Sport Boots Vs. Polo Wraps- Pros & Cons
We all want to protect our horse’s legs during their workout, but what is the right option for your horse? There are differences between sports boots and polo wraps in how they are put on, sizing, and cost. We’ve covered some elements you should consider when buying leg protection for your horse.
What are sports boots?
Sport boots are rugged protective boots for your horse’s lower leg. They prevent injuries from trauma with other legs or objects and reduce impact when your horse is walking on harder terrain. Sport boots also protect the tendons and muscles of the lower leg by absorbing shock when a horse’s hoof hits the ground.
They are versatile boots for training, flatwork, lunging, or trail rides, but not turnout. While protection during turnout sounds good, especially for accident-prone horses, sports boots will trap dirt and debris and can cause irritation and infection if the skin is broken.
Sport boots are available in many sizes. Sport boot fit is just as important as your saddle or bridle fit. You want the boot to fit snugly without being able to move or twist but not be pinching anywhere because it’s too tight.
One of the most significant benefits of sports boots is they are easy to use and fast to put on. Most sports boots have two or three velcro straps and are contoured to help with placement. Ensure your horse’s legs are clean and dry before wearing sports boots. The tight fit can easily result in irritation from trapped dirt. Sports boots can range in cost and do require an up-front investment. They do tend to last quite a while with proper care.
The following are some of our top selling sport boots, or you can browse everything we have HERE.
> Catago Diamond Sport Boots <
> Veredus TRC Vento Front Sport Boot <
What are polo wraps?
The primary function of polo wraps is to support the ligaments and tendons on the horse’s lower legs. When wrapped correctly, the wraps help hold ligaments properly on the leg. This helps to prevent injury during strenuous workouts and while a horse is still working on developing strength in training.
Polo wraps do take a little time to learn how to wrap correctly, and your horse may need some lessons in patience while you practice. Improperly wrapped polos can cause damage to your horse’s legs. If you are unsure how to wrap a polo, ask your trainer or veterinarian to guide you.
A nice benefit of polo wraps is that one size fits most! Of course, you will have different sizes for ponies, but you will not have the same "sizing hunt" that you’ll have with sports boots. Polo wraps are cheaper than sports boots but don’t always last as long.
The following are some of our top selling polo wraps, or you can browse everything we have HERE.
> Ovation Professional Polo Wraps <
> Woof Wear Vision Polo Wrap <
Heat and Leg Protection
Recent studies have shown leg wraps, and sports boots trap heat and increase leg temperature. Long periods of heat exposure can be very detrimental to tendons. Select breathable materials and remove wraps immediately after you’ve finished your workout to allow your horses’ legs to dissipate heat quickly. Cold hosing can also help reduce the leg temperature and is an excellent general care practice after a strenuous workout.