How to Measure a Horse for Easy Boots

While many people assume that all horses need to wear shoes, this is not necessarily the case. Many horses benefit from going barefoot, with fewer hoof problems and better soundness. But even horses who do well bareback need protection from common trail hazards like sharp stones and rocks. Easyboots provide an excellent alternative to shoes for trail riding horses, allowing riders to put the boots on before they hit the trail and then remove them when they return to the barn.

Things You'll Need

  • Tape measure
  • Hoof pick
  • Hoof brush
  • Warm water
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Instructions

    • 1

      Lift your horse's foot and place it between your legs. Position the hoof so that the bottom is facing you.

    • 2

      Clean the hoof thoroughly. If the hoof is not properly cleaned you may not get an accurate measurement. Use a hoof pick to remove any caked in dirt, then brush the rest of the dirt away with a hoof brush. If the hoof is still dirty dip a cloth in some warm water and wash the hoof thoroughly.

    • 3

      Measure the width of the hoof at its widest point using a soft tape measure. The type of tape measure used by tailors works best. Write down the width of the horse's hoof.

    • 4

      Measure the length of the horse's hoof by placing the tape measure at the front of the hoof and measuring the distance to the buttress of the heel. Write that measurement down as well.

    • 5

      Compare the measurements you have taken to the Eastboots sizing chart (see References below for link to a printable size chart) and purchase the appropriate size.