The best yard boots are designed to cope with everything thrown at them during a tough life on a stable yard. They should be sturdy, with a grippy sole, water-resistant/waterproof and comfortable – you’re likely to be in them for hours, after all. Having a good pair of yard boots will mean you can keep your best riding boots and smart country boots for their intended use, which will give them a longer life. A good pair of yard boots is definitely money well spent.
If you know what you’re looking for, jump down to see what yard boots the market has to offer – or keep scrolling for tips on how to choose the right pair of boots.
How to choose the best yard boots for you
The first thing to consider is what you’re planning to wear these boots for as light yard duties and pushing wheelbarrows through muddy gateways place very different demands on your footwear. If you hope that your new yard boots will double up as riding boots, then you’ll need to choose a pair with a stirrup-friendly sole. If you plan on schooling in them, too, a leather leg would give you more feel than neoprene.
The next thing to think about is the weather – yard work can get hot and muggy in the summer and relentlessly wet and cold in the winter. A breathable and moisture-wicking lining will help in both situations, but in the winter it’s particularly important that your feet stay dry in order to keep warm, so keep an eye out for waterproof and insulating materials.
When it comes to boot height, short boots are usually preferable in the summer, while tall boots will give you a bit more versatility in the winter, plus negate the need for half chaps if you decide to wear them in the saddle. Short boots are also often easier to put on and can be more comfortable when wearing jeans. You also don’t have to worry about calf fit with short boots as they usually accommodate everyone.
If you spend a lot of time on your feet at the yard, a good sole design should be high on your list of priorities. Standing up for hours to teach or walking long distances to catch and bring in can soon take its toll on various parts of your body, so consider spending a little more cash for added comfort.
Sole-saving features include gel heel cushions and moulded footbeds that follow the contours of your feet. A sturdy midsole with a shank will create a more supportive platform, while shock-absorbing materials will take the strain as you walk or dismount. An added bonus is a sole material that sheds dirt and won’t rot when it comes in contact with manure. The sole itself and the surrounding stitching are potential weak points with extended wear, so pay particular attention to these areas if you’ll be doing a lot of mucking out or crossing rough or boggy ground.
You should also consider how the boots fasten. Pull-on, pull-off varieties are the simplest, but could be a nuisance to remove in muddy conditions if there’s no boot pull to hand. Some boots have tabs at the side or rear to make hauling them on that bit easier. Zips offer a closer fit but do create potential for water leaks, and while laces look good and offer adjustability, they can be a faff. Velcro or touch-tape fastenings might be easier with cold or gloved hands. And those who’ve felt the full weight of a horse on their extremities will see the worth in steel or composite material toecaps, while antibacterial or odour-control inserts might benefit a tendency towards damp toes.
So which yard boots are the best?
We’ve split our selection of the best yard boots into the best short yard boots and the best tall yard boots so that you can jump to the selection that meets your needs. There’s something for everyone, with boots suitable for summer and winter, and at all price points. Jump to the…
Best short yard boots
Brogini Montieri Heavy-Duty Yard Boot
Fit: Ladies’ | Colours: Brown | Sizes: EU 37–43 | RRP: £85 |
Described as exceptionally comfortable and perfect for yard work, riding and walking, these Brogini boots feature a non-slip rubber sole, waterproof membrane and insulating PU midsole.
In the UK? View now at amazon.co.uk or ebay.co.uk
Woof Wear Short Yard Boots
Fit: Unisex and children | Colours: Black | Sizes: EU 33–46 | RRP: From £44.99 |
This lightweight boot has been updated and redesigned over the years to include a heavy-duty sole for increased durability and grip in all terrains. It has a no-fuss single strap fastening that tightens through a loop, making them quick and easy to take on and off. They also feature a full fleece lining and have a comfortable insole with arch support.
In the UK? View now at amazon.co.uk, viovet.co.uk, gsequestrian.co.uk or ebay.co.uk
The Original Muck Boot Company Originals Pull On
Fit: Ladies’ | Colours: Taupe, yellow, black or brown | Sizes: UK 3–9 | RRP: £135 |
Inspired by the Chore boot, these short wellies are totally waterproof and easy to get on and off. They have an antimicrobial insert with odour and moisture management treatment that keeps you fresh all day. Great for when it’s wet but too warm for tall wellington boots.
In the UK? View now at amazon.co.uk or mountainwarehouse.com
Ariat Keswick Steel Toe Paddock Boots
Fit: Ladies’ | Colours: Distressed brown | Sizes: UK 3–8½ | RRP: £135 |
Described as the ideal yard boot for all weather conditions, these boots are made of a full-grain waterproof leather. They are designed to repel water and abe breathable, with Ariat’s 4LR (four layer rebound) technology that incorporates a temperature-managing layer to maintain odour control and comfort. They also have an inset heel pod that protects your feet from strain by dissipating pressure and providing shock absorption when on hard terrains.
