Which hoof boot to purchase? It will depend on the use, as well as obtaining a good fit that is comfortable to the horse and easy for the owner to put on.
Easyboot® by Easycare, Inc. has been a leader in hoof boots since their inception. The Easyboot line offers snug-fitting boots with low traction or optional studding for snow and ice. All of Easycare’s boots can be used with horseshoes, however, it will decrease the life of the boots and is not recommended (it also voids the warranty). Hoof boots generally last around one year.
Easyboot® Epic comes with a “gaiter,” a nylon and velcro extension that runs from the heel bulb to just below the coronet where it wraps. The gaiter keeps out dirt and rocks and also keeps the boot from becoming lost if it comes off. Gaiters come with the Epic or can be purchased separately to fit other Easyboots. The Easyboot Epic is one of the three recommended hoof boots by the American Association of Natural Hoof Care Practitioners (the other two are the Swiss Hoof Boot and the Boa).
Boa Horse Boot™. The Boa is easy to put on, with “laces” that allow the shoe to open up wide to accommodate the hoof. The laces are then tightened down, after which the dial is used to make the boot snug. Boas do not have “aggressive traction,” or highly-nubbed soles, and are therefore more suitable for horses that may have gait issues. Gaiters are available with this boot.
The Swiss Hoof Boot was invented as an alternative to shoeing. A plastic boot, inserts can be used to achieve proper fit, and the boot gives to conform to the horse’s hoof. Visit the manufacturer’s web page for more information. The Swiss Hoof Boot cannot be purchased over-the-counter; it must be obtained from a licensed fitter.
Marquis Hoof Boot - developed by a German veterinarian, they have an air pump to tighten the boots down. Easy to put on and water proof, the Marquis is not for use with shod hooves. The Marquis is an extremely durable boot and the manufacturer offers replacement parts, if needed. Visit Marquis Hoof Boots’ USA and Canada distributor for more information.
Old Mac’s are also made by EasyCare, Inc. (as is the Boa), however this shoe is completely waterproof due to its nylon and urethane construction. They are easy to put on and have pastern wraps in newer models to keep the boot snug. Old Mac’s have “aggressive traction,” which is helpful for difficult terrain on short rides. The new G2 model has less aggressive traction, a rounded toe, a longer profile to fit more horses, and the interior has been modified to put less pressure on the sole. Visit Easycare, Inc. for more information.
Soaker boots are for hoof softening prior to a trim or medicinal use.
Read Hoof Boots Overview for information on how to select a hoof boot and what factors to consider.
