I'm currently running my 16 year old gelding in front shoes only. I'm wondering if anyone out there has ever competed using hoof boots instead of shoes? I have limited experience using them for trail riding, but I'm curious as to whether or not they can be used to run barrels. My horse wouldn't need to have shoes on for general riding, so it would save me a lot in farrier costs to use hoof boots over paying to have him shod every 8 weeks.
Posted 2015-10-19 10:38 AM Subject: RE: Hoof boots
Elite Veteran
Posts: 889
I do not think they are recommended for barrel racing. My fear would be that they wouldn't fit tight enough to stay in place therefore causing a trip or stumble. I know a lot of people who run there horses barefoot, then put on hoof boots for the parking lot, turn out, trail riding, etc...That may work for you? I know farrier work is expensive, but it's really important to how your horse performs and I'd think you'd regret cutting corners there.
Posted 2015-10-19 11:39 AM Subject: RE: Hoof boots
Red Bull Agressive
Posts: 5981 Location: North Dakota
Hoof boots are NOT recommended for any arena riding beyond a trot, maybe a little canter. They are not stable enough and are extremely prone to getting dirt in them, causing a lot of irritation. I would recommend either running barefoot or keeping with the shoes. My horse has sensitive front feet and is a thousand times happier in with front shoes than he was barefoot.
Posted 2015-10-19 11:59 AM Subject: RE: Hoof boots
The Advice Guru
Posts: 6419
If your horse has been shod. Their feet are going to be sensitive for anywhere from a few months to a year. Their foot has to grow out, and become a normal functioning hoof.
When barefoot you have to be much more diligent with the transition, trimming every 4 weeks to stimulate healthy foot development and prevent breakage.
You can also use iodine to toughen up the soles and this will help them from being tender footed. Iodine however is not a one time application, it needs to be absorbed into the foot for max results. I vet wrap mine with a soaked iodine pad at night.
I use hoof boots while riding during the transition or in the mountains, etc. I won't do barrel work in them.
During the transition period, I will pick and choose my arenas the ones that are sandy, no rocks, no hard lumps, these are the arenas I go to. I will use my soft rides to get to the arena then pull them off warm up and compete then put them back on to walk back to the trailer.
If the horse gets really ouchy I will apply magic cushion as this draws the inflammation out of the foot, not exactly sure of the mechanism, but have seen it work wonders on a few of my horses
Hoof boots
