Equine Hoof Boot Fitting
Find the right boot for your horse
Hoof boots can be an incredibly useful tool for comfort, protection and rehabilitation, but they are not one-size-fits-all.
A well-fitted boot needs to suit your horse’s hoof shape, movement, intended use and management. The best option for a horse needing temporary protection for an abscess may be very different from the best option for a trail horse, a transitioning barefoot horse or a horse needing support during rehabilitation.
At Firenza Park Equine Services, hoof boot fitting is approached as part of the horse’s whole picture. I look at the feet, the horse’s movement, their workload, environment and what you are hoping the boots will help you achieve.
When hoof boots may help
Hoof boots may be useful for horses who need:
- protection for riding over hard, rocky or uneven terrain
- temporary comfort during transitions in hoofcare or management
- support during rehabilitation, alongside your veterinary and hoofcare team
- protection from excessive wear
- cushioning for sensitive soles
- a practical alternative to shoeing for some horses and situations
- turnout protection where appropriate
Boots are not the answer for every horse, and correct fit matters. A poorly fitted boot can rub, twist, come off, restrict movement or fail to provide the protection you were hoping for.
My boot fitting process
Every fitting starts with understanding your horse and what you need the boots to do.
1. Complete the boot fitting form
The first step is to complete the hoof boot fitting form. You will be asked for information about your horse, their workload, current hoofcare, the reason you are considering boots and clear photographs or measurements of the feet.
2. Review of your horse’s needs
I will review the information you provide and help determine whether a remote assessment may be appropriate or whether your horse would be best seen in person.
For horses with rehabilitation needs, unusual hoof shape, significant asymmetry, movement concerns or more complex requirements, an in-person fitting is generally the best option.
3. In-person fitting or appointment
Appointments are available at The Meadows Stables in Koo Wee Rup North, with selected local appointments also available.
At the fitting, I assess hoof shape and size, discuss your goals, trial suitable options where available and talk you through fitting, removal, cleaning and ongoing care.
4. Selecting the right option
I work with a range of hoof boot styles and brands, including Scoot Boot, Flex Hoof Boots, Equine Fusion, EasyCare Gloves, Renegade, Cavallo and other suitable options.
The focus is never on fitting a particular brand. It is about finding the option that best suits your individual horse.
5. Support once your boots arrive
Once you have your boots, I want you to feel confident using them. I can help you understand how they should fit, what to watch for and when to reassess.
As hooves change over time, boot fit can change too. It is important to regularly check that boots are still appropriate, particularly following a trim, changes in workload, seasonal changes or rehabilitation progress.
Boot fitting appointments
Boot fitting appointments are $90.
Where boots are purchased through Firenza Park Equine Services, this fitting fee is credited toward the cost of your boots.
Any applicable postage, supplier freight or additional accessories will be confirmed with you before ordering.
Important note
Hoof boots can be a valuable management tool, but they do not replace veterinary diagnosis or appropriate treatment.
If your horse is acutely lame, has sudden unexplained soreness, significant hoof damage or a suspected injury, please contact your veterinarian before organising boots.
Ready to get started?
Complete the hoof boot fitting form and I will help you work out the best next step for you and your horse.
Prefer to bring your horse to me? Appointments are available at The Meadows Stables in Koo Wee Rup North for hoofcare, boot fittings and consults.
