Tall boots are hands-down the most frustrating item I shop for, but it makes it all the more rewarding when winners are found! For newer readers, my trouble areas are both boot shaft height and calf width. For reference, my calves measure ~12.5″ around and my lower leg is ~15″ high, resulting in most “knee-high” boots hitting uncomfortably at or over my knees. It’s admittedly been easier to shop for over-the-knee style boots for a little more leeway on height. You can find past reviews on the few options I’ve found that are a good fit: Stuart Weitzman’s stretch boots, select Aquatalia boots, and also a style of stretch Cole Haan boots. These each cost a pretty penny, but quality boots should last many years so could be worth the splurge for those with similar fit struggles.
I’ve been wanting a pair of brown riding-style boots for years and decided to look into an actual equestrian brand. I came across a few scattered reviews for Ariat’s “York” boots indicating the calves fit slim, although you wouldn’t guess based on the 15″ calf circumference listed online. I was pleasantly surprised by the great fit and couldn’t wait to take them out for a spin!
The leather feels thick and durable (slightly on the stiffer side compared to thinner, more supple leathers) and the soles have rubber traction. They are lined and have a full interior side-zipper entry. The “maplewood” color is a medium cognac brown, and these also come in classic black and a few two-toned options. The York boots are also sold direct on Ariat’s website, where you can find more specifications as well as a video on how to clean your boots. I ordered mine from Nordstrom for their customer service / easy returns in case of any issues down the road.
As you can see in the photos, there’s minimal gapping at the calf circumference on me, enough room for jeans or boot socks. There is a small stretch gore panel on the inside at the upper calf to help with a comfortable fit. The shaft hits about 1.5″ below my knees which is very rare for a tall boot. The ankles are not baggy on me, which is another problem I tend to find on boots that might fit otherwise. The price point is very fair for leather boots that fit (esp. compared to others in my collection), so I would definitely recommend while sizes are in stock! Unfortunately for small-footed ladies, the smallest size is a 5.5 which I found to be a snug fit with socks on.
Measurements of a size 5.5: 13.5″ boot shaft height excluding heel, 13.5″ calf opening circumference when measured along the interior, 4.5″ across ankle width from the exterior, 1.25″ heel. Please note that as with all boots, these measurements will likely decrease / increase with the shoe size.
Per your requests, I also have some leather & suede care posts planned for this season (finally ordered myself some protectant and cleaner brushes!). As always, if you guys have petite-friendly boot recommendations, please share below in the comments!
Hi Jean! Have you seen the Coach Caroline narrow calf tall boot?
http://shop.nordstrom.com/s/coach-caroline-tall-boot-women-narrow-calf/4555122?origin=category-personalizedsort&fashioncolor;=DARK%20SADDLE%20NARROW%20CALF
Hi fellow extra petite XD
Could you share the model of the RL boots?
Have been looking for the GeoX 10 boots but seem to be sold out everywhere I look. My friend has these boots and they fit my calves perfectly. I came across 2 different GeoX boot styles which are supposed to be suitable for narrow calves at this site here http://calfhuggingboots.com/tall-narrow-calf-boots-for-slim-legs/ ..has anybody tried these?
Jean, my friend told me about your blog a while ago but I've only started following it regularly a few months ago. Thank you for your recommendations! I've bought quite a few pieces that you recommended since November.
I saw the Ariat York back in stock in size 5.5 (last pair!) earlier this week on Amazon. I've been searching for a pair of tall leather black boots for a while, so I had to snatch them up when I saw these.
Two questions for you:
1) Since you've had this pair for a few months, have they stretched out a bit, especially at the calves? Mine are a pretty snug fit out of box – no discomfort but I don't think I can tug my jeans in.
2) The zipper pull tabs are longer than usual and are making quite a bit of noise when I walk. Do you have the same issue/ does that bother you?
Thanks so much for your blog. Keep the styles coming! 🙂
Just bought those boots and am loving them! I even got the skirt from an online consignment store. I checked out some of the Solemani shoes online, too. Now to find a top!
I too have problems finding boots with a smaller shaft circumference. I find one or two styles with the right measurement but end up not liking the style. However this fall I found so many styles, that were a perfect fit for my calves. I did buy 4 pairs in the Frye, Cole Haan and Solemani brands. This was the website that has been a godsend to people like me with thin legs http://findmyfootwear.com/narrow-calf-boots-that-fit-skinny-calves/
Thanks for the recommendation! I just bought these boots and they are the best thing ever. Thinking of getting a second pair in another color!
I love your outfits and your hair!! Is your hair permed or curled? TIA!
These boots look great on you, and they look really comfy to walk in! Great find!
xx
Yvonne
http://tellmeyblog.com
The whole club was looking at hurr!
