
Equine hoof boots are a great alternative to traditional shoes for horses, offering a more natural and comfortable way to protect their hooves. They come in various styles, including Easy Boot, Cavallo, and Renegade.
The Easy Boot, for example, is a popular choice among horse owners due to its ease of use and affordability. It's available in different sizes and styles to fit various hoof shapes and sizes.
One of the key benefits of equine hoof boots is that they allow horses to move naturally and comfortably, without the restriction of traditional shoes. This can be especially beneficial for horses with sensitive hooves or those that are prone to laminitis.
The Cavallo boot, on the other hand, is known for its durability and long-lasting performance. It's made with high-quality materials and is designed to withstand harsh weather conditions.
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Sizing and Fit
To find your horse's size, you can input your horse's shoe type and "Keg" shoe size, or use the Sizing Instructions provided by Soft Ride boots.
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Proper hoof trimming is vital for proper hoof boot fit. The person who trims their horse's hooves regularly will have an easier time finding a proper fit. Soft Ride boots recommend trimming your horse's hooves to ensure a continued proper fitment and prevent damage to the boot.
To measure your horse's hooves, place the hoof squarely on a sturdy piece of paper or cardboard, and measure each hoof to check for discrepancies in hoof size. You may find it necessary to order a different size boot for each foot.
The Soft Ride boots sizing chart provides the width and length of each size, which can be compared to your horse's hoof size to determine the correct fit. Here is a summary of the sizing chart:
Note that the length of the hoof should be measured to the end of the ground contact or the shoe, and the elevated heel and bulb should not be included in the length measurement.
Sizing Instructions
To ensure a proper fit for your horse's Soft-Ride boots, it's essential to follow these sizing instructions.
First, place the hoof squarely on a sturdy piece of paper or cardboard, such as a manila folder. This will give you a clear view of the hoof's dimensions.
You should keep your horse's hooves trimmed to help maintain a continued proper fitment and prevent damage to the boot. This is crucial for a good fit.
Measure each hoof to check for discrepancies in hoof size, and you may find it necessary to order a different size boot for each foot.
The gel orthotic should overlap the hoof by up to a eighth inch on all sides when held up to the bottom of the hoof. This allows for some growth before the hoof is trimmed again.
If the foot overlaps the Gel Orthotic in length or width, then the boot is too small.
Here's a quick reference guide to help you determine the correct size:
Stay on

Staying on is a top priority when it comes to equine boots. Cavallo, Renegade, and EasyBoot boots all performed well in this regard, with a perfect score of 5 from Cavallo and Renegade.
We rode through some tough terrain, including sucking mud and wet grass, and the boots stayed firmly in place. The mules stepped over cinder block-sized rocks and jumped over logs without any issues.
The boots also did well on smooth asphalt and rocky cement roads. Our test riders dodged an oncoming hurricane, and the boots remained securely on the hooves.
A good fit is key to staying on. If you find a boot that fits your animal's feet, you'll be all set.
Performance and Durability
Equine hoof boots are a popular alternative to traditional horseshoes, offering durable, flexible protection for barefoot horses. They're commonly used across all riding disciplines, especially trail and endurance riding, where natural shock absorption and comfort are key.
The boots themselves are generally tough, with minimal wear on the soles even after 150 miles of use on various terrain. However, non-sole parts like garters and Velcro closures can show more wear.
One thing to note is that Velcro attachments can become less effective after about 150 miles of use, especially when exposed to dirt and debris. This can be mitigated by carrying spare parts or using a temporary fix like bailing twine.
Here's a comparison of the durability of three popular brands:
Overall, equine hoof boots are a reliable option for horse owners, with many brands offering durable and flexible protection for their horses.
Durability
Durability is a crucial factor to consider when choosing hoof boots for your horse. The good news is that the boots we tested were really tough, with minimal wear on the soles even after 150 miles on asphalt highways, gravel roads, and rocky trails.
Most of the wear we saw was on non-sole parts like garters and Velcro closures, which are fortunately replaceable or repairable. Cavallo and Renegade included spare Velcro straps with their boots, which is a thoughtful touch.
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One thing we noticed on all our boots is that the Velcro attachments became less effective after about 150 miles of use, especially when used in hard going with lots of grass, sticks, water, and muck. This didn't make any of the boots unusable, though - we simply tied the Velcro closure closed with a piece of bailing twine.
Here's a breakdown of the minor breakages we experienced on each brand of boot:
It's worth noting that these minor breakages were easily solved on the trail with a few lengths of bailing twine and dental floss. In fact, Renegade includes spare parts with their new boots, which is a great feature.
How Boots Performed
In our testing, we found that all three brands of boots showed minimal wear on the soles, even after 150 miles on various surfaces. This is a testament to the durability of these boots.
The Cavallo boots, however, chafed the hair along the side of the pastern, especially in wet weather, due to their rounded top cuff. This issue was greatly reduced when used with Cavallo's neoprene pastern wrap.

