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How to pick the right size hoof boots for your horse?
Picking the perfect fitting hoof boots for your horse is crucial to ensure comfort and prevent rubbing or sores. Here are some tips for measuring your horse's hooves and selecting the right size:
Materials Needed
- Measuring tape
- Hoof pick
- Writing utensil
- Paper
Measuring the Hooves
First, pick out and clean your horse's hooves with a hoof pick. Remove all debris and stones. Then, wrap the measuring tape around the widest part of the hoof from the heel bulbs to the toe area. Record this length and width measurement for each hoof.
Next, measure the length from the toe to the hairline above the coronary band. Note this coronet measurement. Repeat for every hoof, as hooves can differ in size.
Choosing the Right Size
Consult the sizing chart provided by the hoof boot manufacturer. Compare your measurements to their recommendations. An ideal fit means:
- The boot length is 1/4 inch longer than the hoof length
- The boot width matches the widest part of the hoof
- The boot height ends 1/2 inch below the coronet
Remember that hooves change shape through the year. It’s best to re-measure and check the fit every 2-3 months.
With accurate hoof measurements and the manufacturer's sizing guide, you can select well-fitting hoof boots to protect your horse's feet on all your rides.
How to put on hoof boots correctly?
Putting hoof boots on your horse properly ensures a secure fit and prevents rubbing, chafing, or pressure points on your horse's hooves and legs. Follow these steps:
Materials Needed
- Hoof pick
- Hoof boot
- Hoof dressing or lubricant
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Steps
- Pick out the hoof and make sure it's clean and dry first.
- Apply hoof dressing or a small amount of lubricant on the sole and frog area to allow the boot to slide on more easily.
- Orient the open side of the boot facing the rear of the hoof.
- Gently slide the hoof into the boot until it touches the toe end.
- Make sure the heel bulbs are seated properly inside.
- Tighten the boot straps evenly on both sides.
- Check that the boot fits snugly but not too tight.
- You should be able to fit a finger behind the straps.
- Walk the horse a few steps and check the boot does not slide or rub.
Tips
- Start slowly and let your horse get used to the new feeling.
- Make sure to pick the right boot size for your horse.
- Check straps and re-tighten periodically on the trail as needed.
With a little practice, you'll be able to slide those hoof boots perfectly on your horse. Proper fit means happy hooves on every ride!
How to care for hoof boots?
Taking good care of your horse's hoof boots ensures they last long and provide maximum hoof protection and traction. Follow these tips:
After Each Use
- Remove debris - Clean out dirt, rocks, and mud.
- Check for damage - Look for cracks, tears, or worn tread.
- Wash with water - Use a wet cloth or hose to remove caked mud.
- Dry completely - Air dry thoroughly before storing.
Regular Maintenance
- Condition straps - Treat leather or rubber straps with conditioner.
- Check hardware - Make sure buckles, cables, and clasps are working well.
- Replace worn parts - Replace any damaged straps, gaiters, or worn out soles.
Long Term Storage
- Clean thoroughly - Remove all dirt and debris before storing.
- Dry completely - Ensure boots are 100% dry.
- Store properly - Keep in a cool, dry place out of direct sunlight.
- Stuff with newspaper - Stuff boots with paper to retain shape.
With regular cleaning, inspection and replacement of worn parts, you'll get the maximum life and performance out of your horse's hoof boots.
Proper care protects your investment and keeps your horse's hooves comfortable on every ride!
How to Make Hoof Boots Last Longer?
Hoof boots are a significant investment for your horse's foot protection and traction. Follow these tips to increase the lifespan of your hoof boots:
Use Correctly
- Ensure proper fit - Boots too loose or too tight wear faster.
- Check straps often - Adjust to prevent rubbing and damage.
- Limit hard surfaces - Minimize concrete or asphalt to reduce wear.
Clean and Inspect
- Rinse and remove debris after each use.
- Inspect for cracks and damage.
- Replace worn parts immediately.
Store Properly
- Clean and dry thoroughly before storage.
- Keep out of direct sunlight and extreme temperatures.
- Stuff with newspaper to retain shape.
- Store in breathable bag, not airtight container.
Maintain Components
- Condition leather straps to prevent cracking.
- Lubricate metal buckles and clasps.
- Check cable wear and replace if frayed.
Rotate between multiple hoof boot sets to evenly distribute wear. With proper care and maintenance, you can get several riding seasons out of a high-quality pair of hoof boots.
Your horse's comfort and safety is worth the effort to make hoof boots last!
How to Transition from Metal Horseshoes to Hoof Boots?
Switching your horse from traditional metal shoes to hoof boots takes some preparation and an adjustment period. Here are some tips to help make the transition smoothly:
Prepare the Hooves
- Have shoes removed by a professional farrier 2-3 weeks before using boots.
- Trim and balance the hooves so they are properly shaped for boots.
- Rasp the walls where shoes left nail holes to create a smooth surface.
Build Sole Callus
- Gradually increase turnout time on soft ground to toughen bare soles.
- Apply a hoof hardener product if needed.
- Avoid rocks and hard ground until soles adjust.
Fit the Boots
- Accurately measure hooves and size boots according to manufacturer’s guidelines.
- Ensure heel bulbs are clear and no pressure points on heels or coronary band.
- Boots may need to be left loose and adjusted as hooves expand and shape changes.
Break-In the Boots
- Start with short, easy rides on soft terrain, and increase distance gradually as horse adjusts.
- Check for rubbing and refit boots as needed.
- Make sure to keep boots on for several hours after each ride at first.
The transition period varies, but within a few weeks to months most horses move comfortably in their new hoof boots. Be patient and let your horse's hooves adapt at their own pace.
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What is the use of Amazon Prime for a regular buyer of the Tough 1 hoof boot?
For horse owners who regularly purchase the Tough 1 Hoof Saver hoof boot, an Amazon Prime membership can provide several useful benefits:
Free Two-Day Shipping
With Amazon Prime's free two-day shipping on eligible items, you can get new hoof boots delivered quickly when needed. This comes in handy if your existing boots get damaged or worn out unexpectedly before a ride or competition.
Free Returns
Amazon Prime offers free returns on eligible items within 30 days of delivery. This makes it easy to order several sizes of hoof boots to find just the right fit for your horse's hooves. You can return ones that don't fit properly at no extra cost.
Prime Discount
Current pricing for Tough 1 hoof boots is $39.95 per pair. With the Amazon Prime member discount, the price is discounted 20% off to $31.96. For regular buyers, these savings add up over time.
Amazon Coupons
Amazon Prime members get access to extra coupon savings and deals. Additional discounts on Tough 1 hoof boots may be available, making the price even more affordable.
Overall, an Amazon Prime membership can provide faster shipping, free returns, discounts and other benefits for regular buyers of the Tough 1 Hoof Saver hoof boots. Less waiting and more savings means you always have the right hoof protection ready for your horse's hooves.
