Working in the equine industry requires physical work, special skills, and proper gear to be effective in their jobs. You must be also physically fit since working with horses is a demanding job that requires working outside most of the time regardless of the weather.
Even the most seasoned workers will inevitably get exposed to dirt while mucking stalls or accidentally getting their toes stepped on by horses, which is a usual scenario in this industry.
Getting your feet soaked in dirt and staying wet all day long may cause foot odor, numbness, itchiness, or even blisters. That’s why proper footwear is important in this line of work, regardless if you’re a riding instructor, a farm manager, a grooming professional, or anything in between. And to keep your feet protected, it is important to never wear open-toed shoes around the barn or near horses, instead a good pair of comfortable, breathable, and durable work boots is a must!
When coming up with this list, we took into consideration some of the most important attributes and features that you may want when looking for the best boots for working with horses.
This includes waterproof boots, steel toe, comfortability, durability, antimicrobial insole, slip-resistant, to name a few.
If you’re interested to know more about it, keep on reading.
Best Boots for Working with Horse
1. Bogs Women’s Classic Mid Waterproof Rain Boot
Product Description
Originally built for Oregon farmers, BOGS has continued to come up with very comfortable boots that are suitable in any season.
This great pair of women’s Classic Waterproof Rain Boot is made of 100% waterproof rubber material with a shaft in the mid-calf height of approximately 9 inches.
It has a durable thick rubber sole and a four-way stretchable inner bootie to keep your feet warm and cozy to negative 40 degrees Fahrenheit. The thick durable materials help protect you if the horse accidentally steps on your toes. It has a neoprene upper for flexibility.
Another best feature of this rain boot is its core technologies that help keep you fresh and dry – a 7mm Neo-Tech waterproof insulation and Bogs Max-Wick, not to mention its DuraFresh natural biotechnology for odor-control.
Pros
- 100% waterproof
- Non-slip outsole
- DuraFresh anti-odor technology (odor resistant)
- Keep feet safe, warm, and dry
- Durable boots
- Easy to clean
Cons
- Not enough arch support for some
Interested? Check it out on this link!
2. Muck Boots Wetland Rubber Premium Field Boots
Product Description
Original Muck Boot Company is known for creating sturdy boots that keep feet dry and comfortable no matter what the season is, and this Wetland Premium Field Boot is one of their best-selling muck boots!
It’s good for working outdoors, barn work, mucking stalls, and for waterfowlers. They are great in dry or wet conditions.
It has a completely waterproof rubber overlay and breathable air mesh lining to protect your feet and keep them warm and comfortable within negative 20 degrees Fahrenheit up to 50 degrees Fahrenheit.
This work boot offers a 5 mm neoprene that gives this boot shock-absorbing, heat retention, and flexibility features. So, your feet can stay pain-free from working the whole day.
With a rubber sole that provides stability and enough grip even on uneven terrain. It also has an adjustable stretch-fit comfort topline for extra cushioning, making it easy to slip on and off. Its heel measures one and one and a half.
Pros
- Waterproof
- Breathable AirMesh lining
- Shock absorption
- Non-slip traction
- Convenient pull-on tab for easy on and off
Cons
- A little heavy when worn
Interested? Check it out on this link!
3. Muck Arctic Adventure Tall Rubber Women’s Winter Boots
Product Description
This winter muck boots from Muck Arctic Adventure are made of 100% rubber and measure approximately 16 inches.
These rubber boots are designed to adjust to the contours of your calves and feet, so if you want to keep everything in shape, you might want this winter boot.
This boot has a fleece lining for enhanced comfort, a 5 mm neoprene that can retain heat, and a lightweight outsole that can keep your feet comfortable all day. The rubber sole is also designed to provide good traction for slick surfaces and uneven ground.
It is warm and well-insulated from negative 20 degrees to 50 degrees Fahrenheit.
Pros
- 100% Waterproof
- Stretch-fit Comfort Topline
- Shock absorbing
- on-slip outsole
- Easy to clean
- Available in different colors
- Comes in a variety of colors and design
Cons
- Don’t have half sizes
Interested? Check it out on this link!
4. ARIAT Men’s Rambler Wide Square Toe Western Cowboy Boots
Product Description
Whether for work, outdoor, or night out, and on any occasion, these ARIAT Men’s Rambler western boots come functional. Among equestrian athletes, these horse riding boots are the leading footwear!
Its Advanced Torque Stability (ATS) technology supports and cushions your feet to help you move freely and to maintain good posture. Its footbed is moisture-wicking keeping your feet comfortable and dry.
There’s also no break-in time when you use these cowboy boots, because of their lightweight and ergonomic design. You can wear this in any weather and for a long time without experiencing foot fatigue. You also have a choice as to the toe width. You can get a medium or wide toe!
It has a duratread outsole that makes it resistant, flexible, and stable. And, for rodeo cowboys or horse riders, a 100% genuine leather boot like this is their top choice.
Pros
- Made from genuine leather which makes it incredibly durable
- Option to choose toe width which makes it ideal even for a wide foot
- High-quality boots
- Comes in 2 colors
Cons
- Not steel-toed boots
Interested? Check it out on this link!
5. Ariat Heritage Lacer II Boots – Women’s Leather Ankle Work Boot
Product Description
The first Ariat riding boots we mentioned have a square toe while this Heritage Lacer II Boot, which is also made of 100% genuine leather, has a round toe.
Coming from the same manufacturer, Ariat, it also features the same ATS technology, the Duratread outsole, and a moisture-wicking lining for extra comfort and stability all day.
