What Are the Differences Between Splint Boots & Jumping Boots?

Protective boots can help minimize the severity of major injuries and keep your horse from sustaining minor injuries. Protective boots come in several types and materials. Choosing the right boot is largely a matter of deciding when your horse will use them. A jumping horse has different needs than a standing horse, while splint boots serve an all-purpose function.

  1. Jumping Boots

    • Jumping boots come in both closed and open-front styles. The open-front boot is open in the front of the leg to allow the horse to feel when it hits a pole on a jump, helping it learn to avoid the fence by clearing it. The jumping boot is made of lightweight material that breathes and does not absorb water. Thicker padding is on the inside and back of the leg to protect from leg strikes.

    Splint Boots

    • Splint boots are general purpose boots that protect the legs of a horse. It is an all-around protection with thicker padding on the inside of the leg. Splint boots can be used when jumping, but they do not wick moisture or protect from heat buildup as a jumping boot will. Depending on the material, they might be too soft in the strike areas to protect from injuries caused by hitting jumps.

    Other Boot Types

    • Several types of boots are available for different conditions. Shipping boots are used when shipping the horse to protect the legs as it stands on moving ground. Dressage boots offer light protection and are used in place of polo wraps and designed to be easily cleaned. Support boots are used when the horse has had an injury and needs extra support. Exercise boots have lighter flexible fabric that breathes to prevent heat buildup under the boot as the horse moves.

    How to Use Boots

    • Choose the correct boot size. Use the horse's height, weight, breed and distance around the leg to pick the size. Check the length. The boot should cover the leg but not reach the knee or hinder movement. Groom the horse and clean the boots before placing them on the horse. Dirt or grit will rub and cause sores. Fasten the boots securely with the same tension on each strap, but don't over-tighten. You should be able to get a finger between the boot and the leg. Remove the boots as soon as you can. Don't leave them on much longer than two hours.