Horse Boots - All Types
Browse our selection of boots for horse for all purposes and equestrian disciplines. Everything from jumping to tendon boots, to float boots.
![Overreach Boots Pro Sheepskin Collar Woof White [:small By Order]](http://www.theequestrian.com.au/cdn/shop/files/20309268_1_533x.jpg?v=1746430042)
![Overreach Boots Pro Sheepskin Collar Woof Black [:small By Order]](http://www.theequestrian.com.au/cdn/shop/files/20309244_1_533x.jpg?v=1746430042)
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![Hoof Boots Medical Each Woof [:3]](http://www.theequestrian.com.au/cdn/shop/files/20266479_1_533x.jpg?v=1746427615)
![Overreach Boots Woof Club Black [:small]](http://www.theequestrian.com.au/cdn/shop/files/20309190_1_533x.jpg?v=1746430042)
![Bell Boots Ribbed White [:2]](http://www.theequestrian.com.au/cdn/shop/files/20314118_1_533x.jpg?v=1746430426)
![Bell Boots Ribbed Velcro Black [:large]](http://www.theequestrian.com.au/cdn/shop/files/20012281_1_533x.jpg?v=1746400877)
![Bell Boots Ribbed Velcro White [:large]](http://www.theequestrian.com.au/cdn/shop/files/20012359_1_533x.jpg?v=1746400877)
![Bell Boots Ribbed Black [:2]](http://www.theequestrian.com.au/cdn/shop/files/20011994_1_533x.jpg?v=1746400762)
![Bell Boots Fleece White [:large]](http://www.theequestrian.com.au/cdn/shop/files/20012175_1_533x.jpg?v=1746400877)
![Bell Boots Fleece Black [:large]](http://www.theequestrian.com.au/cdn/shop/files/20012205_1_533x.jpg?v=1746400877)
![Bell Boots Ballistic No Turn Fort Worth Medium [:black]](http://www.theequestrian.com.au/cdn/shop/files/20011604_1_533x.jpg?v=1746400755)
Horse boots are important protective gear designed to safeguard a horse’s legs and hooves from injury, strain, and discomfort. Equestrians use boots in various scenarios such as riding, training, and recovery to ensure hoof protection and leg support. These boots help prevent tendon strain, bruising, and hoof damage caused by rough terrain or high-impact activities. Protecting the horse's legs is important to maintaining their overall well-being and performance.
Why Horses Need Boots
Horses require boots primarily for injury prevention and to support performance. Boots protect the hoof, tendons, and joints from external forces like rough terrain, debris, or obstacles during jumping. Without proper leg protection, horses can develop long-term issues such as ligament damage or hoof bruising. For instance, over 60% of equestrian injuries occur in the legs and hooves, making protective boots an important tool for any horse owner.
Types of Horse Boots
There are several key types of horse boots, each serving a specific function:
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Hoof boots: Protect the hoof and sole, typically used during recovery or on uneven terrain.
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Tendon boots: Shield the tendons and ligaments, ideal for jumping or high-performance activities.
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Brushing boots: Provide protection against the horse’s legs brushing together. Typically used in training and some competitions.
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Bell boots: Cover the heel and toe, preventing injuries from overreaching.
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Ice boots: Aid in post-exercise recovery by reducing swelling through cold therapy.
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Travel Boots: Used to protect horses legs while in transport in a float or truck.
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Therapeutic Boots: Boots such as ice, red light and laser therapy boots are increasingly used in injury recovery and rehabilitation.
Each boot type is designed for a particular purpose and market need, ensuring comprehensive leg and hoof protection.
Choosing the Right Boots for Your Horse
To choose the correct horse boots, consider fit, material, and intended use. The boots should fit snugly without restricting movement or circulation. Boots made from flexible materials like neoprene or leather are best suited for jumping or high-intensity activities, while rubber or synthetic boots are more appropriate for casual riding or rough terrain. For example, hoof boots are perfect for horses with sensitive hooves, offering maximum protection and support on uneven ground. Increasingly even competition horses are wearing hoof boots instead of traditional shoes.
Make sure to select the appropriate size and length to match the horse’s legs, ensuring full coverage and comfort. Start by measuring the horse’s legs accurately, and filter available options based on the activity type and level of protection required. If you have other boots you can use as a guide, this is always helpful.
