Polo is a sport played on horseback in which four players use mallets to hit a ball into the opposing team's goal. The sport requires horsemanship skills, agility and coordination. Because polo horses can reach speeds up to 35 mph, it's important to wear comfortable and appropriate safety gear, including shoes.
Significance
Polo players are known for their stylish yet classic dress. The clothing worn, such as polo shirt, riding breeches and equestrian hat, is both functional and comfortable, as a polo player must quickly adapt to the changing field of play. To finish the uniform, a polo player's boots must be protective, as well as an extension of her leg for giving her horse commands. Polo players typically wear boots that fit just under or slightly over the knee and come in a variety of synthetic and natural leathers, according to My Horse.
Fit
Riding boots worn to play polo should be tight both in the foot and in the shoe, according to Ask the Farrier. This is because a polo player uses his lower legs to give signals to the horse to turn, run faster and stop. If the boot becomes too loose, the horse may perceive the loose top portion of the boot as giving false signals. If you have difficulty finding a boot that fits tightly enough, a bootmaker or other shoe specialist can likely incorporate an elastic band or other tightening method at the top of your boot.
Trying On
Try on several boot types and sizes when purchasing a polo boot to ensure you find the one that fits the best and will function as needed during the match. Ask the Farrier recommends bringing both your riding breeches and the hose you will be wearing while riding. This will give you the best perception of how the boots will fit when they are in use. Practice not only walking but also sitting in the boots. Move your legs and feet as you would in the polo match to ensure you are getting the best fit.
Protection
While many equestrians utilize a tall boot while riding, for the polo player, this serves a protective purpose. The boot often fits over the knee, and the leather may be thicker or feature padding over the shinbone. This is to protect the rider from flying mallets or balls that can come by at high speeds during the match. You also should look for a distinct heel on the shoe; this ensures your foot is better able to stay in the stirrup, according to My Horse. While some boots may be more flat, a boot for polo playing should have a stacked or sloped heel.
Climate
Polo is played in the snow and in very warm areas of the world. For this reason, a polo player's shoe should be climate-appropriate for the area where she is playing. If playing in the snow, a wool- or fur-lined boot may be preferable to an unlined boot. Because this addition can affect how a shoe fits, try on the boots with the proper thickness of sock.
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