Sliders and Snow (preparing for the coming weather)

[UrbanHennery]

This is the first winter that I’ll be keeping my reiner (in sliders) at home. He’s got a stall and an attached gravel paddock that’s mostly level (and access to the pasture for most of the day during the drier summer months). He’s had 24/7 in and out access all summer but will be moving to 12 out and 12 in this winter (the rain is miserable).

We usually get at least a few days of snow every year. I can plan to just keep him in, but it makes him a bit nutty. I’d like to be able to turn out for at least long enough for him to stretch his legs with his mini girlfriend while I clean stalls.

Anyone used a boot of any sort over sliders? He’s in full size plates. I like the looks of these:

Homepage | Hoof Wraps Brand

and have to assume that they’d hold up okay for a winter.

Other suggestions?

[SuckerForHorses]

Those are just nylon, I’m not sure they would hold up very well.

Why not try a trail riding boot in a size big enough to accomodate the sliders? I went to a reining clinic last spring, and the guy who owned the place participated with his stallion who was in sliders. He had I think Easy Boot Gloves on the hinds when walking from the barn to the indoor. I can’t see why those wouldn’t work, they stay on for riding.

[aktill]

The Easyboot series in particular is designed to be able to go over a shoe if sized appropriately, whereas some of the more therapy-oriented boots like you linked to would be trashed quite quickly.

[UrbanHennery]

Thanks - I’d forgotten all about the Easyboot Trail. Would you plan for boots on all 4 feet? Or just the back? It’s been years since I’ve worried about turnout in snow as everyone living at home has been on the retired list.

[SuckerForHorses]

I would boot just the backs.

Even if he has regular shoes on the front, you said you get snow “at least a few days” - I have had horses in regular shoes all winter with regular snowfall - I’m in Vermont.