Boot fit -- how to confirm they fit correctly?

[cyberbay]

I have a horse in the barn that needs hoof boots in front for turnout and riding.

When I put them on, it can take a few attempts per boot to really drag/shove it on to the hoof. These are Easy Boots that close with a Velcro strap across the face of the Pasternak. They look like horsie Mary Janes.

The owner rasps her frequently. But, I am often concerned about fit:

1. should a boot, when being removed, simply peel off easily, or should it come off only with some genuine tugging?
2. how to be reassured that the boot isn’t pinching/compressing the vulnerable heels of the hoof? I keep making comparisons to a human shoe – you can always shove your foot into a too-small shoe, so how do I know I am not doing something similar to the horse?

I am sure that these are old-as-the-hills questions, so please direct me to a thread if that is more appropriate. Thanks very much!

[gothedistance]

If the boot you are talking about is the Glove, then it needs to be snug because it encompasses the entire hoof. It will take a bit of effort not only to put it on, but take it off as well.

Renegades, because they are made differently (heel capture is separate from boot sides and sole) are very easy to put on and take off.

Every boot manufacturer website has a page (or two) that details how the boot should fit the hoof. You should check out the boot installation pages on EasyCare, Inc website. They will give you the proper answer for the type of boots the horse is wearing.

[whichchick]

If you mean Easyboot Epics, their web site has some decent information and a video.

https://www.easycareinc.com/Our_Boots/easyboot_epics/epics_fitting.aspx