Whether you are a hunter jumper rider or an equitation over fences specialist, the right horse jump equipment can make all the difference. A range of jumps suits all disciplines, from simple cross rails and ground poles to oxers.
Specialist protective boots are also a must for specific disciplines. These include tendon boots, fetlock boots that protect the front leg after a jump, and hoof boots to prevent damage from rough terrain.
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Tendon Boots
Tendon boots protect the backs of your horse’s forelegs from strike injuries when jumping. They are designed with a hard-wearing PU shell sculpted to the back of your horse’s legs to allow full flexion, with padded and reinforced strike areas. The inside is lined with 7mm breathable neoprene and nylon jersey. The boots are fastened with elasticated double-locking touch-tape fastenings.
These durable tendon boots are lightweight and have vents to release heat. They are also breathable with a soft and pliable neoprene liner, contouring to the leg for flexibility. These boots also feature carbon protectors and a nitrexgel shock absorber film for improved protection. Read more about horse jump accessories online.
Fetlock Boots
Fetlock boots protect the lower leg area from impacts and shock. They are often used when traveling a horse as they offer protection from strikes and other traumas that may occur while in the lorry or trailer.
These fetlock boots from Kavallerie are lightweight, breathable, and provide adequate protection without impeding movement. They have a soft, anti-rub lining and carbon fiber strike zones that help keep the legs cool. They are also easy to wash down as everything wipes off easily and look new after hosing them down.
Showjumping horses require fetlock boots with an open front. This allows the horse to use its hind legs in better action when jumping and helps to prevent faults from being caused by poles knocking into the back hoof.
Hoof Boots
Whether used temporarily during a transition to being shoeless, for medical reasons or if a horse loses a hoof shoe, hoof boots protect the sole and are available in all disciplines. The best hoof boots are lightweight and shock-absorbing, with good drainage and a secure fit.
The hoof boot is injection molded, features a rugged, grippy sole, and has excellent abrasion resistance. Heel and pastern protection is provided through the flexible torsion-resistant insole that prevents twisting.
They are also easy to put on and have two back strap settings for horses with varying hoof lengths. Make sure to take accurate measurements before purchasing. A too-big boot can rub the hind feet together, causing unnecessary chafing. This could become an issue with some high-performance horses.
Riders Equipment
The rider’s equipment is essential for ensuring the rider is safe and comfortable during competition. It includes a helmet that meets precise rules and is suitable for the type of event the rider competes.
Riders should also use breeches, pants designed for riding, with a particular gripping fabric that helps communicate with the horse. They should be worn with a jodhpur that fits the rider comfortably.
Depending on the discipline, a rider may use a whip to communicate with their horse. Choosing a whip that is the right size is essential, as it must not touch the horse’s side. Spurs are used for training and must be fitted correctly to avoid injury. There are varying degrees of severity, with buttons and wheel spurs being the least severe.
Spurs
The use of spurs is a vital part of horse riding and training. Spurs are worn on the rider’s boots and used to help control the horse’s movements. They’re commonly found in all equestrian disciplines, especially dressage, eventing (a combination of cross-country, show jumping, and dressage), and barrel racing.
Like any tool, when misused, spurs can hurt a horse. But, if a rider is well trained, they’ll know only to apply pressure where and when it is needed.
Spurs come in a variety of materials and qualities. For safety and effectiveness, they should have a rounded end and be free of sharp points that could injure the horse. Stainless steel or silver is a good choice because they’re rust-proof and stable.
