Zip Field Boots for hard to fit ankle

[rockonxox]

I’m in the market for some zip back field boots. I’ve tried on a lot of different brands that are in stock at the tack stores around town and am having a problem with my ankles. I also had a barn mate give me a really nice pair of used boots (so already stretched out) and just can’t get the boot zipped over my ankle. I do not feel like my ankles are large… I think they are quite average and an average calf. The foot always seems to fit fine. Does anyone have suggestions for brands to try? I’m not wanting to spend over $300 if possible. I don’t show often and mainly do the local stuff so I really don’t need anything fancy. Just a zip back that isn’t going to fall apart after minimal use.

My other question is that since I have exhausted options at the local tack stores I was wondering if there are any places with GOOD return policies (where I don’t pay to ship back or pay restocking fees) so that I might be able to exchange for a different size or calf width. One I’m looking at is http://www.doversaddlery.com/middleburg-zip-field-boot/p/X1-38461/#ProductTabs as they do have what I believe would be my size… but as it is on sale I’m worried returns would be a hassle.

<EDIT TO ADD> I currently ride in Ariat® Devon Pro VX Paddock Boots for schooling and I absolutely adore them.

[Kalele]

Tredstep Donatellos have thinner ankles and are $300.

[ladyj79]

[QUOTE=Kalele;8855792]
Tredstep Donatellos have thinner ankles and are $300.[/QUOTE]

It seems like thin ankles aren’t the issue

That said you won’t have any issues with a Dover return or a smartpak return. In this instance if the boots you like are in both places, I’d probably go with smartpak because–all else being equal–free shipping is better than dover shipping.

[rockonxox]

I need boots that are not thin ankles. My issue isn’t that my ankles are too small, it is that I can’t get the zipper up! I tried on the Donatellos and loved the fit of the foot… but even when I went up a full size that zipper was not going to happen.

[QUOTE=ladyj79;8855854]
That said you won’t have any issues with a Dover return or a smartpak return. In this instance if the boots you like are in both places, I’d probably go with smartpak because–all else being equal–free shipping is better than dover shipping.[/QUOTE]

Fantastic! I will take a look at what they have. I’ve never ordered from SmartPak before.

[OldLadyYoungOTTB]

I have never returned to Dover, but Smartpak returns are SO easy. I have had great luck w/ that company.

Also, I’m wondering if you get a boot that’s pretty close to fitting, if you could get a leather worker to stretch it.

[Brutus614]

I have a pair of Tredstep Dontallo’s that I think have LARGER ankles than almost any other brand/model I’ve tried… and I’ve tried just about everything you can get in a store.

[Man_in_Black]

Have you tried a boot that’s made with that new, thinner leather like the Ariat Heritage Contour boots? I believe that the TuffRider boots (Parlanti knock-offs) are also similar.

With that being said, I’m 5’ and wouldn’t say I have chunky legs, but I’m not a twig. The Tredstep Donatello’s rubbed my achilles almost right down to the tendon itself. BUT I never had an issue with the older Ariats or the Ariat Crowne Pro.