Education Zone

Why your warm-up matters just as much as your horse’s Horse riders are generally very good at thinking about their horse’s preparation — warming up slowly, managing workload, and being mindful of conditions. But one thing is often overlooked: the rider’s body. As a Chartered Veterinary Physiotherapist working in both human and equine medicine, Hannah Donnelly regularly sees the impact that rider stiffness, asymmetry, and fatigue can have on a horse’s way of going. “Most of us arrive at the yard straight from work. Many riders have office-based jobs that involve long periods of sitting, which can leave hips, backs, and shoulders stiff before we even get on.” When a rider’s body isn’t prepared, it doesn’t just affect comfort - it can directly influence the horse. How rider stiffness affects your horse Research has shown that rider asymmetry and stiffness can alter a horse’s movement, including changes to stride, balance, and the range of motion through the back. Studies have demonstrated that induced rider asymmetry can significantly affect equine locomotion and thoracolumbar range of motion when ridden (MacKechnieGuire et al., 2020).  The horse may: Struggle to move evenly Find bending more difficult on one rein Compensate through different areas of the body Over time, this can place additional strain on the horse - particularly when work is increasing or conditions are more demanding. Why a rider warm-up doesn’t need to be complicated A warm-up for riders isn’t about stretching for long periods or doing anything strenuous. Instead, the aim is to: Increase circulation Gently mobilise joints Prepare commonly tight areas for movement A simple pre-ride warm-up routine Head and neck mobility Why it helps: Reduces neck tension and improves upper body suppleness, helping riders avoid holding stiffness through the reins. Arm circles Why it helps: Warms the shoulders and upper back, encouraging softer, more even contact. Thoracic twists Why it helps: Improves spinal mobility and symmetry through the torso. Hip circles Why it helps: Mobilises the hips — a key area for balance, seat, and effective leg aids. Gentle lunge positions Why it helps: Prepares the hips and thighs for time in the saddle, particularly after sitting during the day. Warming down: helping your body recover Just like horses, riders can experience delayed onset muscle soreness (DOMS) after exercise - especially when returning to riding after a break or increasing workload. Research suggests that warming up can reduce the severity of DOMS, helping muscles cope better with exercise (Law & Herbert, 2007). A gentle cool-down after riding can help riders: Reduce post-ride stiffness Maintain mobility Feel more comfortable for the next session Simple post-ride mobility ideas Head and neck stretches Shoulder blade stretch Cat–cow back movement Gentle leg stretches These don’t need to take long - even a few minutes can help maintain mobility over time Consistency over perfection Rider preparation isn’t about being perfect or adding another time-consuming task to your routine. It’s about small, consistent habits that support your body - and in turn, your horse. “Maintaining rider mobility helps support healthy joints, balanced movement, and clearer communication with the horse.” Over time, these small decisions can make riding feel easier, more comfortable, and more consistent. A note on safety If you have any pre-existing injuries, pain, or medical conditions, always seek advice from a qualified physiotherapist or medical professional before starting new exercises. Written with contributions from:Hannah Donnelly — Chartered Veterinary Physiotherapist (Human & Equine) References:  MacKechnie-Guire, R., MacKechnie-Guire, E., Fairfax, V., Fisher, M., Hargreaves, S. and Pfau, T. (2020)The effect that induced rider asymmetry has on equine locomotion and the range of motion of the thoracolumbar spine when ridden in rising trot.Journal of Equine Veterinary Science, 88, 102946. Law, R.Y.W. and Herbert, R.D. (2007)Warm-up reduces delayed-onset muscle soreness but cool-down does not: a randomised controlled trial.Australian Journal of Physiotherapy, 53(2), pp. 91–95.https://doi.org/10.1016/S0004-9514(07)70041-7  

How long should a warm-up take? Veterinary physiotherapists share evidence-led advice for warming up and cooling down horses safely, and some advice for you too! 