You've done a terrific job. Love all your boot choices. Here is a peep-toe fringe bootie that I think you will like too: http://www.fash365.com/2015/10/style-and-versatilityto-boot.html
Those are beautiful boots! I love the color of the leather. I find boot shopping to be a challenge as well, but usually my struggles (as a non-petite) are more geared around finding calves that are narrow enough and styles that look feminine since my feet are so large. I guess everyone has different struggles!
lifestyle by joules
Love the outfit, especially the boots!
MISS LUCIA | Fashion & Lifestyle
Beautiful outfit and great boots
A really simple but cute pair of boots. It looks great on your petite frame. Love the plaid scarf too!
https://sartorialisttoujours.wordpress.com/
I'm not an equestrian hobbyist, but I enjoy going to equestrian trade shows to learn about brands like Ariat 🙂
I LOVE my Ariat York boots — the sole is really comfortable and perfect for walking miles in the city. I purchased mine on 6pm (which is the Zappos outlet) for around $125-150, but it doesn't have the same convenient return/exchange policy as Zappos. There are also several Frye styles which cater for slimmer legs.
Bussola – brand you can order via Nordstrom. I have wider calves (15"). And these boots are dreamy. Can zip up without issue and there is still enough rooms for jeans, leggings, boot socks, what have you.
La Canadienne has nice boots with shorter shaft, petite friendly.
Hi Jean! Love the look and your review on the boot! I have really petite feet myself and it is that exact reason why I started a boutique company that sells only size 6.5 and below. I don't have boots yet but hopefully will soon, I hope to help girls find stylish shoes for work and play. You're such an inspiration! –Love Evelyn
http://TwoPerfectSouls.com
Hi Jean, do you have any recommendations for black boots that are more on the dressy side (with < 1.5 inches heel) and don't quite look so chunky as most boots do. Basically a streamlined profile with no buckles or any other kinds of bells & whistles. Just a classic shape that is more on the dressy side.
Actually you'll have to search under the user hideho13 as the link is not working. She's used a bunch of your pics to advertise her listings.
Absolutely love all of these Fall looks!
http://www.bluelabelsboutique.com
Hi Jean!! I love the boots and the review is great and so helpful!! I also love the outfit, the cream colored skirt and the stripes are just amazing!
Xo
Pauline
http://www.prettypetite.org
Wow! I've accidentally enter this blog and the first foto – an outfit I would absolutely want to wear.
I buy all my boots from Duo from the UK. You pick the shaft size and they ship to the US.
These boots look great! I love them<3
Shall We Sasa
what i would not give to have your closet! i love your style, one day when i finish school i will be able to actually purchase the same pieces instead of just recreating it with what i have. thank you for being an inspiration and for being so down to earth!
hiya!
I had the similar problem with boots in the past as well – the calf was too wide for me, but my local shoe repair guy was able to fix it! he cut out the slice just near the zip and sew the zip back so it fits me perfectly and it hasn't been expencive service (just like the regular shoe fix!)
I love the J.Crew mini! Those boots look like they will age nicely.
These boots are amazing. Love how you put this look together.
Meg | Meghan Silva's Blog
@MeghanSSilva on Instagram
Hey Jean,
Just wanted to let you know someone is using your pictures to sell stuff on eBay. Not sure how you feel about this.. http://www.ebay.com/ulk/itm/181894349245 .
I love this look especially the scarf!!!
xoxo Lynda
http://fashion-petite.com/
You look fantastic!! Love your booties very much!!
Xoxo,
Love from http://www.trangscorner.com {a lifestyle, fashion, beauty, and food blog}
I was in Italy this summer and managed to find very slim calf knee high boots from a brand called Cinti. I spent around 150 euro which was amazing! I think they ship to the US
I love your scarf! The oversized and big look is my favorite.
xx, Diane || http://www.dizined.com
Thank you for your endless tips and tricks! Last year I purchased the Franzie boot from Sole Society. I am 5'0" and the shaft height was perfect. They had a size 5 for my little (but slightly wider) foot. I was pleased with the quality and ended up buying them in 2 colors. They do have them this year.
Wow I've never, ever, EVER seen a boot with such a narrow calf opening *_*. I literally have the hardest time buying boots so thanks for sharing!
If you're really brave you could check the little girls section 😮 sometimes you can find things that fit well there. I always struggle with being in-between. I have a tad more share than a young teen girl but not enough of a woman.
Do you know of any petite riding boots for those of us with really huge calves? The problem with petite is I'm short, but my clothing size and calves are not petite.
Nice! I have the hardest time with some boots. I am also size 5.5 and find it is so hit and miss.
xoxoBella | http://xoxobella.com
I have a few pairs of Ecco tall boots that are just a bit too tall for my calves. I cheat it by adding orthotic drugstore insoles, which increase both comfort and the "height" of my heel to knee-bend measurement. My feet are relatively low-volume so I don't have issues with foot size doing this, but some may need to size up a half size.
Those are amazing! So great to find riding boots that fit extra petite girls. I have a pair of Ralph Lauren riding boots that fit like they were made for me! I have research most of their riding boots and the measurements are very petite friendly! 🙂