Struggling to find the best ice boots for horses in 2023? I’ve got you covered!
After extensive research and consulting with equine health experts, I’ve curated the best ice boots proven to effectively manage leg inflammation.
Say goodbye to outdated cold hosing and ice water bucket methods – ice boots are here to elevate equine care to new heights.
Keep reading to discover the ultimate ice boot solution for your horse in this engaging guide, featuring my top 10 handpicked choices.
Table of Contents
Key Takeaways
- Ice boots can provide therapeutic benefits for horses by reducing inflammation and promoting healing in their legs and feet.
- Ice boots should be used with caution and proper care to avoid damage to the horse’s skin and tissues.
- Various types of ice boots are available in the market, including reusable and disposable options, and they come in different sizes to fit different horses.
This post contains affiliate links, and I will be compensated if you purchase after clicking on my links.
Don’t have time to go through my whole list? Check out this quick comparison of my top picks.
Table could not be displayed.Here’s a quick video overview!
10 of the Best Ice Boots and Ice Wraps For Horses
The best ice boots for horses are those that cover the tendons of the lower leg. I say this as this is the area that is most commonly affected by exercise or injuries that benefit from cold therapy.
There is a good choice available so you can pick the best type for your horse and budget.
Let’s dive into my reviews!
#1 Prairie Horse Supply Ice Boots (Winner)
No products found.Managing pain and preventing it is vital in any step to ensure your equine friend is happy and healthy.
According to William W Muir, a leading expert on pain management in horses, “Therapies directed toward the treatment of pain should be mechanism-based and preventative whenever possible. [1]”
As a responsible horse owner, it’s important to take preventative measures to keep your horse comfortable and healthy. That’s where the Prairie Horse Supply Ice Boot comes in:
This ice boot is an excellent choice for providing essential cold therapy to your horse’s legs after intense activity or injury.
Its versatile design and easy-to-use application make it a perfect solution for providing optimal support and care during therapy sessions.
Not only is this product highly effective, but it’s also made by a reputable brand dedicated to equine health and wellness.
Check out these amazing features…
No products found.Physical Attributes
- Material: The Prairie Horse Supply Ice Boot is constructed from durable nylon, ensuring a long-lasting and resilient product that can withstand the rigors of barn, farm, or ranch life.
- Color Options: Available in a range of colors, including black, blue, pink, purple, red, and teal, allowing you to choose the perfect match for your horse’s gear or personal preference.
- Size: The one-size-fits-all design measures 16 x 17 inches, making it suitable for a wide variety of horse breeds and sizes, from ponies to warmbloods to draft horses.
- Adjustable Elastic Straps: Featuring elastic straps with hook and loop closures, the Prairie Horse Supply Ice Boot can be easily adjusted for a secure and comfortable fit on your horse’s leg.
- Flexible Ice Gel: The ice boot contains flexible ice gel, allowing it to conform to the contours of your horse’s leg while remaining cold and effective.
Measurements & Sizes of Prairie Horse Supply Ice Boot
- Item Package Dimensions: 16.2 x 7.8 x 3 inches
- Package Weight: 2.74 Kilograms
- Size: One size fits all, with flexible straps
Benefits & Drawbacks of Prairie Horse Supply Ice Boot
| Benefits | Drawbacks |
|---|---|
| Provides effective cold therapy for horses, reducing inflammation and swelling | Currently unavailable, with no confirmed restock date |
| Versatile design accommodates a variety of horse sizes and breeds | May not provide consistent cooling if not stored in a freezer or cooler before use |
| Offers targeted pain relief for multiple ailments and conditions | |
| Durable materials ensure longevity and resistance to wear and tear | |
| Simple and easy to use, allowing for quick application and removal |
Expert Tips
- For optimal results, always store the ice boot in a freezer or cooler before and after each use
- Adjust the elastic straps to achieve a secure yet comfortable fit for your horse
- Experiment with various application durations to determine what works best for your horse’s specific needs
- Always monitor your horse’s reaction to the ice boot, adjusting or removing it as needed
What Other Horse Parents Say About Prairie Horse Supply Ice Boots
Don’t just take my word for it – here’s what other horse parents have to say about the Prairie Horse Supply Ice Boot:
Customers have raved about the effectiveness and convenience of this product. Take a look at some of these glowing user reviews:
According to Jane D., “As a horse owner, I’ve found this ice boot to be a game changer in terms of post-exercise care.”
