Which protective fetlock boots to buy please?

[billylula]

We have a 14.2 pony currently on box rest but seems a lot better. When we eventually get back to jumping him I think he should have some protective boots (hes lame behind at the moment and we think he clonked himself out hunting). I have googled and am completely confused as to which to get! She hunts and does xc as well as sj and pony club. Someone has recommended Clarendon boots?

 

[becca1305]

I'm personally not a fan of Clarendon boots. I do still see them out on the hunting field on a few horses, but IMO there are much better more modern boots that I'd choose to use. See thread : http://www.horseandhound.co.uk/forums/showthread.php?112543-Clarendon-boots
I see a couple of people using showjumping fetlock boots out hunting (eskadron ones) and they seem to get on okay with them, but it just depends on how much protection you want to the front and inside of leg, if he is lame from clonking himself I would think you would ideally want more protection. I use a pair of well fitting brushing boots on hinds for hunting, and eskadron xc boots on fronts (which I really rate - do the job and last years). If you want a set of boots that suit all the disciplines you mentioned above, then personally I'd try a set of premier equine KK3 xc boots (fronts & hinds) - http://www.premierequine.co.uk/PBSCCatalog.asp?CatID=2015813 shown at the bottom of this page. I have the air cooled model by them and think they are fantastic, but would choose the ones without air holes for hunting as I'd be concerned the holes may allow twigs/splinters/ thorns through. Obviously the most important thing however is that the boots fit well . Ideally I would also buy a pair of tendon boots (and fetlocks if required) for showjumping as sometimes having boots that protect the front of the legs (preferable for jumping fixed obstacles) can make them get a little careless over knock down poles. Hope that helps a bit .

 

[Exploding Chestnuts]

One main reason why most hunters are un-booted is that mud gets under them and causes rubs, for this reason, I would think about the short boots eg by tri-zone,
http://www.ebay.co.uk/bhp/tri-zone-horse-boots
I have a pair,they are good quality, stay in place, and I think they might be less inclined to retain mud, the lining is ribbed material rather than neoprene.
White would certainly look smart ..... but for how long!