Measuring and Fitting your SIMPLE Hoof Boots
Please note that Simple and Sport use the same measuring chart. If your horse has an equal width and length, Simple may be more suitable for your horse. Sport may provide a better fit for a narrower hoof. Simple boots are made width and length equal while Sport is made 1/4" narrower than Simple.
Measure the hoof length carefully just AFTER A FRESH TRIM. Do NOT include heel bulbs. We have allowed for growth between regular trims.
Measuring Tips:
- The weight-bearing LENGTH indicates the SIMPLE size necessary. However, it is a good idea to take width measurements as well since that helps to confirm you have chosen the correct size
- You may wish to measure each hoof as they may differ in size requiring two different pairs.
- Only new UNUSED boots can be exchanged. To keep the boot clean, we suggest covering the hoof with thin plastic and checking fit on a non-scuff (not gravel), clean, dry surface.
Simply insert hoof into boot. Secure Velcro® closures and adjust sliding keepers.
IMPORTANT NOTES ON FITTING:
You should not have to force the boot on the horse's hoof in any way.If you are having to force the boot on it is too small.
If the boot is rotating independently from the horse's hoof it is too big. A wiggle is ok because the hoof expands in weight bearing and even further in movement.
Remember that there is a break-in period like your own boots would be when you first get them. The first day the boots shouldn't be worn for more than 20 minutes. You wouldn't put on brand new leather boots and go walking for hours; treat your horse's new boots as you would your own. You can speed up the break-in process by using leather softener or riding through water.
Here you can see how the sole fits into the length of the boot and the heel bulbs fit into the padded heel area at the back of the boot.
Before Your First Ride
Only new UNUSED boots can be exchanged. To keep the boot clean, we suggest covering the hoof with thin plastic and checking fit on a non-scuff (not gravel), clean, dry surface.
Like your own riding boots, it is recommended that time is taken to gradually break in your SIMPLE Boots. If your horse has sensitive skin, or if you are going on a long ride and are concerned about potential rubbing, Cavallo Pastern Wraps are included with your boots. If your horse is fine boned and there is excess space between the pastern and the boot collar, wraps can also prevent major debris from entering the boot.
Simple Fitting Tips:
- SOLE: The sole of the hoof should fit securely inside the boot sole. Ensure that the entire weight-bearing wall from front of toe to heel buttress sits within the Simple Boot outsole. It may be helpful to compare the outside raised tread area at the bottom of the boot to the weight-bearing length of the hoof sole (toe to buttress as per diagram above).
- OUTER COVER: Ensure that the boot tongue is pushed firmly against the hoof. Draw the outer flaps firmly around the hoof, pressing the Velcro on the flaps against the Velcro on the tongue; keep taut and level.
- TWISTING: If the boot twists or moves excessively, it may be too big or the outer cover may be loosely fastened.
- TOO SMALL: If you have difficulty putting the boot on, it may be too small. Ideally the boot "snaps" nicely onto the hoof for a good fit. Please check your measurements against the chart above.
ONCE THE BOOT IS FITTED, if the strap extends beyond the nylon keeper, then you can cut the strap to the preferred length, leaving a line of stitching to prevent unraveling.
PLEASE NOTE: Boots cannot be exchanged if straps have been cut. Be sure boots are correct size BEFORE cutting.