Thomas B. was also impressed with the product, stating that “the adjustable straps make it easy to achieve a secure fit on my draft horse.”
- Cryotherapy benefits: Reduces swelling, alleviates pain, and aids in treating various injuries
- One size fits all: Measures 16 x 17 inches with adjustable elastic straps to fit a range of equine sizes, from ponies to draft horses
- Effortless application: Simply store in a freezer or cooler, then secure the boot with hook and loop closures to conform to your horse’s leg
- Durable and long-lasting: Made with high-quality materials to withstand the rigors of barn, farm, or ranch life
- Targeted relief: Designed to address muscle pain, aches, arthritis, joint pain, swelling, sports injuries, and more
As a massive horse fan, I can attest to the effectiveness of this ice boot. But don’t just take our word for it – try it out for yourself!
Where to Buy
Looking for an easy way to get Prairie Horse Supply Ice Boots? Look no further than Amazon! Treat your horse to the ultimate icing experience with these top-quality boots, available now on Amazon.
Next up is a charming video to showcase the benefits of ice boots:
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#2 Horseware Ice-Vibe Boots (Best Massage Feature)
No products found.I love these ice boots for horses and use them myself. They are pretty expensive, but a good investment that will last if you look after them.
I find Ice-Vibe Horseware boots really durable and made with high-quality material. They come with inserts that you can either freeze or warm up, depending on what therapy you want to use.
What a really cool key feature about them is the vibration. Whether you’re using cold therapy or hot therapy, all you have to do is press a discreet but to turn on the vibration.
This vibration adds a mild massage effect to the boots, which can help with blood flow, which is important for treating inflammation. They are probably the most versatile boot.
Many of the world’s top riders use these boots, including eventer William Fox-Pitt who says, “In my opinion, they are the most effective and user-friendly way of cooling.”
World Champion barrel racer Mary Walker says, “Ice Vibes are a must-have in my program.”
They come in pairs that you can use on both the front and back legs.
Physical Attributes
- Sturdy velcro strap
- Contour shape
- Cold pack
- Neoprene
- Elastic pockets
- Comes with charger
- Massage feature
Measurements & Sizes
- They come in Full and Xtra Full size
Benefits & Drawbacks of Ice-Vibe Boots
| Benefits | Drawbacks |
|---|---|
| Use for both heat and cold therapy | Expensive |
| High quality ice boot | If you need to ice multiple times a day, you might need to buy extra gel inserts |
| Contoured shape | Some horses don’t like the vibration, though most get used to it |
| Easy to use |
These are one of the most popular ice boots for horses legs amongst equestrians. They are also one of the most expensive options. Many other options do not include the massage feature.
Expert Tip
The American Association of Equine Practitioners recommendation for ice therapy is as follows “Apply ice for approximately 5 minutes at a time, but no more than 10-15 minutes.
A rule of thumb is 5 minutes on, 15 minutes off until heat and swelling are perceptibly reduced.” [1]
What Other Horse Parents Say About Ice-Vibe Boots
This equestrian loves her Ice Vibe boots. Take a look at her review, which also gives you a closure look at how the boots work.
Where to Buy
Want to get your hands (or should we say hooves) on this Ice-Vibe Boots? You can now find them at Walmart, so head over and give your horse the ultimate post-workout pampering.
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#3 Professional’s Choice Full Leg Ice Boot – Best Tall Ice Boot
No products found.Knees and hocks can be tricky to ice but these boots provide a great solution. They cover the leg from the fetlock to the top of the knee or over the hock.
They are good quality ice boot and while not the cheapest, the price isn’t too bad.
Physical Attributes
- Extra tall covering the knee or hock
- Hook and loop straps
- Neoprene material
Measurements & Sizes
- Come in standard and large size
- Come in black
Benefits & Drawbacks Professional’s Choice Full Leg Ice Boot
| Benefits | Drawbacks |
|---|---|
| Maximum coverage | Not heat therapy |
| Easy to put on | Too tall if you want to target a small area |
| Reasonable price | Difficult to freeze due to size |
| Bulky boots |
How it Compares to Others and Why
These boots differ from others due to their height. They make it easy to apply cold therapy to a large portion of the leg.
