The Quest for the Perfect Tall Boot: Part One

If there is one piece of riding gear that epitomizes an equestrian, it indubitably is the tall riding boot. When worn they signal to the rest of the world: I ride horses. They are a source of great pride and are absolutely indispensable to achieving the best ride possible. When properly fitted and broken in, they are like a second skin, creating the close contact and connection with your horse that makes all the rest we do in the saddle possible.

We all seek the best possible boot for our body type, budget and riding style. However, we must take into account many key variables, which for many equestrians, is often driven by price and availability. While some still opt for the higher priced custom boots vs. off-the-shelf models, the range of sizes available for off-the-shelf boots has dramatically decreased the differences between these boots and their custom counterparts. In this post series, we will focus on three brands - Tucci, Parlanti and Ego7, and how to find them at the best price points.

The Tucci Everytime Collection

Tucci boots are easily and often recognized on top riders across the global show jumping and U.S. hunter/jumper A circuit. These widely popular Italian-made boots are hallmarked by the silver emblazoned logo tag at the top of the boot and the durable, yet flexible leather from premium quality hides, selected from certified farms in Italy and France.

Overall Rating: A

Price Range: Up to $1,095

Best Price: $617 USD (€570)

Break-In: A

The break in process for this boot was relatively short for a boot of this level of durability. After just 5 rides, the leather began to softly mold in the ankle and foot, which was a surprise given its relative thickness and strength. The foot bed is actually the most stiff part of the entire boot, but it is built to last, and it does continue to break in with every ride.

Using a break-in boot spray such as Fiebling's shoe stretch (~$8.50 on Amazon) helps to quicken the process. Also consider using a grip spray for your first few rides, such as Nunn Finer Tack-Up Grip Spray (~$20 on Amazon) as the leather is very smooth at first.

Fit: A+

Tucci has a wide range of size options, with fifteen combinations of height and calf per shoe size. That equates to165 combinations of boot sizes available off the shelf and a remarkable fit range to ensure that custom feeling.

The fit is incredible throughout the leg, especially around the ankle. When worn to a local tack shop, the sales associate thought they were custom. Be prepared for compliments!

Durability: A+

The leather is thick yet soft and conforms to the shape of the leg nicely. The footbed is ridged which allows for a secure and grippy feeling in the irons. It is very stiff at first but breaks in after several rides.

The zippers have a snap tab at the top of the zipper that snaps into a leather tab (that snaps across the back of the top of the boot). The snaps are very strong and are holding up to daily use. This is easier to fasten and more secure than the threading tab method of similar brands.

Where to buy:

Tucci is sold in the U.S. at several tack shops, such as Malvern Saddlery, Tacknrider and Farm House Tack. However - these shops are usually selling at top retail price. If you want to ensure the best fit, this is a good option if the shop has someone well versed in sizing boots.

If you have time to wait for the boots and know your size you can save significantly by ordering direct from Tucci on their website for €570 with free shipping.