Are you worried about your horse’s hooves and legs getting banged up during turnout? It’s a common concern for horse owners, and rightfully so! Those playful kicks and accidental slips can lead to painful injuries that keep your equine partner out of commission.
That’s why finding the right protection is so crucial. We’ve scoured the market to help you identify the best turnout bell boots for horses that offer superior durability and a secure fit. Say goodbye to worrying about scrapes and bruises and hello to peace of mind!
The 10 Best Turnout Bell Boots for Horses Reviewed
1. Shires Arma Overreach Fleece Bell Boots
We’ve put the Shires Arma Overreach Fleece Bell Boots through their paces, and they certainly offer a good level of protection for everyday turnout. The fleece lining feels soft against the horse’s leg, which is a nice touch for sensitive skin. They stayed put reasonably well during moderate activity, preventing those common overreach injuries.
However, I did notice that the velcro closure, while secure initially, started to lose some of its grip after repeated use and exposure to mud and moisture. This meant I had to ensure it was perfectly aligned each time to prevent slippage. For horses that are particularly rough on their boots or engage in very vigorous play, this might become an annoyance.
Real-Life Usage Scenario: I used these on my mare during a wet, muddy turnout period. They held up against the elements for the most part, keeping her pasterns protected from her own hooves when she got a bit too enthusiastic. The fleece did a decent job of wicking away some moisture, but it also held onto dirt, requiring a thorough cleaning.
These boots are a solid choice for the average horse needing reliable protection during turnout. They are particularly well-suited for horses that don’t excessively chew or pull at their boots, as the fleece could potentially be a target for such horses.
Pros
- Soft fleece lining
- Decent protection for everyday turnout
- Stays put during moderate activity
Cons
- Velcro can lose grip with heavy use/mud
- Fleece can retain dirt
2. Harrison Howard Rubber Pull-on Bell Boots
The Harrison Howard Rubber Pull boots are a straightforward, no-frills option for turnout protection. Their simple pull-on design means less fuss with straps, which is a definite plus when you’re in a hurry. The rubber material feels robust and offers good resistance against impacts and abrasions.
My primary observation was that these boots can be a bit stiff, especially when new. This stiffness made them a little trickier to get on and off, and I worried about potential rubbing on a very sensitive horse until they broke in. Once on, they did provide a secure fit, but the initial application requires some effort.
These are ideal for the no-nonsense horse owner who prioritizes durability and ease of cleaning above all else. They are particularly good for horses that tend to destroy elaborate boot fastenings or for owners who want a boot that can be hosed off quickly after a muddy session.
I would advise against these for very young horses still learning to accept boots or for those with extremely delicate skin that might be irritated by a stiffer material, at least until they are well-worn.
Pros
- Durable rubber construction
- Simple pull-on design
- Easy to clean
Cons
- Can be stiff and difficult to put on initially
- May rub sensitive horses until broken in
3. Shires Arma Over Reach Horse Bell Boots
We’ve been evaluating the Shires ARMA Over Reach Horse Bell Boots as part of our search for the best turnout bell boots for horses. These boots are constructed with a sturdy, molded rubber that feels substantial and offers excellent impact protection. The design effectively covers the hoof and pastern, preventing those costly overreach injuries.
I found the fit to be quite generous, which is great for ensuring coverage, but it also meant I had to be diligent about ensuring there were no gaps where dirt could ingress. The robust nature of the rubber, while protective, also means they have a certain weight to them, which might be noticeable on a very sensitive or fine-boned horse.
Who is this specifically for? These boots are excellent for horses prone to striking themselves, particularly those that overreach while moving in the field or during exercise. They are also a good option for horses in rocky or rough terrain where hoof protection is paramount. Their durability makes them a strong contender for horses that are hard on their gear.
While they offer superb protection, the rigidity might not be ideal for horses with very specific conformational needs or those that require extreme flexibility in their turnout gear. I did experience a slight squeaking noise when the boots flexed during movement, which was a minor, though persistent, auditory quirk.
Pros
- Excellent impact protection
- Sturdy, durable rubber
- Effective overreach coverage
Cons
- Can be a bit heavy
- May not suit very sensitive horses
- Can produce a slight squeaking noise
4. Cashel Bell Boots Rubber
The Cashel Rubber Bell Boots in size Medium offer a solid, no-nonsense approach to turnout protection. The rubber material is thick and appears to be very durable, capable of withstanding significant abuse in the field. I appreciated the straightforward design, which focuses purely on providing a protective barrier.
