Horse Boots for the Right Protection and Fit

Horse boots are a useful part of everyday tack for many riders. Depending on the horse and the type of work they do, boots can help protect the legs from knocks, brushing and other contact during exercise.

The important thing is choosing boots that suit the horse and the activity. For Australian riders, the right choice may also depend on when and where the boots are being used, particularly during warmer conditions when breathability, fit and regular checking become important. A pair that works well for everyday exercise may not be the best choice for jumping, while stable boots have a different purpose altogether.

At Saddleworld Dural, you'll find a range of horse boots designed for different riding and care requirements.

Why Do Horses Wear Boots?

A horse's legs go through a lot of movement during exercise. Depending on how a horse moves, their legs or hooves can sometimes come into contact with each other.

Boots can provide an additional layer of protection in these situations. They can also be useful when a horse is working in disciplines where the legs are more likely to experience knocks or contact.

Boots should always be used correctly and fitted properly. They are designed to support protection during exercise and care, rather than replace good training, suitable footing or professional treatment when a horse has an injury.

Which Horse Boots Are Right for Your Horse?

The right horse boots depend on what you are trying to protect against and the type of work your horse is doing. Brushing boots are commonly chosen for everyday leg protection, while tendon and fetlock boots are often associated with jumping work. Bell boots protect around the hoof and heel, particularly where overreaching is a concern, while stable boots are intended for use in the stable rather than ridden exercise.

There is no single type of horse boot that is right for every horse or every activity. Fit, movement, discipline and the reason for using the boots should all guide your choice.

Types of Horse Boots

Different horse boots are made for different situations. Understanding what each type is designed for can make choosing the right option much easier.

Bell Boots

Bell boots fit around the hoof and help protect the heel area from contact.

They can be particularly useful for horses that overreach, where the hind hoof reaches forward and may strike the front hoof. Bell boots can also help protect against lost shoes or damage around the heel.

Correct sizing is important. The boot should sit securely without being so tight that it becomes uncomfortable.

Exercise Boots

Exercise boots are designed for use during ridden work and can provide protection while a horse is exercising.

They are a practical option for regular schooling and other everyday activities where some additional protection is appropriate.

Look for a design that fits securely and allows the horse to move naturally.

Jump Boots

Jump boots are designed with jumping activities in mind.

Jumping places different demands on a horse's movement, so suitable protective equipment can be an important part of preparing for a jumping session.

As with any boot, check the fit before riding and make sure the fastenings are secure.

Brushing Boots

Brushing boots are commonly used to protect the lower legs from contact when a horse's legs brush against each other during movement.

They can be useful for everyday schooling and other ridden activities. Many designs have a protective outer layer with a softer lining for comfort.

After use, check the inside of the boots for dirt, hair or grit that could cause irritation.

Fetlock Boots

Fetlock boots are designed to protect the fetlock area from contact during movement.

They are often used when additional protection is appropriate for the activity being undertaken. Correct positioning is important, particularly around a moving joint.

Always check that the boot stays in place during exercise without restricting normal movement.

Tendon Boots

Tendon boots are designed to provide protection around the tendon area of the lower leg.

They are commonly used during activities where the horse may benefit from additional protection, including jumping and other ridden work.

The boot should sit correctly against the leg without being excessively tight. Check the area after riding for any signs of rubbing or irritation.

Magno Boots

Magno boots such as the The LeMieux Conductive Magno Boots herald a new approach to magnetic therapy. Unique inner liners contain a woven layer of steel fibres directly under 18 powerful 2600 gauss magnets. The steel filaments conduct magnetic waves evenly around the lining bringing the whole leg within the magnetic field.

Acknowledged benefits of using magnets include:

Helps blood supply to tendons & joints pre-exercise.

Aids recovery and detrimental effects of exercise and fatigue.

Oxygen supply to tissue.

Production of elastin & collagen essential for development of new cells.

Helps with the effects of concussion from hard ground or extreme exercise.

 Vento Boots

Vento boots are a type of jump boot that provide a different technology of ventilation to keep horses legs cool. 

Veredus jumping boots provide unparalleled protection and comfort for your horse! The advanced technology of heat release through micro-perferated neoprene allows fresh air to enter through inlets with the horses movement, allowing ventilation in both horizontal and vertical direction.

Stable Boots

Stable boots are designed for use when a horse is in the stable rather than during ridden exercise.

They can provide a layer of protection and warmth depending on the design and intended use. Stable boots should be fitted carefully and checked regularly, particularly when a horse is wearing them for longer periods.

Horse Boots for Jumping vs Everyday Riding

Horse boots used for jumping and everyday schooling can serve different purposes. For regular exercise, riders may choose brushing or exercise boots where protection from everyday knocks and interference is the main concern.

