I see so many variations on protective boots and wraps, but they are often “for reining” “for dressage” “for jumpers” and what have you. Surely the intended equestrian sport matters less than the actual level of impact protection.
Which boots offer the best protection from impact?
I tend to use polo wraps, because it seems obvious to, but there have to be some high-tech, lightweight, bulletproof protective boots, right?
What is the cutting-edge technology for equine leg protection?
I don’t know that it’s cutting edge, but most of the polo players I’ve known have used polos over open front or brushing boots. There are a number of very tough, ventilated cross country boots that IMO probably do a better job, but they do pretty much all require more effort fitting wise and they are comparatively pretty expensive.
I like the NEW boots, but you might also check out Dalmar, Premier, Ecogold, Magyk Equipe, Trizone and Nunn Finer.
I just took a quick scroll through the Facebook feed of a friend who plays very competitively on the Texas/Florida/Mid-Atlantic circuits.
Looks like a pretty even split between polo wraps and SMB boots.
I would use Majyk Equipe. I would give them a call.
I play polocrosse and we often use the SMB boots and polo wraps. SMB boots are often quick and easy, however they are much shorter on the horses leg and leave the upper part of the cannon bone exposed. For competition and intense practices I always use polo wraps (the fluffier the better) and recently bought the Eskadron Climattex Liners for added protection and better heat elimination. Others use wool liners and some use the open front boots over top of the polo wraps for added protection.
The key with polocrosse and polo is to support the horse’s legs, but mainly to protect them from blows from the ball or racquets. This is why boots are made for particular disciplines. Obviously jumpers don’t do sliding stops like reiners, hence a different design.
[QUOTE=GoForAGallop;8629145]
I just took a quick scroll through the Facebook feed of a friend who plays very competitively on the Texas/Florida/Mid-Atlantic circuits.
Looks like a pretty even split between polo wraps and SMB boots.[/QUOTE]
Yes, that’s what most everyone uses that I have seen–either polo wraps or the SMB boots-- whichever is clean/dry, interchangeably.
I would definitely not put a neoprene boot on for polo. The horse’s legs get extremely hot in polo, especially if wrapped underneath a neoprene boot. Excessive heating of tendons is the #1 reason for tendon damage so I would avoid neoprene at all costs. Try the breathable types or open front shell boots before a neoprene boot. JMHO
In my neck of the woods we usually do polo wraps and then put a racing boot like these on top: http://www.thepoloshop.co.uk/open-tendon-boots/ and then slap some bell boots on the front. Some people do just polos, but the Velcro variety are largely avoided by all but the laziest beginners. They just won’t protect/mold to your horse’s legs as well as a good old fashioned wrap.
The open front splint boots that fit over wraps aren’t easy to find in America for some reason. You’re better off looking for them on British/Argentine polo tack sites.
By submitting your email, you agree to our Terms of Service and Privacy Policy. You may also receive promotional emails from The Chronicle of the Horse. You can opt out at any time.
For Customers
Company
Terms of Use
