Why are my horse boots rubbing?

Posted on December 26, 2023 by Categories: Exoskeleton, Uncategorized

Preventing horse boots from rubbing is essential for the comfort and well-being of your horse. Rubbing can cause discomfort, sores, and even lead to more serious issues if not addressed. In this blog we explore some of the factors that may cause horse boots to rub:

What is the single biggest cause of rubbing in horse boots?

In our humble opinion at Cryochaps, the most common cause of rubbing is legs sweating, which makes for continuously wet skin. If your horse’s leg gets sweaty in boots, it is unlikely the boots are allowing free air flow. If the boots trap the sweat or water to the leg, the boot is an insulator and there can be no evaporation from the hair and skin allowing the legs to dry. The outcome is, if the skin stays wet, it begins to soften. Only a small amount of movement is now needed between the boot and the skin to create a rub.

If you run your hand down your horses leg after taking off your boots are the legs damp? If this is the case, it may be time to consider a boot with more air flow, like the Exoskeleton Boot. They have tendon, splint and brushing protection so can be used for everyday use, as well as competing as they are FEI legal for all jumping phases.

Other factors to consider to prevent horse boots rubbing

  • Proper Sizing: Ensure that the horse boots you choose fit your horse properly. Boots that are too tight or too loose can cause rubbing. Measure your horse’s legs and follow the manufacturer’s sizing guidelines.
  • Clean and Dry: Before putting on horse boots, make sure your horse’s legs and the boots are clean and dry. Dirt, sweat, and debris can increase friction and cause rubbing.
  • Use a ‘Boot Undersock’ – in some instances if a horse is particularly sensitive you can put tubi grip on the leg and fold over the top of the boot and use tape to secure at the top.
  • Check Seams – All boots tend to have a trim around the outside, check the seam is not in a place that could rub.
  • Proper Application: If you do the boot up too tightly the straps could dig in and rub.
  • Monitor: Always check your legs after work and if you notice any redness, hair loss, or sores, you know your boots may be causing an issue.

Remember that preventing rubbing is crucial for your horse’s comfort but once you have a rub they are incredible difficult to stop opening up every time you ride with boots. If your horse needs boots to prevent brushing and interference issues this can be a problem.  Do contact us to see if Exoskeleton boots may help.