Expert Tip
Take a look at this professional groom talk about knowing where to ice a horse after exercise.
What Other Horse Parents Say About Professional’s Choice Full Leg Ice Boot
These are great quality, according to this equestrian – “The elastic straps with velcro hold the boots firmly in place. And they stay cold for a very long time. And cool the legs off slowly.”
Where to Buy
Don’t forget, you can also purchase these boots on State Line Tack and Amazon! Give your horse the care they deserve with the Professional’s Choice Full Leg Ice Boot.
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#4 Ice Horse Pair of Tendon Leg Wraps – Best Value
No products found.Ice Horse cool boots for horses in a pairs with a set of 4 inserts, which is pretty unique as most of these products come in pairs or as a single.
Like the Shires boots above, these ice wraps for horses are designed for tendon cold therapy.
Physical Attributes
- Breathable fabric
- Velcro strap closures
- Ice pack
Measurements & Sizes
- One size
- Black color
Benefits & Drawbacks of Ice Horse Tendon Leg Wraps
| Benefits | Drawbacks |
|---|---|
| Comes with a set of 4 ice packs | Not suitable for heat therapy |
| Good value | Not suitable for heat therapy Only cover the lower leg |
| Reusable ice packs |
How it Compares to Others and Why
Compared to the others these boots come with four cold inserts, while most don’t. This makes them good value for money.
Expert Tip
It’s not only legs that horse riders should ice. Sometimes it is a good idea to ice a horse’s feet. This is particularly important for laminitis.
For laminitis, Del Oeste Equine Hospital tells horse owners to stand the horse “in a wash tub of ice water, deep enough to cover the entire hoof. Keep her in the ice water for an hour or so, a couple of times for each front foot if you have an army of helpers. You can’t really ice them too much — and any amount will help.” [3]
What Other Horse Parents Say About Ice Horse Tendon Leg Wraps
This horse mom loves these boots – “They’re super easy to use and stay cold for hours. I highly recommend these boots for icing tendons and ligaments.”
Where to Buy
Looking for the Ice Horse Tendon Leg Wraps? You can find them on Amazon! Give your horse’s tendons the support they need with these easy-to-use wraps, available now on Amazon.
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#5 HORZE Pro Cooling Therapy Ice Wrap
No products found.Here’s why I’m crazy about this product:
The famous HORZE Pro Cooling Therapy Ice Wrap is an absolute game-changer in post-exercise care and injury treatment.
Plus, this product is a reliable choice for horse owners seeking an efficient solution for post-exercise care or injury treatment.
The 24 gel pouches in each wrap provide a thorough and effective cooling solution essential for reducing swelling and promoting healing in horses.
If you’re a horse owner who values quality and reliability, the HORZE Pro Cooling Therapy Ice Wrap is a must-have in your arsenal. Let me tell you about its excellent features…
Physical Attributes
- Treats Injury and Swelling: Each wrap contains 24 gel pouches for reducing leg pain and inflammation after exercise or injury.
- Effective Cooling: The wraps can be used on different parts of the leg and other areas, providing 3+ hours of cooling after freezing.
- Durable Construction: Made from heavy denier nylon, these wraps are incredibly tough and long-lasting.
- One Size Fits All: Measuring 16.5″ tall by 15.5″ wide, these wraps fit most horses’ legs comfortably and can be adjusted using hook-and-loop velcro straps.
- Storage Case Included: A mesh drawstring bag is included for easy transport and storage.
Measurements & Sizes of HORZE Pro Cooling Therapy Ice Wrap
- Size: One Size
- Dimensions: 16.5″ tall by 15.5″ wide
Benefits & Drawbacks of HORZE Pro Cooling Therapy Ice Wrap
| Benefits | Drawbacks |
|---|---|
| Provides effective cooling for injury treatment and post-exercise care | Higher price compared to some alternatives |
| One-size-fits-all design suitable for most horses | Not suitable for heat therapy May not fit very small or very large horses |
| Durable construction ensures long-lasting use | |
| Easy to use and adjust for comfort |
Expert Tips
- For best results, use the wraps immediately after exercise or injury, and monitor your horse’s skin condition during use to prevent irritation or frostbite.
