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What Are The Best Overreach Boots for Horses in 2023?

Updated: June 16, 2023 by Cathy Benson

Best Overreach Boots For Horses in 2023

Overreach Boots, sometimes also called, Bell Boots, are round, bell-shaped boots designed to protect the horse from injuries to the bulbs of the heel on the front feet.

The term ‘overreach’ describes both the action and subsequent injury when the hind foot strikes into the heel of the horse’s front foot. Injuries can vary from a minor graze to a significant strike wound.

An overreach can cause a shoe to be pulled right off, particularly if the horse is wearing bar shoes which intentionally extend around the back of the foot.

Pulling a shoe is annoying and inconvenient and can result in a secondary injury if the horse treads on one of the clenches. Overreach boots offer protection to the horse during ridden work and on occasion, during turnout.

Some horses due to their natural action are prone to overreaching whereas others are not. Jumping and faster work clearly increase the risk of an overreach but some horses can strike into themselves even in walk if they have a very big over track.

Overreach boots are used in a variety of situations including turnout at grass, show jumping and cross-country. They are also used for horses when they are being lunged and some people use them when they travel their horse.

The 10 Top-Rated Over Reach Boots For Horses

These nifty little boots help to protect your horse’s hooves from the back hooves during exercise, turnout, or even just in the field.

But with so many options on the market, it can be overwhelming to choose the right pair. That’s where we come in! In this article, we’ll uncover the best overreach boots for horses, so you can spend less time searching and more time riding.

So let’s get started!

The Best Horse Overreach Boots

1. Rhinegold Velcro Fastening Overreach Boots

Rhinegold Velcro Fastening Overreach Boots

A traditional overreach boot made from 4mm of sturdy rubber, the Rhinegold velcro fastening overreach boot is a great everyday boot.

These boots work well for horses who need to wear them for prolonged periods such as in the stable or in the field and horses who are doing low impact work. They are light and flexible but securely fixed with a double hook and loop closing fitting.

Rhinegold offer these boots in all the standard colours but also have some rather unusual options in their range such as plum and raspberry, ideal for those who really like to work their style with matching kit.

2. Shires ARMA Touch and Close Overreach Boots

If you’re looking for a sturdy and reliable pair of overreach boots, then the Shires ARMA Touch and Close Over-Reach Boots are definitely worth checking out. Designed to deflect scuffs and protect against blows to the hoof area, these boots offer great protection for your horse.

Built to Last

One of the standout features of these boots is their durability. Made from 6mm rubber, they’re built to last and will hold up well under regular use. The rubber-covered touch close fastenings are also a nice touch, giving the boots a sleek and professional appearance.

Protection for All Occasions

These overreach boots are versatile and suitable for a range of activities. Whether you’re taking your horse out for exercise or turning them out in the field, these boots will help keep them safe and protected. They’re also great for horses who tend to overreach or clip their heels, as they offer an extra layer of protection against this kind of injury.

Comfortable and Secure

Not only are these boots durable and protective, they’re also comfortable for your horse to wear. The rubber material is soft and flexible, allowing for a comfortable fit around the hoof. The touch close fastenings ensure a secure and snug fit, so you don’t have to worry about them slipping or coming loose during exercise or turnout.

Overall, the Shires ARMA Touch and Close boots are a great investment for any horse owner looking for reliable and durable overreach boots. With their smart appearance and superior protection, these boots are sure to become a staple in your horse’s wardrobe.

3. LeMieux Fleece Rubber Bell Over Reach Boots

These boots offer less rigid protection than other conventional overreach boots, but their soft fleece collar provides extra cushioning to minimize chaffing and rubbing.

The soft and flexible fit of the LeMieux bell boots is ensured with the double lock velcro closure, which also makes them easy to put on and take off. These boots are made from a premium natural rubber compound with the original Italian formula, making them both durable and long-lasting.

Whether you’re schooling, hacking, or jumping, the LeMieux Rubber Bell Boots with Fleece are a great all-purpose option. Their ribbed non-rubbing shell ensures that they stay securely in place, providing your horse with the protection they need during exercise or turnout.

