The rider's gear

Riding boots: size, height and calf

A riding boot is chosen based on three measurements, not just one. The size first, taken while wearing thin socks. The height next, measured from the ground to the back of the knee: the shaft should reach just below the joint, without restricting bending. Finally, the calf circumference, taken at the widest point, determines whether the boot will close without pinching or flopping. Many models come in various combinations of height and calf width for the same size.

A new leather boot often feels a bit high behind the knee: this is intentional. As you wear them, the leather creases at the ankle and the shaft drops slightly, reaching its ideal position after a few weeks of riding. Lace-up boots over the instep, like some Horze models, add an adjustment at the ankle, useful for high-instep feet. The back zipper makes them easy to put on and take off, unlike traditional boots without zips.

Western boots: toe shapes and ATS technology

Western boots have their own vocabulary. The R Toe, or regular toe, is narrow and oval, sometimes slightly pointed for easy entry and exit from the stirrup: it’s the classic cowboy boot shape. The round toe allows more space for the toes and is found on more casual models and ropers, while the square toe, which is even wider, offers the most comfort for walking. The western heel, high and slightly angled, prevents the foot from slipping through the stirrup.

At Ariat, most boots incorporate the ATS system, which stands for Advanced Torque Stability, bringing sports shoe support into a western construction: a cushioned gel footbed, a heel stabilizer, and a lighter forked arch that supports the foot's arch. The Heritage, Rambler, or Round Up follow this principle, featuring leather shafts that age beautifully over time.

Stable shoes and waterproof ankle boots

Between the stable, the paddock, and the tack room, feet spend the day in mud and damp straw. Stable shoes, like the Ariat Telluride Zip Waterproof or the Anthem, combine a waterproof upper with a grippy sole for slippery surfaces, featuring a zip closure for quick on-off. They can also be worn while riding for a warm-up, but don’t replace a boot for regular work.

Waterproof ankle boots, like the Wexford H2O, come a bit higher and can take mini chaps for riding. Lined outdoor boots, like the QHP models, keep feet warm during winter chores. All can be found in the shoes category.

Airbag vest: how it works and cartridges

An airbag vest is connected to the saddle by a strap. When the rider falls and moves away from their mount, the strap tightens and triggers a CO2 cartridge, inflating the vest in a fraction of a second to protect the back, neck, and chest at the moment of impact. After deployment, simply replace the empty cartridge, a task the rider can do themselves in a few minutes.

The cartridge must always be the one specified by the manufacturer and the same capacity as the original: its size is proportional to the volume of the vest. At Swing, the cartridge for the P25 AIR vest comes in various sizes according to the vest size, and the cartridges Equiline or Helite follow the same logic. Keeping a spare cartridge in your competition bag ensures you don’t go without protection after a fall. The airbag vest can be worn alone or over a traditional protective vest, depending on the rules of the discipline.

Helmets, gloves, and winter wear

The helmet is selected based on head circumference and must meet the European standard EN 1384. The models Harry's Horse and Horze in the catalogue feature either velvet or glitter finishes, but protection remains the primary criterion: a helmet should be replaced after any fall with impact. Helmets and caps are listed on the caps page.

Riding gloves protect the fingers from the friction of the reins, which pass between the ring and little fingers. A lined winter model, like the QHP Siberië gloves, keeps hands warm without sacrificing the feel of the reins. The Horze puffer jacket and the ear warmers from LeMieux complete the winter outing outfit.

The complete rider's outfit

The category is organized by type of clothing:

• T-shirts and polos, breathable for daily work.
• Sweaters and sweatshirts, for chilly mornings at the stable.
• Jackets and coats, waterproof or lined for winter.
• The competition outfit, competition jackets and white shirts.
• Trousers, with full or knee grip.
• Caps and helmets that meet standards.
• Technical underwear to wear under riding gear.

Equipment for young riders is in the children category, horse gear is in horse, and the stable and paddock bring together grooming supplies, along with accessories and a page for the dog. Everything is on the equestrian page.

New arrivals and great deals

The new arrivals showcase the latest collections, the promotions feature discounted items, and the clearance and sales cover end-of-line items. Items shipped within 24h are prepared and sent out in 24 hours. Throughout the year, Black Friday, the holiday season, winter sales, and the French Days in spring are the times to get equipped at the best price.

Frequently asked questions

What measurements should be taken for tall boots?

Three measurements matter: the size in thin socks, the height from the ground to the back of the knee, and the calf circumference at the widest point. The shaft should reach just below the knee, without restricting bending.

What happens when a rider equipped with an airbag falls?

The wired model is connected to the saddle by a cord: during a fall, the separation triggers a gas cartridge that inflates the vest in a fraction of a second. It protects the back, neck, and chest, then the cartridge is replaced.

Do leather boots stretch over time?

Leather boots soften and sag slightly at the ankle over the sessions, which is why it's wise to choose them a bit high at first. Synthetic shafts move much less.

What shoes should be worn for stable chores?

Waterproof ankle boots with a grippy sole and reinforced toe protect from hooves and mud. More comfortable than boots for walking, they are suitable for grooming, cleaning, and paddock work.

How to dress for riding in winter?

A puffer jacket or a riding jacket cut with a slit in the back to cover the saddle keeps you warm without hindering movement. Add lined gloves that maintain the feel of the reins and warm socks in your boots.