For jumping, tendon, fetlock or other suitable jump boots may be selected depending on the horse and discipline. Rather than choosing a boot simply because it is labelled for a particular activity, consider the protection required, fit, fastening system and whether the horse can move comfortably.

How to Choose the Right Horse Boots

With so many options available, it is easy to focus on appearance or brand. However, the most important factors are the horse, the activity and the type of protection required.

Before buying horse boots, consider:

• What type of work your horse does

• Which area needs protection

• How often the boots will be used

• Your horse's individual movement

• The size and shape of the horse's legs

• How easy the boots are to clean

• Whether the fastening system is secure

A boot that fits one horse well may not suit another. Take the time to check the sizing information and fitting instructions for the particular product.

Why Correct Fit Matters

A horse boot should sit securely without restricting natural movement.

If a boot is too loose, it may move during exercise and fail to provide the intended protection. If it is too tight, it can cause discomfort or rubbing.

Before riding, check that the boots are positioned correctly and all fastenings are secure. After exercise, remove them and inspect the legs.

Look for areas of redness, rubbing, swelling or trapped dirt. If a particular boot repeatedly causes irritation, it may not be the right size or design for your horse.

Looking After Horse Boots

Horse boots can collect mud, dust, sweat and hair, so regular cleaning is part of good tack care.

Remove dirt after use and follow the manufacturer's cleaning instructions. Pay attention to the inside of the boot, as grit and dried sweat can become uncomfortable against the skin.

Allow boots to dry properly before storing them. It is also worth checking the stitching, straps and fastenings regularly. A damaged boot may not provide the protection it was designed to offer.

Do Horses Need Boots for Every Ride?

No. Not every horse needs boots for every ride. Whether boots are appropriate depends on the horse's movement, the activity being undertaken and the reason protection is needed.

Some horses may benefit from protection during regular exercise, while others may only require boots for particular activities.

Using the right equipment for the situation is more useful than simply putting boots on for every ride.

If your horse has an existing injury or a specific veterinary requirement, follow the advice of your veterinarian or another appropriate equine professional.

Horse Boots at Saddleworld Dural

At Saddleworld Dural, our range includes Bell Boots, Exercise Boots, Jump Boots, Brushing Boots, Fetlock Boots, Tendon Boots, Magno Boots, Vento Boots and Stable Boots.

With different options available, riders can choose protective equipment based on their horse, riding routine and individual requirements.

If you're unsure which style may be suitable, our team can help you look at the available options and find boots that fit your horse and the work you do together.

Final Thoughts

Horse boots can be a useful addition to your tack when they are chosen for the right reason and fitted correctly.

From Bell Boots and Brushing Boots for protection during movement to Stable Boots for use around the stable, each type has a different role.

Take the time to consider what your horse actually needs, check the fit before and after use, and keep the boots clean and in good condition. With the right pair, protective boots can become a practical part of your horse's everyday routine.

Frequently Asked Questions

What type of horse boots does Saddleworld Dural stock?

Saddleworld Dural stocks Bell Boots, Exercise Boots, Jump Boots, Brushing Boots, Fetlock Boots, Tendon Boots, Magno Boots, Vento Boots and Stable Boots etc.

How should horse boots fit?

Horse boots should sit securely without being excessively tight or restricting normal movement. Always follow the fitting instructions for the particular boot.

Should I use horse boots for every ride?

Not necessarily. The need for boots depends on the horse, the activity and the type of protection required.

How often should horse boots be cleaned?

Clean boots regularly, particularly after muddy or sweaty rides. Remove dirt from the inside and outside and follow the manufacturer's care instructions.

What should I check after removing horse boots?

Check the horse's legs for rubbing, redness, swelling, trapped dirt or other signs of irritation. Also inspect the boots for damage before storing them.

What is the difference between brushing boots and tendon boots?

Brushing boots are generally used to protect the lower leg from contact or brushing during movement. Tendon boots are designed to provide protection around the tendon area and are commonly used for jumping and other ridden activities.

Are bell boots the same as brushing boots?

No. Bell boots fit around the hoof and heel area, while brushing boots are worn higher on the lower leg. They protect different areas and are used for different types of contact.

Which horse boots are best for jumping?

The appropriate boots depend on the horse, discipline and type of protection required. Tendon, fetlock and other suitable jump boots are commonly used for jumping, but correct fit and freedom of movement should always be considered.

Can horse boots be too tight?

Yes. Boots that are too tight may cause discomfort or restrict normal movement, while boots that are too loose may move or rub. Always follow the manufacturer's sizing and fitting guidance.