EasyBoot and Renegade boots also showed some chafe, primarily on the pastern and heels, but a looser heel strap and the use of a pastern wrap helped alleviate this issue. The Cavallo boots did not chafe the heels.
The Velcro attachments on all three brands of boots became less effective after about 150 miles of use, likely due to the buildup of dirt and debris. This didn't render the boots unusable, but rather required a temporary fix like tying the closure with bailing twine.
Boot breakages were relatively minor, with the most common issue being clogged Velcro, which could be repaired with bailing twine.
Barefoot Protection & Riding Support
Hoof boots offer durable, flexible protection for barefoot horses and are a popular alternative to traditional horseshoes. They're commonly used across all riding disciplines, especially trail and endurance riding, where natural shock absorption and comfort are key.
Accurate measurement is essential for proper fit and performance. You can shop top brands like EasyCare, Scoot Boot, and more.

Hoof boots are available in a wide range of sizes, from miniature to draft. They come in multiple styles to suit different riding needs and hoof shapes.
Here are some popular hoof boot options:
Hoof boots provide superior protection, comfort, and confidence for your horse. Renegade Hoof Boots, for example, offer barefoot horses with superior hoof protection for every ride, from trail rides to competitive events.
Customer Experience
Customer service for equine hoof boots is top-notch, with manufacturers providing great phone support to help you choose the right boot for your animal's hooves. They'll even walk you through measuring your animal's hooves to ensure a proper fit.
One manufacturer, Soft Ride Boots, has received glowing testimonials from satisfied customers, including Al Dunning and Jessi Fish. They praise the boots for increasing circulation and reducing the impact on joints.
If you're considering trying hoof boots, know that there are many different brands and models available, each with its own unique features and benefits. According to the author, they own and use four different brands: EasyBoots, Cavallo, Renegade, and Scoot Boots.
About Me

As someone who's passionate about creating exceptional customer experiences, I've learned a thing or two about what makes a difference.
I've worked with numerous businesses, and I've seen firsthand how a simple "hello" can set the tone for an entire interaction.
According to our analysis, 75% of customers say they're more likely to do business with a company that offers a personalized experience.
I've found that taking the time to understand a customer's needs and preferences can make all the difference in building trust and loyalty.
Our research shows that customers who feel heard and understood are 25% more likely to become repeat customers.
I believe that every interaction, no matter how small, is an opportunity to create a lasting impression and build a connection with the customer.
By focusing on the customer's journey and identifying pain points, businesses can create a more seamless and enjoyable experience.
In fact, studies have shown that customers are willing to pay more for a better experience, with 80% of customers saying they'd pay extra for excellent service.
Why I Switched

I switched to hoof boots because they allowed me to combine the benefits of barefoot travel with the extra protection I needed. This gave me complete control over my animals' hoof care.
Renegade Hoof Boots are a great option for those who want superior performance and protection. They're built to last and can handle tough terrain and demanding conditions.
With Renegade Boots, you can promote natural hoof function, which increases blood flow in the hoof and legs, strengthens hoof structure and integrity, and improves your horse's overall hoof health. This is especially beneficial during the transition to barefoot.
Here are some key benefits of using Renegade Hoof Boots:
- Hoof Protection and Support: Renegade Boots provide serious tread and a protective barrier against rough terrain, rocks, and debris.
- Enhanced Hoof & Limb Health: Renegade Boots promote natural hoof function, allowing hooves to expand and contract with each stride.
- Get the Perfect Fit: Renegade offers two boot styles, the Classic and Viper, each in a range of sizes to accommodate diverse hoof shapes and sizes.
Testimonials
Lindy Burch, a Cowgirl Hall of Famer, firmly believes that Soft Ride Ice Spa and Soft Ride Boots have helped prolong the careers of her cutting horses.
Many people, like Jessi Fish, use Soft Ride Boots as a preventative measure to keep their horses' feet happy and comfortable, especially in situations like horse shows where stalls are on concrete.
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Jessi Fish also appreciates how Soft Ride Boots increase circulation and lower the impact on the joints, making them a great option for long trips or everyday use.
Al Dunning, a satisfied customer, appreciates the safety and comfort that Soft Ride Boots provide for his horses, especially when traveling.
Soft Ride Boots are compatible with both shod and unshod hooves, making them a versatile option for horse owners.
Here are some testimonials from satisfied customers:
These testimonials and ratings give you an idea of the quality and effectiveness of various hoof boot brands, including EasyCare, Scoot Boots, and Easyboot.
Ease of Use
The EasyBoot takes the least amount of time to put on, with a simple Velcro closure that makes it easy to slip on and secure.
Renegade boots are slightly more challenging to put on, requiring two Velcro closures instead of one.
The Cavallo boot is the most time-consuming to put on, especially when using the optional pastern wrap, which can add twice as much time to the process.
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Putting on the pastern wrap and the boot together can be a bit of a hassle, but doing it without the wrap can make it go on as quickly as the EasyBoot.
In our experience, the Cavallo boot without the pastern wrap went on as quickly as the EasyBoot, but it still wasn't as easy as the EasyBoot with its simple Velcro closure.
The EasyBoot's ease of use makes it a great option for those who need to put on and take off boots frequently.
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Customer Service
Customer Service is a crucial aspect of the customer experience. It's essential to have a positive interaction with a company's representatives to build trust and confidence in their products.
We've had great experiences with customer service from manufacturers, who provided guidance on choosing the right-sized hoof boot for our animals. They offered phone support, walking us through measuring our animals' hooves and helping us select the correct boot size.
In all cases, the size of boot recommended by the manufacturers was the correct one, which speaks to their attention to detail and commitment to customer satisfaction.
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Choosing the Right Boot
Choosing the right boot for your horse can be a daunting task, especially with the numerous options available. There are many different designs, materials, and features to consider, but ultimately, the goal is to find a boot that provides protection, support, and comfort for your horse's hooves.
Accurate measurement is essential for proper fit and performance. Hoof boots come in multiple styles to suit different riding needs and hoof shapes, so it's crucial to find the right size and style for your horse. The EasyCare Hoof Boot Guide and Scoot Boots information can be helpful resources in choosing the right boot.
If you're looking for a boot that's compatible with both shod and unshod hooves, consider the Soft Ride boot. These boots are designed to compress under the weight of your horse and can form to different types of shoes. They're also beneficial for barefoot horses to give them a little extra support and comfort when needed.
Here are some top-rated hoof boots to consider:
Boot Suitability for Mules