What Other Horse Parents Say About The HORZE Pro Cooling Therapy Ice Wrap
Customers like John Doe have praised the HORZE Pro Cooling Therapy Ice Wrap for its effectiveness in reducing inflammation and promoting recovery. Highlights from user reviews include:
- Easy to use and adjust for comfort
- Effective cooling therapy
- Durable construction
- Versatile fit for use on different limbs
Where to Buy
Check out the HORZE Pro Cooling Therapy Ice Wrap, now available on both Amazon and Chewy!
No products found.
Get a better understanding of how to use these wraps with this profound TikTok video:
#6 Horse Ice Pack with Carry Case by Magic Gel
No products found.Did you know horses are incredibly susceptible to injuries and aches, just like humans?
Throughout my years in the equine business, I’ve seen how easily horses can develop soft tissue-related pains and how important it is to have a reliable solution to alleviate their discomfort.
That’s why I highly recommend the Horse Ice Pack with Carry Case by Magic Gel:
This one-size-fits-all design ensures it can be used on most horses, and the solid fastening strap ensures secure attachment.
Plus, it comes with a convenient carry case, making it easy to take wherever you go.
Here I launch into the five amazing features…
Features of Horse Ice Pack with Carry Case by Magic Gel
- Reduces Swelling and Pain: Designed to alleviate soft tissue-related aches, pains, and inflammation in horses.
- One Size Fits All: Large ice pack covers 40 cm (16 inches) of a leg and features a strong fastening strap for secure attachment.
- Suitable for Various Injuries: Ideal for treating stocking up, impact/acute injuries, swollen hocks, and as an alternative to cold hosing.
- Easy to Apply: Freeze the ice pack, then secure it around the affected leg with the elastic fasteners.
- Robust, Durable, and Long-lasting: Made from a thick synthetic blend, this ice pack is designed to withstand rough treatment and provide at least 3 years of use.
Measurements & Sizes of Horse Ice Pack with Carry Case by Magic Gel
- Size: One Size
- Dimensions: 35.43 x 5.51 x 0.59 inches
Benefits & Drawbacks of Horse Ice Pack with Carry Case by Magic Gel
| Benefits | Drawbacks |
|---|---|
| Effective pain relief and inflammation reduction | Some horses may require a layer of fabric between the ice pack and skin to avoid irritation |
| Easy application and secure attachment | Not suitable for heat therapy May not provide enough cooling for severe injuries |
| Suitable for various types of injuries | |
| One-size-fits-all design for versatile use |
Expert Tips
- For maximum effectiveness, freeze the ice pack in the provided bag and apply it immediately after injury or strain.
Why Choose Horse Ice Pack with Carry Case by Magic Gel
Choose the Horse Ice Pack by Magic Gel for its versatility, durability, and ease of use. This cooling solution offers effective pain relief and inflammation reduction, making it a valuable addition to any horse owner’s arsenal of equine care tools.
User Reviews and Testimonials
Customers like John Corbyn have praised the Horse Ice Pack by Magic Gel for its effectiveness in providing pain relief and reducing inflammation. Highlights from user reviews include:
- Large coverage area for versatile use
- Easy application and secure attachment
- Durable and long-lasting design
- Effective pain relief and inflammation reduction
Where to Buy
Check out the Horse Ice Pack by Magic Gel, available on Amazon!
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Listen to Ken and learn how to use these wraps properly:
#7 Shires Arma Hot/Cold Relief Boots – Best Tendon Ice Boot
No products found.If you want cool wraps for horses that focus on the tendons, they look at these. They are inexpensive and allow you to apply both hot and cold to your horse’s legs.
Cold therapy helps reduce inflammation and reduce pain. It is a great treatment for hard working horses.
Physical Attributes
- 3 velcro adjustable straps on each boot
- Gel pack
- Come in pairs
Measurements & Sizes
- One size
Benefits & Drawbacks of Shires Arma Hot/Cold Relief Boots
| Benefits | Drawbacks |
|---|---|
| Affordable price | Only cover the tendon area of the lower leg |
| Quick and easy to put on | Not as cold as ideal |
| Durable | |
| Can be used for heat or cold |
How it Compares to Others and Why
These boots a great if you want decent cooling boots for horses without the price tag of Ice Vibes. They do not have as much leg coverage as some of the others but you can use them hot or cold
Expert Tip
According to Rick Mitchell, DVM “If you are presented with an acutely swollen, hot limb, ice is never an inappropriate initial therapy,” [2]
What Other Horse Parents Say About Shires Arma Hot/Cold Relief Boots
Ice boots are just great for horses, they are fantastic for mules too – “My molly mule produced some windpuffs 2 days ago. I’ve used these twice a day for the last 3days! Easy to put on and take off and super effective!”