Overall, the LeMieux rubber overreach boots with fleece are a comfortable and reliable choice for any horse owner looking for a flexible and durable set of overreach boots. Give your horse the protection they need without sacrificing comfort with these high-quality boots from LeMieux.

4. LeMieux Black Carbonite Overreach Horse Boots

With a strong ballistic outer shell and etched carbon finish that mirrors the angle of the pastern and contours the heels, these boots are designed to offer low-level protection during fast work.

The soft lining and collar prevent friction and rubbing, while the inner no-turn knob helps to minimise rotation.

One of the unique features of these boots is the elasticated fillet closure, which allows the boot to be tensioned around the foot for a closer fit that prevents movement.

The double-lock velcro ensures that the boots stay securely in place, even during the most vigorous activity.

Overall, the LeMieux Carbonite Overreach Boots are a great investment for any horse owner who wants to provide their horse with top-quality protection and comfort.

5. Nobleza Neoprene Overreach Horse Boots

These classic style bell boots provide the best protection against overreach injuries, making them perfect for training or trail riding.

Constructed from heavy-duty, shock-absorbing neoprene, these boots are incredibly durable and can withstand the rigours of daily use. Additionally, neoprene is less abrasive than rubber, providing a more comfortable fit for your horse whether they are in the stall, arena or out on the trail.

The simple hook-and-loop fasteners make the installation process easy, allowing for quick and efficient boot application. The extra durable grip ensures that the boots stay secure for the life of the product, providing peace of mind for the rider.

Cleaning these boots is a breeze, as they can be easily sprayed or washed with water and air-dried. This ensures that the boots are always in top condition, ready for your next ride.

Overall, the Nobleza Neoprene Overreach Horse Boots provide superior protection, comfort, durability and ease of use, making them a must-have for any horse owner.

6. LeMieux Soft Shell Overreach Horse Boots

If you’re looking for an everyday overreach boot that is both practical and comfortable, then the LeMieux Soft Shell Overreach Horse Boots are the perfect option. Made from a tough but soft shell fabric, these boots are designed to provide all-round protection from overreaches.

The boots are lined with extra smooth neoprene and feature lycra binding, making them ideal for horses with sensitive skin. They are also available in black, so they will match most other horse gear.

These boots feature a velcro fastening, making them easy to put on and take off. The LeMieux Soft Shell boots are a great option for anyone looking for a reliable and durable everyday overreach boot.

7. Woof Wear Pro Overreach Boots

These pro overreach boots from Woof Wear offer great protection for the bulbs of the heel thanks to its bell boot style design which allows the boot to move freely around the pastern.

Constructed with a tough carbon effect outer shell, these boots are also lined with thick neoprene and added impact foam for superior protection. The soft roll collar ensures that there is no rubbing or chaffing, making them comfortable for your horse to wear.

These boots feature a Velcro closure for a secure fit, and are made with a 7mm neoprene base. Suitable for all aspects of ridden work, including competition use, the Woof Wear Pro Overreach Boots are both stylish and functional. Protect your horse from overreach injuries with these top-of-the-line boots.

8. Rhinegold Fleece Trim Over Reach Boots

These boots provide superior protection for my horse’s heels while also offering exceptional comfort and durability.

The high natural rubber content in these overreach boots is impressive. It provides flexibility, which not only enhances the fit but also reduces the likelihood of rubbing. This feature is essential for horses that might be susceptible to irritations or injuries in this area. The Rhinegold Over Reach Boots have held up incredibly well so far, and I am confident in their long-lasting durability.

One of the standout features of these boots is the fleece trim around the leg. This extra layer of comfort ensures that my horse remains relaxed and content during our rides. The softness of the fleece also prevents any chafing or discomfort that could be caused by the edges of the rubber boots.

The easy Velcro closure makes putting on and taking off these boots a breeze. I no longer have to struggle with complicated buckles or fastenings, which saves me valuable time and effort. The Velcro is secure and stays in place, ensuring that the boots remain firmly on my horse’s legs throughout our sessions.