How to Properly Fit Horse Boots
Properly fitted horse boots is important for performance and comfort. Follow these steps for the perfect fit:
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Measure the circumference and length of the horse’s leg where the boot will sit.
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Ensure the boot fits snugly around the leg without restricting blood flow or movement.
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Fasten any velcro or straps securely, but avoid over-tightening, which can cause discomfort.
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Double-check that the boots cover essential areas such as the tendons, fetlock, and hoof.
Proper fit prevents shifting or slipping during activities, reducing the risk of injuries caused by poorly fitted boots.
Maintenance and Care for Horse Boots
Horse boots require regular cleaning to maintain their durability and performance. After each use:
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Remove debris and dirt to prevent irritation or discomfort to the horse.
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For leather boots, use a specialised leather cleaner and conditioner to preserve the material.
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Synthetic boots can be washed with water and left to air dry.
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Store boots in a dry, cool place to prevent the material from deteriorating over time.
Regular maintenance ensures the boots last longer and continue to provide optimal protection.
Proper horse boots are important for protecting a horse’s legs and hooves during a variety of activities. Choosing the right boot for the horse’s needs ensures enhanced performance and reduced injury risk. Whether for jumping, training, or daily riding, investing in high-quality, well-fitted boots can make a significant difference in the horse’s comfort and safety.
Comparison of Common Hoof Boot Types
|
Boot Type |
Purpose |
Key Features |
Example Use |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Hoof Boots |
Protects the hoof during rough terrain |
Lightweight, flexible |
Trail riding, rough terrain |
|
Tendon Boots |
Shields tendons and ligaments |
High-impact resistance |
Jumping, competitive events |
|
Brushing Boots |
Protects legs from brushing injuries |
Durable, covers fetlock |
Training, casual riding |
|
Bell Boots |
Covers heel and toe, prevents overreach |
Covers entire hoof area |
Jumping, fast-paced riding |
|
Ice Boots |
Reduces swelling and inflammation |
Cold therapy, easy fit |
Recovery post-training |
|
Stable Boots |
Provides ultimate protection for legs |
Comprehensive coverage, impact resistance |
Diverse activities, safeguarding against strain |
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When using horse boots, there are several common mistakes that horse owners should avoid to ensure the best possible protection and support for their horse’s legs. One of the most frequent errors is not properly fitting the horse boots. Ill-fitting boots can cause discomfort, restrict movement, and even lead to injuries. To avoid this, always measure the horse’s legs accurately and choose the correct size and type of boot.
Another common mistake is neglecting regular cleaning and maintenance of horse boots. Dirty or damaged boots can cause irritation and fail to provide adequate protection. Make it a habit to clean the boots after each use and inspect them regularly for any signs of wear and tear. Promptly address any issues to maintain the boots’ effectiveness.
Using horse boots in the wrong situations is also a mistake to avoid. Different activities require different types of boots. For example, tendon boots are ideal for jumping and high-performance activities, while hoof boots are better suited for rough terrain. Ensure that you use the appropriate type of boot for each activity to provide the best support and protection for your horse’s legs.
Popular Questions
Below are some of the most common questions we get asked about the horse boots we list.
What Type Of Horse Boots Do You List?
We have every type of boot you can think of, from the top brands and top sellers in Australia. Types of boots include horse exercise boots, tendon boots, travel and float boots, competition boots, bell boots, ice boots, magnetic boots and more.
What Brands Do You List?
We list some of the most popular brands available in Australia to purchase online. Brands include Kentucky, Premier Equine, ANKY, Woof Wear, Veredus, Zadnona and many more.
How often should horse boots be replaced?
Horse boots should be replaced when they show signs of wear, such as frayed straps, loose velcro, or cracks in the material. On average, high-use boots (like those for jumping or competition) may need replacing every 6 to 12 months, while boots used for casual riding can last longer. Regular inspection ensures they continue to provide proper protection and support.
Can horse boots be worn all day?
Horse boots should not be worn continuously for long periods, as they can cause heat buildup and restrict circulation. It’s best to use them during specific activities like riding, training, or transporting the horse. Afterward, remove the boots to allow the horse’s legs to cool down and prevent irritation. Ice boots can be used after intense activities to reduce swelling.
