![]() Using hoof boots on shod horses isn’t unheard of, but be aware that it can cause excessive wear and invalidate some companies’ warranties. Having hoof boots on standby means you have a ‘spare tyre’ if your horse loses a shoe. Hoof boots are designed for all disciplines, so there areĪ number of different tread styles to investigate. If you do a lot of long-distance riding or traverse complex terrain types, you may find a chunky tread enhances your horse’s grip, while a slimmer, lighter style may better suit you in the school. It’s not just fit and style that vary, either – different treads on hoof boots make them more suited to different riding needs. Finding the fit or style that best suits your horse might take a bit of investigation, and it’s possible to hire hoof boots to test them out before you commit to buying a pair. Some cover the hoof completely like a glove, while others have a more open style with a strap around the pastern for security. If you’ve ever looked into picking up some hoof boots, you’ll know that no two styles are the same. ![]() Some agreements only permit you to try them on, not ride in them. If you want to hire boots, check the terms. In an ideal world, a barefoot horse would be able to be just that, at all times, but if his feet aren’t in optimal condition, he’s feeling a little sore or you’re just making the transition to unshod work, having a set of appropriately-fitting hoof boots could be the answer to help keep him working comfortably. Just like shod horses, barefoot horses can experience cracking and foot-soreness, particularly when faced with extended interaction with hard ground or increased roadwork over the winter. However, riding a barefoot horse doesn’t always come without its run-of-the-mill complications. Horses of all shapes and sizes can and do benefit from being unshod, whether they’re a dressage-loving warmblood, an ex-racer-turned-eventer or even a happy hacker. It’s no secret that going barefoot isn’t just reserved for traditional cobs and native types.
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