US M31 Mounted Service Boots

The boots are designed to fit your normal shoe size. However, some boots are tight across the vamp, the area over the top of the foot. One size up may be a better fit for some. The sizing can be inconsistent between individual boots.

The boots are made from all-leather, and the overall construction is sturdy. The leather quality is mid-range. The construction quality is excellent and compares favourably to original items.

The boots feature very large calf sections. Most boots will require the calf section to be cut down by a shoe repairer for a proper fit. However, some boots fit wider calves perfectly without alteration.

The boots become very comfortable after a break-in period. Some boots include an inlay sole for extra comfort. While one boot may break in quickly, the other can take longer to become comfortable.

The leather soles are suitable for walking or arena riding. For serious horse riding in mountainous terrain, the leather soles can be too slick when dismounted. Resoling with shallow Vibram soles can provide better traction while still being safe for stirrups.

The lacing can be tricky to get even and smart-looking. Some boots have hooks that come off, and replacement hooks are sometimes supplied without fixings. The combination of eyelets and hooks can make lacing confusing.