Ariat Riding Boots

The letters describe calf width and leg height. The first part stands for the width: XS for Extra Slim, S for Slim, R for Regular and F for Full. The second part stands for the height, for example M for Medium and T for Tall. FT is therefore a wide calf with a tall leg, XSM a very slim calf with medium height.

For measuring, Ariat recommends that you measure your calf at its widest point and the leg length from the floor to the back of the knee while sitting down. The height measurements already take into account that the leather will drop.

The starting point is your usual shoe size. Ariat gives the sizes in UK and EU. Size UK 6 corresponds to EU 39, for example. You also need your calf width and leg height, which you measure while sitting.

If you are between two sizes, Ariat advises choosing the smaller size for a closer fit or the larger size for more room. New leather riding boots should fit snugly at first, because they will stretch with wear. According to the manufacturer, the Heritage Contour II is cut in a standard foot width (B Medium). For trying them on in our shop in Tangstedt, it is best if you bring your riding socks with you.

Both models are field boots made from full-grain leather with leather lining, elastic lacing, a stretch panel on the outside and an elastic gusset on the inside at the knee. Both have 4LR technology for support and a Duratread sole as well as a removable All Day Cushioning insole.

The Heritage Contour II has a full-length YKK zip at the back, a round toe and an extra high Spanish topline. The Palisade has an exposed full-length YKK zip, a square European toe, a bootslide to make it easier to pull on and a shock-absorbing heel cushion.

Clean the boots at least once a week if you use them daily, or once a month if you use them less often. Remove dust and dirt with a damp cloth, and clean the zip with a soft brush. For stubborn dirt use a leather cleaner instead of household cleaners.

Ariat recommends rubbing a leather care product into the leather about once a month in small circles from bottom to top so that it stays supple. Let wet boots dry in the air, never on a radiator, and store tall boots with boot trees.