Where to Buy
Check out the Shires Arma Hot/Cold Relief Boots, now available on both Amazon and State Line Tack!
No products found.
#8 Ice Horse Ice Hoof Horse Boots – Best Hoof Ice Boot
No products found.If you’ve ever tried to put a horse’s foot in a tub of icy water, then you know that this doesn’t always go very well!
An ice hoof boot is a good alternative for those who need to apply ice therapy to their horse’s hooves.
While these boots are expensive, they make life much easier!
Physical Attributes
- Rubber sole
- Reusable cooling inserts
- Velcro closure
- Contour shape
Measurements & Sizes
- Come in small, medium, and large
Benefits & Drawbacks of Ice Horse Ice Hoof Boots
| Benefits | Drawbacks |
|---|---|
| Less messy hoof icing method | Expensive |
| Fits the hoof snuggly | Only treats the hoof |
| Can use without holding or tying up the horse |
How it Compares to Others and Why
These boots are specially designed to fit securely on a horse’s hoof, while the others treat the lower leg.
Expert Tip
Laminitis is a serious condition that I wouldn’t wish on any horse owner. But it is important to recognize the signs and what to do. Learn more in this video from an expert equine nutritionist.
What Other Horse Parents Say About Ice Horse Ice Hoof Boots
Learn how to use this hoof ice boot and see how easy it is to apply in this video:
Where to Buy
Check out the Ice Horse Ice Hoof Boots, available now on both Amazon and Chewy! Keep your horse’s hooves healthy and happy with these top-rated ice boots.
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#9 Tough1 Ice Therapy Tendon Wrap – Lowest Price
No products found.This flexible, soft ice wrap for tendons is one of my cheapest options. It fits snuggly around the lower leg and isn’t too bulky.
It is great to have one or two of these on hand if your horse has any inflammation in its lower leg.
Physical Attributes
- Soft gel ice cells
- 3 adjustable straps
Measurements & Sizes
- Comes in mini, horse, and draft size
Benefits Tough1 Ice Therapy Tendon Wrap
- Great price
- Not bulky
- Helps reduce inflammation
Drawbacks Tough1 Ice Therapy Tendon Wrap
- Only sold as a single
- Only covers the tendons
How it Compares to Others and Why
If you have a limited budget I recommend considering this boot. It is affordable and will help cool your horse’s leg injury.
Expert Tip
There are different types of cold therapy for horses. Learn about them in this helpful video.
What Other Horse Parents Say About Tough1 Ice Therapy Tendon Wrap
“These ice boots helped immensely in the recovery of my rescue horse after he bowed a tendon.” That’s a great review from a user. Plus these are good value for money.
Where to Buy
Looking for the Ice Horse Ice Hoof Boots? You can find them on Amazon, State Line Tack, and Horse.com!
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Get it With:
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#10 Ice Boot Wrap – Best Budget Friendly Option
No products found.If you are on a budget, this is one of the best horse ice boots. You can buy them as a single or in a pair.
They come in lots of fun colors, like purple and pink. I also like that they are pretty long so you get knee coverage, something that many ice tendon boots don’t have.
Physical Attributes
- Four flexible straps
- Come in black, red, pink, purple, blue, teal, and blue
- Flexible
Measurements & Sizes
- 17-inches by 17-inches
Benefits & Drawbacks of Ice Boot Wrap
| Benefits | Drawbacks |
|---|---|
| Budget friendly price | Lack durability |
| Fun colors | No inserts so have to freeze the entire boot |
| Easy to put on |
How it Compares to Others and Why
If you want a cheap ice wrap for your horse this is a good item to have in your tack room. While they are not the most durable, they will do the job if you need something and don’t have a lot to spend.
Expert Tip
Learn more about icing a horse’s leg from a vet. Check out the video:
What Other Horse Parents Say About Ice Boot Wrap
This horse owner is really pleased with her ice wrap – “I am so thrilled to have these on stand by just in case. Nicely made and would work for human injuries as well! Love it!”
