Since we had the bruised sole incident a couple of weeks ago, I've been researching hoof boots. The vet suggested them for when we are at my trainers, (arena footing) or riding on hard ground /gravel. I've also been applying venice turpentine to toughen Val's feet up.
I know that I
don't want to use
Davis Barrier boots as they rubbed terribly and were super hard to get on when we used them for a pulled shoe last year.
Easy boots look too complicated with hardware and parts that could fall off.
Old Macs look sturdy and comfortable, but are the pretty expensive...
So, I think we're going to try
Cavallo's Simple Hoof boot. They look super comfortable, easy to fit and put on... you can get pads to insert for extra comfort. They seem to be designed to promote barefoot horses, and the price is reasonable. If anyone has any experience with hoof boots, please share :)
We haven't tried the boots you're thinking of using, but they look very nice. If you get them let us know how they work out.
ReplyDeleteThe only boots we've used recently were the Soft-Ride boots for some of our horses with sole issues. They are okay for turnout although Dusty did manage to step out of hers in the paddock. It only took me about 20 minutes to locate both of them. Grady also comes in at night with his turned slightly around. We like them for injuries because the also have different inserts for specific problems. I wouldn't recommend them for riding even though the site says you can. That's all the info I can offer. Sorry.
I used the Easy Boot Epics for Keil Bay (front only) for awhile when he first went barefoot. They were intimidating initially but once you get the hang of getting them on, it's not that hard. The hardware, imo, is what makes them work so well - but it does look bizarre!
ReplyDeleteAfter the initial period of using them, his hooves began to spread out, which was what we wanted with his contracted heels, and they no longer fit, so I sold them. If I ever needed boots again I would get the Easy Boot Gloves - they are reportedly amazing - but I have also heard VERY good things about Renegades from people who do endurance riding and also from experienced trimmers, so I'd have to look at sizing to see what would best work with the hooves I was fitting.
I think that's the most important thing - the fit needs to be really good for the boots to work well.
I've had really good luck with the Easy Boot Epics as well. My Barefoot trimmer suggested them when we pulled Pia's shoes. P ended up not being foot sore ever, but I still pop them on for trail rides and stuff off property. They don't rub her at ALL and haven't gotten sucked off in all of our Seattle mud. Apparently they fit most horses.. but they're also the only one's I've tried in the last 10 years. :)
ReplyDeleteThanks for the advice! I'll let you all know how the Cavallos work out. They seem to be concerned with fit and promoting bare feet so I'll give them a go... review to com later :)
ReplyDelete