Freedom Riding Articles, a.k.a. F.R.A.® takes you for a ride in a world of respect, trust, listening and watching. These four principles form the base when working with your horse. This week's blog will tell you all about the Hoof Boot F.R.A.® Cavallo.
Why use hoof boots?
The hoof boot is relatively unknown in the equestrian industry and more often than not horse owners choose regular horse shoeing instead. However, just because this is familiar it may not be the recommended solution for your horse. Here's why switching to hoof boots might be a good alternative: the hoofs are the corner stone your horse relies on. Hoofs endure immense pressure especially when galloping or jumping. In such cases hoof boots will function as shock absorbers whilst horse shoes simply don't, because the hoof boot's sole is made of high quality thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU). Additionally, the hoof boots don't interfere with the hoof mechanism, because it leaves plenty of room for the hoof to expand and contract and thus ensures proper blood circulation. When using hoof boots you no longer damage the horse's hoof like you would when using horse shoes as nails are a thing of the past. All these things improve the hoof's health and stimulate healthy growth.
Furthermore, the hoof boots are a useful tool in case you wish to transition to riding without any shoeing. By using boots your horse can get used to riding 'barefoot'. The hoof will get stronger and wear less. Of course this is only the case when riding on paved roads on a regular basis.
Almost every horse has a use for hoof boots. It's an excellent alternative for horse's with weak hoofs which crumble easily and will help cure the hoof and alleviate pain. Additionally it'll save you a few trips to the farrier.
Still doubting whether to use hoof boots? Here's an overview of all the advantages:
- Lack of nails prevents crumbling of the hoof wall
- Less (farrier) costs
- Less pressure on the joints thanks to shock absorption
- Not permanent so no need to always wear them
- Less chance of wounding
- Hoof mechanism can do its job freely
- More grip than regular horse shoes
Whilst almost every horse can benefit from hoof boots, it doesn't necessarily mean your horse will too. If your horse drags his feet or if his feet stand close together it might result in extreme wear and tear of the hoof boot, which will only make it a more costly option. 
The F.R.A. Cavallo
The F.R.A Cavallo hoof boots have velcro closures on the front which means they can be fastened in one quick move. The boot has an anatomically correct shape to perfectly fit around the hoof. A heightened inner sole reliefs pressure from the hoof sole. The boot is comfortable and the anatomic shape protects the hoof bulb as well. The top has a foam filled collar for extra comfort.
The hoof boots F.R.A.® Cavallo is relatively light and definitely lighter than a regular horse shoe. When using the right size there is no reason to lose the boot. The boot is also extremely durable, however intensity of use does play a part in this.
The hoof boot is available in several sizes. You can measure your horse's hoof yourself, preferably just after a farrier visit: 
Apart from hoof boots Epplejeck also offers the F.R.A. cavallo pastern wraps. These wraps offer extra protection of the coronet and hoof bulb within the shoe. It's made from super elastic neoprene and high density foam. Another accessory are the gelpads. The F.R.A. Cavallo Gel pads offer extra comfort and can easily be cut to size. The gelpad is shockabsorbin and improves blood circulation whilst preventing fatique.
Are you convinced yet? Shop now: