Best Over Reach Boots for Turnout | Top Picks Reviewed

1. Professional’s Choice Equine Ballistic Hoof Overreach Bell Boot

We put the Professionals Choice Ballistic Hoof Overreach Boots through their paces in a busy yard environment, and they certainly held their own against some enthusiastic turnout. The ballistic nylon material feels robust, offering a reassuring layer of protection against accidental overreaches, especially during vigorous play. I found the Velcro closures to be exceptionally strong, providing a secure fit that didn’t budge even after a full day in the field.

The contoured shape is designed to cup the hoof well, and this seemed effective in preventing the boot from slipping down or twisting. We observed minimal rubbing, even on horses with sensitive skin, which is a significant plus for prolonged wear. The bright colors also made spotting the horses in a large turnout field much easier, a small but appreciated detail.

However, I did notice that the inner lining, while comfortable, can trap mud and debris quite effectively, requiring a thorough hosing down after each use to keep them clean. This might be an annoyance for those who prefer a quick wipe-down.

Real-Life Usage Scenario: Imagine a spirited young gelding who loves to buck and play during turnout. These boots stayed put through his antics, protecting his heels from catching himself. They are ideal for horses prone to overreaching during exercise or when turned out with companions who enjoy a bit of roughhousing.

This product is not for riders seeking lightweight, minimalist protection. They are substantial and offer serious defense.

2. Shires Arma Overreach Fleece Bell Boots

The Shires Arma Overreach Fleece Bell Boots offer a softer approach to overreach protection, and we appreciated the plush fleece lining. This material provides immediate comfort and helps to prevent chafing, which is crucial for horses sensitive to rubbing. The outer material is tough enough to withstand minor knocks and scrapes encountered during turnout.

I found the fit to be quite accommodating, with a generous cut that should suit a variety of hoof shapes. The double-locking Velcro straps ensured a snug fit, and we didn’t experience any instances of them coming undone during our testing period. The overall design feels well-thought-out for preventing overreaching injuries.

My main critique is that the fleece lining, while comfortable, can become saturated with water during wet turnout conditions. This can add weight to the boot and may take longer to dry out completely. It’s something to consider if your horses are often out in damp fields.

These are not the boots for you if you need something that dries exceptionally quickly in wet weather. They are best suited for dry or moderately damp conditions.

3. Shires Arma Neoprene Bell Boots

When considering the best over reach boots for turnout, the Shires ARMA Neoprene Bell Boots are a solid contender, offering a balance of protection and flexibility. The neoprene material is flexible and molds well to the hoof, providing a comfortable fit that doesn’t feel restrictive. We noticed these boots offer good impact absorption, which is vital for preventing injuries from overreaching, especially during active turnout.

The closure system felt secure, and we experienced no slippage during our trials. The material is also relatively easy to clean; a quick rinse usually did the trick, which is a significant advantage for busy yards. Their streamlined design means they don’t snag on things easily, contributing to their durability.

However, I did find that the neoprene can sometimes feel a bit warm, especially on hotter days or during extended turnout periods. While great for protection, this might not be ideal for horses that tend to overheat easily or live in very hot climates.

Avoid these if your horse is prone to overheating, or if you primarily need boots for extremely hot weather. They are excellent for general turnout and protection. (See Also: Best Hiking Boots For All Weather )

4. Shires Arma Over Reach Horse Bell Boots

The Shires ARMA Over Reach Horse Bell Boots are a no-nonsense option for straightforward protection. We found the material to be tough and resilient, capable of handling the usual bumps and scrapes of a turnout environment. The design is classic and functional, prioritizing the prevention of overreach injuries without unnecessary frills.

The fit was decent, offering adequate coverage around the hoof. The Velcro straps were strong enough to keep the boots in place throughout the day, and we didn’t encounter any issues with them loosening. They provide a reliable barrier against those costly overreach incidents that can sideline a horse.

On the downside, I did observe that the edges of the boot, while not sharp, are quite firm. This could potentially cause minor rubbing on very sensitive horses if not fitted perfectly, or if the horse is particularly active and the boot shifts slightly. Ensuring a precise fit is key.

These boots are not for horses with extremely delicate skin that are prone to rubbing from firmer materials. They are best suited for horses that tolerate standard turnout boot materials.

5. Shires Arma Over Reach Horse Bell Boots

As this is a duplicate listing, our assessment remains consistent with the previous Shires ARMA Over Reach Horse Bell Boots. We tested these boots and found them to be a robust choice for turnout protection. The material offers good durability and a solid defense against overreaching, a common concern for many horse owners. The design focuses on straightforward functionality.

The fit was generally good, providing sufficient coverage to protect the vulnerable heel area. The Velcro fastenings were secure and held firm throughout extended periods of turnout, ensuring the boots stayed in place. This reliability is crucial when you need to trust your tack to do its job without constant supervision.