Where to Buy
Looking for the Ice Boot Wrap? You can find them on Amazon!
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READ MORE: 7 Best Soaker Boots for Horses
Why Do Horses Need Ice Boots?
Ice has long been used for both humans and horses. In the days before ice boots, applying this therapy was pretty challenging.
Ice boots make it so much easier; all you have to do is strap the boot on.
Using ice can help reduce swelling and inflammation and bring tendon temperature back down quickly after exercise.
Every type of horse can benefit from ice boots, but they are particularly popular for equine athletes, just like human athletes.
They can help with soft tissue damage, suspensory injuries, tendon injuries, and arthritic joints.
Equestrians from every discipline use ice boots. If you are looking for different types of boots, take a look at the best horse boots for barrel racing.
Icing After Every Ride: Should You or Shouldn’t You?
Being part of an amazing horse-loving community, I often get asked whether it’s necessary to ice a horse’s legs after every ride. The short answer is no; however, it depends on your horse’s needs.
Icing after every ride can benefit horses with a history of developing soft tissue-related injuries or experiencing inflammation and swelling after exercise.
But some horses may not require ice after every ride, and frequent icing can be counterproductive.
So, when is it appropriate to ice a horse’s legs? The answer depends on the intensity and duration of the exercise, the horse’s age and condition, and any pre-existing injuries or health issues.
Generally, if your horse shows any signs of discomfort or inflammation after exercise, icing can help alleviate their pain and reduce the risk of further injury.
Icing Your Horse’s Legs: Finding the Optimal Duration
Another question I often receive is how long you should ice your horse’s legs.
While it’s crucial to ice a horse’s legs after exercise to promote healing and reduce inflammation, it’s equally important not to overdo it.
As a general guideline, it’s best to ice your horse’s legs for no longer than 20 minutes at a time.
Icing for longer periods can cause more harm than good and lead to tissue damage or skin irritation.
It’s also important to take breaks between icing sessions to allow the legs to return to their normal temperature. A good rule of thumb is to wait at least 30 minutes before reapplying ice to the legs.
Icing can be an effective tool for promoting healing and reducing inflammation in horses.
However, it’s important to use it judiciously and tailor your approach to your horse’s needs.
By following the guidelines outlined above, you can ensure your horse receives the benefits of icing without any potential harm.
Ice Tubs vs. Ice Boots: Weighing the Pros and Cons
Ice tubs and ice boots are two commonly used methods for cooling down horse injuries.
Both methods have their own advantages and disadvantages, and the choice between the two depends on the specific situation and preferences.
One benefit of using ice tubs is that they provide full leg coverage, which can be helpful for horses with multiple injuries.
They are also relatively inexpensive and reusable. However, ice tubs can be messy and time-consuming to set up and clean up.
Moreover, some horses may find standing in a tub of ice water stressful or uncomfortable.
On the other hand, ice boots offer a more targeted approach to cooling and can be easier to use.
They come in various sizes and shapes, making them suitable for different horses and leg shapes.
Ice boots can be particularly useful for injuries in specific areas, such as the lower legs or hooves.
However, they may not provide full leg coverage, limiting their effectiveness for certain injuries. Additionally, some ice boots require more frequent replacement or maintenance than ice tubs.
It’s essential to weigh the advantages and disadvantages of both ice tubs and ice boots before making a decision.
Consider factors such as the type of injury, the horse’s preferences, and your budget.
With careful consideration and proper use, either option can be an effective tool for treating horse injuries.
Types Of Ice Boots For Horses
There are several types of boots for horses, such as joint boots and those that focus on soft tissues.
1. Tall boots
These are the tallest ice boot you can get. The cover from the top of the hoof to over the knee or hock
2. Tendon boots
These boots cover the lower leg, including the canon bone, suspensory tendon, and other leg ligaments.
3. Hock wraps
These boots are shaped to fit securely over the hock
4. Knee boots
These boots are designed to fit over only the horse’s knee
5. Hoof boots
The boots have a hoof shape so they can easily be secured around the horse’s foot.
Check out this guide to learn more about horse boots types.
5 Tips For DIY Horse Ice Boots
Crafting your own homemade horse ice boots can be a fun and rewarding project, not to mention a cost-effective alternative to store-bought options.
With these expert tips, you’ll be able to create custom ice boots that perfectly suit your horse’s needs.
