Renegade Hoof Boots
For a long while I “resisted” getting hoof boots for my horse, they seemed hugely expensive. Eventually I caved and bought a pair of renegades from Hoof Bootique who is the most helpful person I have ever come across and helped me find exactly what I needed.
I just wished I’d bought them sooner, I’d not realised the versatility they offer and indeed the advantages I wouldn’t be without them now. I don’t use them all the time but there are occasion when they are worth there weight in gold. The biggest advantage for me unlike shoeing I can pick and choose when I need them, I always have them in my back-pocket but my horse doesn’t need them 24/7 and so he doesn’t have to wear them 24/7.
We would all aim to have a “rock crushing” barefoot horse, but sometimes we have to accept that there are circumstances when hoof protection (whether metal shoes or hoof boots) is necessary.
Unlike metal shoes, hoof boots do not interfere with hoof mechanism, or increase concussion. Boots can seem like a big expense. But bear in mind that they can last for up to 2000 miles of riding. This could be 2 years for the average horse. The money saved on shoeing means the boots will pay for themselves in a few months.
Also remember that the horses comfort is the priority and no horse should be ever have to take a single tender step.
There are a huge range of hoof boots out there and the measurements vary as do the styles. I highly recommend getting in touch with the hoof boutique as they stock most of the boots and styles and offer great advice for ensuring you find the best boot for your individual circumstances and horse.