Guide to Buying Hunter Boots

Whether you're wondering about size, style, fit or finish, here are my tips for buying Hunters!

Sizing

I typically wear a size 8.5 in shoes, but I wear a size 8 in Hunter boots and they fit just about perfect. Hunter boots only come in whole sizes and I would suggest going down a half size if you normally wear a half size. I have plenty of room even with thick, cozy socks. The only thing I would warn you about is that the tall boots are tight on my calfs and I don’t have particularly large calves. So you may want to try a pair on before purchasing any or be willing to return/exchange them.

Height

Hunter offers a tall (16 in), medium (10 in) and short (4 in) height . I like the tall height for my everyday style, especially when it is raining. If I get splashed or tromp through a large puddle, I am not likely to get my legs splashed. I am 5’9” and the tall hunters hit just under my knees.

As for the mid height Hunters I really like them for around the barn. They are super easy to slip in and out of (because I don’t have to squeeze them onto my calves), and I don’t have to worry about tromping through dirty or muddy fields, paddocks and wash stalls.

I haven’t tried the short, ankle height Hunters, called the Original Chelsea Boot. It has stretchy, mesh-like material on the sides and remind me of paddock boots. These would probably also work well around the stable, except that they have less area they cover from splashing.

Gloss or Matte

Hunter boots come in either a glossy finish or a matte finish. I really like both finishes. For my everyday style I can wear either one. When I am in the barn however, I prefer the matte finish because to me they seem more fitting for a working, messy environment. The glossy ones seem a little too sleek and clean to get all scuffed up at the barn.

Huntress

The Huntress features a larger calf circumference, 16.5 in compared to the Original’s 15 in.

Adjustable Back Version

These are also a great version for those of us with wide calves. The calf expands from 15-17 inches and comes in both the gloss and matte finish.

Packable Tour Version

If you are on the go I would highly recommend these. They are nearly identical to the Originals except that they are much lighter and roll up so that they are able to be packed. Watch the video here to see the magic happen.

Zipper Version

Consider the zipper version if you find slip-on boots to be annoying. I love my boots, but I must admit that getting them off isn’t a picnic. The “Original Slim Zipper” boot makes the process easier, though. And don’t let the name fool you, as they aren’t any slimmer than the Originals. They have the same fit, but feature a hidden zipper along the outside.

Kid's Version

The kid's Hunters are $75 compared to $148. If you wear a size 7.5 or smaller, you are one of the few lucky people who can save a lot of money by going with the kid's boots. On an adult they will look like a cross between that tall and short versions, depending on your height. Be sure to select "Big Kids" when you are looking online and see the sizing chart below.

Be sure to keep in mind that Hunters are not winter boots. They were not made for snowy, below freezing weather. You can definitely pair them with thick, cozy socks and that will help, but Hunters are truly for rainy, wet weather.

Hope this guide helps!

Happy Styling!

*Please note: Some images courtesy of: Kelly in the City