Horse Leg and Foot Equipment

There are a wide variety of boots and wraps for horse legs. Here is a quick glossary of terminology (with pictures) to help eliminate any confusion when it comes to horse leg and foot equipment.

Boots

These days many boots and wraps are similar enough to be interchangeable to some degree. However there are some specific boot types every horse person should be familiar with.

Horse Boot

Image from HP Hoof Care
Horse boots can be used in place of shoes, and are often used by long distance riders. They are light, durable, protect the entire hoof from damage and provide cushion and traction.

Splint Boots

Image from Smartpak Equine
Splint boots provide support and protection for the splint bones, tendons and soft tissue of the lower leg during exercise. They also protect the leg from scraping and other working injuries.

Bell Boots

Image from Bright Eyes and Bobtails
Bell boots are used on the front hooves to protect them (and the shoes) from overreach by hind legs. They can also be used for shipping for the same reason.

Shipping Boots

Image from Thornhill USA
These boots are used to protect a horses legs during transport. Shipping boots usually reach from hoof to knee/ hock joint to ensure protection of critical leg parts.

Icing Boots

Image from Ice Horse Equine
Icing boots are used to nurse injured areas. They have pockets so ice or cold compresses can be added, then strapped in place on the leg.

Wraps

Wraps require a little more work than boots, however they provide similar protection in many instances. Some types of wraps have specific medical uses.

Polo Wraps

Image from Equisearch
Similar to splint boots, polo wraps provide protection for the splint bones, tendons and soft tissues during exercise. They also protect the leg from scraping and other working injuries.

Standing Wraps

Image from ehow
Standing wraps are used for a variety of reasons. They can be used to cover and medicate a leg injury, and for extra support prior to or after a heavy day of work.

Vet Wrap

Image from Equicast
Differs from the other two, because vet wrap is not just for legs. It is a sticky wrap that is usually used to wrap injuries to keep them dry and protected.

Now that you know a little about horse leg and foot equipment, why not learn a little about horse hoof and foot anatomy?