Suggestions for semi-custom boots

[SnicklefritzG]

I’ve decided it is time for a really nice pair of tall boots, but nothing off the rack fits. Up to now I’ve been using my field boots for dressage but the sock-like fit isn’t cutting it. I’ve also found that the off-the-rack boots that fit my leg are typically lower to mid range boots where the leather doesn’t really hold up until the typical use I give them. The type of boots I have been using last for about 2 years before they start looking a bit rough around the edges. That and the zippers need replacing about every year. So if I spend the money to get a custom of sem-custom boot that lasted for 5+ years, I might actually break even and having nicer boots.

My biggest problem is that I have small ankles, and the top of my leg just below my knee is also narrow. However, my calf is almost 17" around. That’s why most boots off the rack do not fit. I’m also relatively short at 5’3" and not leggy, so I need boots with about 17" height in a 7.5 shoe size.

Has anyone on COTH with similar specs had a positive experience with either custom or semi-custom boots? Der Dau is out for me from all the bad things I’ve heard about them.

I’ve also heard that the folks at Vogel’s can be very opinionated about putting in zippers and doing other modifications.

I’m not sure where else to look. Ideas anyone?

[SnicklefritzG]

Giving this thread a bump…

I’ve since looked at examples and some of the Koenigs (sp?) seem thick through the footbed and heavy which would look silly on a short person. Looking for ideas for an elegant and refined boot.

[arlosmine]

Try calling Dressage Extensions and speak to some one about the semi-custom Petries. A front zipper would be the only placement that would work well for you, I think. They also deal in several other brands, so would be able to compare options for you

[Char0308]

I am a 8 foot size, 16.25 calf and got semi custom Petries from KittyB in Germany. She helped me take measurements and they fit better than my semi custom Petries I got thru Dressage Extensions 7 years ago and cost less too. They narrow around top of calf and can be a bit tight there if my legs swell at all so I took to local show guy and had gussetts added after they were broke in well.

[Lucassb]

I have had great luck with the De Niro boots I’ve gotten through Cavallo Couture.

[Char0308]

http://www.germantack.com/ and on ebay too

[Flashymover]

I don’t have the same measurements as you but also have a hard to fit legs as I have tiny ankles. I have 2 pairs of De Niro boots that I got from Horse and Rider Boutique and they have turned out quite well. Also, they break in super quickly, unlike my old Vogel jumping boots, and I was comfortable with them within 2 rides. They have super cool options to choose from for some added pizzazz if you are interested in that as well.

[SnicklefritzG]

It sounds like there are a some good options for bootmakers. One thing I’m wondering about is the style of the boot top. I’ve seen a lot of boots that have a spanish top or “extra spanish”. I’m not particularly leggy at 5’3" and have more length from the knee up than in my lower leg.

I could use a boot that helps my leg look longer, but don’t want to look silly. I have no idea how a spanish or extra-spanish top would look on me. Nothing off the rack fits at all due to my calf size, so trying something on at a local tack shop isn’t an option.

thoughts on that?

[Somantu]

I can’t recommend any brands or boot makers, but I love the Spanish top on my boots. They’re 4" higher on the outside and visually lengthen the leg.
My measurements: 5’2", 17" calf, 8.5" ankle, 12.5" knee, 7.5 foot –– so also skinnier ankles and knees.

[high_hat]

You are asking about semi-custom but I have to give a shout out for Dehner Boots. Made here in America and you can get them for under $900 out of Voyager leather; fully custom.

[JLR1]

If you are looking for a boot that lasts more than a few years I would stay away from DeNiros. They are comfortable right out of the box because the leather is soft and therefore breaks down quickly. I have a pair that is 2 years old and have cared for them meticulously and they look awful. You can get semi custom Konigs or Cavallos and they will last forever. European tack shops such as Calevo.com will get you the most bang for your buck.

[SnicklefritzG]

[QUOTE=JLR1;8282043]
If you are looking for a boot that lasts more than a few years I would stay away from DeNiros. They are comfortable right out of the box because the leather is soft and therefore breaks down quickly. I have a pair that is 2 years old and have cared for them meticulously and they look awful. You can get semi custom Konigs or Cavallos and they will last forever. European tack shops such as Calevo.com will get you the most bang for your buck.[/QUOTE]

A long-lasting boot is a definite priority. My current boots are a pair of off-the-rack Ariats that I had stretched and cut down to fit my leg. They will polish up for a show or lesson, but look a tad grubby a few days later. I need something with stiffer leather that I can have for years.

