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."