Over the past few years, the equine world has seen a huge increase in the number of horse boots and leg protection products available. With so much choice, it can be difficult to know where to start. Sometimes, it is best to go back to basics, and when it comes to everyday leg protection, the unassuming brushing boot is a popular place to begin. In this guide, we answer some of the most frequently asked questions about brushing boots for horses, including what they are used for, how they should fit and what to look for when choosing the right pair for your horse or pony. What is a brushing boot? Brushing boots (traditionally referred to as splint boots) are protective horse boots designed to cover the lower leg, particularly the cannon bone and fetlock area. They are commonly used during everyday riding, schooling, hacking and other activities where the horse may knock one leg against the other. Modern brushing boots are made from a range of lightweight synthetic materials. What Are Brushing Boots Used For? Brushing Boots are a popular choice of boot to protect the horse’s lower leg during exercise from ‘brushing’ injuries. These are injuries that may occur if one leg, or hoof, strikes the opposite leg. They are commonly used to protect from minor scrapes or injuries during: Schooling and flatwork Hacking Lunging Jumping at lower levels General everyday exercise Turnout Does My Horse Need Brushing Boots? Most ridden horses are likely to need some form of leg protection at some point, and if you are unsure which type of horse boot is most suitable, brushing boots can be a good place to start. Often regarded as one of the most versatile types of horse boots, they are a staple piece of equipment for many horse owners. Brushing boots are designed to help protect the lower leg from knocks and brushing injuries, while also providing light compression around the cannon bone, which can give a supportive feel for some horses and reassurance for the rider. Modern brushing boots are typically lightweight, durable and practical for everyday use, making them a popular choice for schooling, hacking and general exercise. Some styles are also suitable for turnout, offering a lightweight and comfortable option for longer periods of wear. What Size Brushing Boots Does My Horse Need? Choosing the right size brushing boots is important for both comfort and protection. A boot that is too large may slip or twist, while one that is too small may feel restrictive or sit incorrectly on the leg. Whilst sizing of brushing boots is likely to vary from brand to brand, there are a few key features you can look out for to make sure you have the best size and fit for your horse: Check the manufacturer’s size guide, as sizing can vary between brands and styles. Measure your horse’s leg if measurements are provided rather than relying only on pony, cob or full sizing. Make sure the boot gives appropriate coverage of the lower leg without interfering with the knee, hock or fetlock. Check that the fastenings sit securely without needing to be pulled excessively tight. Remember that some horses may need a different size on the front and hind legs. Once fitted, the brushing boots should sit securely and comfortably without slipping, twisting or restricting movement. What if a brushing boot is not enough? For many horses in low to mid-level work, a set of brushing boots provides ample protection for everyday knocks and scrapes. For higher impact disciplines or horses who need more protection, you may wish to look for a boot that has additional areas of strike protection, like the Tri-Zone All Sports Boots or Impact Sports Boots. Read our guide to choosing the right Tri-Zone boot for your horse to compare Brushing Boots, All Sports Boots, Impact Sports Boots and Tendon Boots. So what’s the verdict? The right brushing boots should offer the protection your horse needs while remaining comfortable, lightweight and secure during exercise. Fit, strike protection, breathability and the type of work your horse is doing should all influence your choice. For everyday riding, brushing boots can be a practical and versatile option, while horses doing higher-impact work may benefit from a more protective sports boot.