[Gloria]

I’ve been very happy with my semi-custom Cavallos. They are my daily schooling boots, and I still show in them (five years).

[suzy]

I have had semi-custom Koenigs, Cavallos, and Petries.

The Petries and Koenigs have held up extremely well over time, but I have a slight preference for Petries. However, I wouldn’t rule out Koenigs.

The Cavallos were comfortable and reasonably attractive but didn’t have as long a life span as the other two.

[BatCoach]

Boot shopping is second in frustration only to saddle shopping!

I have the opposite issue as you - I’m too tall for OTR boots, and have a 15.5 inch calf, which is a full or wide depending on brand and a 9.5 foot bed. After a few unsuccessful visit to local tack stores, at one store the sales girl said “you just have to spend $1,000 on custom boots” (right lady - not an option!) I decided to just comb eBay for deals and let luck & price dictate what I ended up with.

It took about a month of looking, and taking TONS of my measurements and asking the seller to also take TONS of measurements (inside/outside boot, hieght, footbed length etc)- I ended up with 1 pair of lovely Petries for $500. They might be a touch large in the ankle (I have freakishly skinny ankles), but they look great - everyone thought I paid mega bucks for fully custom boots!

The good news is that riders come in all different sizes & shapes, so chances are someone out there is shaped like you and might have some rocking boots she wants to be rid of that you could pick up for a great deal. With the $$ I saved by buying used boots, I got a pair of Sergio Grasso dress boots that I use for schooling so I know my Petries will last forever as show boots.

Good luck to you! boot shopping is a pain in the ass but I’m sure you will find something great! re: spanish top - I think it looks flattering on everyone - it will make your calf look longer.

[SonnysMom]

For off the rack have you tried Tredstep Donatello boots? The Plus is for 16-17 inch calf and the Wide is 18-19 inch calf. They come in short height at 16 inch tall, regular at 18 inch and tall at 20 inch.
When I was in MA for business I got to try on the Donatello Wide Field boots in the clearance room. They were very generously sized and were too big for me.

At a price point of $300 they may be able to buy you some time to find the perfect show boot and then become a schooling boot.

[IndyEquestrian]

Sergio Grasso also does a nice semi-custom boot. Measuring for them is quite simple. We do a lot with wider calves and shorter legs. . .the Spanish tops are great for elongating a short leg, without interfering behind your knee.

[SnicklefritzG]

[QUOTE=SonnysMom;8288756]
For off the rack have you tried Tredstep Donatello boots? The Plus is for 16-17 inch calf and the Wide is 18-19 inch calf. They come in short height at 16 inch tall, regular at 18 inch and tall at 20 inch.
When I was in MA for business I got to try on the Donatello Wide Field boots in the clearance room. They were very generously sized and were too big for me.

At a price point of $300 they may be able to buy you some time to find the perfect show boot and then become a schooling boot.[/QUOTE]

The only boots I found from Tredstep had the wide calf in a huge foot size like 9 or 10. I’ve been on their website and haven’t been able to find the one you were talking about in those sizes. Where were you able to find that combination of sizes?

[SonnysMom]

Smartpak appears to have the 7.5 wide short and plus short in stock. https://www.smartpakequine.com/pt/pt/tredstep-donatello-dress-boot--plus-size-11651

[Arabiandressage]

http://www.hkm-sportsequipment.eu/artikel.php?marke=&kat=001&ukat=036&uukat=022&content=artikel&id=6549

So I carry quite a few HKM boots and their leather is AMAZING. I ride in the HKM Vareno and my show boot is the Italia. I have ordered several of the above boots from HKM for exactly your issue. The Italy’s have a narrower ankle. This and the stiffer ankle (why I have them as a show boot) is what separates them from the Vareno. These two are top notch in fact I ditched my Petrie’s when I started carrying them, they are that good. The price does not equate at all to their quality. This link will take you to my site if you want to browse around our boots: http://www.theconnectedrider.com/womens-riding-boots/

I would love to help you