Splint Boots and Leg Boots
Gaiters protect a horse's legs from impacts and strain and help stabilize tendons and ligaments during training. They are available in various styles for different equestrian disciplines.
Splint boots, sport boots and leg boots
Boots protect the cannon bone and flexor tendon from what comes from outside. Which type you need depends on what your horse does. 17 items from 5 to 285 euro.
Sports medicine boots
Sports medicine boots wrap cannon bone, flexor tendon and fetlock joint in one piece. They are supple, come closest to a bandage and are the most common type in western sport. From Professional's Choice the SMB 2 at 119 euro and the 2X Cool as a pair at 165 euro or as a value pack covering all four legs at 285 euro. From Classic Equine the Legacy2 leg boots at 115 euro and the Flexion at 129 euro.
Splint boots
Short boots covering the cannon bone only. They protect against brushing – when the horse strikes the inside of one leg with the opposite hoof. Lighter, cooler and cheaper than sports medicine boots: Classic Equine splint boots 49 euro.
Skid boots
For the sliding stop. They sit over the hind fetlocks and stop the horse abrading them on the ground. Classic Equine skid boots 84 euro, in leather 189 euro, Professional's Choice VenTech skid boots 165 euro.
Knee boots
Knee protection for lungeing, loading and travel: Classic Equine knee guard 29 euro, knee boot 45 and 46 euro, Professional's Choice knee boots 129 euro.
Bandages and accessories
Classic Equine bandages as a set of four at 38 euro, bandage liners at 25 euro and CoFlex vet wrap from 5 euro for self-adhesive wrapping. The Professional's Choice tail wrap at 47 euro protects the tail.
Fitting them properly
Close from top to bottom, tight enough that the boot cannot rotate, loose enough that a finger fits underneath. Always on clean, dry legs. Take them off after work – heat builds up under every boot.
Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between sports medicine boots and splint boots?
Sports medicine boots also enclose the fetlock joint; splint boots cover the cannon bone only. Splint boots are lighter and cooler, sports medicine boots cover more.
How tight should boots be?
Tight enough not to slip, loose enough for a finger underneath.
Do I need boots front and back?
In front they protect against brushing; behind, skid boots matter when stopping. What you need depends on the work.
How do you clean boots?
Rinse with water, dry in the air, and clear hair out of the closures.