When considering boots for our horses, whether they are tendon boots, brushing boots, schooling boots or cross country boots, most horse owners are now aware that the ‘modern’ horse boot should be breathable, but do we really understand the importance of choosing a breathable boot for our horses? Firstly we must consider the horse’s leg. The horse’s leg is made of many bones, joints and muscles with a complex structure of tendons and ligaments that support the weight of the horse’s body. Because of the workload often put upon them, tendons and ligaments are frequent sites of injury and disease. What is heat in the leg? As tendons and ligaments continually extend and contract to allow the horse to move, they create heat as a ‘by-product’. This is a natural process. However by design, horses tendons operate near failure limits when exercising – there’s a fine balance! Temperature and Tendon Damage Work by Alan Wilson and Allen Goodship (1994) at the University of Bristol showed that the temperature inside the tendons of horses galloping without boots on could reach 45°C. This is only second highest to muscle temperatures. The tendon temperatures are very high not only because of heat production within the tendons, but because they have a relatively poor blood supply, which in any other tissue would help remove heat. Are these Temperatures of Concern? In 1997 the same group published the results of a scientific study in which they showed that isolated tendon cells in culture were sensitive to heating. When the tendon cells were heated for 10 minutes at 45°C, around 10% died, but when they were heated to 48°C for 10 minutes then around 80% died. These results were also confirmed by a more recent study of equine tendon cells in Japan (Hosaka et al. 2006). This study also showed that the higher the temperature, the more tendon cells that died and that inflammatory mediators were released after heating. Inflammatory mediators are chemicals and hormones within the body that cause inflammation (heat, swelling, pain) and tissue damage. If tendon core (central) temperatures can reach 45°C during a few minutes galloping without boots, it is almost certain that they will get even hotter when boots are being worn. What happens when you use boots on your horses legs? The fact that the lower leg gets hot during exercise and even hotter when boots are used presents another potential problem: sweating. When boots are removed the leg underneath is often wet from sweat. When skin is in contact with moisture for a long time it becomes hyper-hydrated; this is the effect you see if you stay in the bath for too long. Wet skin cannot “breathe” normally, and it becomes more permeable allowing greater absorption of anything on the skin. Wet skin is also more susceptible to mechanical damage, with an increased risk of abrasions and grazing. Finally, wet skin is also more susceptible to bacterial or fungal attack and hence a potentially increased risk of conditions such as mud fever, caused by the bacterium Dermatophilus congolensis. Considerations: Many boots claim to be breathable, however some boots are more breathable than others. Materials and Boot Structure You may like to ask yourself, do the boots you currently use leave your horse’s legs hot after exercise, are the legs sweaty? Look closely at the materials used next to your horse’s skin. Consider the thickness and padding around the leg. Do they look well ventilated? How do they allow the heat to escape from the leg? Do they have a hard outer shell or rigid panels that cover a large area? You might want to do some research on the materials used within the boot you are using too!   Choose the Right Boot for the Job Primarily horse boots are worn to protect the horse’s legs from penetration or concussion injuries during exercise or turnout. But do think carefully about wearing the right boot for the activity you are doing. Often a highly protective boot isn’t necessary for low level schooling and will often be bulky and heavy and without allowing the horse’s leg to breathe. Limit Time on the Leg It’s important to make sure boots are used only during the period of actual exercise and not left on for long periods when the horse is not active, especially after exercise. Removing boots soon after exercise and cooling the legs is advisable. Our Standards When developing our Boots, Wraps and Chaps not only do we source advanced technical fabrics with breathable properties, but we actually test these factors in a laboratory. See our Boot Testing Methods. Our Tri-Zone Range features brushing boots, all the way to breathable cross country boots. Tested in an independent laboratory to ensure that they are not only providing lightweight, flexible protection, but that they are also importantly, breathable too! Our Stretch & Flex leg wraps were one of the first ‘breathable boots’ on the market. Made from an actively breathable fabric called Stomatex®, Stretch & Flex are designed to offer comfortable, flexible support for dressage schooling, flatwork and light hacking. Stomatex® is made of a special type of Neoprene which repels external water, while actively pumping moisture away from the skin through tiny pores in the fabric. Originally developed for human athletes, Stomatex® was designed to provide four-way stretch, to enable use around mobile joints, plus excellent support for active limbs, and an outstanding ability to keep the skin dry, so it could be worn comfortably for many hours. Conclusion: It is important to choose boots or bandages that allow a good rate of heat loss, and consider the length of time boots and bandages are worn by the horse. Extracts taken from: The Pros & Cons of Equine Boots by Dr David Marlin www.drdavidmarlin.com

