern riding boots.
There are a number of different styles of riding boots, intended for different styles of riding, from horse shows, to pleasure riding. Tall boots, which end just below the knee of the rider, include field, dress, and hunt boots. For casual riding, riders often wear well-worn show boots, but also may take advantage of new boot designs.
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