Horse Protective Equipment

The right horse boots and protective gear help reduce the risk of rubbing, impact, and unnecessary strain during movement or transport. You can choose from stable and therapeutic boots for recovery and comfort, bandages for additional support, matching boot sets, and transport boots for safer travel. The category also includes front and hind boots, bell boots, tail guards, belly protection, and products from the Incrediwear Equine range. This wide selection makes it easier to choose the right protection according to discipline, training intensity, and the horse’s individual needs.

When should horse boots be used?
Horse boots are commonly used during ridden work, lunging, turnout, transport, or recovery depending on the specific type. Their main purpose is to help protect the horse’s legs from impact, rubbing, and unnecessary strain. Not every horse needs the same kind of protection, so it is important to consider discipline, workload, and the horse’s individual way of moving. When used correctly, boots can improve both comfort and safety while helping prevent small injuries that may happen during daily training or travel.

What is the difference between front and hind boots?
Front and hind boots are designed to match the anatomy of each leg and the different types of strain they experience. Front legs usually carry more weight and absorb more impact, while hind legs play a stronger role in propulsion and impulsion. Because of this, the shape, size, and protective zones may differ. Using the correct type on the correct leg is important for both comfort and effectiveness. Well-fitting boots protect sensitive areas without limiting the horse’s natural movement.

What are transport boots used for?
Transport boots are designed to protect a horse’s legs during loading, unloading, and travel in a trailer or lorry. During transport, a horse may step on itself, lose balance, or rub against surfaces, so proper leg protection can be very useful. Transport boots usually cover a larger area of the leg and are made to help absorb impact and reduce the risk of superficial injuries. They should fit well, stay in place, and ideally the horse should be familiar with wearing them before the journey. Comfort in travel matters just as much as protection.

Are bandages and boots the same thing?
No, bandages and boots are not the same, even though both are used for leg protection or support. Bandages are wrapped around the leg and are often used with pads, which means correct application requires more experience. Boots are ready-made protective items that are usually quicker and easier to put on and fasten. The choice depends on the purpose, the type of work, and rider preference. Some riders prefer boots for practical everyday use, while others choose bandages for specific routines or care needs. In both cases, correct use is essential.

What are bell boots used for?
Bell boots are mainly used to protect the heels, coronet area, and back of the hoof from being struck by another hoof. They are often used for horses that interfere, during jumping, more intensive training, or turnout when there is a higher risk of contact between the legs. They are popular because they can help prevent small but unpleasant injuries in a sensitive part of the hoof area. It is important to choose the correct size and shape so they stay in place without causing rubbing or restricting movement during longer use.