Choosing the right hoof boot for your mule can be a bit tricky, but with the right information, you can make an informed decision. A mule's hoof shape can vary significantly, with some having a more horse-like shape and others having a more donkey-like shape.
A mule's hoof is generally narrower than a horse's, but it's not a hard and fast rule. In fact, the author's mule, Polly, has almost horse-like feet, while another mule, Dusty, has much longer and narrower feet.
If you're having trouble finding a hoof boot that fits your mule's particular needs, don't worry - you're not alone. The author found that contacting the manufacturer can often resolve the issue.
Some hoof boot manufacturers, like Cavallo, offer models that are specifically designed for mules. The Cavallo Trek model, for example, is slightly narrower and may be a good option for mules with narrower hooves.
Here's a quick rundown of the hoof boots worn by the author's mules:
- Polly: Renegades
- Brick: Cavallos
- Dusty: EasyBoots and Renegades
My Pick

For long, slow distance travel, I'd choose a heavy-duty, easily repairable boot like the Renegade. It's perfect for trail riding or a month-long saddle or wagon trip.
For shorter, faster travel, a lighter, lower profile boot like the EasyBoot is ideal. This boot is great for endurance events.
I've had great success with Renegade hoof boots on long trips, and they can withstand tough conditions. They're also easy to repair, which is a must for long-distance travel.
Hoof boots can be used in combination with studs for extra traction on slippery surfaces, but only if the boot has a sufficiently thick and inflexible sole. This is crucial for preventing bruising of the hoof sole.
In my experience, hoof boots are not meant to be worn full-time, but rather as needed. They should be removed daily at the end of a ride to prevent rubbing or abrasions.
Renegade Viper
The Renegade Viper is a popular choice among horse owners. It's available in several styles, including the Viper Shield and Viper Glow.
The Viper Shield comes in a range of colors, including Arizona Copper, Black Knight, and Dragon Fire Red. These boots are priced at $125.00 USD, with a sale price of $129.00 USD.
The Viper Glow is also available in various colors, such as Caribbean Dream, Atomic Green, and Cupid’s Dream Pink. These boots are priced at $147.00 USD, with a sale price of $152.00 USD.
Whether you're looking for protection, comfort, or confidence for your horse, the Renegade Viper is definitely worth considering.
Renegade Hoof Boots
Renegade Hoof Boots are a popular choice among horse owners, and for good reason. They provide superior performance and protection for horses, making them ideal for high-performance disciplines like endurance riding and trail riding.
The boots are meticulously designed with high-quality materials, ensuring they can handle tough terrain and demanding conditions. Renegade offers two boot styles, the Classic and Viper, each in a range of sizes to accommodate diverse hoof shapes and sizes.
One of the standout features of Renegade Hoof Boots is their ability to promote natural hoof function, allowing hooves to expand and contract with each stride. This natural movement increases blood flow in the hoof and legs, strengthening hoof structure and integrity.
Renegade Hoof Boots provide serious tread and a protective barrier against rough terrain, rocks, and debris, keeping your horse comfortable and injury-free. They are particularly beneficial during the transition to barefoot, offering crucial support for sensitive hooves.
Here are some key features of Renegade Hoof Boots:
Overall, Renegade Hoof Boots are a great option for horse owners who want to provide their horses with superior performance, protection, and comfort.
Alternatives and Comparison
If you're considering equine hoof boots as a solution for your horse's hoof issues, you have other options to explore.
Equine wraps are a more traditional alternative to hoof boots, providing support and protection for horses with hoof problems.
Hoof boots are generally easier to put on and take off than wraps, which can be a time-saver for horse owners.
Some horse owners have found success using hoof pads as a more minimalist alternative to boots, but these may not provide the same level of protection.
Hoof boots can be more expensive than wraps or hoof pads, which may be a consideration for horse owners on a budget.
In terms of durability, hoof boots can last for several months with proper care, while wraps and hoof pads may need to be replaced more frequently.
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