We bought these for my 7 year old son who has been horseback riding since he was 2.

We bought them for a celebration (a Hoedown), but his riding instructor told us that he should consider wearing them for his classes, because the heal and the small toe profile would make it easier in the stirrups.

Since I grew up riding English, I was sort of horrified... but I must say - they work well, and they are holding up nicely.  I think they need a shine - and I guess I need some clear shoe polish, because I wouldn't want to cover up the stitching with black polish.

Nice for the money.  Good quality.  Nice fit.