Thinking of exchanging your horse’s shoes for boots? In this article we’ll explain how to go barefoot and find the best hoof boot for your horse.
[ninja_tables id=”26760″]Barefoot is the term used to describe a pony or horse who is able to move and perform well, without the need for permanent protection on their hoof from shoes.
Can all horses go barefoot?
Barefoot management requires that hooves are kept in prime condition, and some horses will be harder to maintain in a barefoot regime than others, depending on their background. Transitioning horses with less than ideal hooves may be a job that requires time, patience and a little investment, at least in the beginning. and in all cases, the management of a barefoot horse may not suit the owner’s requirements for practices that are predominantly chosen for convenience – for example, stabling him.
Some professionals cite that some horses are unable to go barefoot due to genetics, structural or conformational problems and that it is fairer to the horse to remain shod. The vast majority of hoof care professionals will say that there are very few horses who do not have the potential to lead sound working lives without metal shoes on, but that some will be harder to and take longer than others to transition. There may be some who will always need another form of hoof protection when working – for example, hoof boots – in order for them to remain comfortable.
Considering the options
When considering whether or not your horse could become barefoot, it is best to get the opinion of at least one professional. There is no harm in asking hoof care professionals from different affiliations either, as every horse in as individual, and both horse and owner need to be comfortable with whatever path is chosen to maintain the horse’s hooves. Looking after a barefoot horse is no more difficult than a shod horse for most owners once they have a new routine established, but owners should consider their situation before deciding if barefoot is the best option for them.
Many barefoot horses are kept in less than optimum conditions, yet still display the soundness and vigour of horses who are kept closer to the ‘ideal. One thing to consider if you can’t decide if your horse should be barefoot, is to remember that the option of shoeing will always be there!
You will find, however, that the vast majority of people who go down the barefoot route with their horses are heard to say that they would never shoe again and wish they had done it years ago!
1. Cavallo Simple Hoof Boot for Horses
The Cavallo brand are pretty much the “go to” name when it comes to hoof boots as quite simply, they produced the best performing and most high quality boot on the market. But it comes at a price.
The Simple Hoof Boot from Cavallo can usually be found around the £200 mark for the pair – yes that will most likely be at the top end or way above your budget. But let’s look at how and why they could still be the best option for you and your horse.
Available in sizes 0 through 6, these all-terrain boots offer advanced hoof protection – perfect for every day wear but absolutely essential if you’re trying to rehab an injury or dealing with an abscess, founder, bruising or a myriad of other hoof related injuries and disease.
Cavallo’s Simple Hoof Boot is constructed from genuine leather which provides increased comfort and flexibility. It’s ergonomic design also features a recessed outsole – perfect for minimising pressure on the hoof wall.
When it comes to providing comfort for hoof sensitivity, injury or chronic pain, the Cavallo Simple boot is the best choice. Perfectly suited for “rehabbing” those troublesome hoof injuries, this multi-purpose boot is an excellent addition to any tack room. Perfect for keeping around just on the off chance too – if your horse likes to throw shoes as often as mine – the Simple boot is a great spare to keep on hand.
2. PFIFF Hoof Boot
This popular horse boot from PFIFF is a close rival to the HKM boot on our list. There’s very little between the two hoof boots on paper.
In terms of pricing this hoof boot from PFIFF is usually sold individually, so please bear that in mind when you are comparing based on price alone.
With a shock absorbing and non-slip rubber sole, this anatomically shaped hoof boot will provide protection and extra comfort to the hoof wall, both on the road and off it.
For extra security and to provide a better fit the boot features a double velcro fastening and is available in 10 sizing options, suitable for both front and rear hoofs.
We’d recommend these hoof boots for horses that are barefoot and just need that added bit of protection when out on the road. In terms of rehab and injury prevention they are also worthy of consideration.
Through our tests we had no issues with slipping or movement of the boot, but making sure you get a correct fitting and the correct size boot is paramount. We tested through all paces in dry, wet and muddy conditions.
3. Woof Wear Medical Hoof Boot
The medical hoof boot from Woof Wear is a little different to some of the other hoof boots on our list. Whilst a lot of the best hoof boots for horses are dual purpose in nature – this boot from the experts at Woof Wear was provided with the sole aim of rehab and to help in the treatment of laminitis, abscesses and other hoof related disease and damage.
Designed with stable use in mind, the medical hoof boot is not particularly suitable for turnout and nor should it be used that way. It’s application is best described as a waterproof and protected shield to help keep poultice and dressings clean.
Marketed as a cost effective replacement for bandages and tape, the medical hoof boot from Woof Wear is the best hoof for treating abscesses currently available. Made from light and flexible materials, the boot will keep your horse’s hoof safe, dry and protected and save you having to fork out for excessive amounts of bandages and tape when dealing with ongoing hoof related lameness.
For anyone who’s treated abscesses in the hoof wall, you’ll know just by seeing the photos how useful this boot would be. It’s available in a choice of 10 sizes and is designed to be used with or without a shoe. The boot does have a snug fit and its unique zip design works brilliantly to prevent any bits of stable debris from getting in!
When it comes to treating abscesses and applying poultice with any type of regularity, then this hoof boot could be a real life saver. From personal experience I found it is best to have two of the boots in rotation. Especially if you’re using them out in the field, you’ll always have a clean one in reserve ready to go. These boots are sold individually.
4. HKM Hoof Boot
These hoof boots from HKM are available in sizes 0 to 10 and are a great option if you’re trying to make the transition to barefoot. With a plastic sole and tear-resistant nylon upper, these hoof boots provide good shock absorption paired with durability and comfort thanks to their soft padding around the crown edge of the boot.
Having used these boots myself I found them very easy to put on and take off and they performed very well for road work. It is worth mentioning that these boots are usually sold individually, so whilst the price might grab your attention you will in some cases need to buy two quantity for the pair.
Compared to the Cavallo all-round hoof boots, the HKM hoof boot is a much cheaper option, but there’s a reason for that. If you want a boot that will last the long term and is a solid all-rounder for work and rehab we wouldn’t necessarily recommend the HKM hoof boot.
But, if you’re looking for the best hoof boot for turnout and to help make the transition away from shoeing and don’t necessarily need it for rehab purposes then the HKM boot is a great and affordable choice. Just remember to order two!
5. Cavallo Entry Level Hoof Boot
The Cavallo Entry Level boot is our to pick for making the transition to barefoot with your horse. Designed purposefully for those nervous riders looking to become barefoot and booted, this Entry Level hoof boot from Cavallo is the perfect solution.
With everyday use in mind, the boot is also design for therapeutic and rehab purposes, and is a must have spare for any rider to have on hand. The easy fasten strap can be done effortlessly by hand, and the replaceable velcro closure extends the working life of the boot should the velcro fatigue over time.
Available in regular and slim sole styles, both variations feature unique side drainage slots which quickly helps to drain mud, water and other debris easily away from the boot preventing any build up or clogging when in use.
If you’re looking for a little extra protection for your shod horse, or are currently dealing with an abscess and need to de-shoe a foot, then this Cavallo hoof boot should be top of your consideration. We found the boot to be an excellent lightweight, sturdy and high quality hoof boot.
How long can you leave hoof boots on?
What are hoof boots used for?
Which hoof boots are best?
How do you clean Cavallo hoof boots?
Last update on 2024-12-04 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
