I want something I can pop on if mare loses a shoe. I used to have Easy boot epics but I hated the cable system. Plus if on front and we gallop she pulled them off (I know- don’t gallop. But she’s an OTTB).
Considering the renegades. Now it looks like there are two models classic and viper. Whats the difference? Any comments on the renegades or other boots that could work when I need a “spare tire?”
Thanks in advance.
Look up a YouTube video called Renegade Viper Hoof Boots review from a poster Adeline Gibson, an Australian.
I think, she does a good job at comparing the original and the Viper model.
I use Vipers and really like them. They have more aggressive thread and are more sleek in design. My horse overreaches, so I need as little bulk as possible.
Even with these, he knocks and twists one of them at lengthened trot or gallop sometimes. Still, Vipers are the only boots that stay on (I developed a feel for when he knocks and twists it, so I get off and adjust).
If you choose Vipers, read at their website or talk to them. They run tight and you might want to buy little bigger than what you measure.
I have been using Cavallo Simple boots for years and gave been very pleased. I ride in rougher terrain- hills, rocks, mud, deep water crossings. I have yet to have one come off, even in deep, deep mud. I actually just picked up a pair of Cavallo Treks a couple weeks ago and they have done just as well as the Simple boots.
A woman in our riding group has used Renegades and is actually moving away from using them as they seem to slip and turn frequently. I don’t think I have been with her on a ride yet when they have not slipped and turned.
My horse wears Renegade Vipers on the front and Scoot Boots (a relatively new product) on the back.
The Renegades are kinda complicated, and it took a few tries to get the sizing right. Now that they fit properly, though, we have never had a single problem (300 or so miles and going strong).
The Scoot Boots on the back are my favorite thing. They’re lightweight, simple, easy to put on and take off, and have fantastic drainage. We’ve had a few issues with straps coming unscrewed (use locktite!), but the boots themselves have never even threatened to come off. They have just now worn through — same mileage as the Renegades, over very rocky trails, but they are a little thinner in the soles. I will be replacing them with more of the same, and plan to buy a pair for the fronts when the Renegades wear out.
If you just want an uncomplicated “spare tire,” the Scoot Boots are simpler and more lightweight. Slightly cheaper, too. I like both boots, though, and every horse is a little different. You may have to experiment some.
Take a look at Easyboot Gloves. I hated the Epic wire system, but have found the Gloves (the ones with gaiters) to be very satisfactory. Fitting is fairly precise, so if you want to explore them, do the fit kit first.
Per my former barefoot trimmer, the easy boot gloves don’t work for my mare. I agree the epics just suck though- the wire system is the problem.
[QUOTE=surgicalstainless;8732911]
If you just want an uncomplicated “spare tire,” the Scoot Boots are simpler and more lightweight. Slightly cheaper, too. I like both boots, though, and every horse is a little different. You may have to experiment some.[/QUOTE]
Unfortunately, per the scoot boot website a these aren’t suitable as a spare tire for a shod horse due to the differences in a barefoot vs shod hoof.
[QUOTE=Mukluk;8733188]
Per my former barefoot trimmer, the easy boot gloves don’t work for my mare.[/QUOTE]
Do you know why? Just curious–
I think a lot of it depends on the shape of your horse’s hoof… I absolutely swear by Cavallos for my OTTB, but they don’t work for my friend’s OTTB at all, even though she’s sized them appropriately.
With that being said, I do have two pairs of Cavallos for mine… depending on where he’s at in his trim cycle, he’s either a size 2 or a size 3.
I’ve been using Easy Boot Gloves on my OTTB, fronts only, for the last three years. Granted I do some extra things to make sure they don’t come off. My farrier taught me the trick of using sports tape, the kind you can get in the gym/work out sections of stores like Target and Walmart. I wind a time or two around the top of the hoof and just below the bulbs of the hoof. This creates enough stick/friction that even when jumping or going through deep mud the boots don’t come off.
I’ve only ever had them come off twice, always the right foot since that’s his smaller, clubbier foot. Both times I had run out of tape for the right foot. I also wrap some electrical tape around the outside, over the straps as an extra precaution. So far the boots haven’t come off.
For spare tires my OTTB has Cavallo Simple boots.
He has two pairs, one sized larger than the other because he’s only shod in front. We use it when he has an abscess. The boot keeps his foot firmly packed while he’s turned out.
When he loses a shoe, we put it on so he can still get worked until the farrier comes.
I also use the Cavallo Simple boots for my horse when needed. They stay on great!
[QUOTE=monstrpony;8733300]
Do you know why? Just curious–[/QUOTE]
I can’t recall other than it had to do with the shape of her hoof.
Late to the party, but I have to put in a good word for the Cavallos.
My pony is barefoot and she has an old pair of Simple boots for trail riding. Never lost a boot or had a problem with them and we go at all gaits, jump, go through mud, water, etc… though I’m still debating whether the next set should be Cavallo Treks or Scoot Boots, they both look great.
Just today a friend’s horse lost a shoe on a trail ride. We put a spare Cavallo boot on him to get him home since he wasn’t comfortable walking back on pavement/gravel without a shoe, and he did great with it on. He also definitely does not have a good barefoot hoof shape and the boot still worked well for him.
Easyboot gloves need such a precise fit I’m not sure they’d be a good spare tire.
Easyboot Back Country boots are like the Glove but cover the whole hoof. Not as precise of a fit so great for a spare tire.
Cavallo’s. I have the Simple Boots and my OTTB is in them 24/7 right now while he grows more hoof. Had the Easyboot Epics but the wires were a PITA. Love the ease of the Cavallo’s and he is clearly comfortable in them.
Any experience with easy boot Flip Flops?
I’ve had two different farriers recommend me to have Renegades. I’m ordering some soon in case my mare loses her EasyShoes. The measuring can be really confusing, try to find a dealer or farrier in your area that can actually try different sizes on.
A newer boot to the US market out of Australia is the Equine Jogging Shoe.
I have 3 clients transitioning out of shoes and the EJS is making their lives so much easier. Super light, easy to put on/take off, does not rub and easy to clean.
bumping this up, as I bought a pair of Easyboot Trails for my mare. She’s just out in the pasture over night and is having trouble keeping them on. I’m not going to make a decision about changing them out till Monday when (hopefully) she can get her shoes back on. However, if I change them out, it will be for a pair of cavellos next and if those won’t stay on I’ll try some Renegades
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
