Hoof boots are essentially the same as (stable) boots for us riders. A good hoof boot provides a sturdy sole on which the horse can tread. Hoof boots enclose the hoof and are fastened with Velcro or buckles on the side or at the ball of the hoof. Renowned manufacturers now offer hoof boots for different disciplines and requirements. Cavallo, for example, has developed a variety of hoof for practically all hoof sizes. These also come with different features, depending on whether they are intended for dressage, jumping or cross-country riding.
Hoof boots for horses are constantly being developed and today there are many different styles to choose from. Only very small or large hooves are trickier to find hoof boots for.
Hoof boots are considered the best alternative to horseshoes. The trend is to go to barehoof, but there are horses or conditions where shoeing would be necessary. For example, if your horse is very sensitive and the ground conditions in your area are unfavourable for this, a hoof boot may be the optimal solution for you. With hoof boots you can enjoy your rides as if your horse were wearing horseshoes. You don't have to have your horse shod, but simply put the hoof boots on before you get into the saddle. After the ride or training session, the boots can be taken off again and your horse will continue to stand with bare hooves in the stable.
Many open stables also want their herd animals to go barefoot, but this is not for every horse. Some horses have naturally soft or brittle horn, others have to get used to running barefoot after being shod. Hoof shoes can help here and also enable barefoot horses to go for extended rides over any terrain.
There are also hoof boots that provide temporary support in case of hoof diseases. This may be because the horse's footfall is dampened or because the bandage around the hoof can stay in place better thanks to this boot. Browse our collection of hoof boots now to find the perfect set for your needs.
There are also hoof boots that provide temporary support in case of hoof diseases. This may be because the horse's footfall is cushioned or the bandage around the hoof can hold better thanks to this covering. Depending on your requirements and wishes, you will find different hoof boots in different qualities. For example, a hoof boot can provide relief for horses with acute laminitis. Special areas inside the shoe can provide relief for the horse. Also when changing from shoeing to barefoot, a shoe can be comfortable for the horse and prevent your horse from running with a heavy foot on stony ground. In our range you will find hoof shoes from Shoof's and the treatment shoe Tubbease from Kerbl.
Laminitis is an inflammation of the corium of the hoof, usually affecting the front hooves. This in itself is very painful for the horse. However, there is also the danger that the coffin bone will sink and, in extreme cases, break. In addition to treatment, special hoof boots can be very useful. Here you have to distinguish between styles for acute laminitis and those for recovery.
In the case of acute laminitis, the horse is stabled. It is then supported by laminitis boots with a screwed-on wedge plate. This plate raises the heels of the hoof by 6 ° or 12 °. When your horse is allowed to move more, it should be given a hoof boot with a T-shaped beam insert. This boot is glued to the hoof. Other models of laminitis hoof boots have a thick rubber sole and a thick felt insert.
To find the right hoof boots, first measure the size of the hoof. The hoof width is measured at the widest part of the hoof, the hoof length from the front edge to the pads. If your horse's hooves are between the sizes offered, it is best to choose the smaller size. As the hoof boot material is stretchy, it can adapt to the hoof within reason. The shape of the hooves is also important. Are they more round or oval? Are the hoof walls steep or flat?
Finally, you have to decide between open and closed hoof boots. The closed models protect the entire hoof and can adapt to a wider range of sizes. However, they are not intended for use for longer distances because of the risk of chafing. Open hoof boots are recommended for long distances. They are attached below the coronet band.
Closed hoof boots are recommended for occasional rides. They are cheaper than the open models and easier to put on. It is important that the hoof boots fit properly so that you do not lose one or more along the way. These models are heavier than the open models and reach higher up on the hoof. This can make them chafe more easily when worn for a long time. As long as you don't ride more than 40 km per week with these shoes, there should be no problems. Medical hoof boots, which are used, for example, in the case of laminitis or a hoof ulcer, are not suitable for riding out.
Keeping horses without horseshoes has many advantages. It eliminates the danger of the horse injuring itself and other animals with the shoes. In addition, the hoof can breathe freely. This promotes blood circulation and prevents problems. As long as the horse is only in the stall, on the meadow or in a paddock and is only ridden on a sandy field or in the indoor arena, this is not a problem. However, you will probably also want to take your horse or pony out for a ride. Riding on paved or stony paths can quickly lead to problems due to excessive wear on the hoof. Hoof boots protect against this. They also do not constrict the hoof as much as horseshoes and can be put on only when needed.