The Tri-Zone Brushing Boots have undergone independent testing with Dr David Marlin to establish exactly how breathable they are, and how this compares to other similar boots on the market. The testing method was designed to measure the amount of moisture escaped from the boot. This was performed in a controlled laboratory environment to eliminate as many variables as possible that can be experienced when testing on a live horse. The Testing Method: A model of a horse’s leg had several holes drilled into it around the tendon area and cannon bone where a boot would usually sit. An inlet for steam was attached to the base of the leg and this was all housed within an acrylic box fitted with temperature and humidity sensors. There were also 2 fans fitted within the box (one at the top and one at the bottom) to ensure air movement. The leg was fitted with the breathable brushing boots, and duct tape applied at the top and bottom to create a good seal. Steam was pumped into the model leg and the rate at which the moisture passed through from the inside of the model leg, through the holes and the boot into the acrylic box was recorded. Figure 1. A = temperature and humidity sensor; B = fan; C = steam inlet; D = plastic leg; E = drain; F = steam generator. This method was then repeated for various types of similar brushing boots so a comparison could be made. The test was also carried out with no boot on the model leg so a ‘best case scenario’ could be compared back to. Results If the test with no boot on the leg allowed 100% moisture release from the leg, all other readings can be compared back to this. The New Breathable Brushing Boot allowed 87% moisture to escape through the boot. The average amount of moisture released from the other 11 boots that were tested was 48%. In conclusion the new Breathable Brushing boot allows 80% more moisture release than other similar boots that were tested. 87/48 = 1.8 = 80%  

Should horse boots be considered as safety equipment? You must have heard of the phrase ‘no hoof, no horse’? Well, this could ring true for a number of other things too, such as their lower legs – one of the most common areas to be damaged or suffer from injury. As riders, we protect our most vital areas (head and torso) with riding hats, body protectors and more recently air jackets. Rider protective equipment is subjected to extensive testing to meet standards and regulations. We believe that protective boots for your horse’s legs should undergo a similar testing process, which is why we send our Tri-Zone Boots to be tested by an independent laboratory, before they go near a horses’ leg. So what features should you be looking for in a pair of boots? The primary function of a boot is protection. There is little evidence to suggest that boots can provide support, although boots are commonly sought out for this use too. The problem is, you can’t tell how protective a boot is, just by simply looking at it. The only way to tell if a boot is protective enough is for it to be tested under controlled conditions, to forces that we can replicate (such as when a horse hits a fence, over reaches or strikes itself with another limb). There are some other factors to be considered too, which can potentially hinder performance or increase the risk of injury. So what other features should be looked at? Flexibility or Stiffness Rigid or inflexible boots have the potential to restrict joint movement, which in return can affect stride characteristics and performance, and possibly even compromise tendon function. Boots need to allow as much freedom of movement as possible while still providing enough protection. Weight and Ability to Hold Water The more weight added to a horse's leg, the more effort the horse will have to use to move that weight - resulting in unnecessary effort and wear and tear. It can also change the way the horse moves too. If the horse is likely to go through water, taking into consideration how much water will be held by the boot, will impact the weight on the horses' leg too. Breathability and Insulation Tendons naturally get warmer through the process of loading and unloading during exercise. The ideal boot would allow this heat to escape, instead of insulating it. It's a fairly well known concept, but also backed by research, that tendons are particularly sensitive to heat, and it can result in tendon damage and/or inflammation. Fit of the Boot The bot should of course be comfortable for the horse too - we know when we wear ill-fitting boots they can not only rub, but also cause you to change the way you move to try avoid the pressure the boot is putting on a certain area. A correct fit will also ensure debris and surface does not get underneath the boot to cause any irritation. Lastly, over-tightening of boots and/or bandages can cause restriction and rubbing too. Our Unique 3-Phase Testing Process Tri-Zone boots go through a 3-phase testing process, giving you the confidence that you are choosing the best leg protection for your horse. Materials are carefully selected to provide maximum protection but without being bulky, heavy and not make your horses legs hot and sweaty. Each individual layer in the Tri-Zone boot is researched and sourced for their advanced technical properties and tested in an independent laboratory before it goes anywhere near a horse's leg! FIND OUT MORE

