Your Questions

How long do Simple Boots last?

There are a variety of conditions that affect the life of your Simple Boots such as terrain, speed, gaits, frequency of use, frequency of trimming. In average conditions with adequate care, the life span of your Simple Boots translates to anywhere from 3 to 30 shoeing cycles, which means that even with frequent use are more economical than metal shoes and certainly “friendlier” on your horse.

How long can SIMPLE Boots be worn at one time?

Many horses begin wearing boots as a result of an injury or condition whereby they cannot wear metal shoes. For veterinary applications and hoof protection, SIMPLE Boots can be worn for extended periods of time. Using Pastern Wraps may help prevent any chaffing. Remove the boots daily to check the hooves.
CAVALLO SPECIAL TIP: To reduce risk of bacterial build up mix a solution of 50% Apple Cider Vinegar to water and spray into the boot and on the hoof sole regularly.

Can I use SIMPLE Boots on top of metal shoes to help hold the shoe on?

Many people do indeed use SIMPLE Boots in combination with metal shoes; however, we cannot guarantee that the boots will hold up to such use. Prolonging the life of the SIMPLE Boots can be accomplished by using an insole of thick leather or foam padding to decrease the wear on the sole of the boot. Then you can replace the pads when needed.

Can SIMPLE Boots be used on gaited horses?

Too much traction on the sole of boots can inflict strain on the tendons and ligaments. In gaits faster than a walk, the bare hoof slides slightly when making contact with the ground. The SIMPLE Boot has just the right amount of traction -- more than a metal horse shoe, but not as much as a hiking boot. This allows horses to travel comfortably at any speed over any terrain. Cavallo has had numerous successful reports of use of SIMPLE Boots with gaited horses. If your horse requires even less traction than provided, you can simply file more tread off the bottom of the sole of the boot.

Can SIMPLE Boots be used for endurance riding?

As most endurance riders would understand, we consider endurance riding to be an aggressive and somewhat extreme sport which for warranty purposes falls under the “excessive wear and tear” category, thus voiding the SIMPLE Boot warranty. Please note however that we have had many positive reports of SIMPLE Boots successfully used by endurance riders including the sweep team for the Tevis Cup.

Can studs be used with SIMPLE Boots?

Many riders use a variety of studs and even regular screws to help increase traction while riding on ice, snow and wet grass. You must use caution that no part of it extends past the sole of the boot to irritate the horse's hoof. The amount used and placement on the boots is dependent on various conditions such as terrain, gait and your personal requirements. We have also had reports of success by dremelling more grooves into the sole of the boot to improve grip. Whatever you decide, please ride with care on treacherous terrain.