Hoof Boot Tips & Solutions

Easyboot Trail Hoof Boots
Tips & Solutions to Common Problems

What's the best way to get my horse used to his new boots?
When ordering new boots, please allow time for your horse to get used to the new boots, just as you would with a new pair of shoes (or hiking boots) for yourself. Have your horse wear them at a walk for 15-20 minutes the first day and check for signs of rubbing or soreness.

Gradually increasing the duration and distance of rides wearing Easyboot Trail boots will ensure your equine friend becomes accustomed to the new hoof wear. Too much too soon can lead to chafing.

If for some reason you don't have time for proper conditioning, please consider purchasing gaiters and pads to ensure your horse's comfort. (An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure, as the saying goes!)

Do I need to purchase boots for all 4 feet?
Probably not -- often horses only need to be booted in the front. Generally, start with booting just the front feet unless it's clear from observing your horse that the hind feet need protection also. But if you boot one front hoof you do need to boot both front feet (this is true for the rear hooves too -- if you boot one, you need to boot both feet).

Can I use different style boots on the front than I use on the rear?
Yes, you can combine boot styles, and some people have found this to be the most effective method. You can use one style of boot on the front hooves and a different style on the back. But both front hooves need to be in the same style, and both rear hooves need to also.

When should I use a pad in the boots?
If your horse is recovering from a pathology, then pads are usually recommended. Also, if your horse doesn't feel completely comfortable in his boots and still seems tender-footed, then pads may be indicated. Pads can also be used to help the boot fit more securely.

How long do hoof boots last?
This is a difficult question because it depends on many factors -- how often the boots are used, what type of terrain they are used on, the action and conformation of the horse. Generally, when used for trail riding a few days a week (up to 25 miles/week) over easy to moderate terrain, boots can be expected to last at least 6 months. But in situations where they are only used as necessary (over unusual or challenging terrain like rocks or gravel that your horse is not conditioned to) they can last much longer.

When should hoof boots be replaced?
If the boot no longer fits securely, or parts are worn through, or there is no
tread left on the bottom of the boot, then it's time to replace the boot.

Can I return the boots if I don't like them or they don't fit well?
Yes, there is a 30 Day Money Back Guarantee, and a 90 Day Warranty against
any defects. See our Guarantee and Return Policy page for more information.

Will hoof boots stay on in wet and muddy conditions?
As long as the boot is fitted properly, and the velcro has been kept clean, the boots should stay on. The Trail boots have holes drilled in the rear for water drainage. The biggest issue is with mud or dirt on the velcro, since velcro doesn't hold well if it's dirty. The boots should be hosed off (or rinsed in a bucket of water) after use if they have dirt or mud on the velcro. We also sell a velcro brush for removing any excess dirt (see Boot Accessories).

Can I leave the boots on 24 hrs a day?
We don't recommend this unless you are using the boot as a treatment boot
in a stable or paddock. The Easyboot Trail can be used as a therapy boot, helping your horse recover from abscesses, hoof injuries, founder, punctures and sole bruises. The boot cannot be used as a soaking boot. If you are planning on leaving the boot on for an extended period of time as a therapy boot, please consider adding the pads and gaiters for comfort (see Boot Accessories).

If you are transitioning your horse to barefootedness, it is generally recommended that you allow time for the hooves to get used to contact with the ground, and use the hoof boots as necessary for riding or over challenging terrain.

Will the boot still fit over the course of my trim cycle?
The Easyboot Trail's flexible attachment system accommodates changes in hoof wall length and angles without compromising the fit and dependability of the boot. It should continue to fit well throughout the trim cycle.

What if the boot twists during use?
This usually occurs because the boot is too wide, and most often occurs on
hind feet. Always check the measurements first to make sure that you have the right size boot. Then to help the boot fit more securely, add inserts. You may also want to try using gaiters and a pad if there still seems to be extra space. These are available on our Boot Accessories page.

What if the boots cause rubbing?
Be sure that you have given time for your horse to get used to the boots by
wearing them for short periods over several days. Also make sure that the boots are not twisting (see question above). If rubbing is still an issue, then gaiters and a pad are recommended (available on our Boot Accessories page).

What if I have other questions or problems?
You may always contact us at support@star-ridge.com

We also recommend visiting the Easycare website at www.easycareinc.com where there is a lot of valuable product information.

Easycare staff are hoof boot experts and are readily available to answer questions regarding Easycare Hoof Boots at 800-447-8836 (M-F 8am-5pm MST)
or by email at admin@easycareinc.com