Hoof boots are used to protect horses feet. There are different types of boots used for various reasons. Some are designed to be used as a replacement for shoes while others are used in conjunction with shoes to provide protection from the hind feet, which can overreach or clip the front feet during riding or turnout. We will look at both styles and give our recommendation for both open and full horseshoe replacement boots.
Top Three Shoe Replacement Boots
Shoe replacement boots cover the top and bottom of the horse’s foot. These types of boots protect the horse’s foot while still allowing him to perform. They can also be easily put-on and taken-off.
Cavallo, The Sport Slim Sole Hoof Boot
The sport slim sole hoof boot is made for a narrower hoof and lighter riding. Leather at the heel inside and out conforms comfortably to your horse’s bulbs. Sport boots are great for comfort for chronic pain and hoof sensitivity, rehabilitation from injuries, abscesses, navicular disease, laminitis/founder, punctures, sole bruising and contracted heels. Sport boots can be used for protection during trailering and breeding or taken on the trail as a “spare tire” for lost shoes. (Click here to check the current price on Amazon Cavallo Sport Slim Sole Hoof Boots)
EasyCare Easyboot Cloud Hoof Boot
EasyCare Easyboot Cloud Hoof Boot This shoe is a therapeutic hoof boot system designed to give comfort and support to horses with a foot or leg ailments. Air vents provide circulation to keep the hoof cool while preventing the accumulation of dirt and debris. Supportive tread reduces loading of the hoof wall spreading the weight across the entire solar area. (Click the link to check the current price on Amazon EasyCare Easyboot Cloud Hoof Boot 1).
Cavallo ELB Regular Sole Hoof Boot
Cavallo ELB Regular Sole Hoof Boot – This is Cavallo’s Entry Level Boot. This boot is affordable but still offers the protection needed. This boot is designed for horses that are used to not wearing shoes and may need additional protection in limited circumstances either for rehab or therapy. It made of strong nylon, with drainage slots to allow air and water to enter and exit. Velcro binding makes it easy to secure. (Click here to check the current price on Amazon Cavallo Horse & Rider ELB Sole Hoof Boot,)
Our Choice for Shoe Replacement is either Cavallo Brand boot.
You can’t go wrong with any of these boots. However, Cavallo is a good quality brand boot that holds up well over time. They provide support for a horse having health issues without hindering their ability to still have fun. FYI, Houston Mounted Police use Cavallo boots on their horses.
Top Three Open Bell boots
Open bell boots are designed so they can be worn with shoes. They protect your horse from overreaching and causing harm to his front legs or feet.
Perri’s Double Velcro Fleece Bell Boots
Perri’s double velcro boots offer an easy to use velcro fastener that provides durability and reliability. The boot stays in place well and is a durable option when shopping for bell boots. (Click here to check the current price on Amazon Perri’s Double Velcro Fleece Bell Boots, )
Professionals Choice Equine Ballistic Hoof Overreach Bell Boot
Professionals Choice overreach bell boots are made from ballistic nylon with the reinforced bottom edge and a no-turn knob that keeps the boot in place with good velcro fastener. These boots run small, order a larger size than normal for your horse. (Click here to check the current price on Amazon Professionals Choice Equine Ballistic Hoof Overreach Bell Boot, Pair (Large, Black)
Centaur PVC Ribbed Double Hook and Loop Bell Boots
Centaur ribbed double hook bell boots have a ribbed pattern on the sides helps deflect hoof strikes, designed for light work or simple turnouts. (Check here for prices from Amazon Centaur PVC Ribbed Double Hook and Loop Bell Boots).
Our Choice is Professional Choice Equine Ballistic Hoof Overreach Bell Boots.
Professional Choice Equine Ballistic Hoof Overreach Bell Boot. For the price point, you can’t beat this product. These boots are made of nylon with a Velcro binding strap. The strap works well to keep the boot in place even during tough exercise. The boots come in a variety of colors.
Centaur, boots are a lightweight boot that has a tendency to wear quickly. For approximately ten dollars more you can have a set of bell boots that will last much much longer.
Double Velcro Fleece Bell Boots are a nice boot, but over time they will wear out quicker than Professionals Choice boots.
If you do decide to buy Professional Choice boots remember to order a larger size than you would normally order. They are sized small. If your horse normally wears a medium order him a large. The boots come in a variety of colors and Velcro binding holds them securely n place. Remember these boots are made from nylon and we have found them more durable than their rubber counterparts.