When measuring for tall riding boots, put on the breeches and socks you'll most often use. You'll need a cloth tape measure, and it can be useful if you can enlist a friend to take measurements for you:

1. Shoe/boot size will be the same as for any other pair of footwear. (Foot width options are generally not available unless you are buying custom boots.)

2. Calf width should be measured around your calf at the widest point, adding 1/8" for comfort. ***If you are prone to weight fluctuations, consider adding a bit more to this measurement.

3. Boot height should be measured sitting in a chair with your knees at a right angle. Measure boot height from the floor by your heel to the bony knob on the outside of your knee and add at least 1/2". This step is particularly important. If you do not add that additional 1/2" to the boot height, your boots will fit fine when new, but as the ankle of the new boot softens and creases with wear, the boot height will decrease by approximately that amount. Properly measured boots will be uncomfortable at first as the boot tops will hit the tendons behind the knee. This is perfectly normal.

***If you are looking at a chart of boot sizing from a particular manufacturer, keep in mind that many tall riding boots are "Spanish Cut". This means that the outside of the boot will be taller than the inside, and gives the illusion that your leg is longer than is actually the case. In practical terms, know that if you are looking at a Spanish cut boot, the height measurement given may be as much as 1 1/4" taller than the actual boot height measured behind the knee. If you're unsure, ask!

4. Boot top: While you're still sitting, measure around your leg just below the knee. If this measurement is significantly smaller that your calf measurement, we suggest that you consider purchasing one of the many boots which offer an elastic gusset at the boot top. This expands to your calf width when you draw on the boot, and contracts for a better fit when your boots are fully "on".