The Brushing Boot. Usually the first boot you buy for your new horse or pony, and the one that’s probably been around the longest too. Traditionally used to protect the inside of your horse’s cannon bone and fetlock against brushing, these boots are simple to fit, quick to take off and do their job.  But could they be better? Brushing Boot Materials:  Usually made of neoprene, there isn’t much to a brushing boot. There’s normally a strike guard on the inside to protect against brushing (where one leg strikes or ‘brushes’ the inside of the other leg).  Neoprene is generally a non-breathable material with a ‘closed cell structure’. Not only can this cause your horses’ legs and tendons to get hot, but it can also cause them to sweat more, leading to skin and tendon damage (find out why it’s important to keep them cool and dry here).  There are also some horses who are allergic to neoprene. So, for such a commonly used boot used for such a variety of disciplines – why did the industry choose neoprene as a suitable material for horses’ legs?  Although it compromises some vital aspects in horse leg care, the material does offer some benefits too. It generally doesn’t hold water, and it is normally flexible and comfortable for your horse to wear.  Brushing Boot Fit:  While a lot of horses can brush the inside of their legs, the rest of the leg is left vulnerable to overreaching, or potentially even hitting objects. Sometimes if you’re out hacking and need to open a gate your horse may step into it, you may decide to jump a log out in the woods and your horse could misjudge and hit it with the front of its legs. Your horse could slip causing their back legs to go underneath them, so they may want more protection down the back of their legs. Brushing boots provide what they are designed to – protection from brushing! But depending on the horse, the activity, and the circumstance, this isn’t always enough and there’s certainly room for improvement.  What is the answer to a modern-day brushing boot?  There are certain things we expect from a ‘modern’ boot.  Comfortable fit including flexibility while staying light on the horses’ leg. Breathable material to keep the legs cool and sweat free. Protective material to give some cushioning to the leg. Easy to use, maintain and long lasting.  Introducing the Tri-Zone Brushing Boot Expect MORE from a Brushing Boot. More breathable, lightweight and flexible, these boots have tested protection and are the MOST breathable in the Tri-Zone Range. Easy to use and care for, they are ideal for gentle schooling, hacking and turnout!  The Tri-Zone All Sports Boots A small 'step-up' from the Brushing Boot, providing all round tested protection for all disciplines – whether you’re hacking down the road or jumping cross country! With no neoprene, tested for breathability, protection and flexibility, all while remaining lightweight and comfortable for your horse to wear.  Rated 5/5 on Feefo "The Sport Boots have been tested jumping, cross country and on fun rides numerous river crossing where the boots stayed on and felt fantastic. The boots are easy to wash and would highly recommend."

The Tri-Zone range of boots are trusted by owners and riders to offer tested protection for their horse. The Tri-Zone range undergoes independent testing to ensure each boot is up to it's respective job - whether its a Brushing Boot or a boot designed for High Impact. Regardless of the protection level, each boot design is maximised to ensure it remains as breathable, lightweight and flexible as possible to ensure freedom of movement and comfort for your horse.  Read on to see what each boot is suitable for, and which would be best for you. The Tri-Zone Brushing Boot. Expect more from a 'traditional' brushing boot - these boots are the MOST breathable in the Tri-Zone range. Shaped and tested to protect against brushing injuries to the inside of the leg, these boots are ideal for gentle schooling, hacking and turnout for horses at LOW RISK of injury. If your horse is young, a bit 'all legs' or participates in a high impact sport such as cross country or polo, you would want to consider a boot with more protection in terms of a higher level of protection covering more areas of the leg.  The Tri-Zone All Sports Boots. This boot is essentially the ‘step up’ from the Brushing Boot. Well suited to the all rounder who does a bit of everything, but equally the happy hacker who enjoys long or fast rides, or goes through water! The All Sports Boots provide protection to the entire lower leg, including an internal strike guard over the tendon area, all while remaining lightweight, breathable and flexible. These boots are great for cross country, jumping, schooling, hacking or even turnout! Available in multiple sizes, including XXS, Medium Wide and Medium Narrow to fit all varieties of horses and ponies.  The Tri-Zone Impact Sports Boots. If you want maximum protection for your horse, this is the boot for you. While normally recommended for high impact sports such as cross country, polo or racing, if your horse is accident prone, ‘all legs’ or if you’re concerned about them – this boot could certainly work for you. Unlike both the Brushing Boots and All Sports, the Impact Sports Boots have a specific hind boot for maximum coverage. They have a similar make up to the All Sports Boots, but feature thicker material, as well as external strike guards placed in high-risk areas. The Tri-Zone Open Fronted Boots. Essentially an Impact Sports Boot with a open front, these tendon boots provide maximum protection to the tendon area, as well as some protection to the sides of the leg, leaving the front of the leg open and more vulnerable. Commonly used for show jumping but could also be considered for other activities due to the open front nature allowing more air too the leg and the potential to keep it cooler than the Impact Sports Boots. Designed to pair perfectly with the Tri-Zone Fetlock Boots, which have a smooth lining and measurements to comply with governing body requirements*.  Still not sure? Get in touch for personal advice. *Always check with the relevant rule books