Proper riding boots - ok to wear as normal boots?

[WhereAreWeNow]

My DD has just got into riding and has borrowed a pair of chelsea style riding boots from the stables. I need to get her some winter boots that she can wear to school and I was thinking of getting her some of the riding boots. They seem really cheap for what they are. I've found the same brand that the stables has for £30 or so and they're leather and seem well made. Am I missing something? Is there a reason why Clarks, Startrite, and all the others sell much more expensive boots for girls? Are boots meant for riding ok for everyday wear or is there some reason why they're not sold more widely?

[botemp]

I did when I was young, a separate pair from my riding ones. They were fine except they could be a bit cold in winter so I always got them half a size (I think?) larger so I could wear them with thick woolly knee socks and sometimes a sheepswool insole. I was never allowed to wear them days on end but I can't remember the reason why anymore. I don't really know why they're so much cheaper beyond the fact that they're bog standard, every winter I'm half tempted to buy some again.

[WhereAreWeNow]

Thanks. Sheepskin insoles are a good idea.

[Sonotkylie]

I have worn jodhpur boots (ie short riding boots) as 'normal' boots for the last 3 winters. They are great and lots cheaper than fashion ones, but also higher up the ankle and a bit smarter IMHO. I think they come up slightly large but check different brands. I have pensioned them off as the leather is beginning to crack this year. Still wear them for riding now ... Have a look on e Bay. Mine cost less than £20

[ProseccoBitch]

If you mean short jodhpur boots then yes I don't see why not. Just make sure you have a separate pair for the stables or they will stink of horse pee!

[ginorwine]

Yes my dd has done that for some years . Dublin I think . V good quality indeed and lasted till outgrown .