In the Tried & Tested corner of her Pumps & Horses blog, Mara writes reviews about products she has worn or tried extensively. She'll help you to avoid bad bargains. This time round: Jodhpurs Tonics Space UST.
What: The ´Space UST´jodhpurs by Tonics
Sold at: Epplejeck for €259,95 (not stocked anymore)
Specifications:
luxurious jodhpurs
sturdy, Italian leather
soft and shiny leather
waterproof, yet breathing
leather x-static lining
double, waterproof zipper
elastic inset on both sides for perfect fit
strong, rubber anti-slip sole
with enhanced midsole for extra support
removable, shockabsorbing, breathing and antibacterial insole
sturdy rubber on the sides for extra protection
spur holder
My experience:
Tonics is an Italian brand which is exclusively sold at Epplejeck. The brand produces deluxe jodhpurs (and half chaps), high quality does mean a rather high price. The Space UST, which I am wearing in the pictures is the most costly. Epplejeck offers two different models as well which have a slightly lower price (€189,95).
Noticeable difference
Whilst I know these jodhpurs are rather pricy, and perhaps too pricy for some people, after trying them I can wholeheartedly say: they are amazingly comfortable! The difference with my own cheaper jodhpurs is huge. Tonics are made from high quality leather and this simply cannot be denied. The leather is soft, yet strong as it barely shows folds or wrinkles like you would with cheaper leather.
The enhanced heel and sides offer support around the ankles. Which is perfect for someone like me, as I tend to easily sprain my ankles. I've had this since forever (no idea what causes it), so I sturdy shoe like this one is perfect.
Another great feature: two zippers. One to the right and one to the left, they run all the way down to your foot which makes the jodhpur easy to put on. No more pushing, pulling or blown-up face whilst taking off your shoes either. ;)
Additional specifications
The sturdy leather is not the only striking feature, there are some additional specifications worth mentioning. They are waterproof (I've tried and tested this by stomping around puddles like a child would, haha) and the sole is antislip.
The most striking property however is the insole; it's shockabsorbing, breathing and antibacterial. The breathing function will prevent stinky feet. If you are you likely to get those anyhow, the antibacterial properties will take care of it. I've never had any trouble with that, so unfortunately I haven't been able to test this as well as I wanted.
Conclusion
With all these features and the high price there's bound to be only one outcome: these shoes are high quality and comfortable. I am incredibly happy to have them! But let's stay real: it's quite an investment. If you're someone who rides maybe twice a week I'd stick to the cheaper jodhpurs. However, if you wear your jodhpurs several hours a day I'd definitely recommend these Tonics. They're a great investment for your feet.
Are you already familiar with the brand? Share your experience with Tonics on my Facebookpage.