6 Horse Bell Boot Alternatives For Sensitive Horses That Prevent Rubbing

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Why Traditional Bell Boots Can Irritate Heels

The classic, pull-on rubber bell boot is a workhorse, but its design is often the source of irritation. The material is typically a stiff rubber or PVC that doesn’t have much give. As the horse moves, the top edge of the boot can saw back and forth against the delicate skin of the pastern, causing friction burns.

This problem gets much worse when moisture and grit get involved. A little bit of sand or mud trapped under that stiff collar acts like sandpaper, quickly rubbing the skin raw. Even a well-fitting boot can cause trouble in wet, muddy conditions, turning a protective measure into a source of soreness and potential infection.

Furthermore, many traditional boots are not anatomically shaped. They are simple cones that can twist and shift during movement, creating pressure points and uneven friction. For a thin-skinned horse or one with a particularly active way of going, this constant, unpredictable rubbing is a recipe for chronic irritation.

Woof Wear Pro Overreach Boot: No-Rub Design

Woof Wear boots are a go-to for a reason, and their Pro Overreach model is a fantastic starting point for a sensitive horse. Instead of a hard rubber edge, these boots feature a smooth, rolled anti-rub collar. This simple design change makes a world of difference by eliminating the sharp edge that often causes chafing.

The main body of the boot is made from a 7mm neoprene, which is much softer and more pliable than traditional rubber. It conforms to the shape of the horse’s pastern and hoof, moving with the horse rather than against it. This flexibility dramatically reduces friction during both turnout and riding.

These boots are also incredibly durable and easy to clean, making them a practical choice for everyday use. They strike a great balance between providing robust protection from overreaching and prioritizing the comfort of the horse’s skin. If you’re just starting your search for a better bell boot, this is an excellent, reliable option.

Veredus Safety Bell Boot for Anatomic Fit

Veredus takes a slightly different approach, focusing on a precise, anatomic fit. The Veredus Safety Bell Boot is shaped to follow the natural contours of the horse’s hoof and heel bulbs. This design is crucial because it helps prevent the boot from spinning or shifting out of place.

When a bell boot stays put, it minimizes the twisting and rubbing that leads to sores. The material is a flexible, waterproof synthetic that provides excellent shock absorption without being overly stiff. It’s designed to protect the heel bulbs from impact while allowing for a full range of motion in the pastern.

This option is particularly good for performance horses or those with a powerful stride where a shifting boot is a common problem. While they represent a higher price point, the investment often pays off in preventing vet bills and layup time from boot rubs. Think of it as specialized equipment for a specific job.

LeMieux Sheepskin Lined Over Reach Boots

For the ultimate in soft comfort, nothing beats genuine sheepskin. LeMieux is known for its high-quality fleece products, and their sheepskin-lined overreach boots are a lifesaver for the most sensitive horses. The natural wool collar creates a soft, breathable cushion against the pastern.

Sheepskin has fantastic properties: it wicks away moisture, allows air to circulate, and helps regulate temperature. This is key to preventing the damp, gritty environment that causes so many rubs. The wool fibers are soft and flexible, moving with the hair and skin instead of scraping against it.

The main trade-off here is maintenance. Real sheepskin requires more care than synthetic materials—it needs to be brushed out and washed carefully to maintain its loft and softness. For this reason, many people reserve these boots for riding rather than 24/7 turnout in a muddy field, but for preventing rubs under saddle, they are second to none.

Davis No-Turn Bell Boots with Fleece Collar

If you’re looking for a practical, budget-friendly option, the Davis No-Turn Bell Boot with a fleece collar is a solid choice. This design takes a classic, durable rubber boot and adds a simple but effective feature: a soft band of fleece around the top. This fleece acts as a buffer between the boot’s edge and the horse’s skin.

The "no-turn" bulb at the back of the boot also helps reduce friction. By preventing the boot from spinning, it ensures the protection stays where it’s needed and reduces random rubbing from a shifting edge. It’s a straightforward design that addresses the two biggest causes of irritation: a sharp edge and excessive movement.

These boots are a great workhorse option for daily turnout. The fleece is synthetic, so it dries relatively quickly and is easy to hose off. While not as plush as real sheepskin, it provides a significant improvement in comfort over a standard rubber boot without a big jump in price or maintenance.

Eskadron Faux Fur Boots for Sensitive Skin

Eskadron offers a great middle-ground with their Faux Fur boots. They provide the plush, soft feel that sensitive horses need, but with the practicality and ease of care of synthetic materials. The faux fur lining is very dense and soft, creating an excellent barrier against friction.

Unlike real sheepskin, faux fur is not as absorbent and dries much faster, making it a more suitable option for wet conditions or for horses that live outside. It’s also a great choice for animals that may have a sensitivity to wool. You get the protective benefits of a soft lining without the high-maintenance laundry routine.

These boots often come in a variety of colors and styles, matching other gear for a coordinated look. But beyond aesthetics, they are a functionally excellent choice for preventing rubs on horses that need daily overreach protection. They combine comfort, durability, and easy care in one package.

Equi-Stretch Pastern Wraps: A Lighter Option

Sometimes, the best bell boot is no boot at all. For horses that only need minimal protection or are extremely bothered by the weight and bulk of a traditional boot, pastern wraps like those from Equi-Stretch are an innovative alternative. These are simple, elasticated fabric bands that wrap directly around the pastern.

These wraps provide a thin layer of protection against scuffs and minor overreaches without any of the bulk. There is no hard collar to rub and no bell shape to trap mud. They fit like a sock, moving completely with the horse and eliminating friction points.

Of course, the trade-off is the level of protection. These won’t stop a major overreach from a horse that really grabs itself. However, for horses that just need a bit of "chrome" coverage or are sensitive to everything else you’ve tried, these can be the perfect, minimalist solution.

Final Fitting Tips to Prevent Irritation

Even the best-designed boot will cause rubs if it doesn’t fit properly. Your goal is a snug, but not tight, fit. When the horse is standing square, you should be able to slip one finger comfortably between the top of the boot and the horse’s pastern. Any more, and it’s too loose; any less, and it’s too tight.

Check the length. The back of the bell boot should just touch the ground, covering the heel bulbs completely. If it’s too long, the horse will step on it and tear it; if it’s too short, it won’t offer proper protection.

Most importantly, keep the boots and your horse’s legs clean. Before putting the boots on, brush away any dirt or grit from the pasterns. Take the boots off daily to check the skin underneath and clean the inside of the boots themselves. A clean boot on a clean leg is your best defense against irritation, no matter which style you choose.

Finding the right overreach protection is about matching the boot’s design to your horse’s individual needs, sensitivity, and living situation. By moving beyond the one-size-fits-all rubber bell boot, you can provide effective protection that keeps your horse comfortable, sound, and happy.