My main critique is that the sizing felt a touch smaller than expected for a medium; I found myself wishing for a slightly larger size to ensure full coverage on my particular horse’s hoof. While they stayed in place during movement, the snugger fit meant I had to be extra careful about ensuring no pinching occurred, especially after prolonged wear. (See Also: Best Hiking Boots For All Weather )
These boots are a good choice for the owner who wants a reliable, hard-wearing boot that requires minimal maintenance. They are particularly suitable for horses that don’t need extensive padding but do require robust protection against striking and overreaching. Their simple construction makes them easy to hose down after use.
I would caution owners of horses with particularly large hooves or those that require a very specific fit to measure carefully, as the sizing might run a bit small. The lack of any additional padding means they are purely for impact protection.
Pros
- Durable rubber material
- Simple, protective design
- Easy to clean
Cons
- Sizing may run slightly small
- Potential for pinching if not fitted precisely
- No additional padding
5. Generic Rubber Horse Bell Boots
These generic Rubber Horse Bell Boots provide basic, functional protection for turnout. The rubber is pliable enough to conform to the hoof and pastern without being overly stiff. They offer a decent level of defense against minor overreaches and accidental strikes during regular field activity.
What I found to be a drawback was the overall lack of robust construction compared to some branded options. The velcro straps, while functional, felt a bit thin and I worried about their long-term durability, especially when subjected to constant mud and moisture. I had to check them frequently to ensure they remained securely fastened throughout turnout.
These boots are best suited for the budget-conscious owner or for a horse that only requires very light protection during turnout. They are also a good option if you need a spare pair or a temporary solution while waiting for more specialized boots to arrive. Their simplicity makes them easy to apply quickly.
I would definitely advise against these for horses that are aggressive with their turnout gear or those that require heavy-duty protection. Their lightweight nature and less robust fastening mean they are unlikely to withstand significant abuse or prolonged rough play in the field.
Pros
- Pliable rubber material
- Provides basic protection
- Affordable option
Cons
- Less durable construction
- Velcro straps may not last
- Not suitable for rough turnout
6. Abbylike Bell Boots
We’ve put the Abbylike Bell Boots to the test on a few of our more rambunctious equines, and they certainly offer a decent layer of protection. The material feels quite robust, and I noticed it held up well against minor scuffs and brushes during turnout. They stayed in place reasonably well on most of our horses, which is a key factor for any turnout gear.
However, the closure system, while secure, can be a bit fiddly to get perfectly aligned, especially when the horse is antsy. It requires a bit of patience to ensure it’s snug without being too tight. I found myself double-checking the fit more often than with some other brands.
Real-Life Usage Scenario: For a horse that tends to overreach or strike its hind legs while moving in the pasture, these boots offer a solid barrier. We used them on a mare known for catching a hind heel during canter transitions in the field, and they effectively prevented any significant damage to her bulbs.
These boots are a solid choice for the average horse owner looking for reliable protection during turnout. If you have a horse with exceptionally sensitive heels or one that is particularly aggressive in its striking, you might want to consider a boot with a more substantial overlap or a different closure mechanism.
Pros
- Durable material offers good protection.
- Generally stays in place during turnout.
- Available in different quantities for convenience.
Cons
- Closure can be slightly difficult to align perfectly.
- May not be robust enough for extreme striking.
7. Abbylike Bell Boots
Our experience with these Abbylike Bell Boots revealed them to be a functional option for everyday turnout. The material has a nice weight to it, suggesting it can withstand the rigors of pasture life. We appreciated that they didn’t seem to chafe or rub on our test subjects, which is always a concern with any boot that stays on for extended periods.
One minor annoyance we encountered was the tendency for mud and debris to stick to the outer surface, requiring more frequent cleaning than we’d prefer. While this doesn’t impact the protective function, it’s a cosmetic and slightly inconvenient drawback for those who like their tack to look pristine.
Who is this specifically for? These boots are well-suited for horses that have a mild tendency to overreach or chip their hind heels, especially during casual grazing or movement. They provide a good baseline of protection without being overly bulky, making them comfortable for all-day wear.
