Most of us wouldn’t go for a jog without wearing running shoes that offer ample support and protection for our feet and ankles. Similarly, horses also need protection for their legs when engaging in physical activities. Protective leg gear is an essential tool for horse owners and riders, designed to safeguard the well-being of these animals. Learn why your horse needs protective leg gear, the types of gear available, and how to choose the right one for your horse.
Reasons Horses Need Protective Leg Gear
Horseback riding is a rigorous activity, and horses’ legs are highly stressed during training and competitions. This repeated strain can lead to swelling and inflammation, resulting in discomfort and potential long-term injuries if left untreated. Putting the right gear on your horse’s legs can alleviate these issues and offer numerous benefits, including:
Prevents Post-Training Swelling
Compression is vital in maintaining the health of a horse’s legs. It helps to reduce the buildup of fluids that can cause swelling and pain. When the leg gear compresses the tissues, it enhances circulation. Moreover, providing adequate support ensures that the legs recover quickly, preventing any long-term damage or discomfort.
Reduces the Risk of Injury
Using leg gear, horse owners can mitigate the chances of their horses sustaining injuries during training or competitions. The protective layers in this gear act as a barrier against impact from objects and obstacles such as jumps, poles, or uneven terrain. Leg gear cushions the blow and distributes pressure evenly across the leg, minimizing potential damage.
Additionally, some leg gear comes with strategically placed padding to further protect sensitive muscles and bones.
Reduces Strain on Tendons
Supportive leg gear also protects against unnecessary strain on the muscles and tendons. The gear stabilizes the leg joints, reducing the likelihood of sprains or strains that could sideline a horse. This preventative measure ensures the horse remains healthy and active, ready for future training and competitions.
Keeps Riding Enjoyable
Another reason your horse needs protective leg gear is to make riding enjoyable for both the horse and rider. Leg injuries can significantly impact a horse’s ability to ride comfortably. A horse’s leg pain or discomfort can lead to a less enjoyable riding experience for both the animal and the rider.
Types of Protective Leg Gear for Horses
Protective leg gear is essential for the well-being of horses, particularly those involved in rigorous activities such as riding, jumping, racing, or work tasks. This gear helps safeguard the horse’s legs from injuries, supports their joints, and enhances overall performance. Some of the common types of protective leg gear for horses include:
- Bell boots
- Splint boots
- Fetlock boots
- Skid boots
- Tendon boots
- Sports medicine boots
- Shipping boots
Below we’ve further detailed these options for the different types of protective leg gear and their purpose.
Bell Boots
Bell boots, also known as overreach boots, protect the horse’s hooves and the bulbs of the heels from injuries caused by overreaching, which can occur when a horse’s hind hoof strikes the front hoof. Riders often equip their horse with bell boots during exercise and sometimes even in the stable.
Splint Boots
Splint boots protect the cannon bone, tendons, and the inside of the leg from trauma and interference injuries. Riders often put these on their horse during lighter activities to prevent the horse from knocking their legs together.
Fetlock Boots
Fetlock boots help protect the back of the pastern and fetlock joint from injuries caused by interference or overreaching. They are commonly used in disciplines that involve high-speed movements and tight turns, such as barrel racing.
Skid Boots
Skid boots, also known as sliding boots, are typically used for roping and reining activities. The design of these boots focuses on protecting the heel bulbs and fetlock from abrasions or burns caused by sliding stops or turns during these high-intensity sports.
Tendon Boots
Tendon boots protect the tendons and ligaments on the back of the horse’s legs, particularly in the front legs. These boots often have a hard shell that provides substantial protection against strikes and supports the tendons during strenuous activities.
Sports Medicine Boots
Sports medicine boots provide comprehensive protection for a horse’s legs, including the tendons, ligaments, and joint support. They offer a combination of impact protection and compression therapy to help prevent potential injuries during intense activities. Putting this boot on your horse reduces the risk of muscle strain without compromising mobility or speed.
Shipping Boots
Shipping boots are also referred to as “transport boots” and they help protect the horse’s legs during transportation. You should put shipping boots on your horse when trailering to and from events or between stables.
Knee Boots
Knee boots cover a larger area of the horse’s leg, providing additional protection to the knee and surrounding areas. Riders often put this type of boot on their horse before high-impact activities or when dealing with a preexisting injury in the knee area.
Wraps
Putting wraps on your horse’s legs can also help provide support and protection, especially during exercise or recovery. There are various types of wraps available, each serving a specific purpose, such as standing wraps for overnight support or polo wraps for light exercise. Wraps can also help reduce swelling your horse may experience after training or a competition.
Tips for Buying Protective Leg Gear
When purchasing protective leg gear for your horse, ensure that you consider the following:
Evaluate Sizing
For optimal protection, you must buy the correct size of protective leg gear for your horse. Ill-fitting gear can cause discomfort or even injury due to rubbing or slipping. Always measure your horse’s hoof, leg, and other areas noted in the boot’s product description; refer to the manufacturer’s sizing charts before purchasing.
Check Adjustability
Adjustable straps are essential to ensure a snug fit and prevent slipping or shifting during activities. Check if the gear has adjustable features such as buckles or Velcro closures.
Know the Gear You Need
The protective leg gear for your horse depends on various factors, such as the type of activity. For example, if you need to transport your horse, you should put shipping boots on it. If you do roping activities, skid boots may be best.
Shop for Quality
Investing in quality protective leg gear will ensure it lasts longer and provides adequate protection for your horse’s legs. Look for reputable brands and check online reviews to find the best options.
Coolhorse offers a wide range of high-quality horse leg protection, including boots and wraps. Order the best protective leg gear for your horse and ensure your horse’s safety and comfort during activities.