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Faqs
What are bell boots and what purpose do they serve?
Bell boots, also called overreach boots, cover the front feet from the pastern, over the coronary band and hoof wall, down to the heel. They protect the horse’s front feet from being struck by the hind feet when a horse overreaches, helping prevent injuries and damage to shoes.
Why might my horse need bell boots?
Bell boots help prevent:
- Injuries to the heel bulbs or coronary band
- Pulled or loose shoes
- Scrapes, bruises, or marks on the heels or pasterns
They are particularly helpful for horses prone to losing shoes or showing interference marks on their front feet.
When should bell boots be worn?
Bell boots are useful during:
- Riding and turnout
- Jumping and lunging sessions
- Trailering or shipping when bandages don’t cover the pasterns
- Horses with horseshoe studs
- Corrective shoeing or specialized hoof care situations
What’s the difference between pull-on and open bell boots?
- Pull-on bell boots provide maximum protection and stability because there’s no opening. They’re popular for jumping but can be harder to put on.
- Open bell boots fasten with hook-and-loop closures, making them easier to use. Ensure the ends meet completely and keep fasteners clean to prevent slipping.
What are no-turn bell boots?
No-turn boots are designed to stay in place during movement, reducing rotation on the hoof. These are ideal for sensitive horses or high-intensity activities. Examples include Professional’s Choice Ballistic Overreach Boots and Acavallo No-Turn Bell Boots.
What materials are bell boots made from?
Common bell boot materials include:
- Gum rubber: Lightweight, flexible, usually pull-on; can be softened in warm water for easier fitting
- Rubber: Durable and heavier, available in open or closed styles; fleece-lined options add comfort
- PVC: Sturdy, molded, often with double-lock closures
- Nylon: Lightweight, durable, often used in no-turn boots
- Neoprene: Flexible, resilient, and soft on the horse’s skin
- Open-cell foam: Lightweight, breathable, and absorbs shock
- Carbon fiber/Kevlar: Strong yet lightweight, ideal for horses doing intense jumping
How should bell boots fit?
Properly fitted bell boots should:
- Just touch the ground at the back when the horse is standing
- Leave one to two fingers of space between the top rim and the pastern
What happens if bell boots are the wrong size?
- Too large: May cause stumbling or interfere with movement
- Too small: Can rub, cause abrasions, or fail to protect the heel and shoe
How can I prevent bell boots from rubbing?
- Brush dirt and debris off the hoof wall and pastern before applying boots
- Remove bell boots after riding, turnout, lunging, or shipping
- Regularly clean the inside and top edges, and check for tears or rough spots that could cause friction
Will bell boots bother my horse?
Most horses tolerate bell boots well, as they can rotate slightly without causing discomfort. For sensitive horses or intense activity, no-turn designs offer additional stability and comfort.