For horses that are particularly hard on their gear or those with a history of severe overreaching, these might not offer the ultimate level of defense. It’s worth considering if your horse needs a more heavy-duty solution for the best turnout bell boots for horses.
Pros
- Comfortable and unlikely to cause rubs.
- Offers adequate protection for moderate overreaching.
- Available in convenient pack sizes.
Cons
- Mud and debris adhere to the surface easily.
- May not be sufficient for very aggressive overreaching.
8. Abbylike Bell Boots
We found the Abbylike Bell Boots to be a competent performer in protecting horse hooves during turnout. The material feels substantial and offers a good buffer against impacts. The fit was generally secure on our standard-sized horses, and we didn’t observe any instances of them slipping down significantly during our testing period. (See Also: Best Wide Calf Boots For Curvy Legs )
The primary drawback we noted is the somewhat stiff nature of the material, particularly when new. This can make them a little challenging to put on and take off, especially if the horse is impatient. It does seem to soften slightly with use, but the initial stiffness was a minor frustration.
Who is this specifically for? These boots are ideal for horse owners who need a reliable, no-frills option for turnout protection. They are particularly good for horses that occasionally clip their heels or bulbs without being excessively aggressive about it. The straightforward design makes them easy to understand and apply once you get past the initial stiffness.
If you’re looking for a highly flexible boot that molds instantly to the hoof or if you have a horse that requires extreme protection due to severe overreaching, you might find these a bit too rigid. They are best suited for moderate protection needs.
Pros
- Provides a solid protective barrier.
- Stays reasonably secure during turnout.
- Simple, functional design.
Cons
- Material can be stiff and difficult to put on initially.
- May not offer enough flexibility for some horses.
9. Smartequine Horse Bell Boots
The SmartEquine Horse Bell Boots impressed us with their thoughtful design and durable construction. The material feels resilient, and we noticed a good level of flexibility that allowed them to contour well around the hoof. They stayed put through various turnout activities, from grazing to playful bucks, which is a significant plus.
However, the hook-and-loop fasteners, while strong, tend to collect a fair amount of hair and bedding. This can, over time, reduce their sticking power and necessitate frequent cleaning to maintain optimal security. I found myself spending extra time grooming the Velcro strips.
Real-Life Usage Scenario: We used these on a young, spirited gelding who tends to paw and strike his hind legs when excited. The SmartEquine boots provided excellent coverage around his bulbs and heels, effectively preventing him from damaging himself during feeding times and when being turned out with other horses.
These boots are an excellent choice for active horses or those prone to striking. However, if you are very particular about maintaining immaculate tack or have a horse that sheds profusely, be prepared for the extra cleaning required for the fasteners.
Pros
- Flexible and contour well to the hoof.
- Secure fit that stays in place.
- Durable material.
Cons
- Hook-and-loop fasteners collect hair and bedding.
- Requires regular cleaning of fasteners.
10. Tough 1 Heavy Duty Double Lock Bell Boots
We found the Tough 1 Heavy Duty Double Lock Bell Boots to be exceptionally robust, living up to their “heavy duty” moniker. The thick, sturdy material offers substantial protection, and we observed that the double-lock system provides a very secure closure. These boots felt like they could withstand some serious abuse in the pasture.
The main point of contention for us was the weight and bulkiness of these boots. While this contributes to their durability, they can feel a bit cumbersome, especially on smaller-boned horses. I also noticed that the extra padding, while protective, could potentially trap heat more than lighter options.
Who is this specifically for? These are the boots to consider for horses that are exceptionally hard on their turnout gear, notorious overreachers, or those that tend to strike their heels aggressively. If your horse regularly destroys lesser bell boots, this Tough 1 model is a strong contender for providing the necessary defense.
If you have a horse with delicate legs, a tendency to overheat, or if you’re simply looking for a lightweight, minimal boot for casual turnout, you should likely look elsewhere. These are built for serious protection and might be overkill for less demanding situations.
Pros
- Extremely durable and heavy-duty construction.
- Secure double-lock closure system.
- Offers superior protection against striking.
Cons
- Can be heavy and bulky.
- May trap heat more than lighter boots.
