cavallo hoof boots measuring & fitting
Measuring and Fitting
Cavallo Boots are SIMPLE to MEASURE
Learn How to Measure and Fit your Cavallo Hoof Boots with this Easy Video!
IMPORTANT: OUR MEASURING TOOL MAY NOT PRINT TO SCALE (which could result in incorrect sizing). Please check measurements against a ruler before proceeding to measure. Download our measuring tool HERE!
Measuring Tips
The weight-bearing LENGTH indicates the size necessary. Take width measurements as well, since that helps to confirm you have chosen the correct size and sole width.
You may wish to measure each hoof, as they may differ – requiring different sized boots.
Only new, UNUSED boots can be exchanged. To keep the boot clean, we suggest covering the hoof with thin plastic and checking fit on a non-scuff (not gravel), clean, dry surface. To be certain about your fit, please follow the test shown in the video below BEFORE using your boots.
Fitting Finer-Boned Horses
The Trek and ELB (Entry Level Boots) are the best choices for finer-boned horses. Both styles have a unique front-closure system that allows for an extra-snug fit on the upper portion of the boot – creating a very secure fit.
On a finer-boned animal, the wrap-around Velcro closures can be drawn to the front on an angle downward when the boot is being fastened, creating an almost “V” neck at the boot collar, and tightening the fit.
How to Test the Fit of your Cavallo Hoof Boots Before Using:
Cavallo Hoof Boots are SIMPLE to FIT!
Simply insert hoof into boot. Secure Velcro® closures and adjust sliding keepers on the Simple boot or secure outside closure on the Sport boot.
Important Notes on Fitting:
You should not have to force the boot on the horse’s hoof in any way.If you are having to force the boot on it is too small.
If the boot is rotating independently from the horse’s hoof it is too big. A wiggle is okay, because the hoof expands in weight bearing and even further in movement.
Remember that there is a break-in period like your own new boots would have when you first get them. The first day the boots shouldn’t be worn for more than 20 minutes. You wouldn’t put on brand new boots and go walking for hours; treat your horse’s new boots (and feet!) as you would your own. You can speed up the break-in process by using leather softener or riding through water.
Here you can see how the sole fits into the length of the boot and the heel bulbs fit into the padded heel area at the back of the boot.
Before Your First Ride:
Only new UNUSED boots can be exchanged. To keep the boot clean, we suggest covering the hoof with thin plastic and checking fit on a non-scuff (not gravel), clean, dry surface.
Like your own riding boots, it’s recommended that time is taken to gradually break in your Cavallo Boots. If your horse has sensitive skin, or if you are going on a long ride and are concerned about potential rubbing, Cavallo Pastern Wraps and/or Cavallo Comfort Sleeves are available. If your horse is fine-boned and there is excess space between the pastern and the boot collar, wraps can also prevent major debris from entering the boot.
Simple Fitting Tips:
SOLE: The sole of the hoof should fit securely inside the boot sole. Ensure that the entire weight-bearing wall from front of toe to heel buttress sits within the Simple Boot outsole. It may be helpful to compare the outside raised tread area at the bottom of the boot to the weight-bearing length of the hoof sole (toe to buttress as per diagram on above measuring chart).OUTER COVER: Ensure that the boot tongue is pushed firmly against the hoof. Draw the outer flaps firmly around the hoof, pressing the Velcro on the flaps against the Velcro on the tongue; keep taut and level.
TWISTING: If the boot twists or moves excessively, it may be too big or the outer cover may be loosely fastened. If the sole fits well but the upper portion of the boot is too large, consider the ELB or Trek styles (with these styles, the outer flaps can be angled downward when fastening to create an extra-snug fit on the upper).
TOO SMALL: If you have difficulty putting the boot on, it may be too small. Ideally the boot “snaps” nicely onto the hoof for a good fit. Please check your measurements against the chart above.
CAVALLO PASTERN WRAPS and COMFORT SLEEVES may be used to assist in the breaking-in process to prevent chafing.
ONCE THE BOOT IS FITTED, if the strap extends beyond the nylon keeper, then you can cut the strap to the preferred length, leaving a line of stitching to prevent unraveling. (Only applies to Simple Boot)