Over Reach Boots

Over reach boots, or bell boots, fit over the horse’s hooves and help to protect the heels from overreach injuries. An “over reach” injury is when the heel of the front foot is struck by the toe of the hind foot and can cause cuts or bruising, particularly if the horse is shod. These types of injuries can take a long time to heal and can cause lameness.

Over reach boots fit around the pastern, covering the hoof and bulb of the heel. They should have approximately 1cm of ground clearance when fitted correctly and should be snug but not too tight, or too loose, as they can spin or rub the pastern area. Over reach boots can be used during exercise and while the horse is turned out: as well as preventing injuries, they can also help if the horse is prone to loosing/pulling off shoes!