The quest continues for the one boot that rules them all.
Italian leather, who really can resist? Why settle on one brand when you can try them all?
But first, a Tucci update. After a few weeks in my new Tucci’s, they are still very tight in the foot bed, but the main issue now is the boot has dropped aggressively. The space between my knee and calf is now so large that my stirrup leathers are giving me blisters just below the knee. While I thought I had accounted for the difference of the boot drop when sizing, they dropped more than I expected. The overall quality of the boots is still absolutely wonderful.
With the height issue cropping up, I turned back to my old steadfast favorite brand, Parlanti. My main reason for exploring other options, despite riding in three consecutive pairs of Parlanti Miami boots, was the durability factor. My Miami boots were showing some significant wear after daily rides for about a year. The soles were literally wearing through, and there is really not a great way to replace the sole given the construction of the boot.
Keeping the Miami models in mind, I decided to try the Parlanti Pro series. The Pro series has a number of notably improved features over the regular series that are designed to hold up the rigors of everyday rides for professional. While I am not a pro, I do ride almost every day – and that means I need a boot that will hold up to consistent use.
The Parlanti Pro Series
Parlanti Pro Series boots are made from quality calfskin leather, like their Classic Series counterparts, but have some very important upgrades. The buffalo leather interior panel adds a level of durability and premium comfort. I expect this will aid the boots in sustaining daily wear and tear of schooling, but the rest of the boot still maintains the classic elegance for showing. The back zipper is also wonderfully designed, with a snap top replacing the former system of threading through a leather tab.
My absolute favorite part of these new boots are the soles. They are ultra flexible with shock-absorbing technology that feels like a sneaker. This makes a huge difference in the irons, where I often struggle to maintain grip in less flexible boots, including my new Tucci boots.
Overall Rating: A+
Price Range: Up to $1,195
Best Price: $491 USD + tax and shipping
Break-In: A+
The best part of Parlanti boots is that there really is absolutely no break in time. The calfskin is so soft that it just starts molding to your leg almost immediately. These boots are not stiff and they have a nice amount of give without feeling loose.
Fit: A+
Parlanti has a great system of sizing, and for me, it is always easy to find the right size. Their size charts include combinations of four calf sizes (small to extra large) and four heights (regular to extra extra tall) resulting in sixteen different leg combinations for each foot size.
Durability: A
I am tentatively rating these an A, not an A+, because the Pro series buffalo insert, while being more durable than the Classic series, may not last as long as a traditional leather. The rest of the boot is also calfskin, which is not as durable as more traditional leathers.
Where to buy:
Parlanti is sold in the U.S. at numerous tack shops, including big box brands such as Dover Saddlery. You can also order from them directly online. Their website also includes a closeout section, so be sure to check that out for great discounts here. They also have sales, including on the 4th of July!
If you have time to wait for the boots and know your size you can save significantly by ordering from a European retailer. I ordered my boots for $491 + tax and shipping from the Tailored Equestrian, but they have since gone up in price. Currently the best price I am seeing is €550 on Horseworld.
Comments