New : A riding range combining performance and safety

For over 40 years, Parade has been involved in the design, development and manufacture of iconic, ergonomic and comfortable safety footwear, dedicated to protecting its wearers. Building on its expertise, the brand is now expanding its field of action by putting its know-how at the service of equestrians, with a new range specially designed for them.

why safety is so important when riding?

Horse-riding is an exciting and demanding sport, but not without risk, requiring technical skills as well as knowledge of safety rules. To ensure the safety of their environment, riders must know and apply safety rules, and wear protective equipment to protect themselves and the people and animals around them.

Horse-riding is not a sport without dangers

As part of a sporting activity or a hobbie

With some 690,000 members, the Fédération Française d'Équitation is France's third-largest sports federation, behind soccer and tennis. It's also a sport where falls and accidents can occur, with an estimated 4% of riders suffering accidents every year.

According to the study Epidemiology of traumatic accidents in sport in France, the largest proportion of sports-related accidents in emergency departments involves team sports, accounting for more than 2 out of 5 accidents (43%). Equestrian sports accounted for just 3% of sports-related accidents in emergency departments in 2004-2005. On the other hand, stays were longer for riding and motor sports accidents.

It should be noted that the severity of accidents varies, with the vast majority being minor.

The lower limbs, legs including feet and ankles, are particularly vulnerable in equestrians, with the most common injuries including contusions, sprains and fractures.

Accidents in the professional equine world

Let's take a look at equine industry professionals and their work-related accidents, thanks to a study by the MSA (Mutualité sociale agricole) carried out over the 2015-2019 period published in March 2022.

When it comes, they don't happen when the person is riding the horse, but alongside it. In fact, 62% of accidents occur while driving the animal, 9% while caring for it and 7% while handling and restraining it.

Feet account for 15% of lost-time accidents for men. This rate rises to 17.2% for women, the highest rate for women ahead of leg accidents at 16.7%. Foot trampling by animals is also listed as one of the most frequent causes of work-related accidents.

So, whether you're a rider or working in the equine industry, protecting yourself is a priority. That's why a number of protective measures have been introduced, including compliance with safety rules, and the wearing of protective equipment such as bombs, which are compulsory. Over the last few years, new equipment for riders has been introduced, such as airbag vests and safety boots, which are increasingly worn.

Parade expertise at the service of equestrians

At Parade, every model creation begins with an immersion in the environment concerned. This is how we came to work hand in hand with the Institut français du cheval et de l'équitation (IFCE), a public operator serving the equine industry, to design this new range.

Aware that equestrians and horse professionals operate in an accident-prone environment, the IFCE is committed to their safety. This collaboration reflects our shared commitment to creating solutions adapted to the well-being and safety of riders and equestrian professionals.

Focus on IFCE

The Institut français du cheval et de l'équitation (IFCE) is the agricultural and sporting technical institute for the equine industry. Its activities are aimed at professionals, local authorities, the French government and all those concerned by horses and riding. Founded on in-depth expertise and a passion for horses, the IFCE strives for continuous improvement in riding practices, and pays particular attention to riders' safety. Aware of the risks inherent in riding, the IFCE strongly encourages riders to wear suitable footwear to protect their feet.

Who was this range designed for?

Our range of safety shoes has been designed to suit both recreational and professional riders, as well as professionals in direct contact with horses: grooms and groomsmen, lads jockeys and lads drivers, riding instructors and teachers, trainers and coaches, and maintenance workers. Everyone will be able to wear these safety shoes while carrying out their activities as usual.

design and aesthetics: when safety meets style

High-quality materials

The new safety riding boots are made from high-quality full-grain leather. This hard-wearing leather offers not only exceptional durability and the flexibility required for all movements, but also a high-quality look.

The outsoles are made of non-slip rubber for optimum grip on a variety of surfaces, whether in the stable or out in the field. What's more, the latter complies with the additional HRO requirement, offering sole resistance up to 300°C.

A discreet and comfortable safety

These boots are equipped with discreet, comfortable safety features to keep every rider safe without compromising style or riding pleasure.

They feature a discreet, slim steel toe cap to protect against injury and crushing. What's more, the recycled textile anti-perforation plate ensures high resistance to the risk of punctures or cuts.

These boots fit all stirrups and offer the option of wearing chaps to meet the essential needs of equestrians.

Exclusive new technology: our STAY DRY waterproof-breathable membrane

The equine industry is regularly exposed to damp environments and water splashes.

In response to this recurring problem, Parade has developed a waterproof-breathable membrane that resists water penetration (Water Resistant) for 7 hours, i.e. 5 times the resistance required by tests. The membrane is seam-sealed. It is guaranteed PFAS-free for optimum safety.

With this exclusive STAY DRY technology, coupled with the WR (Water Resistant) marking, amateur and professional riders alike will be able to continue their activities while keeping their feet dry.

Easy maintenance

To maximize the lifespan of safety riding boots, it's essential to look after them properly. The new range is designed to facilitate this maintenance. High-quality leather can be cleaned and maintained with specific products to preserve its appearance and flexibility. Non-slip soles can be cleaned with water and mild soap to remove mud and debris.

Durability

Thanks to the use of robust materials and advanced manufacturing technologies, these boots are durable. They're designed to withstand daily wear and tear and the rigors of stable life. This means you can rely on your boots to offer you constant protection and comfort.

CONCLUSION

Combining safety, comfort and style are the key words of this new range of safety riding boots. Thanks to high-quality materials, advanced protection technologies and elegant design, these boots meet the needs of riders of all levels and professionals in the equine industry.

Safety is paramount in horse riding, and investing in high-quality boots is a wise choice for anyone involved in the sport. As a result, riders can concentrate fully on their technique without worrying about discomfort or the risk of slipping. This is particularly important when every movement counts. Whether you're a professional rider, a passionate amateur or a professional in the horse world, these boots will give you the protection and comfort you need to practice with complete peace of mind.