If you are new to hoof boots and are visiting the EasyCare website for the first time, you might be a little dazed by all the amazing information there. You might also be a little confused as to which boot would be best for your horse and the type of riding you do. You have heard and seen that hoof boots are a great way to protect your horse’s hooves, as well as provide traction and comfort, but how do you choose the right one?
Fit is Everything
We believe the biggest determining factor in hoof boot success is fit. How will you know if a boot will fit?
1. Use the EasyCare measuring and sizing instructions to determine boot size. Always measure right after a fresh trim.
Do your measurements fall within the width and length ranges for the same size on one of our size charts? If so, your chances for a snug fit are good.
If your measurements do not correspond (foot is wider than long, length and width fit into different sizes), check out some different styles. Many of our hoof boots have different size charts because they are shaped a little differently. Your horse’s hoof shape may work much better in some of our styles than others.
2. Before a boot is tightened, the boot should already be pretty snug. You should not be able to turn or twist the boot.
If using the Easyboot Glove Soft, there should be no gaps around the sides of the boot and your horse’s hoof wall should slightly stretch the V in the front of the boot.
3. After tightening, the boot should be a close fit around the hoof wall. Hoof boots should not have large gaps or voids between the hoof wall and the boot.
If your horse does not fit well into the current lineup of EasyCare hoof boots, have a hoof care professional trim your horse’s feet and follow their recommendations for care. Many hooves improve and change under regular trimming performed by a good hoof care professional.
As always, please call EasyCare customer service at 1-800-447-8836 with any sizing or fitting questions.
By Shari Murray, originally posted October 15, 2010.