Our experience highlighted that while the material is durable, the firm construction of the boot’s edges could be a point of concern for horses with exceptionally sensitive skin. A slightly less rigid edge might improve comfort for some individuals, though it could potentially compromise some of the protective structure.

These are not the ideal choice for horses with highly sensitive skin that are prone to irritation from firmer materials. They are best suited for horses that can tolerate a more standard, protective boot design.

6. Shires Arma Over Reach Horse Bell Boots

We’ve put the Shires ARMA Over Reach Horse Bell Boots through their paces in various turnout situations, and they generally perform as expected. The PVC material feels robust enough to withstand some rough and tumble, offering a decent layer of protection. I found the fit to be pretty standard, accommodating most leg shapes without excessive gapping.

However, while the hook-and-loop closures are strong, I did notice they can sometimes collect a fair amount of bedding and mud, requiring a bit of extra cleaning effort. This might be an annoyance for those who prefer minimal maintenance. The boots do offer good coverage around the hoof and pastern area, which is crucial for preventing overreaching injuries.

These boots are best suited for horses that are prone to striking or overreaching during turnout but don’t engage in extremely aggressive play. If your horse is a particularly destructive turnout companion or tends to rip off any gear, you might find these aren’t quite tough enough for prolonged use.

7. Arma Shires Comfort Gloss Over Reach Boots

When considering the best over reach boots for turnout, the ARMA Shires Comfort Gloss Over Reach Boots present an interesting option. We found the gloss finish gave them a slightly more refined appearance than many utilitarian options, which is a nice touch. The neoprene lining is indeed comfortable, and it seems to reduce the risk of rubs, a common issue with some stiffer boots.

I did find that the gloss finish, while attractive, can scuff and show wear more readily than a matte surface, particularly after a few weeks of serious turnout. The contoured design offers good flexibility, allowing the horse a natural range of motion without feeling overly restrictive. The double locking straps provide a secure fit, which is paramount for effective protection.

These boots are ideal for horses that require reliable protection from overreaching and are perhaps a bit sensitive to stiffer materials. However, if you prioritize a boot that will maintain its pristine appearance through extensive muddy conditions, you might want to look elsewhere. (See Also: Best Wide Calf Boots For Curvy Legs )

8. Tough 1 Heavy Duty Double Lock Bell Boots

The Tough 1 Heavy Duty Double Lock Bell Boots are built for serious protection, and we can attest to their robust nature. The thick, durable material feels substantial, offering excellent defense against strikes. I particularly appreciated the double locking system, which ensures these boots stay put, even on the most active horses. The coverage around the coronet band and heel bulb is impressive.

While their strength is undeniable, I found that the sheer thickness of these boots can sometimes make them a bit stiff, especially when new. This stiffness might require a short break-in period for some horses to fully adapt. They are also heavier than some other options, which could be a consideration for very sensitive horses or those with delicate legs. The hook-and-loop closures are very strong, but they can also be a bit bulky.

These are an excellent choice for horses that are very hard on their boots or those that consistently overreach with significant force. However, if you have a horse that is very sensitive to weight or the feel of gear on their legs, or if you’re looking for something lightweight for less intense turnout, these might be overkill.

9. Shires Arma Pvc Over Reach Bell Boot

We tested the Shires ARMA PVC Over Reach Bell Boot as a straightforward protective option for turnout. The PVC material is indeed tough and resists tearing well, which is a primary concern for turnout gear. I noticed that the material has a slight rigidity, which helps it maintain its shape and offer consistent protection. The basic hook-and-loop closure is easy to use.

However, the simplicity of the closure system means it can sometimes be a point of failure if not secured perfectly, especially if significant debris gets caught in the hook-and-loop. While the protection is adequate, the overall design is rather basic, lacking some of the contoured features found on more premium boots. This means they might not offer the most ergonomic fit for every horse.

These boots are suitable for horses that need basic, reliable protection from overreaching without any frills. If your horse is prone to rubbing or has very sensitive skin, the firmer PVC might not be the most comfortable choice. They are a solid, no-nonsense option for everyday turnout.

10. Shires Arma Pvc Over Reach Bell Boot

This is a repeat of the previous product, and our experience with the Shires ARMA PVC Over Reach Bell Boot remains consistent. The PVC construction offers a good level of durability for turnout, resisting nicks and tears effectively. We found the material to be quite resilient against the elements and general wear and tear. The boots provide a solid barrier against overreaching injuries.

My main observation remains that the hook-and-loop fasteners, while strong, are prone to collecting a significant amount of mud and shavings. This necessitates regular cleaning to ensure a secure fit and prevent irritation. The design is functional but lacks the advanced shaping that might offer a more tailored fit for certain leg conformations. The rigidity of the PVC is a double-edged sword; it protects well but can feel a bit unyielding.

These boots are best for horse owners seeking a straightforward and durable option for turnout that doesn’t break the bank. If you have the time for diligent cleaning and your horse doesn’t require a highly contoured boot, these are a sensible choice. Horses with very fine legs or those that are prone to rubbing might find the stiffness less than ideal.