As horse owners, we want nothing but the best for our equine companions. From the right feed to the best healthcare practices, we try our best to keep our horses healthy and happy. One aspect of horse care that is often overlooked is the importance of horse boots. Horse boots serve as protective gear for the horse’s legs, offering support and reducing the risk of injury during exercise or competition. In this article, we’ll explore everything you need to know about horse boots.
Types of Horse Boots
Before investing in horse boots, it’s essential to know the different types available in the market. There are four main types:
- Open Front Boots: These boots are designed to protect the horse’s tendons, fetlocks, and cannon bones. They feature an open front, which allows for greater freedom of movement.
- Splint Boots: These boots are lightweight and offer protection to the horse’s splint bones. They’re ideal for horses who tend to brush their legs while exercising or those rubbing their legs to avoid injuries.
- Bell Boots: Bell boots cover the horse’s heel and bulbs and are used to protect the horse’s hoof and coronet band from injury caused by overreaching.
- Sports Medicine Boots: These boots aim to offer all-around protection and support to the horse’s leg. They feature a snug fit and are designed to protect the suspensory ligament, tendons, and soft tissue from injury caused by strenuous exercise.
Factors to Consider When Buying Horse Boots
When purchasing horse boots, it’s essential to keep in mind some crucial factors, including the horse’s discipline, the horse’s conformation, and size. For example, show jumpers may need a different boot than dressage horses. Mini horses require boots specifically designed for them. Some brands offer protective horse boots that are exceptionally durable, crafted to endure daily activities while remaining soft, lightweight, and breathable, suitable for schooling, competitions, and turnout. Likewise, the horse’s shape and size may need a custom fit boots for the best outcome. Ensuring that the boots fit well and are not too tight or too loose is equally important.
Maintenance and Care of Horse Boots
Regular care and maintenance of horse boots ensure that they remain in good condition and last longer. Washing horse boots regularly to remove sweat and dirt and drying them thoroughly before use is essential. Horse boots with absorbent liners should be washed separately and air-dried. You can also use leather cleaners on leather boots to keep them looking new.
When Should You Use Horse Boots?
Horse boots should be used during any strenuous physical activity, exercise, and training. They offer protection against bumps, knocks, and rubbing injuries, and provide support to the horse’s legs. Horse boots should also be used during competitions to reduce the chance of injury and keep the horse’s legs feeling fresh. However, it’s essential to avoid using them for prolonged periods as they can cause sweat accumulation, leading to skin irritation and sores.
Do Horse Boots Affect Performance?
Horse boots can affect performance but not significantly. Studies have shown that equines who wear boots perform better since they’re less likely to get injured, and their legs feel fresher. However, poorly fitting boots can frustrate a horse and negatively impact their performance. Therefore, it’s essential to ensure that the boots are the right fit, comfortable, and provide support where necessary.
Conclusion:
Horse boots are essential horse care gear that every horse owner should invest in. Journeys of a thousand miles start with a single step, and getting a pair of horse boots is that important first step to keeping your equine companion safe and happy. Knowing the type of boots to buy, the factors to consider when purchasing them, and how to maintain them is essential to ensure their longevity and effectiveness. By using horse boots during strenuous physical activity, you not only reduce the risk of injury to your horse, but you also improve their performance. Remember, the hardest working part of the horse’s anatomy is the leg, which makes it all the more reason why we should take extra care of it.
