Hoof Boot FAQ

Turf Kind Hoof Boot II

1. Why should I measure the hooves approx. 1 week after the last farrier appointment?

2. Why do I have to measure each hoof individually?

3. Can I combine hoof boots and horseshoes?

4. Can I use hoof boots in the field?

5. How long can my horse wear the hoof boots?

6. My horse has laminitis. Are hoof boots the right thing to do?

7. Can I use hoof boots only in the front/only in the back?

8. Can I participate in competitions with hoof boots?

9. How can I find out if hoof boots are right for me and my horse?

10. Cleaning and care – what do I have to consider?

11. How long do hoof boots last?

12. My hoof boots are broken, what can I do?

13. My horse has lost a hoof boot. What is the reason for this and do I have a claim for compensation?

1. Why should I measure the hooves approx. 1 week after the last farrier appointment?

Kepping your horse barefoot in no way spares you regular hoof trimming. On the contrary. Apart from keeping the hooves healthy, regular hoof care also plays a major role with regard to the hoof boots, after all they should always fit well. Approximately 1 week after the last trimming is a good time to have a good average for the ideal shape of the hooves. This way the hoof boot fits equally well before and after the hoof trimming, taking into account a certain tolerance range.

2. Why do I have to measure each hoof individually?

Just as with us humans, the body of our horses is never completely symmetrical and perfect. Therefore, the size and shape of the four hooves can differ from each other. The hoof boots from our range are sold by the piece so that each hoof can be fitted with a suitable hoof boot.

3. Can hoof boots and horseshoes be combined?

No. Hoof boots are to be seen as an alternative to horseshoes, not as a supplement.

4. Can I use hoof boots in the field?

Hoof boots are not really intended for permanent use in the field or paddock. A barefoot horse standing on soft ground conditions does not need hoof protection. A hoof boot is intended to protect the hooves from extreme loads and difficult ground conditions, therefore permanent use should be avoided. Hooves adapt to the conditions to which they are permanently exposed. If the hoof is spared in the long term and protected from any kind of stress, this will damage the horn and the hoof health in the long run.

Certain models, such as the Turf King hoof boot, allow short-term use as a therapy boot. In such cases, the horse can also wear the boot for turnout. In principle, hoof boots with wires, buckles and closures are completely unsuitable for unsupervised use in the field as they pose a risk of injury.

5. How long can my horse wear the hoof boots?

Conventional hoof boots should only be worn for an acute stress situation, e.g. during a trail ride or when hacking, if the ground conditions require it. The hoof shoes in our range are not suitable for wearing around the clock.

6. My horse has laminitis. Are hoof boots the right thing to do?

First and foremost, in the case of hoof diseases, you should consult your veterinarian in order to discuss preventive measures and treatment options with him. Hoof boots and the associated conversion to barefoot walking promote healthy hooves. The use of conventional hoof boots for therapeutic purposes in the case of hoof diseases is generally not recommended. Special therapeutic hoof boots are available for this purpose, which relieve and support the diseased hooves.

7. Can hoof boots only be worn in the front/only in the back?

Yes, this is actually quite common. Many horse owners use hoof boots mainly on the front hooves only, as most horses are more sensitive in the front than in the back. For driving horses, on the other hand, it is common to apply hoof boots on the hindquarters. The minimum requirement is that hoof boots are worn in pairs, i.e. on both front hooves or on both hind hooves. Of course, it is also possible to use them on all 4 hooves.

8. Can I participate in competitions with hoof boots?

According to some organisations, hoof boots that do not extend beyond the coronet band may also be worn at competitions. This usually depends on the hoof boot model, but also on the individual fit. In case of doubt, it is advisable to check with the organiser before the start of the show whether it is possible to participate with hoof boots.

If you have not yet had any experience with hoof boots, you usually do not have any concrete ideas about how you and your horse will cope with the unfamiliar footwear. In addition to the optimal fit, it should also be ensured that the rider is satisfied with the handling.

10. Cleaning and care? What should be considered?

Hoof boots are quite uncomplicated when it comes to care. After use, coarse dirt should be removed with a brush. A damp cloth can be used to restore the old shine to the hoof boot. Also, always make sure to shake out any sand, dirt or pebbles from the inside of the boot to avoid uncomfortable pressure points for the horse on the next ride.

11. How long do hoof boots last?

A general answer is not possible at this point. How long a boot lasts depends on how often it is used and how much it is stressed (in relation to the ground conditions, the duration of use and also the horse’s walking behaviour). Hoof boots are very robustly made, so that in combination with good care you can ride with them for a very long time. To ensure safety, you should always check the hoof boot for damage before each use and check that all fasteners still close securely.

In addition, you should regularly check the fit of the hoof boots. Especially with horses that have recently been switched from being shod to barefoot, there may be changes in the shape of the hoof that make it necessary to change the boot.

12. My hoof boots are broken, what can I do?

Unfortunately, despite excellent workmanship, it is possible for a boot to break. Hoof boots are robust and resilient, but they are not indestructible. If a hoof boot that you have bought from us is defective, you are welcome to send it to our complaints department for inspection. Please note, however, that conventional wear and tear and individual fit problems are not warranty cases. A good example is the natural wear and tear of the gaiter, which occurs more frequently when the horse walks tightly or over-steps.

13. My horse has lost a boot. What is the reason for this and do I have a claim for compensation?

Unfortunately, it happens from time to time that a horse loses its boot. This often happens in the faster gaits or in particularly difficult ground conditions. There are no claims for compensation on the part of the manufacturer if a hoof boot is lost, as this phenomenon often results from a fit problem or is associated with improper use (e.g. if the hoof boots have not been closed properly). Therefore, make absolutely sure that the hoof boots fit well and check that you have closed the hoof boot securely before every ride.