Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between the Classic and Viper?
The main difference between the two styles is in the shape of the boot shell, and the associated sizing charts. The Viper has a more rounded shape overall, with a wider area at the toe quarters. The Viper is also available in a wider range of sizes. More minor differences include a deeper and more aggressive tread on the Viper, and different shapes to the heel captivators. See the full breakdown of boot model differences at: Difference Between Boot Models
Are your boots sold in pairs or singles?
Our boots are sold individually – not in pairs.
Do boots come in blue/purple/pink/other colors?
Yes, on a limited basis, as those colors require a special material for color stability.
Will your hoof boots work over metal shoes?
No. Our hoof boots are not designed to be used over metal shoes. They will not fit correctly and will cause your horse to trip and damage the boots.
Do I need a fresh trim before measuring?
Yes. It is always best to measure your horses hooves after a fresh trim and then make some allowance for the amount of hoof growth you have every month. Do not fit the boots tightly. It’s better to order a size with a looser fit than to order one too small. Boots that are too small will twist.
Will your hoof boots work with high heels?
While not specifically designed for high heels, with careful adjustment and installation, they have been known to work on slightly higher heels, but do not expect full performance. If your horse has high heels we suggest you communicate with your health care professional to see what can be done to lower the heels. The boots will not work on true club foot.
Do you need to use a rubber mallet to install the hoof boots like some other brands?
Absolutely not! Our boots should go on easily. If you feel the need to pound the boot on with a mallet, it’s TOO TIGHT! Boots that are too tight will likely twist.
My horse takes a certain size in Classics. What Viper size do I need?
The two boot styles use different size charts, and do not necessarily correlate between each other. For the most accurate sizing, please re-measure your horse on a fresh trim in millimeters to determine the best Viper size. 5-10mm should be added to the length and width measurements to determine the best boot size. (For example, a hoof that measures 5″ x 5″ or 127mm x 127mm would take the Viper size 135×135, as that falls right between the measurement allowances of 5mm-10mm.)
How are Vipers sized?
Vipers are sized in millimeters, the size given as a length x width format.
I want to order a size 2 in Vipers but I don’t see that size listed.
The “Classic” model uses what is often considered the “standard” size designations such as 0, 1, 2. The Vipers use a completely different size chart (found at http://www.renegadehoofboots.com/viper.html), measured in millimeters, in a length x width format.
Can I get a cutback on my Vipers?
No, we generally do not do any further in-factory size modifications to the Vipers. Vipers come in a wider range of pre-formed length x width sizes. If your horse’s measurements do not fall into one of the stock Viper sizes, the boot shape will likely not be compatible with your horse’s hoof shape.
Can I use them for turnout?
It is not recommended. Renegades are designed for performance purposes only, and are not intended to be used for turnout purposes or as a therapeutic boot.
The boots are twisting. Why?
A boot that is too tight on the hoof will twist. Too narrow of a boot shell, or a captivator that is too tight and not able to be positioned properly on the heel bulbs will cause the boot to twist. If the captivator is tight or difficult to pull up onto the heel bulbs, the cables should be lengthened. A tight boot shell that is difficult to get on the hoof is too small and a larger size is needed. It is counter-intuitive, but these boots are designed to not be crammed onto the hoof or cranked down tight in the adjustments. A properly-fitting boot shell needs to have enough space within it to allow for the natural hoof expansion upon landing.
The boot came apart/cables pulled loose. Is the boot broken?
The cables will pull out of the front of the boot if the set screws are not tight, or if the cables are stacked or crossed on top of each other inside the cable clamp. Set screws need to be tight, and cables should lay parallel to each other.
How do I know which boot I need?
The hoof shape will be the largest determining factor in which boot model is most appropriate. For help in determining this, please send us photos of the hooves after a fresh trim with a tape measure showing the width x length dimensions.
Which captivator do I need?
Captivators can be swapped between boot models. Horses with well-developed heel bulbs that have good space and definition are best suited for the Viper captivators. If the horse has heel bulbs that are flatter, narrower, less defined, or heels that are slightly higher, the Classic captivator will be a better option, as it is more accommodating of a wider range of heel bulb shapes and sizes. Captivators come in 3 different sizes for each boot model.
What is the cutback option?
This is a semi-custom option that can be done on boots to shorten the boot length. It is not offered as a stock option anymore, and must be authorized by customer service personnel first. Please send photos of the hooves after a fresh trim with a tape measure showing the width x length dimensions for assessment on whether a cutback would be necessary or not.
Can I put pads in the boots?
The pad option we offer is a permanent, pour-in gel pad. It is a firm gel, designed to add an additional layer of shock and concussion absorption to the boot. It is most beneficial for a horse recovering from a hoof pathology, or for ones travelling high mileage on rocky and/or concussive ground. These pads are permanent, and cannot be removed or replaced.
How long can glue-ons be left on?
They are designed for short-term use, and it is recommended they not be left on longer than 7-10 days. They are a short-term hoof protection solution, not a long-term shoe replacement, and are not intended to be left on for a full trim cycle.
What glue do you use on the glue-ons?
Our best success and most thoroughly-tested adhesive is the Vettec Adhere. See your local farrier supply or larger online retailers to obtain it.
Can I use these boots for…jumping, barrel racing, arena, trail?
The boots are designed to hold up to a wide variety of high-performance uses. Although designed as a high-performance endurance boot, our customers include endurance riders, trail riders, barrel races, jumpers, dressage riders, fox hunters, and more. A properly sized, fitted, and adjusted boot is key to a successful performance, no matter the discipline or use.
How long do they last?
Mileage will depend on the terrain, speed, and how the horse moves. On average, it is expected to get 500-600 miles out of the Classic model, and 600-800 miles out of the Vipers. Abrasive, rough terrain, or horses who drag their toes, will likely get fewer miles out of their boots.
Why do you use hook-and-loop straps?
We have chosen hook-and-loop material for our straps because they allow a near-infinite amount of adjustability, and are the most low-profile option. Straps with buckles are not as adjustable throughout a trim cycle, and will not hold up as well to being hit against rocks and rough terrain. Keeping your boots clean after every ride will extend the life of the straps. Individual replacement straps (and all other parts) are available once straps wear out.
I use ‘X’ size in another brand; what size Renegade do I need?
Different brands use different size charts and are designed to fit differently, so correlation between sizes/brands is not accurate. Please re-measure your horse’s hooves on a fresh trim and compare it to the Renegade size chart for the most accurate boot sizing and fit.
My boots are making a clopping sound. Are they too big?
It is likely they are too small. The clopping noise is likely coming from the expanding hoof pushing the boot slightly off with each stride. Although counter-intuitive, the boots should fit slightly loose rather than too tight, and better performance will be achieved with a boot that is even a little bit too large versus too snug.