What Are Splint Boots on Horses Used For?

Horses need boots, especially working or event horses. Splint boots protect horses from injuring the splint bones and canon bones on their front forelegs when striking them with the opposite foreleg or hoof. Although a precautionary measure for activities such as such as barrel racing, roping and cutting, splint boots are also used in training, exercising, jumping and bush riding.

Types of Splint Boots
- Covering the inner part of the the leg from just below the knee to the ankle, splint boots are made from a variety of materials, from traditional leather to high-tech composite materials such as neoprene.
  
  Linings range from natural fleece to nylon, and fasten with buckles, snaps and Velcro. Boots made from high-tech materials cost more, but are easier to apply, remove and clean.
The Proper Fit
- Boot linings must be smooth, clean and free of grit to ensure your horse is comfortable. Apply boots properly so as not to damage the horse. If too tight, they will cut off circulation to the foot, while a loose boot can slip and impede the foot, leading to a fall. Ensure the fastener pressure is equal along both legs, with no tight or loose spots to rub or bind.
Boot Mainenance
- The more high-tech the splint boots, the faster and easier to clean. Leather-and-strap boots may need scrubbing with saddle soap and a soft brush and then they can be laid out to dry in a cool barn or cellar. Neoprene and Velcro boots can be hosed off and laid out or hung on a line in the sun to dry. They can even be put in a clothes dryer.
Other Splint Boot Uses and Tips
- Splint boots serve a cosmetic purpose by protecting show or sale horses. Boots may also be placed on horses in the field to protect them if they get overly excited.
  
  A young or unfit horse that may step on itself, or horses subject to intense work that may stumble if tired, will benefit from splint boots. Splint boots do not provide tendon support. For that kind of support, use polo wraps.