When it comes to protection, the Rhinegold Fleece Trim Over Reach Boots excel. They effectively safeguard my horse’s heels from being trodden on or injured during rides. This added protection gives me peace of mind, knowing that my horse is less likely to suffer from painful injuries or setbacks in training.

The Rhinegold Fleece Trim Over Reach Boots have exceeded our expectations. They offer superior comfort, protection, and durability while remaining easy to use. I highly recommend these boots to fellow equestrians seeking a reliable and high-quality solution for their horse’s needs. These boots are worth every penny and are an essential addition to any equestrian’s toolkit.

9. Saxon Double Tape Pvc Ribbed Bell Boots

Saxon Double Tape Pvc Ribbed Bell Boots

The Saxon Double Tape PVC Ribbed Bell Boots have quickly become one of my go-to choices for preventing overreach injuries. These traditional PVC bell boots are not only easy to use but also provide reliable protection for everyday use.

The first thing I noticed about these bell boots is their sturdy PVC construction. This material ensures that the boots are durable and able to withstand the wear and tear of daily use. I have been using these Ribbed Bell Boots for quite some time now, and they have held up remarkably well, showing minimal signs of wear.

One of the most significant advantages of these boots is their easy-to-use touch tape closures. The double tape design ensures a secure fit, preventing the boots from slipping or coming off during rides. The touch tape closures make putting on and removing the boots a breeze, saving me valuable time and effort.

The ribbed design of the Saxon boots provides added protection against overreach injuries. The boots effectively shield my horse’s heels and hooves from potential injuries caused by overreaching or striking. This added protection gives me peace of mind, knowing that my horse is less likely to suffer from painful injuries during our rides.

I also appreciate that these bell boots are perfect for everyday use. Their durability and ease of use make them an ideal choice for training sessions, trail rides, or even competitions. The Saxon overreach boots have proven to be a versatile and valuable addition to my horse care arsenal.

In conclusion, the Saxon Double Tape PVC Ribbed Overreach Boots provide dependable protection for my horse at an affordable price. Their durability, ease of use, and effectiveness in preventing overreach injuries make them an excellent choice for horse owners seeking a reliable and cost-effective solution.

10. Woof Wear Faux Sheep Pro Over Reach Boots

Woof Wear Faux Sheep Pro Over Reach Boots

The unique bell boot design of these Woof Wear overreach boots allows them to move freely around the pastern, providing no-rub protection for the bulbs of the heel. This design ensures that my horse remains comfortable and protected throughout our rides, without the boots causing any irritation or discomfort.

One of the standout features of these boots is the luxurious faux sheepskin collar. Not only does it add a touch of elegance to the boots, but it also serves a practical purpose by preventing the ingress of sand and grit. This is especially beneficial for sensitive horses, as it minimizes the risk of abrasion and irritation.

The Woof Wear Faux Sheep Pro Over Reach Boots are suitable for all aspects of ridden work, including competition use. They are both stylish and functional, offering superb protection against overreach injuries. The high-quality materials used in these boots, such as the 7mm neoprene base with an additional 3mm insert to protect the bulbs of the heel, showcase their commitment to durability and protection.

In addition to their impressive design, these boots also feature a hard-wearing carbon-effect outer, double lock strap for security, and recessed stitching for strength and durability. These features ensure that the boots will withstand the rigors of daily use, making them a smart investment for any equestrian.

My horse seems to love the fluffy faux sheepskin next to their skin, making these boots a favorite for both of us. The Woof Wear Pro Overreach Boots have quickly become an essential part of our riding routine, providing exceptional comfort and protection for my horse.

11. HyIMPACT Over Reach Boots

HyIMPACT Over Reach Boots

One of the key features of the HyIMPACT Over Reach Boots is their neoprene lining. This material provides a comfortable and snug fit for my horse, ensuring that the boots stay in place during our rides. The neoprene lining also offers excellent shock absorption, further protecting my horse’s hooves and heels from potential injuries.