In the UK? View now at ariat.com or amazon.co.uk
Ariat Ascent Waterproof Paddock Boots
Colours: Black | Sizes: UK 3–8½ | RRP: £130 | H&H review: 9/10 |
These boots are a great option if you’re looking for something you can ride in. They’re similar to trainers and have a flexible, lightweight build with a breathable, sock-like fit for comfortable compression, ankle support and instep comfort.
We tested these boots and found them to be incredibly comfortable and great for wearing around the yard as well as good riding boots.
Read H&H’s independent Ariat Ascent paddock boots review.
In the UK? View now at ariat.com, amazon.co.uk, sportsdirect.com or naylors.com
Hy Short Mont Dolent Winter Boots
Colours: Grey | Sizes: EU 36–41 | RRP: £64.99 |
Warm and waterproof, these boots are fleece lined with grippy and hard-wearing rubber soles. They feature elastic laces with a quick-release toggle for easy fitting and removal. The padded collar offers support, while the entire outside of the boot is waterproof, making them a popular choice for wet and cold weather.
In the UK? View now at viovet.co.uk
Shires Moretta Eleanora Xgrip Boots
Fit: Ladies’ | Colours: Brown | Sizes: UK 4–9 | RRP: £82.99 |
The outer part of these boots is made of a hard-wearing buffalo leather that has been treated for water protection. They have a contoured look and benefit from reinforced toe and heel protectors and a waterproof membrane. The comfort insoles and a shock absorbing moulded sole ensure your feet are comfortable, while the wicking lining prevents sweaty feet. Can be worn in the saddle.
In the UK? View now at gsequestrian.co.uk
Dublin Tilly Boots
Fit: Ladies’ | Colours: Brown or black | Sizes: UK 3–9 | RRP: £99.99 |
These short lace-up boots have a side zip for easy on/off with good adjustability. The rubber Tough Tec outer sole is designed to last, while the moisture-wicking RCS (rider comfort system) footbed has with heel and arch support, and a waterproof booty lining keeps your feet dry and comfortable all day long.
In the UK? View now at amazon.co.uk, viovet.co.uk, gsequestrian.co.uk or sportsdirect.com
In the US? View now at amazon.com or statelinetack.com
Bareback Footwear Kentucky Jodhpur Boots
Colours: Brown, navy or Havana | Sizes: UK 2½–12 | RRP: £129 | H&H review: 10/10, H&H Approved |
These boots are designed to be a yard and riding boot. They are made from a combination of buffed waxed calf skin leather with a tough nylon Condura fabric for durability, and lined with a Dermo Dry moisture-wicking lining. They benefit from a padded full ankle and collar, fully adjustable laces for to aid fit and support and removable insole.
We loved these boots and our tester wore them primarily as a yard boot. They were extremely comfortable, prevented sweaty feet, easy to put on and take off, and highly adjustable.
Read H&H’s full Bareback Footwear Kentucky boots review.
Mackey Cedar Boots
Colours: Brown or black | Sizes: EU 36–46 | RRP: £74 |
These boots have a leather upper and durable rubber sole, making them strong, comfortable and durable.
In the UK? View now at viovet.co.uk or ebay.co.uk
Mountain Horse Wild River Lace Paddock Boots
Fit: Unisex | Colours: Black or brown | Sizes: UK 3½–10 | RRP: £129 |
Made with pliable, oily full grain leather, these Mountain Horse boots have a shock-absorbing memory foam sole system and slip-resistant rubber soles. The lace-up style ensures they are easy to take on and off, while the padded collar offers protection against rubbing. They also have a waterproof membrane to keep your feet dry.
In the UK? View now at ebay.co.uk
In the US? View now at ebay.com
Grubs Whirlwind Boots
Colours: Mahogany or tan | Sizes: UK 6–12 | RRP: £109.95 |
These boots are made with an Iberian leather upper and have an acid- and oil-resistant sole. The heel and footbed are designed to absorb shock and improve stability, while the lining is breathable, moisture wicking and resistant to fungus and rot.
In the UK? View now at ebay.co.uk
In the US? View now at ebay.com
Best tall yard boots
Tall yard boots have the benefit of keeping your lower leg warm and are often waterproof higher up the leg. You can wear country boots on the yard, of course, but it’s important to be aware they take more looking after (conditioning and treating) to keep them smart and waterproof. Therefore, country boots probably best to avoid in really wet and muddy conditions unless you’re prepared to care for them properly.
If you’re looking for something really easy to look after and totally waterproof, check out our guides to the best wellington boots, best short wellington boots, best adjustable wellington boots or the best neoprene wellies on the market – they’re more technical than you might expect as well as being easy to care for.
Rockfish Walkabout Neoprene-Lined Wellingtons
Fit: Ladies’ | Colours: Evergreen, black or navy | Sizes: UK 5–9 | RRP: £114.99 | H&H Rating: 9/10, H&H Approved |
These Rockfish wellies are fitted with a 4mm neoprene lining throughout, which will keep your feet warm on winter days. These particular Rockfish boots are based on hiking boot technology, ensuring a snug fit, while the sole is designed to provide extra grip on rugged terrain. They also feature an insole that is engineered to provide comfort all day. Also available in men’s sizes.
