As a horse owner, keeping your horse’s hooves safe and sound is a top priority. Bell boots are one of the simplest yet most effective pieces of protective gear you can add to your horse’s wardrobe. Whether you’re riding, turnout, or transporting your horse, bell boots help prevent injuries and keep shoes where they belong.
In this guide, we’ll break down what bell boots are, why and when to use them, the different types available, how to fit them properly, and why Grewal Equestrian Bell Boots are an excellent choice for your equine partner.
What Are Bell Boots?
If you’re new to horse care, you might wonder what exactly bell boots are and why they’re so commonly recommended. Bell boots are protective coverings that fit around the horse’s pastern and cover the coronary band, heel bulbs, and hoof wall down to the heel. Their main purpose is to prevent overreaching—when a horse’s hind foot strikes the back of the front foot. This can cause bruising, cuts, and even lead to pulled-off shoes or lameness.
By providing a protective barrier, bell boots absorb impact and shield sensitive areas from scrapes, shoe damage, and injuries, especially during riding, turnout, or transport.
When and Why Should Your Horse Wear Bell Boots?
Understanding when to use bell boots can help you prevent costly injuries before they happen. Bell boots play a critical role in protecting your horse during everyday activities and more vigorous moments alike.
Injury Prevention
Bell boots help protect your horse from overreaching injuries whether you’re riding, lunging, or turning your horse out. They prevent painful cuts and bruises to the heels and coronary band caused by hind feet hitting the front feet.
Shoe Retention
Horses prone to pulling off shoes benefit greatly from bell boots. The boots shield the back of the shoe, reducing the chance of the shoe getting caught and pulled off.
Turnout Protection
Playful horses or those who tend to roughhouse in the paddock can benefit from bell boots to avoid cuts and abrasions.
Transport Safety
When traveling, bell boots protect hooves from bumps and knocks during loading and unloading.
Recovery Aid
If your horse has sustained an injury to the hoof or coronet band, bell boots provide an extra layer of protection while the area heals.
While bell boots are primarily worn on the front feet, horses that lose hind shoes or develop abrasions can also benefit from wearing them on their hind legs.
Types of Bell Boots
Just like every horse has a unique personality and hoof shape, bell boots come in a variety of styles to suit different needs and preferences. Let’s take a closer look at the most popular types you’ll find, including excellent options from Grewal Equestrian.
Pull-On Bell Boots
If you prefer something simple and durable without hook & loop to clean, pull-on bell boots are a fantastic choice. Made of stretchy rubber, they offer long-lasting protection with minimal fuss. Grewal Equestrian’s Transparent Yellow Pull-On Bell Boots provide just that—a no-hassle solution perfect for everyday use.
Hook & Loop Bell Boots
For convenience and ease of use, many horse owners love hook-and-loop bell boots. These boots are quick to put on and take off, making them perfect for busy barns. We offer Black Ribbed Bell Boots with hook & loop closures that combine security and durability for everyday wear.
No-Turn Bell Boots
Some horses just can’t help but twist their boots while moving. No-turn bell boots feature a special design or knob to prevent spinning and ensure they stay put. Our Black No-Turn Bell Boots are designed for active horses needing a boot that won’t shift during training or turnout.
Fleece-Lined Bell Boots
If your horse has sensitive skin or tends to rub with regular boots, fleece-lined options add an extra layer of comfort. Grewal Equestrian’s Fleece-Lined Bell Boots cushion the pastern area, reducing friction while still providing excellent protection.
How to Choose the Right Bell Boots for Your Horse
With so many options, finding the right bell boots might feel overwhelming at first. But focusing on your horse’s specific needs and your riding habits can simplify the choice.
Consider your horse’s activity level and discipline first. A performance horse in intense training may need heavy-duty no-turn boots, while a pasture pet might do well with simple pull-on styles. Material is another factor; some owners prioritize durability, others look for comfort and ease of cleaning. And finally, size is crucial because boots that fit well protect better and keep your horse comfortable.
Using Grewal Equestrian’s size guide can help you find that perfect fit so your horse stays happy and safe.
How to Fit Bell Boots Correctly
Even the best bell boots won’t work if they’re not fitted right. Getting the fit correct is key to protecting your horse without causing discomfort or sores.
Ideally, the boots should sit snugly but not tightly around the pastern, with about enough space to slip one finger in between. When your horse stands naturally, the back of the boot should almost touch the ground to catch any overreaching footfalls. Avoid boots that are too tight or too loose because tight boots cause rubbing and loose boots may slip or twist.
Regularly check your horse’s legs for any irritation, especially if they wear boots daily or during turnout.
Caring for Your Bell Boots
Like all tack, bell boots need routine care to last and perform well. Dirt, mud, and sweat can accumulate and cause skin issues or reduce the effectiveness of closures like hook & loop.
For pull-on boots, simply turn them inside out and clean them thoroughly, especially underneath. Hook & loop boots benefit from having the closures cleaned and dried to maintain their stickiness. Don’t forget to occasionally remove the boots to air out your horse’s legs and inspect for scratches or sores.
Proper care helps extend the life of your bell boots and keeps your horse comfortable.
Protect Your Horse with the Right Bell Boot
Bell boots are a small investment that can prevent major hoof injuries and save you time and money.
When it comes to reliable, affordable hoof protection, Grewal Equestrian Bell Boots stand out for several reasons. Their products combine durability, comfort, and style without the high price tag.
Made from tough rubber and durable materials, our boots withstand daily wear whether you’re trail riding, schooling, or turning your horse out. The fleece-lined options provide an added level of comfort for sensitive horses. Plus, with styles ranging from pull-on to no-turn hook & loop, you’ll find the right fit for your horse’s unique needs.
Check out the full collection of Grewal Equestrian Bell Boots today and give your horse the protection and comfort they deserve!