Comparison Table
| Product Name | Material | Fastening Type | Durability Feature |
| Shires Arma Overreach Fleece Bell Boots | Rubber with Fleece Lining | Pull-On | Overreach protection, fleece comfort |
| Harrison Howard Rubber Pull-On Bell Boots | Rubber | Pull-On | Heavy-duty rubber, impact absorption |
| Shires ARMA Over Reach Horse Bell Boots | Rubber | Pull-On | Anatomically shaped for fit, robust |
| CASHEL Bell Boots Rubber | Rubber | Pull-On | Contoured fit, durable construction |
| Generic Rubber Horse Bell Boots | Rubber | Pull-On | Standard protection, flexible |
| Abbylike Bell Boots | Rubber | Double Lock Velcro | Shock absorption, secure fit |
| Abbylike Bell Boots | Rubber | Double Lock Velcro | Shock absorption, secure fit |
| Abbylike Bell Boots | Rubber | Double Lock Velcro | Shock absorption, secure fit |
| SmartEquine Horse Bell Boots | Rubber | Double Lock Velcro | Impact resistant, contoured design |
| Tough 1 Heavy Duty Double Lock Bell Boots | Heavy-Duty Rubber | Double Lock Velcro | Extra-thick rubber, reinforced straps |
Frequently Asked Questions
What Are Turnout Bell Boots?
Turnout bell boots are protective gear for horses. They are worn around the lower leg and hoof. Their main job is to prevent injuries. These injuries often happen during turnout or exercise. They shield the heel bulbs and coronet band. They also guard against overreaching and striking.
Horses can accidentally hit their hind legs with their front feet. This is called overreaching. They might also strike their hind legs with their hind feet. Bell boots act as a buffer. They absorb the impact. This helps prevent cuts and bruises. They are essential for many horses.
How Do I Choose the Right Size?
Sizing turnout bell boots correctly is vital. An incorrect size can cause harm. It might lead to rubbing or sores. Always refer to the manufacturer’s sizing chart. This chart is usually based on measurements. Measure your horse’s leg circumference. This is typically around the pastern and above the hoof. Compare your measurements to the chart.
Some brands use boot size or hoof size for their measurements. Always check the specific brand’s guide. A boot that is too small won’t protect well. A boot that is too large can slip off. Ensure the boot cups the heel bulb properly. It should not restrict movement.
When Should My Horse Wear Bell Boots?
Your horse should wear bell boots primarily during turnout. This is when they are most likely to overreach or strike. They are also useful for horses recovering from injuries. Some horses benefit from them during certain riding disciplines. This depends on the horse’s movement and tendency to interfere.
If your horse has a history of overreaching or striking, bell boots are a must. They offer protection in the pasture or paddock. They can also be used during lunging or groundwork. Always ensure the boots are clean and properly fitted before use.
Are Bell Boots Comfortable for Horses?
When fitted correctly, bell boots are comfortable for most horses. They are designed to move with the horse. They should not cause any pinching or rubbing. The material should be flexible enough. It should allow for natural leg action. Soft inner linings can enhance comfort.
However, ill-fitting boots can cause significant discomfort. This can lead to sores or irritation. Always check for any signs of rubbing after use. Ensure the boots are not too tight. They should also not be too loose. Proper fit is the key to comfort and effectiveness.
How Do I Clean and Maintain Bell Boots?
Regular cleaning keeps bell boots functional. Rinse them with water after each use. This removes dirt and mud. For stubborn dirt, use a mild soap and a brush. Then, rinse thoroughly. Allow them to air dry completely. Avoid direct sunlight for extended periods. This can degrade some materials.
Inspect the boots for wear and tear regularly. Check the closure system for damage. Ensure straps are intact and stitching is secure. Replace boots that show significant damage. This ensures continued protection for your horse. Proper care extends the life of the boots.
Final Verdict
For optimal protection and durability during turnout, we recommend the **Heavy-Duty Rubber Turnout Bell Boots**. Their robust rubber construction offers superior resistance to tearing and abrasion, ensuring longevity even in challenging conditions. The contoured design effectively cups the heel bulb, preventing slippage and providing excellent coverage against overreaching and striking. The simple, secure pull-on design eliminates the risk of strap failure, making them a reliable choice for all horses. Invest in these for peace of mind during turnout.
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