Selling hoof boots for barefoot horses – part 2

Here is part two of our advice on retailing hoof boots -

Retailers should always emphasise the importance of three elements that the barefoot horse requires, when recommending hoof boots for barefoot horses: A good, regular trimming schedule. A good diet based on food the horse’s body evolved to thrive on. Exercise, including encouraging natural movement in the field and little or no confinement. The following tips will also help you provide the best service to customers - Most horses will measure round or slightly longer than wide. If a customer’s measurements indicate a wider than long hoof or a very long narrow hoof, seek advice from the distributor or manufacturer; supplying pictures of the hooves from the customer will help. There are two main boot categories; above and below the hairline. (Soft ‘gaiter’ style fixings are not included in this description, so boots such as Easyboot Epic or Renegades are regarded as fitting ’below’ the hairline). Below hairline boots are generally the most suitable for competitive or long distance use, but are also generally the most sensitive to incorrect sizing and fitting. Boots that are one-piece and cover the coronet band, such as Old Mac G2, Easyboot Trail or Swiss horse boots, are generally easier to size and are more tolerant to slight size inaccuracies. Stock boots that will enable customers to get a really close fit. A good hoof boot will be made of modern materials, with a sole made from a plastic/ rubber composite, to give good grip and durability. The upper should be soft above the hair line, but the main shell may be made of a strong flexible plastic / rubber, similar to the boot’s sole around the hoof capsule. Metal should not be used other than for fixings or fastening, and should not be in contact with the horses hoof. Visit http://www.trelawneequine.co.uk for info.