Guide to Horse Boots and Their Uses

Protecting your horse’s legs is essential to their health and performance, whether they’re in the stable, out in the field, or competing at high levels. Equine boots are designed to provide support, protection, and injury prevention for your horse’s legs during different activities. From eventing to turnout and therapy, the range of boots available can be overwhelming. This guide will explore the most common types of horse boots, their uses, and the scenarios where they’re most beneficial.

1. Eventing Boots

Eventing boots are essential for horses participating in cross-country or similar high-impact disciplines. Designed to withstand rigorous conditions, they provide robust protection to prevent injuries caused by strikes from fences and jumps, or brushing against their other legs.

These boots are typically made from lightweight yet durable materials like Kevlar or carbon fibre, ensuring maximum protection without weighing down the horse’s legs. They are also water-resistant to prevent water absorption during water jumps, which can cause discomfort or imbalance. Their snug fit and secure fastening systems ensure they stay in place throughout a demanding ride.

2. Tendon & Fetlock Boots

Tendon and fetlock boots are primarily used in show jumping to protect the horse’s legs from strikes and impacts during tight turns or high jumps.

• Tendon Boots: Worn on the front legs, these boots shield the delicate tendons on the back of the legs from brushing injuries caused by the hind legs during motion.
• Fetlock Boots: These smaller boots protect the inside of the hind fetlocks, reducing the risk of interference and impact injuries.

Often made from materials such as moulded plastic or leather with neoprene linings, they provide a combination of flexibility, support, and protection, allowing the horse to perform with freedom of movement, which is crucial for events such as show jumping.

3. Brushing Boots

Brushing boots are versatile, all-purpose boots that protect the inside of the horse’s legs from injuries caused by brushing or interference during exercise. They are commonly used for flatwork, hacking, and general riding.

Made with durable outer shells and soft, padded linings, brushing boots are easy to fit and secure with Velcro straps. They are ideal for preventing minor injuries while offering a comfortable fit for everyday use.

4. Turnout & Fly Boots

Turnout and fly boots are designed to protect your horse’s legs while they graze and move around in the paddock.

• Turnout Boots: These boots shield against minor cuts and scrapes during turnout. They are often waterproof and breathable to keep your horse’s legs dry and clean. This helps prevent issues such as Mud Fever, which is especially prevalent during Winter and Spring months when the ground is often wet.
• Fly Boots: Made from lightweight mesh material, fly boots are used during spring and summer seasons to prevent irritation from insects. They are breathable and often include UV protection to shield sensitive skin from the sun.

Both types prioritise comfort and are designed to stay securely in place during while your horse is turned out in the field.

5. Overreach Boots

Overreach boots, also known as bell boots, protect the horse’s heels and coronary band from overreaching injuries, where the back hooves strike the front hooves. They are commonly used during exercise or turnout to prevent damage to the delicate heel area.

These boots are usually made from durable rubber, neoprene, or synthetic materials. Some feature additional padding or reinforced strike areas for extra protection, especially for horses prone to overreaching injuries.

6. Medicinal or Therapy Boots

Medicinal boots are designed for therapeutic purposes to aid recovery and support the healing process.

• Cold Therapy Boots: Used to reduce swelling, inflammation, and soreness after exercise, these boots incorporate ice packs or gel inserts to deliver cooling relief.
• Infrared Therapy Boots: These boots use infrared technology to improve circulation, promote healing, and relieve stiffness in joints and tendons – great for older horses.

Both types are invaluable for injury prevention and ongoing rehabilitation, offering a practical solution to care for your horse’s legs without bulky equipment and additional costs.

7. Stable Boots

Stable boots provide support and warmth to a horse’s legs while resting in the stable. They are often used for horses with circulation issues, stiffness, or mild swelling.

Designed for a close flit, they feature quilted or padded linings for comfort and often include Velcro straps for a secure fit. Some models incorporate therapeutic benefits, such as magnets or ceramic linings, to promote blood flow and recovery during downtime.

8. Travel Boots

Travel boots are essential for protecting your horse’s legs during transportation in trailers or horse boxes. These boots cover the legs from the knees and hocks down to the hooves, protecting against things such as bumps, scrapes, and kicks that may occur in a trailer or horsebox.

Made from durable materials with thick padding, travel boots are designed to stay secure during movement and provide peace of mind during long journeys. They often have reinforced strike areas for added protection against unexpected impacts.

Choosing the Right Boots for Your Horse

Selecting the right type of boots depends on your horse’s activities, needs, and any existing health issues. While some boots, like brushing boots, are versatile and suitable for daily use, others, such as overreach or eventing boots, cater to specific concerns or scenarios. Regular cleaning, proper fitting, and timely replacement are essential to ensure the boots perform effectively and keep your horse comfortable and safe.

With the right boots, you can protect your horse’s legs, improve their performance, and support their overall well-being. If you’re looking for something in particular or have any questions about the right type of boots for your horse, you can contact us by phone or email – we’re happy to help.