The recessed stitching on these boots is another feature that sets them apart from other overreach boots on the market. This design not only enhances their durability but also prevents any irritation or chafing that could occur from exposed stitching. I am confident that these boots will stand the test of time, thanks to their robust construction and attention to detail.

The HyIMPACT Overreach Boots are ideal for schooling and everyday use, thanks to their lightweight and practical design. The touch tape fastenings make them easy to put on and take off, saving me time and effort when preparing my horse for our rides. These boots have quickly become a staple in our riding routine, providing reliable protection without any hassle.

In addition to their practicality, these boots also provide excellent protection from overreach injuries. The durable materials and design ensure that my horse’s hooves and heels are safeguarded against any potential harm. This added protection gives me peace of mind, knowing that my horse is less likely to suffer from painful injuries during our rides.

12. Norton Crazy Colour Overreach Boots

After trying these boots on my horse, I am pleased to report that they not only look great but also provide excellent protection and flexibility.

One of the standout features of the Norton Overreach Boots is their high-quality material. Made of smooth PVC, these boots are durable and easy to clean. The pre-moulded bulb shape ensures that the boots stay in place around the pastern and hoof, preventing them from turning and providing consistent protection for my horse.

The back area of these boots is reinforced with four layers of perforated nitrile memory foam. This unique design allows for breathability and ease of movement, ensuring that my horse remains comfortable during our rides. The foam also provides added cushioning and protection, making these boots an excellent choice for safeguarding against overreach injuries.

The top and bottom of the back area of the Norton overreach boots are made of a single stretchable shell, providing greater flexibility. This feature ensures that the boots move with my horse, reducing the risk of chafing or discomfort while allowing for a full range of motion.

The double-faced double Velcro fastening with flap is another practical feature of these boots. This design ensures a secure fit and makes it easy to put on and remove the boots, saving me time and effort in preparing my horse for our rides.

In addition to their practical features, the Norton over reach boots also come in a variety of vibrant colors. This fun and lively design allows me to add a touch of personality to my horse’s gear and makes these boots a stylish addition to our equestrian wardrobe.

13. Shires Arma Neoprene Over Reach Boots

Shires Arma Neoprene Over Reach Boots

These overreach boots provide excellent protection and comfort while adding a touch of style to our riding gear.

One of the key features of these Shires overreach boots is their neoprene outer shell. This material effectively protects my horse’s hooves against scuffs, blows, and potential injuries while also preventing rubbing around the pastern. The durable neoprene ensures that these boots will withstand the wear and tear of daily use, making them a smart investment for any horse owner.

These overreach boots are designed to sit low over the bulb of the heel, ensuring a secure and comfortable fit. The double touch and close fastening makes it easy to put on and remove the boots, saving me time and effort in preparing my horse for our rides. Additionally, the lightweight design and perfect shaping allow my horse to move freely without any discomfort or restrictions.

What sets the Shires Arma Neoprene Over Reach Boots apart from other options on the market is their stylish design. The brightly colored straps not only add a pop of color to my horse’s gear but also allow me to coordinate our look effortlessly. This fashionable touch makes these boots a fun and practical addition to our equestrian wardrobe.

14. Shires OverReach Boots With Fur Trim

Shires OverReach Boots Fur Trim

Designed for professional use in all disciplines these fur lined overreach boots from Shires provide excellent protection against overreach injuries while ensuring a comfortable fit for your horse.

One of the standout features of these boots is the fur trim. Not only does it add a touch of luxury and style to the boots, but it also serves a practical purpose by ensuring a comfortable fit and preventing rubbing around the pastern. The soft lining of the boots further enhances their comfort, making them an ideal choice for long rides and demanding activities.

The Shires fur trimmed overreach boots are equipped with anti-spin nodules, which help keep the boots correctly aligned during our rides. This feature ensures that the boots remain in place and provide consistent protection for my horse’s hooves.

The rubber outer of these boots is both durable and easy to clean, making them a practical choice for daily use. The double buckles provide greater security, ensuring that the boots stay securely fastened even during intense activities.

