Hoofware for riding on roads?

[dappleapple]

Hi all,

I regularly ride my horse on roads for long periods, and have 3 concerns about this;

1) His shoes need replacing every 4 weeks lest they become paper-thin.
2) I’m worried about the shards of glass and metal found littered on the roads causing the underside of his hoof harm.
3) Most importantly I’m worried about the stress and strain the impact of the road surfaces will have on his legs.

Can anyone recommend gel inserts, horse boots, shock-absorbing horse shoes etc? What would be the best thing to use?

Thank you!

 

[spookypony]

How long is a "long period"? I ride my barefoot pony on both tarmac and crushed-granite paths with no problems, but have recently bought a pair of Easyboot Gloves for extreme situations. They come recommended by endurance riders, so maybe they (or similar) could help you? I find them very easy to put on and take off.

 

[soloequestrian]

Look at the EasyCare website - they make a large selection of boots and have some helpful fitting advice.

 

[RomneyMarsh]

Hi I have the same problem and have now bought some Cavello boots for my young horse who is just strating out on teh roads. However, my frined uses Old Macs on her boy. I think the Old Macs are a better fit but a bit more expensive.
I will be purchasing Old Macs this winter for my other mare who is currently shod, just to save money. The old Macs have lasted for miles.