The Quest for the Perfect Tall Boot: Part Three

These boots are made for walking…I mean riding!

Part three of the quest for the perfect riding boot continues with the Ego7 Aries Dress Boots. Our first two reviews in the series focused on high-end, but high-cost boots that are designed to make an impression both in and out of the show ring. However, not every day is a show day. Boots need to endure, without fear of getting them wet occasionally in a wash stall or in a muddy paddock. This is where the Ego7 brand shines, with features built to take a beating, like durable full grain leather and double-stitched seams along all load lines to increase wear resistance. Their price point is also significantly lower than most other brands, making them a cost-effective alternative to their sister brand Tucci boots. The boots have a minimalist look with classical lines and a discreet Ego7 logo on the top of the boot.

Ego7 Ares Dress Riding Boots

Overall Rating: B+

Price Range: Up to $499

Best Price: $277 USD + tax and shipping

Break-In: B

Ego7 boots are built to last, with full grain leather and a durable rubber tread. However, the durability is traded for some temporary side effects – they are quite frankly, a tough boot to break in. The leather is thick, and takes time to conform and soften up. If you are looking for a short break in time, then I would look elsewhere. However, after about 15 rides, they are starting to soften up in the initially quite stiff footbed and ankle. The compromise here is that a few extra weeks of break in time equates to a much longer-lived boot.

Fit: B+

With the thickness of the leather, it is hard to gauge over time how this boot will fit. I believe that it should continue to soften and mold to my leg, but only time will tell if this will truly translate to the fitted glove feeling that you look for in the perfect boot. The footbed runs a bit large, so I would steer a size down if you are in between sizes.

Durability: A+

These boots are made to last. I have no doubt that they will stand up to the harshest abuse. The zipper is especially strong, and the ankle and back of calf snaps solidly lock into place with a swift click. The shock insole in the footbed provides excellent support and are best suited for those that don’t mind a bit of rigidity in the foot.

Where to buy:

Ego7 is sold at a variety of tack shops in the U.S., including Riding Warehouse, SmartPak, and Farm House Tack. If you have time to spare and don’t mind waiting for boots to ship from Europe, and know your size, I would recommend ordering them from a European retailer, such as AmiraEqui, for significant cost savings.