THE RECYCLER
Model: VenTECH all-purpose combo wrap.
Maker: Professional’s Choice.
Why buy: The wrap conforms to your horse’s legs and has additional suspensory straps for support, while a ventilated neoprene outer layer allows airflow for heat dispersion.
Cool features: The lightweight, moisture-wicking liners can be removed and replaced easily, and extra liners are available for purchase.
More info: (800) 331-9421; profchoice.com.
Price: $84.95; price includes a set of liners.
THE HOOF MASTER
Model: Shipping boots.
Maker: Weaver.
Why buy: The 600-denier outer shell and fleece liner offer comfort for long travel. Striker plates at the bottom of each boot add extra protection for your horse against hoof scrapes or scuffs.
Cool feature: Three different sizes are available for an identical price to accommodate horses ranging in height from 14 to 16 or more hands.
More info: (800) 932-8371; ridethebrand.com.
Price: $80.39
THE BASIC
Model: Polo wraps.
Maker: Classic Equine.
Why buy: A set of fleece wraps is a cost-effective alternative to fully equipped shipping boots and can also be used for performance purposes in the arena.
Cool features: Multiple patterns or solids available, and each set includes a laundry bag that makes cleaning quick and easy.
More info: (800) 654-7864; equibrand.com.
Price: $32.95
THE RITZ
Model: Trailering boots with Textilene.
Maker: Kensington Products.
Why buy: The nylon boots are contoured to fit the front or rear legs easily while providing freedom of movement. The Textilene mesh outer shell is mildew-resistant and won’t easily fade.
Cool feature: An inner core of foam and hollow fiberfill absorbs vibration, so your horse’s legs don’t have to.
More info: (877) 469-1240; kensingtonproducts.com.
Price: $159.99
SAVVY SHIPPING SUGGESTIONS
Trailering can be a stressful experience for your horse, especially during long trips, which can cause trailering-related health issues. Help your horse have an easy and comfortable ride by planning ahead with these tips.
Happy tummy. Offer a drink at every stop, every few hours. Bring water from home so it’ll taste familiar to your horse, or add Kool-Aid mix to make it more palatable for difficult drinkers. Bring hay from home as well (at least enough to get him through the trip, plus a few days at the new location). Avoid grains, new feeds, or high-carb feeds before a long trip to lessen risk of gastric discomfort.
Footing basics. Make sure that your trailer’s mats are level and in good repair. Clean excess shavings and manure from beneath them if necessary. Before the trip, add extra shavings that’ll help soak up urine and provide cushion.
First-aid first. A well-stocked first-aid kit is a must. Have both a thermometer and stethoscope on hand to check your horse’s temperature and gut sounds at each travel break. Prepare the basics ahead of time, such as bandaging material, wound-care solution, saline, and anti-inflammatory medications. (See “Trail Terrors, Part 1: First-Aid Kit” at HorseandRider.com for an itemized safety-kit list.)
Travel kit. Don’t leave home without your horse’s paperwork (negative Coggins test, health certificate, brand-inspection paperwork, and/or vaccination records). If you’re traveling out of state, check local requirements before you hit the road.
