Here are three things to consider before embarking on barefoot horse trail riding.
So you love trail riding and want to do it with your horse, but are worried about how your barefoot horse’s hooves will cope with the terrain? Hoof boots can make all the difference when riding out on the trails, and boots that fit well and help the horse be more sure-footed are imperative when out and about. Let’s look at a few key things to consider before taking your barefoot horse trail riding.
1. What kind of terrain do you take your horse trail riding on?
If you’re lucky enough to have soft natural ground to ride on, your horse will probably be really comfortable at all paces. But if some of your trail rides include gravel roads, hard tarmac roads, or any kind of uneven terrain, you may notice that your horse is hesitant to move freely on these kinds of surfaces, and is seeking to go on the verges where the ground is softer. This is a sure sign that your horse will benefit from wearing hoof boots. Flex Boots are ideal for these situations, because they protect the hooves from harsh surfaces, but at the same time provide excellent shock absorption and allow the hooves to function as nature intended.
Along with the question of terrain, comes the question about traction on the various surfaces that you ride on when on a trail ride. Whilst gravel roads are normally good for traction, they can be harsh on hooves. Tarmac roads can be slippery, especially if the horse is wearing iron shoes. And you may also need to ride through water, mud or on grass.
The beauty of Flex Boots is that they work well on all surfaces. On gravel roads they protect the hooves; on tarmac they provide shock absorption, and because the boot materials don’t absorb water, you can ride through water without a worry – the water simply drains out of the holes on the boot shell.
2. How long are your trail rides?
If your rides are quite short, your horse’s need for hoof protection might not be as great as if you’re out and about for several hours at a time. The great thing about Flex Boots is that, as long as they fit the hooves correctly, they will not rub, and can be used for as long as you want – even 24/7 if the horse needs around the clock hoof protection. Flex Boots are the most flexible hoof boots on the market, and designed with the horse’s welfare in mind.
3. How healthy are your horse’s hooves?
Before asking our horses to do any work for us, it’s our responsibility as owners to ensure that their hooves are healthy and strong enough for the task at hand. Even on hooves that are generally healthy, doing a frequent, small touch up trim can have a huge positive impact on your horse’s comfort and how they move. This kind of trim normally includes rounding up the hoof wall, and checking that the hoof is balanced. Doing this also ensures that your Flex Hoof Boots last as long as possible.
And if your horse has any hoof problems, such as thin soles, adding FlexPads into the boots really helps with your horse’s comfort. Our yellow FlexPads increase the cushioning properties of the boots, and red pads that are a bit firmer, provide protection, which is handy for example if you ride on stony gravel roads a lot.
Trail riding can be a great experience for you and your barefoot horse
We want you to take your horse trail riding, and for both of you to enjoy it. Using hoof boots ensures that your horse is comfortable on all terrain, and Flex Boots offer amazing traction on the many different surfaces you might encounter on your rides. Because of their smart design, they are suitable for even the most sensitive horses, and provide protection and shock absorption on every step your horse takes.
