Skill Set

Be Shipping-Boot Savvy

By Jenny Sullivan

To protect your horse’s legs while hauling, invest in shipping boots. They’re relatively inexpensive, they come in various sizes and shapes to fit most horses, they’re easy to apply, and they offer hoof-and-leg protection on the road.

Boot-Shopping Tips

As you shop of shipping boots, consider the following.

1. Hook-and-loop closures. Boots with three large closures are easy to apply and secure them well around your horse’s legs.

2. Hoof guards. Look for boots with hoof guards, also called scuff plates or striking plates.

3. Nylon linings. Choose boots with nylon linings. They’re just as warm and comfortable as ones with fleece linings, but nylon is easier to clean and doesn’t catch as much bedding and dirt.

4. The right size. Some boots come in sizes from small to large; others are sized for either ponies or horses.

5. Easy care. Look for boots that can be hosed off for routine cleaning or that are machine washable.

Boot-Application Steps

Step 1: Match boots to legs.

Step 2: Introduce your horse to a boot.

Step 3: Apply the left front boot.

Step 4: Apply the right front boot.

Step 5: Lead your horse. When both front boots are on securely, lead your horse around.

Step 6: Apply the rear boots.

Step 7: Load and unload. Practice loading and unloading your horse a few times so he gets used to the feel of the boots when he steps up and down.

Practice loading and unloading your horse a few times so he gets used to the feel of the boots when he steps up and down.

PHOTOS BY HEIDI MELOCCO