This is suitable for extended hours of outdoor activities such as riding horses, working, or everyday wear.
Pros
- Made from 100% solid leather
- Durable footwear
- Great traction
- Stylish
- Comes in 2 colors
Cons
- Lace-up boots may take time to wear
- Not steel toes
Interested? Check it out on this link!
6. Muck Boot Excursion Pro Mid-Height Rubber Boot
Product Description
The outer material of the Muck Boot Excursion Pro is made out of neoprene, which is generally stronger than rubber and more resistant to liquid dirt.
It’s one of the best boots for horses because aside from its waterproofing properties, it’s also flexible yet strong enough to absorb shock.
Its neoprene material was designed to adapt to the shape of your foot to minimize blisters, especially after a long day at work.
It has a breathable Xpress lining that pulls away moisture inside to keep your feet cool and dry.
No matter what the surface is, wet or muddy its rubber EVA outsole will keep you safe from slipping!
The looks are simple yet its contours and perfectly placed color lining materials give it a manly stylish look you would want for work boots.
Pros
- Easy to take on and off
- Lightweight
- Keep your feet dry and warm for all season
- Waterproof
Cons
- The low-mid cut design might not be ideal for deep snow or muddy conditions
Interested? Check it out on this link!
7. AdTec Men’s 15 Inch Steel Toe Western Cowboy Boots
Product Description
You won’t mind getting your foot stepped on by horses with these cowboy boots! The AdTec Men’s Western Cowboy Boot is protected by a steel toe and is 15 inches long to prevent your feet from getting injured when accidentally stepped on by a horse.
It is made from 100% genuine horse leather and an oil-resistant rubber outsole that allows you to walk comfortably with its extra grip no matter what the surface is.
It has a cushioned insole which will give your hard-working feet some room to relax.
Pros
- Steel toe boots that keep your feet protected against external shock
- Made from 100% genuine leather material
- Durable
- Short break-in period
- Not heavy on feet when worn
- Offer sizes for wide feet
Cons
- Not waterproof
Interested? Check it out on this link!
8. Muck Pacy All-Season
Product Description
Since 1999, Muck Boot Brand has been creating high-quality boots that exceed their customers’ expectations with its high-quality standard and comfort, And this Muck Pacy All-season riding boot for women is no exception!
Its tall and slim design makes it both a functional and fashionable choice at the same time!
It is made from 5mm waterproof neoprene material that is super flexible and durable, great when riding with horses. It adjusts to the shape of the feet to prevent blisters and chafing.
It also has a warm fleece lining and a sock liner that help reduce friction and decrease heat build-up for a more comfortable feeling during movement.
It allows you to tuck in your pants and jeans with ease.
Pros
- Keep feet cool and dry for all season
- With stub on the heel that allows you to push and slide your foot out easily
- Stylish
- Offers two different colors to choose from
- Waterproof
Cons
- Does not offer half sizes
Interested? Check it out on this link!
9. Wolverine Men’s Rancher 10″ Square Toe Steel Toe Work Boots
Product Description
Wolverine is an American brand that was established in Rockford, Michigan in 1883. They are committed to creating high-quality comfortable boots that can withstand extreme conditions!
True to their words, this Wolverine Men’s Rancher is equipped with Goodyear welt construction and a steel toe that can withstand tough jobs.
Made from full-grain leather and has a removable cushioned footbed that keeps your feet comfortable all day long! With a mesh lining that moisture wicking that keeps feet cool and dry.
Pros
- Slip-resistant
- Waterproof
- Offer sizes for wide feet
- Comfortable to wear
- Durable
- True to size
Cons
- Stitching in front of the boots is not that nice
Interested? Check it out on this link!
What to Consider When Buying The Best Boots for Working With Horses
1. Waterproof Boots
When working on a farm or ranch, you cannot expect to walk around in completely clean and dry cement.
The appropriate shoes to wear should be waterproof to keep your feet comfy and dry. Muck boots made of neoprene would also help in air circulation for more breathability.
2. Comfortable
Working all day requires comfortable and breathable shoes. It should have enough insulation to keep your feet warm no matter what season. A flexible and lightweight one should also be taken into consideration as you work.
3. Sturdy
A very reliable, high quality and sturdy boots are also a must. Materials should be made of durable rubber or leather, depending on its specific usage. Lastly, it should also provide great traction so you can be protected and comfortable in whatever work condition you are in.
Can You Use Similar Boots when Mucking Stalls and Riding Horses?
Choice of boots when working with horses is not a one-size-fits-all. Using the same boots when you muck stalls and horse riding is not a wise idea. While most of the muck boots are comfortable, the sole and materials may not be suited to provide you the flexibility your ankles and toes need for horse riding.
Final Verdict: Which One Should You Buy? 
Completely waterproof boots are a must when working with horses. Almost all of the items listed here are compliant with this. But the level of comfortability and sturdiness make the others stand out.
For muck boots, we recommend the Bogs Women’s Classic Mid Waterproof Rain Boot. Work includes cleaning the stable, removing animal waste, and filling the trough, it is inevitable that you get wet and dirty. It is made of completely waterproof material and thick rubber that would keep your feet comfy and protected.
For riding boots, we recommend Ariat Heritage Lacer II Boots – Women’s Leather Ankle Work Boot. It has great quality that is perfect for all occasions and the ATS technology and Duratread sole provide your flexibility and more grip on stirrups, so you can just enjoy your ride!
If you like this article, you might want to check out our other articles at Planetshoes.net.