In addition to their functional features, these fur-trimmed overreach boots also boast a super smart design. The elegant fur trim and stylish appearance make them a fashionable addition to my horse’s gear, allowing us to look our best during competitions and events.


Things to Consider When Buying Overreach Boots for Horses

There are various triggers for using overreach boots, usually one or more of the following:-

  • The horse’s natural gait and/or style of jumping
  • Competitive sporting disciplines
  • Corrective shoeing
  • General protection for an unpredictable/young horse or an unknown situation

Some horses wear overreach boots all the time, this may be because they are shod with a bar shoe or perhaps because they are just very prone to that type of injury.

Some horses only wear them when the occasion demands, for example, a young horse on the lunge who could exhibit some excitable or unpredictable behaviour or an event horse going cross-country.

The Benefits of Using Overreach Boots

Overreach boots offer protection to the soft bulbs of the heel on the horse’s front feet. However, the general rule of thumb is to only fit equipment that the horse really needs.

Unnecessary equipment on the horse can present its own hazard; it needs to remain securely in place without rubbing or chafing and it should not be able to be partially or wholly dislodged during exercise or turnout as this can prove to be a real danger causing tripping or stumbling.

You should, therefore, only use protective boots or bandages if the horse really needs them and not every horse requires overreach boots.

Types of Overreach Boot

Overreach boots or bell boots all conform to a pretty similar design. They are generally round with the intention that they sit on the coronet band above the hoof, Some are more contoured depending on preference and some a slightly squarer towards the back of the hoof.

Choosing the correct overreach boot is really down to personal preference and trial and error will quickly demonstrate which one works best for your particular horse. Some people prefer the rubber bell boot which is soft and flexible whilst others opt for a shorter, stiffer boot for competition that sits quite small on the horse’s foot.

You have the option of using different types of overreach boot for different occasions. A horse that is mooching around the field at home is probably at far less risk of an overreach than a horse going show jumping or cross-country.

Overreach boots are made from either rubber or neoprene which is stiffer. The shape may vary from manufacturer to manufacturer but the principle is all the same; the boot is there to protect the bulbs of the heel from injury.

Overreach boots may be on the horse for long periods of time and for some horses, they can cause rubbing. Some makes of boot have recessed stitching which not only protects the stitching from fraying but also means it is not in contact with the horse’s skin.

Other styles feature a sheepskin collar to cushion the effect of the neoprene or rubber. Usually, faux sheepskin is used as this is actually easier to keep clean and less likely to go into lumps and clumps when it dries than real sheepskin.

If your horse needs to wear overreach boots a lot then you may keep a couple of cheaper rubber pairs for turnout and winter hacking, easy to clean if they get muddy, just throw them in a bucket. Use smarter neoprene pairs for competition. These would quickly suffer in severe winter weather but could be okay in dry, summer conditions.

Some overreach boots feature a ‘no turn’ device which is a soft knob that sits in the back of the heel. These tend to be the more sculptured or square backed types and the soft knob is there to stop the boot rotating round.

The traditional rubber bell boot is completely circular so it is not so significant if this boot rotates although clearly, you would like to keep the straps at the front and the clear rubber in the heel area for protection and to minimise the chances of the horse pulling the boot off.

Magnetic boots and leg wraps are popular for older, arthritic horses and horses that are recovering from injury. Most magnetic boots are used on joints higher up the horse’s leg – the fetlock or hock for example – or as wraps. Magnetic overreach boots do exist but the jury is still out on whether they actually make a difference to certain conditions and ailments in the horse.

Overreach Boots for Turnout

Horses that are prone to overreaching or who wear bar shoes – eggbars or heartbars – are often turned out in overreach boots. As they could be on the horse for a long time, it is important that the boots don’t rub. Some horses seem more prone to rubs than others.

Most people go for ‘cheap and cheerful’ in the field as they can trashed or even lost in a large enough area or in deep muddy gateways. Use bright colours and then you can see from a distance if they are still in place on the horse.

