Second Chance Horse Rescue Discussion Boards

wandowen firedance · Joined: 24 Apr 2009 Posts: 270

Decision time - keep paying for new shoes or go barefoot and purchase some boots?? Anyone had any experience using boots?

SecondChance · Posted: Tue Oct 27, 2009 7:03 pm Post subject:

I use boots for Levi because I don't ride him nearly enough to warrant shoeing him. I love them and it works really well for him.

He has naturally good feet, so he's more than fine barefoot at home and in the arena, I only boot him to go up the hills as its hard and rocky. BUT be very careful to ensure the boots you get are the right size!
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ClaireB · Joined: 22 Dec 2008 Posts: 32 Location: perth

Hi

Well I prefer boots to shoes for sure but boots also do not allow for the correct hoof distortion for good foot health. I focus on getting a good foot under the horse so that they can cope with the environments the live in and get exposed too.

Boots are good for that extra support when required but I find most of my clients don't need them so I don't sell or fit them.

Taking the shoes off may not be cheaper initially but the long term benefits are huge. Improved movement, less injury, no downtime due to shoe loss etc

Make sure you do your homework its not always straight forward and getting the right help will get your horses feet performing better quicker.

ClaireB x

wandowen firedance · Joined: 24 Apr 2009 Posts: 270

Trust me guys - I am not going to attempt to order them!

Poor horse!

No getting a professional in to do it - horse says "thank god!!

Sugar's Mum · Joined: 04 Jul 2009 Posts: 90 Location: Busselton

my horses have all gone barefoot since I did a barefoot trimming course December last year. I dont own a pair of boots and dont think I will ever need to get any. Just build the hrose up to the work level required and they will cope unless tehre is a problem with the hooves.

tez 80 · Joined: 11 Nov 2009 Posts: 3 Location: Kalamunda

I only use boots when I'm going to be riding in the hills on the gravel and rocks.they work really well.I had old macs which are fine for the slower trail ride.Just got a new pair of renegade hoof boots and they are even better!.easier to put on and they fit really snug so no rubbing.The best thing about barefoot is you aren't relying on farriers.if your barefoot trimmer doesn't turn up,you can still ride your horse,you can't if you have a loose shoe!.Also you can do courses and learn to do it yourself.[/url]

wandowen firedance · Joined: 24 Apr 2009 Posts: 270

Well they arrive on Sunday - should be great!! Very Happy