Turnout chaps when it's warm!

[varietymix_123]

Just wondered if I could get some advice on using turnout chaps on my thoroughbred when he is out during the day. He is accident prone like you wouldn't believe - manages to get cuts on his legs regularly in the field and being a sensitive thoroughbred, they get infected and swell up - more vets bills. He's out with several other horses who don't have this problem so there is nothing dangerous in the field!

So - I want to try putting turnout chaps on him but hear that they can get pretty sweaty when it's warm - anyone have any suggestions? I know the close-contact chaps are more breathable but how much injury protection do they give?

Thank you!

 

[Nocturnal]

My accident prone TB goes out during the day with chaps on. I use the Equilibrium Hardy Chaps. They protect his legs a treat, and so far he has not sweated in them. I guess the true test will come now that it's much warmer, though.

They need to be cleaned regularly (at least once a week), so it's worth getting 2 pairs so you're not panicking, trying to get them dry overnight.

 

[MissMincePie&Brandy]

I have to turn my TB out with boots on too. I spoke to the vet about this, as I was worried too. He said that obviously the tendons will become hotter, which over a prolonged period isn't ideal. However if the horse is just grazing and not doing much else, then no harm is likely to occur to them. You also have to weigh up the risk of turning him out without boots to keep his legs cool compared to the risk of injury . My horse is injures himself frequently, and sometimes quite badly if I don't use boots, so it's definitely not an option for me.

I have two sets of lightweight boots that I can rotate, as I wash them every couple of days.

I havn't been able to find any properly breathable boots, but if anyone knows of any let me know!