About Peter van Huet – Riding Boot Specialist

When I was 18–19 years old, I had the opportunity to do internships in two exceptional equestrian shops: one in Cologne (Germany) and one in Zurich (Switzerland).

There I worked with Mr. and Mrs. Becker, the owners of what was at the time one of the most beautiful equestrian stores in Europe. They taught me that measuring riding boots is far more than taking a few measurements. It is a craft.

“Reading” a rider’s leg

A well-fitting riding boot does not start with a measuring tape, but with observation.

What we call “reading a leg” means looking beyond the silhouette of the leg and foot. It includes observing:

• the shape of the foot

• the ankle area

• the calf shape

• the transition from the calf to the knee

One example is what we sometimes call a “balloon calf.” The term may sound a bit direct, but it describes a leg where the calf is strongly developed and narrows quickly toward the knee.

If the difference between calf and upper leg is, for example, four centimeters, this has a direct influence on the choice of boot model and shaft construction.

Very slim legs can present the opposite situation, where the widest part of the calf continues almost directly toward the knee. This also requires a different type of boot.

The shape of the foot is equally important

Besides the leg, the shape of the foot is crucial.

For riders with conditions such as hallux valgus, the correct last – the shape on which the boot is built – becomes extremely important. The position of the zipper can also make a significant difference in comfort and durability.

Measuring is important – experience even more

When measuring for riding boots, several measurements are taken:

Foot

• ball width

• instep

• heel width

Leg

• calf circumference at several heights

Shaft height

• outside

• back

• inside

However, measuring alone is not enough. Experience, observation and professional advice ultimately determine which boot will truly fit.

Common mistakes when measuring

Unfortunately, I often see mistakes when measurements are taken, such as:

• measuring without fixed reference points

• measuring only one leg

• insufficient attention to the shape of the foot

Properly measuring riding boots cannot be learned from a book. It requires many years of experience.

Taking time for the rider

Even for standard ready-to-wear riding boots, I always take the time to measure.

In large equestrian stores this is often difficult when several customers are waiting. That is also the difference between a general equestrian shop and a riding boot specialist.

For every rider I reserve sufficient time and therefore work by appointment only.