Bell boots are protective coverings worn over a horse’s hooves and pasterns, shaped like an upside-down bell and typically made from rubber or neoprene. They are one of the most commonly used items of protective horse equipment, found in yards from grassroots competitors to elite sport horses. Their primary job is to protect the front hooves from being struck by the hind feet — an injury known as overreaching — and to shield the coronary band and heels from knocks, scrapes, and other impacts.
Why Horses Wear Bell Boots
Overreaching is when a horse’s hind hoof swings forward far enough to strike the back of the front hoof or pastern. It happens most commonly in horses working in collected gaits, horses with long strides, young horses whose coordination is still developing, and horses working in deep or heavy going that slows the front leg and allows the hind to catch it. The consequences range from a lost shoe — the hind hoof hooks the front shoe clean off — to a nasty wound to the heel bulbs or pastern.
Bell boots prevent these injuries by creating a rubber barrier around the hoof. They sit low enough to cover the heel bulbs and coronary band, which are the most vulnerable targets. Even a single overreach can create a wound that puts a horse out of work for weeks, so for horses known to overreach, bell boots during exercise are standard practice.
Beyond overreaching, bell boots are also used during turnout to protect horses prone to pulling shoes in the field, and in the stable for horses that paw or stamp, which can damage the front of the hoof capsule over time.
Types of Bell Boots
Bell boots come in several designs, each with its own advantages depending on the intended use:
Pull-on bell boots — made from solid rubber with no fastenings, these are the simplest design. They are extremely durable and difficult for horses to remove, but can be tricky to get on and off, particularly in cold weather when the rubber stiffens. They are a popular choice for horses that destroy velcro fastenings.
Velcro or wraparound bell boots — these open along one side and close with a velcro or hook-and-loop fastening, making them much easier to apply and remove. They are the most widely used type for everyday exercise and competition. The trade-off is that the fastening can wear or come undone over time, particularly in muddy conditions.
Petal boots — constructed from individual overlapping rubber petals around a central ring, these allow more flexibility and tend to sit more naturally around the hoof. Popular for horses with bigger hooves or those that work at pace, as they stay in place well without restricting movement.
Neoprene bell boots — neoprene versions offer a softer feel and can be more comfortable for horses worn continuously, such as during extended turnout. Some have padded coronary band inserts for extra cushioning.
Fitting Bell Boots Correctly
Getting the fit right matters. Bell boots that are too large will spin on the hoof, creating friction and potentially causing rubs, or flip up and get caught on jumps. Boots that are too tight restrict movement, put pressure on the coronary band, and can cause rubbing and hair loss.
The boot should hang comfortably over the hoof with the bell edge reaching just above or level with the ground. There should be enough clearance that the boot moves freely with the hoof’s motion rather than clamping tightly. Most manufacturers size bell boots by the width of the front hoof, but trying them on before purchasing is the most reliable guide. Always check for rubs at the coronary band after the first few uses.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do bell boots affect how a horse moves?
Well-fitted bell boots have minimal impact on movement. Horses accustomed to them rarely show any change in stride. Boots that are too heavy, too large, or poorly fitted can be distracting and, in extreme cases, affect the horse’s way of going. Lightweight rubber or neoprene boots are preferred for competition work, while heavier, more durable designs suit turnout. Some horses are initially reluctant to pick their feet up properly when first wearing bell boots, but this typically resolves within a few sessions.
Should horses wear bell boots 24/7?
Leaving bell boots on permanently is generally not recommended. Prolonged wear can cause rubs, trap heat and moisture around the hoof, and, in wet conditions, create an environment that promotes bacterial or fungal issues. Bell boots are most useful during exercise, training, or in situations where overreaching or shoe-pulling is a specific risk. If turnout use is needed, check under the boots daily and remove them whenever possible to let the hoof breathe.
Are bell boots only for the front legs?
Bell boots are worn almost exclusively on the front hooves. This is because overreaching involves the hind foot striking the front, so it is the front that needs protection. However, in some rehabilitation or therapeutic situations, hoof boots with similar coverage may be used on hind feet. In competition, front bell boots are by far the standard, and most manufacturers produce them sized specifically for front hooves. Always check the rules for your discipline — some competitions regulate what protective equipment may be worn.