Felt I should look as boots are one of my specialist subjects
....and the answer is NO!!
have seen a top rider wearing these on the tv but there were probably given them/sponsored by them! Luckily for me I have fat legs so even if I got the urge to try them on I am 99% sure they wouldnt fit which is good news as I will be protected from the fashion poilce....
They're a bit clunky looking aren't they? Shame they are so weird looking as they come in extended heights which is so hard to find in off-the-rack boots when you are tall!
they are produced in conjunction with the swedish SJer Malin Baryard- i think they look nice on her but that is because she has long stick legs. on my fat tree trunks they would look somewhat unpleasant. they come in all different colours too like baby blue and pink. now they ARE hideous!!
Ok, I'm going to put the cat amongst the pigeons!!!!
Our shop is one of the stockist for these boots and I agree with most of you when they first came out last year I didn't like the look of them when I saw a young rider riding in them at Hickstead.
Since then, I have seen and felt the boots up close. Very, very lightweight so comfortable if having to wear all day. The fit can be varied as the side have elasticated laces so are quite adjustable.
Have to admit, they do look completely different when on a person and not looking at just a picture.
The BSJA will only allow the black and brown ones which I think is a good move as will keep the look quite traditional while still being modern. Not much different really between the traditional hat and Pro-Tector hats when they first come out.
A lot of riders do like them as we have sold several pairs since they came in last week. Price the same as a decent pair of leather boots if not cheaper.
Guess we will just wait and see how many riders are wearing them in six months time!!
They have been hugely popular in Sweden for several years, I am surprised actually that it has taken them so long to reach the "mainstream" here. Malin Baryard is very popular in Sweden- successful, stylish and beautiful, so what she wears, all the young girls copy. In Sweden they come in all sorts of colours, including navy, baby blue, brown etc. Personally, I'd love a pair!