Fall Riding Boots Under $200

1. Ralph Lauren: $149

2. LL Bean: $219 (okay, I kinda cheated a bit)

3. LifeStride: $100

4. Bandolino: $100

5. Corso Como: $120

6. Aerosoles: $120

Today’s high in DC is 96 degrees. I know with DC’s Indian summer, I’ll be extending the wear cycle of my Jacks long into the fall months. But even though I won’t have to switch out my summer closet for my autumn one for probably at least another month, I’m already gearing up for fall style. The top of my wish list? A pair of riding boots.

I snagged my current pair at a GUESS outlet store of all places. I’d been hunting for riding boots that were simple + sleek. It seemed like most of the boots were weighed down with hefty buckles and other busy details. If that’s your thing, rock it. But I like to keep it simple and wanted minimum embellishment on my boots. I found my riding boots on a Thanksgiving sale in 2012 and it was love at first sight. Unfortunately, that same love has caused the stitching around the heel to go. A tailor did a quick mend for me at the end of last winter to survive the rest of the season but I think it might be time to put them out to pasture.

Riding boots are an investment piece but I don’t want to spend more than $200 on a pair. I also don’t want to spend less than $100 because the quality drops off quickly in that price range for riding boots: ideally my new riding boots will also last me at least 2 years’ wear.

Searching the Internet machine, I found these lovely fall riding boots under $200 (there’s one pair just a teensy bit over but I couldn’t resist adding it to the list) with minimal embellishments and sleek lines. I think #4 is my top choice but #5 might be the Comeback Kid of riding boots!