2006 - Volume #30, Issue #1, Page #33
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New Products For Horse And Rider
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Latest new boots for horses use materials and technology previously only found on modern ice skates and snowboard boots. They provide protection for all types of riding, and can replace traditional metal horseshoes. Boots can also be used on "barefoot" horses to treat injuries. They can even be used to provide protection during trailering, breeding, and are a quick fix for the occasional lost shoe.
The "Boa Boot" lace-tightening mechanism only recently came onto the market for human applications but it was quickly adapted for horses.
The unique closure system uses a dial tightening mechanism with a steel cable and reel. By simply turning the dial, one can easily and evenly tighten or loosen the cable, by small increments if desired. "Because of the mechanical advantage created by the reel's gear train, it develops significant leverage so a great deal of tensioning force is created with very little effort. As a result, the boot can be tensioned very tightly for increased support," the company website says.
The boot has a leather upper and urethane sole. It also has a pull-tab at the heel, similar to those found on athletic tennis shoes. This, combined with the easily-controlled lace system, makes it easy to put on or take off these boots.
Three small drain holes in the sole of the boot allow moisture to escape. Boots can be used on either foot. Hard metal boot studs are available for ice and snow or extra traction on steep slopes. They cost $18 for a set of 12 studs.
Another accessory, the Boa Gaiter, is recommended for sandy or muddy conditions. It helps keep excessive sand and dirt out of the boot. It can also be used on horses that have a tendency to chafe.
The Boa Boot sells for $135 per pair with free shipping to the lower 48 states. The Boa Gaiters are $15.75 per pair.
Grazing Muzzle
The Best Friend Grazing Muzzle can be used to put a horse on a diet or to discourage bad habits such as nipping and cribbing.
The safe and comfortable muzzle has a small opening in the bottom that allows horses to eat a limited amount of grass, but drink unlimited water. In this way, they can remain in the herd, exercising and socializing in the pasture.
Lightweight and strong, the muzzle resists rubbing and chafing, and will not rot. It's made of soft, comfortable nylon webbing with neoprene padding on the noseband. The bottom is made of flexible and durable reinforced rubber, which is easily cleaned with water.
The Best Friends Muzzle comes in five sizes: large horse, horse, cob, pony and mini. It's priced at $55.95.
Mounting Aide
The Best Friend Bare-up is a bareback mounting aide that fits around the horse's barrel, just behind the withers. It allows the rider to easily mount for bareback riding.
"Extra wide cotton webbing spreads the weight of your mounting over a broad area around the horse's girth, minimizing the load," the company explains. "It only takes a minute to strap it on, mount up, and then take it off while you're riding, stored in the included waist pack."
The Best Friend Bare-up fits horses with girths up to 70 inches and is available in either hunter green or navy blue. Its stainless steel stirrup will not rust. It's priced at $31.95.
Contact: FARM SHOW Followup, Action Rider Tack, Box 639, Jacksonville, Oregon 97530 (ph 877 865-2467 or 541 899-0151; candy@actionridertack.com; www.actionridertack.com).
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