Boots: on the hunt.

[RedTahoe]

I am on the hunt for some boots. (That narrows it down, right?)

I'm looking for a pair of paddock boots/lacers that have rubber soles, arch support, steel toe (or at least strong enough to offer protection from a feisty yearling stomp), but are also lightweight enough that I can run in them (in case of emergencies).

I'd love to hear others' experiences. I have an average 9-1/2" (Women's US) foot and do not like those "chunky" boots or "baby" boots or whatever they're called.

I'd prefer ones that lace as opposed to slip-on so my ankle can be more secure.

[stryder]

I have these Red Wings: http://www.redwingshoes.com/productdetails.aspx?prodid=1159

I have run in them, but not far. Anything with a steel toe is going to be heavier than a regular riding boot. A 17-hand gelding has stomped on my toe (didn't feel a thing) and dropped stuff on my toes and arch. Not even discomfort. They are nearly impervious to manure and the never-ending mud we have in the Pacific Northwest. I do coat them with waterproofing a couple times a year.

The thread is short enough that I ride in them too. My half-chaps fit over them.

They're probably 6 years old, worn heavily the past 4 years, and just starting to show some signs of wear. They're VERY comfortable and deep enough to accommodate my orthotics.

[HenryisBlaisin']

A word of warning: steel-toed boots can be very dangerous when working with livestock. A good stomp from a hoof can actually cause the steel plating to bend backwards into your foot, causing severe lacerations-I've even heard of lost toes from this! You would probably be best off with a heavy leather paddock boot with a stiff leather toe cap-it will hurt some if you really get tromped on, but you'll keep your toes.

[RedTahoe]

A word of warning: steel-toed boots can be very dangerous when working with livestock.

That's why I made the alternate request:

"steel toe (or at least strong enough to offer protection from a feisty yearling stomp)..."

I work with the tractors, manure spreaders, replacing brake pads on the F-350s, and other heavy equipment as well ;) so it has to be the best of both worlds.

[Leather]

Any of the Ariat Endurance collection should work for you. I've got the Terrains and I love them!

http://www.ariat.com/products_listing.aspx?pcid=9&cid=2&scid=22

[stryder]

A word of warning: steel-toed boots can be very dangerous when working with livestock. A good stomp from a hoof can actually cause the steel plating to bend backwards into your foot, causing severe lacerations-I've even heard of lost toes from this! You would probably be best off with a heavy leather paddock boot with a stiff leather toe cap-it will hurt some if you really get tromped on, but you'll keep your toes.

Mythbusters busted this myth. http://mythbustersresults.com/episode42

There have been recalls of defective boots. A defect could be if the steel cap is loose within the leather, or other reasons. I wouldn't buy an off-brand boot.

But I believe I am safer with the steel toes than without. I don't think anything else offers the protection, either around animals or heavy equipment.

JMO

[Equibrit]

Check these out; http://www.equitector-usa.com/products.cfm?cat=2

http://www.equitector-usa.com/theboot.cfm?id=3
"An accident can happen in a flash of a second, often resulting in, at best a bruise and at worst broken toes. Yet a properly constructed boot with toe protection especially designed for the equestrian environment, would eliminate most of the risks.
Equitector is a pioneer in this field and in 1991 we launched our first truly safe riding boot. From the outset our safety record is unblemished. All our boots have been tested for safety by an independent accredited testing house and comply with the CE safety standard EN ISO 20346.


All Equitector riding boots have built in Hoof Proof toe protection that cannot be felt nor seen and is there just in case your horse wants to make a good impression on you !"

[Trakehner]

Get a pair of "Whites" Ladie's Packers (http://www.whitesboots.com/store/Whites_Boots.php). Very comfortable, great on your ankles and supportive for riding.

[Lambie Boat]

those are nice! but ouch $$$$$

[equineartworks]

I bought a pair of these (http://www.ariat.com/products_detail.aspx?cid=3&pcid=10&pid=99&scid=127) on clearance at Horseloverz several months ago and LOVE them. In fact, DH the construction worker loved them too and bought a pair for work. They hold up better than the $300 Red Wings he usually buys. Go figure! They are light, strong, and so comfy!