Fetlock Boots for Horses & Ponies

Fetlock boots are the most popular type of rear leg protection for showjumping. They help prevent brushing and interference injuries during training and competition and support the hindlegs. They are a must-have safety element to keep showjumping horses healthy and sound.

Fetlock boots for horses have a characteristic design; they are shorter than the tendon boots which are used on the forelegs. This shorter design avoids restricting the hindlegs' necessary freedom of movement during the take-off and fly stages of the jump. While horses can indeed jump while wearing a longer rear leg protection boot in disciplines like cross-country, fetlock boots are usually enough protection for show jumping horses without confirmation issues or other problems that may cause interference. Besides, showjumping soils are softer and easier on horses’ legs.

It’s proven that the most common problems showjumping horses experience are brushing and interference with the forelegs. Brushing is caused by horses hitting their inner legs against each other, and interference is caused by the hindlegs or hooves striking the forelegs or vice versa. By the nature of jumping, it’s easy to see that the chances of the rear feet striking the tendon area of the forelegs are relatively high, hence the extra length and robustness of front tendon boots. However, when jumping, usually the only thing that may hit the hindlegs in the back would be a pole, and the chances of that happening along with causing an injury are quite slim. The hindlegs’ more exposed areas are the fetlock joints, tendons, and suspensory ligaments, which are susceptible to being harmed by brushing and knocking a fence, especially spreads obstacles like oxers, for example, where horses may fail to cover the gap and receive a blow from the back, as well as horses that kick or flick out their feet while jumping and may injury if they hit a rail or a wing. By focusing on the most exposed areas, fetlock boots can be shorter without sacrificing protection and reducing their weight, which helps horses jump more comfortably and efficiently.

Another thing to consider are the tight turns involved in showjumping, especially during jump-offs. Turning on a dime or performing mid-air turns is spectacular to watch and exciting to experience, but it's crucial to ensure proper protection for the horses. These bold manoeuvres are hard on horses’ legs and increase the risk of brushing and other injuries. Tendon and fetlock boots offer the necessary protection to execute these movements confidently without neglecting the horses’ health.

Horse Fetlock Boots & Wraps

Fetlock boots and wraps are moulded to seamlessly fit the horses’ lower hindlegs to provide efficient protection. While some models are more enclosed than others, they are considered open-front leg protectors, giving some feedback when your horse touches an obstacle.

The open-front design also helps to keep the hindlegs cool and protect the sensitive tendons from overheating. Some more advanced models feature extra ventilation systems to improve tendon cooling.

Fetlock boots for horses are made of flexible and breathable materials, such as Neoprene, PVC, different polymers, carbon fibre, and Kevlar®. Kevlar and Carbon fibre fetlock boots are usually at the upper end of the price range. Combine these added protection features along with ventilation and luxurious faux sheepskin lining; you are hitting the higher end range.
Depending on the model and price tag, some models are more oriented to knocking protection, while the most complex designs offer tendon support and ground impact absorption. This feature comes in handy during competition or intense schooling sessions, reducing fatigue and helping to reduce recovery times. On the inside, fetlock boots are soft, with smooth Neoprene, rubber, sheepskin or fleece for enhanced breathability and moisture-wicking properties.

Some manufacturers find the fetlock boots for horses a comfortable shape to craft their magnetic fetlock boots or wraps, a therapeutic fetlock boot that uses magnet therapy to help heal injuries faster, encourage tissue recovery, and enhance blood circulation. Magnetic fetlock wraps are especially practical to help horses' legs rest and recover better. This design is practical as it helps to keep the magnets in place without the discomfort caused by longer boots.

Many people wonder, or indeed ask the question, whether horses can use fetlock boots on front legs as shorter front boots for different reasons. Suppose you could, as long as you can fit them securely in place without exerting excessive pressure on the legs and they don’t slide down. This is important, at the very least it could become uncomfortable for the horse but, it could even be dangerous. With the choice of front boots out there, we would usually recommend sticking with boots designed specifically for the job.

The Best Fetlock Boots from all the Top Brands

At Discount Equestrian, your horse’s safety is a priority concern. That’s why we carry the best fetlock boots from top manufacturers, such as Elico®, Equilibrium®, Equsani®, eQuick®, Veredus®, HY®, John Whitaker®, Kentucky Horsewear®, LeMieux®, Premier Equine®, Rhinegold®, WeatherBeeta®, and Woof Wear®.

Below, you will find some of the finest horse fetlock boots in different price ranges to give you a glimpse of what you can find in our fantastic collection:

Veredus® Kevlar Young Jump Save the Sheep Rear Fetlock Boots – “These beautifully crafted Veredus fetlock boots offer excellent protection and are FEI approved for competition in all categories (In 2022, the FEI implemented strict rules for the fetlock boots allowed on the young horses’ categories). These brown fetlock boots are light, flexible, and incredibly strong, protecting your horse from hard impacts. The faux sheepskin lining offers an outstanding look and comfort. They feature efficient tendon ventilation, and they are made to last.” 

Equilibrium® Tri-Zone Fetlock Boots – “These extremely light Equilibrium fetlock boots are FEI compliant and offer excellent value for money. These sleek fetlock protection boots match the Tri-Zone Open-Fronted boots, which you can also find in our store. Thanks to their advanced triple protective layers, they protect your horses’ hindlegs from concussion and penetration injuries.”

Premier Equine® Kevlar Airtechnology Lite Fetlock Boots – “Premier Equine provided these superb fetlock wraps with materials, technology, and shock protection that you wouldn’t expect to find in a product with this price tag. These fetlock boots feature a robust double-density outer shell with Kevlar® layers and shockproof material for ultimate comfort. The neoprene interior is breathable, and an extra cooling system ensures efficient tendon ventilation.”

If you need help finding the perfect fetlock boots for your horse or other inquiries, feel free to contact our Discount Equestrian expert team. We are always happy to help!

How To Put On Fetlock Boots

Fitting hind fetlock boots is easy and quick. Below, you will find a brief guide to apply your new fetlock boots on your horse:

1. Remove all dirt from the horse and the fetlock boots before applying them to avoid irritation.
2. The straps go on the outermost side and must be fastened from the front to the back. Knowing this, select the horse fetlock boot for the correct side.
3. Apply the fetlock boot for horses slightly on top of the fetlock and slide it down into place.
4. Ensure the boot is correctly in place and the protective shield is aligned with the inner fetlock joint.
5. Fasten the fetlock boot. If your fetlock wraps for horses feature elastic straps or stud and eye fastening systems, don’t overtighten them. Ensure they are neither too loose nor too tight. You should be able to insert a finger between the boot and the horse’s leg, and the boot shouldn’t slip down.

Check out our amazing Tendon Boots and Over Reach Boots collections to assemble the perfect set of leg protection for your showjumping adventures.