How to tell if a hoof boot fits

Fit is without doubt the most important aspect of choosing hoof boots, and it is vital to select the correct boot for the size and shape of your horses feet, and not just the boot you like the look of!

1. Use the measuring guide, size charts and boot selection information if needed to determine boot style and size. Do your measurements correspond exactly to the size charts? If your measurements are similar to the size charts, your chances of a snug fit are good. If your measurements do not correspond (foot is the wrong shape for that boot and/or length and width measurements fit into different sizes within a style), chances are you will not have a snug fit and that particular hoof boot may not be right for that horse.
2. Before the boot is tightened the boot should be snug. You should not be able to turn or twist the boot.
3. After tightening, the boot should be a close fit around the hoof wall. Horse boots should not have large gaps or voids between the hoof wall and the boot. With boots that fit above the hairline, they will not always fit close above the hoof, the only problem this can cause is to allow dirt or debris into the boot. The use of gaiters will often help to fill the void, but the main concern is how well the boot fits the wall of the hoof., a gap above the hoof is acceptable in most cases.
4. You know when running shoes or walking boots fit your own feet. Use the same logic when selecting and checking the fit of hoof boots for your horse.

Unfortunately, riding boots do not fit well on some hoof types. Easycare hoof boots are not recommended for some types and shapes of feet, although often a horse can be booted to a degree of success with some compromises. We would only recommend this if it is to be done on a temporary basis, for example until the hoof has been correctly trimmed or whilst transitioning. If your horse has one of these conditions they may not be a good candidate for hoof boots:

1. A hoof with excessive flair.
2. A large or very small hoof that is wider than long. Old Mac’s Originals are the only boots in the Easycare range that fit a hoof that is wider than long, but will not cater for excessively wider than long or large or small hooves.
3. A hoof with long heels (high in the heels) or one who is extremely low in the heels. Short heels can sometimes be overcome with the use of pads if the shape of the hoof allows a suitable boot to be used.
4. A hoof that is clubbed or irregular in shape due to injury, scarring, etc.