Rubber bell boots are better in wet and muddy conditions as they are more flexible. Mud can pack in underneath the boot and the stiffer neoprene boots can literally become stuck around the foot. They are also more difficult to clean. Mud acts as a suction so, in deep mud, you will be glad you didn’t shell out for that very expensive pair when you discover you have lost one forever in a treacherous gateway.

Overreach Boots for Cross-Country

Using overreach boots for cross-country always causes heated debate. No-one wants their horse to get injured but overreach boots can be a trip hazard when the horse is galloping so you need a very very good reason to put them on.

Some event riders use them but trim the boot down so it is a shortened version; it is easier to try and do this with rubber rather than neoprene although Woof Wear sell a Kevlar overreach boot which is designed to be trimmed to create a customised fit.

Rubber overreach boots are lighter and more flexible for cross-country and don’t suffer the effects of mud or water nearly as much as neoprene. These are therefore the most popular type of boot for this discipline.

As with anything attached to the horse when it is travelling at speed, you must be certain that what you put on the horse’s leg will remain securely in place. Perhaps keep a pair of boots just for competition to ensure the Velcro retains its integrity and remains very sticky.

Overreach Boots for Show Jumping

There are generally fewer safety concerns with overreach boots for show jumping compared to cross-country as, for a start, they are on the horse for much less time – maybe one minute as opposed to five or six minutes or longer. And the horse is not travelling at such a great speed.

Most show jumpers prefer a neat overreach boot that does the job but is not too bulky or loose which could interfere with the horse’s jump.

Overreach Boots FAQ

How do you measure for overreach boots to get the right size?

Quite unhelpfully, most overreach boots are sold in small, medium and large sizes but a big horse may not necessarily have correspondingly large feet. Most manufacturers offer a size guide on their websites but this often relates simply to the height of the horse and will not be sufficiently bespoke to the size and shape of an individual horse’s feet.

The size of the boot is as relevant as the design so look carefully at your horse’s hooves in terms of their size and shape. There is no substitute for actually taking an existing overreach boot into the saddlery and comparing it with new stock to get the right fit.

How do you fit overreach boots?

Overreach boots should be a snug fit; a boot that moves too much will actually rub around the pastern area and could create sores. The boot should cover the bulbs of the heel but should crucially also have 1cm of clearance when the horse is in halt on a hard, flat surface.

If you watch the horse walk, you can see that at a point within the step, the overreach boot will momentarily lower protecting the bulbs of the heel without reaching the ground. If the boot sits too low then the horse could tread on it when he moves and this creates the potential for stumbling or tripping and a far worse injury than an overreach.

Boots which are too large will almost certainly rub. The straps of the boot should be done up sufficiently so that you can only just fit your index finger between the collar of the boot and the horse’s pastern.

Boots which are too big will never fit properly even when tightly secured. If the boot has an anti-spin device, then this should be located snugly between the bulbs of the heel.

Are overreach boots allowed in dressage?

No leg protection is allowed in either affiliated or unaffiliated dressage competitions. However, boots and bandages including overreach boots may be worn in the warm-up area. If they remain on the horse whilst in the dressage arena this unfortunately usually means elimination so don’t forget to take them all off!

How to stop overreach boots from rubbing?

If the overreach boots on your horse are rubbing, then you should first check the sizing; if they are too large, then they will invariably rub around the pastern area. If the boots are the correct size, consider investing in a pair with a sheepskin collar at the top which protects the area of contact with the horse’s skin.

Our Top Pick for the Best Horse Overreach Boots

Our top pick overreach boot is the Woof Wear Pro overreach boot. Woof Wear have really prioritised design to create a truly functional and practical boot but without any compromise on style.

Comfort has been carefully considered to avoid rubbing with recessed stitching and a soft collar yet this boot couldn’t be tougher on the outside with a carbon effect outer shell.

This is a great value buy from this trusted name in the equestrian field, a boot for all seasons and all occasions and definitely smart enough for competition.

A pair of overreach boots is an essential item in your tack room. Even if your horse doesn’t wear them now there may be future occasions when you need to grab a pair so pop some in your tack box ready for when you need them.

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Last update on 2024-11-03 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API