We often try to ensure our horse's safety by using boots. But do we truly understand the purpose and benefits of each type? Let's break down the various styles of horse boots and their specific protective roles.
Open Front Tendon Boots
Tendon boots offer robust protection, often featuring a hard shell for impact absorption. Primarily used in jumping disciplines (show jumping, eventing, cross-country), they shield the tendons, ligaments, and fetlocks from strikes, particularly from the hind legs during jumps. The open front design enhances the horse's awareness of poles.
Over Reach Boots
These boots prevent over-reaching, where the hind hooves clip the front heels. Commonly used during jumping, turnout, or in muddy conditions, they protect the back of the front hooves from potential injuries and shoe pulling. Available in various materials and colours.
Brushing Boots
A popular choice for general leg protection, brushing boots guard against knocks, scratches, and bruises. They're vital for protecting the lower leg, where tendons are vulnerable. Used in all disciplines, they help maintain leg health and a clean appearance, especially in competition.
Bandages
Versatile and supportive, bandages protect tendons and ligaments. They serve as medical dressings for wounds and are popular in dressage for warming up legs and promoting flexibility. Also used during transport, they require careful application to avoid circulation issues.
Travel Boots
Essential for safe transport, travel boots cover from the hocks to the fetlocks, protecting legs from potential injuries during transit. Designed for easy application and removal with Velcro straps.
Medical & Therapy Boots
These therapeutic boots, including freeze, magnetic, and heating options, enhance circulation, reduce swelling, and promote movement. Ideal for all horses, especially those with injuries or in training.
Stable & Turnout Boots
Designed for use in the stable, these boots keep legs warm and protected, particularly beneficial for horses with arthritis or those recovering from injuries. They prevent injuries from rolling and reduce cold-weather stiffness. Turnout boots protect against field injuries and mud fever outdoors, with mud socks being a popular choice.
Hoof Boots
These boots protect hooves with sensitive soles, barefoot transitions or those recovering from shoe loss or injuries.
We hope this guide helps you understand the benefits and purposes of various horse boots. You can Shop All Boots here.