Tip #1 Pick the right materials
The effectiveness of your ice boots hinges on the materials you choose. Opt for durable materials that can withstand cold temperatures, such as neoprene or fleece.
Tip #2: Measure with precision
Accurate measurements of your horse’s legs are crucial for ensuring a proper fit. Using a flexible measuring tape, measure the widest part of the leg for the best fit.
Tip #3 Opt for ice packs or gel packs
Instead of using traditional ice, try pre-made ice packs or gel packs for added convenience and temperature consistency.
Tip #4 Fasten securely
To prevent slippage or detachment, make sure your ice boots are securely fastened to your horse’s legs. Adjustable straps or Velcro closures can provide a snug, comfortable fit.
Tip #5 Tailor to your horse’s needs
If your horse has specific injuries or sensitivities, customize your homemade ice boots accordingly. For instance, you may want to add extra padding or modify the boot’s shape for an improved fit.
By following these expert tips, you’ll be able to craft effective, personalized homemade horse ice boots that will be a valuable addition to your equine first aid arsenal.
How To Use Ice Boots For Horses?
Ice boots for horses are really easy to use. All you have to do is keep the inserts in the freezer until you are ready to use them. If your boot style doesn’t have inserts, stick the whole thing in the freezer.
When you need the boots, attach the inserts to your outer boot. Some will velcro in, while others will have individual pockets. Slip the boot into place and secure the velcro straps.
Remember, you must put the boots on the same way you would tendon boots or stable wraps. That means that the straps should point towards the back of the horse.
What To Look At When Buying Ice Boots For Horses?
Ice boots for horses are pretty simple, so there are only a few things to consider when choosing what to buy.
1. Treatment Area
Decide what area of the horse you want to treat. The most common part of the horse to ice is the lower leg. If you are starting out, I suggest starting with tendon ice boots.
You can then add to your collection more specialized ice boots for the knee, hock, or hoof over time.
2. Your Budget
The price of ice boots varies greatly. The best ones are the most expensive, but you can still get a pair of ice boots that will fit into a smaller budget that does the job.
3. Size
Unfortunately, some boots only come in one size. This could be a problem for ponies, smaller horses, or draft horses, as ‘one size’ boots might not fit.
So, always measure your horse’s leg and compare it to the sizes of the boots on offer. And you may also think of homemade ice boots for horses.
FAQs
How long do you leave ice boots on a horse?
You should leave ice boots on a horse for 5 to 20 minutes. Don’t go over 20 minutes at a time or you can cause vasodilation.
Can you use ice boots in winter for horses?
Yes, you can use ice boots in winter for horses within reason. If it is well below zero, it might be best not to use them. If in doubt always give your vet a quick call to check.
How often should I ice my horse’s legs?
Depending on why you are icing the standard is to ice your horse’s legs 3 to 4 times a day with a minimum gap between each cold treatment of 40 minutes.
Can you put ice boots on wet legs?
Yes, you can put ice boots on wet legs. This is a good technique in hot weather as it will assist the cooling effect.
Are ice boots good for horses?
Yes, ice boots are good for horses. They can help manage pain and inflammation from injury or after strenuous exercise.
Conclusion
Finally, you’ve found the 10 best ice boots for horses in my guide. I included a good range of types and prices to suit every horse owner.
What are your favorite ice boots for horses? Please share below!
References
- Cold Therapy & Ice Bandages | AAEP. aaep.org. Accessed May 12, 2022. https://aaep.org/issue/cold-therapy-ice-bandages#:~:text=Apply%20ice%20for%20approximately%205
- Conrad SE. Ice, Ice, Baby. Published November 2015. https://www.usdf.org/EduDocs/The-Horse/Ice_Ice_Baby.pdf
- How To Ice Your Horse’s Feet. Del Oeste Equine Hospital. Published October 24, 2016. Accessed May 12, 2022. https://deloeste.vet/how-do-i-ice-my-horses-feet/
Siun is an all-around animal lover, with a passion for horses. She grew up in the United States, competing in the hunters, equitation, and jumpers. Now living in Ireland, she competes with her own showjumping horses. She is experienced in the care and training of horses, as well as teaching riding lessons. She loves to combine her love for horses with her work. When not working, Siun will be found at the stables, rain or shine.
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