Jessica Jahiel's HORSE-SENSE Newsletter Archives

Extra-wide calves & no boots that fit!

From: Carole

I have just read a newsletter on the internet site re the above problem. I live in the UK and am unable to find any long riding boots that fit my calves.

Do you know anywhere where I can buy any either over the internet or via mail order catalogue as I am desperate. I need some boots which measure approx 17" in the calves and so far have been unsuccessful. I have searched the internet for days but to no avail. Carole

Hi Carole! I understand, and I sympathize. In most cases, the calf size of an extra-wide boot never even reaches 17", or reaches 17" only when the boot size is considerably larger than average, which makes boot-buying very difficult for those of us who have relatively small feet AND large calves.

You are in luck. There IS one manufacturer at least who makes off-the-rack tall boots with truly wide calves in a more complete range of foot sizes, and the boots are widely available throughout the UK. The brand is Mountain Horse, and the boots come in two versions: the Mountain Horse High Rider, available in both black and brown (excellent for schooling) and the Sportive, available in black only (suitable for competitions as well as schooling). Both models are available in regular and wide fittings, and for once, "wide" really means WIDE - even the smaller foot sizes (depending on size) have a 17" or a 17.5" calf. You didn't mention your foot size or leg length, but I believe that the High Rider is now available in a new "short wide" model for riders who need the extra width in the calf but do NOT need a corresponding increase in boot height.

The Mountain Horse boots are extremely comfortable - and they even have zips up the back, so getting in and out of them is easy. I've found these to be ideal for riding and for teaching - which speaks to the comfort of these boots, since for me, teaching often involves being on my feet for eight hours a day.

Jessica

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