Read H&H’s independent Rockfish Walkabout wellies review.
In the UK? View now at amazon.co.uk, viovet.co.uk, gsequestrian.co.uk or ebay.co.uk
Ariat Wythburn Waterproof Boots
Fit: Ladies’ | Colours: Weathered brown | Sizes: UK 3–8½ | RRP: £180 |
Smart, beautiful and practical, the Wythburn boots are fully waterproof and the lace-up front is easily adjustable for a perfectly secure fit. They have a four-layer technical footbed for support and cushioning, while the stirrup-friendly sole is acid resistant, which makes them ideal if you want boots suitable for mucking out and riding. Also available with added insulation (RRP £200) or in a slightly taller version (RRP £220).
In the UK? View now at ariat.com, amazon.co.uk or naylors.com
In the UK? View the insulated version at ariat.com, amazon.co.uk, naylors.com or sportsdirect.com
In the UK? View the tall version at ariat.com, amazon.co.uk or naylors.com
Hy Atlantic Winter Boots
Fit: Unisex and children’s | Colours: Black | Sizes: EU 29–41 | RRP: From £35.99 |
This versatile boot has a high-sided sole that offers good grip in all weathers. The long water-resistant neoprene leg provides valuable warmth and protection against wind. They secure with three reflective touch-tape fastenings to ensure a personal fit and the boot is lined with faux fur fleece for comfort and heat retention. Easy to clean, the sole and neoprene leg can be rinsed off and will dry quickly.
In the UK? View now at amazon.co.uk, viovet.co.uk or gsequestrian.co.uk
The Original Muck Boot Company Arctic Sport II Tall Boots
Fit: Ladies’ | Colours: Black, grey, hot pink, spruce or navy | Sizes: UK 3–9 | RRP: £140 | Review: 8/10 |
These boots from The Original Muck Boot Company are designed for those who are outdoors in the coldest conditions. They have a cosy fleece lining and a 5mm neoprene inner boot for added warmth, and the stretch-fit top-line binding keeps the boots snug to your legs to keep cold air out and warm air in. They also have a moulded midsole that offers support and the rugged outsole helps grip.
Read H&H’s independent Muck Boot Arctic Sport II review.
In the UK? View now at amazon.co.uk or gsequestrian.co.uk
Woof Wear Long Yard Boots
Colours: Black | Sizes: UK 1–9 | RRP: From £54.99 |
Designed for those colder days at the yard, these popular boots have been updated to feature a cosy faux fur binding. The gusseted sides allow for a more personal fit and the fleece lining keeps you warm.
In the UK? View now at amazon.co.uk, viovet.co.uk or gsequestrian.co.uk
Mark Todd Country Boot MKII
Fit: Unisex | Colours: Brown | Sizes: EU 37–45, in standard or wide | RRP: £154.99 | Review: 9/10, H&H Approved |
These Mark Todd boots are described as fully waterproof, lightweight and comfortable. They are made from full-grain and nubuck leather and feature a technical, waterproof and breathable lining. Our tester wore these primarily for dog walking and found they gave good support and stood up well to regular wear. They fitted well, were true to size, kept our feet and worth spending the extra money on. These boots are also available in children’s sizes.
Read H&H’s independent Mark Todd country boots MKII review.
In the UK? View now at amazon.co.uk or viovet.co.uk
Hy Equestrian Mont Maudit Winter Boots
Colours: Black/grey | Sizes: EU 36–41 | RRP: £69.99 |
These boots have a durable, grippy sole, waterproof foot and a soft, breathable lining to keep feet feeling fresh and warm. The grey panels and black leather detailing up the leg offer grip if worn in the saddle, while the rear zip allows for easy on/off and the elasticated lace fronts allow for full adjustability.
In the UK? View now at viovet.co.uk, gsequestrian.co.uk or ebay.co.uk
The Original Muck Boot Company Chore 2K Boots
Fit: Unisex | Colours: Moss | Sizes: 4–15 | RRP: £140 |
These high-performance work boots from The Original Muck Boot Company are described as rugged and dependable. They have reinforcement on the toe, instep, heel and Achilles area, plus a dual-density sole, with deep cut tread for stability and support.
Read H&H’s independent Original Muck Boot Company Chore 2K boots review.
In the UK? View now at amazon.co.uk
In the US? View now at amazon.com
Rhinegold Nevis Boots
Colours: Black/sage | Sizes: 3–8 | RRP: £68.50 |
These cosy winter boots have a hard wearing Cordura upper with three Touch Tape straps and a side gusset for maximum size alteration. They are lined with faux fur to aid warmth and circulation to keep your feet warm during cold winter conditions. The synthetic foot upper will repel rain making them ideal for riding in the winter months. The warmth of these boots make them a must have for walking the dog in too. With reinforced heel, spur rest and durable yet lightweight sole these boots are a pleasure to wear.
In the UK? View now at amazon.co.uk
In the US? View now at amazon.com
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