The best ice boots for horses provide cold therapy to the lower leg. They are usually used routinely after strenuous exercise in order to cool the structures in the lower leg or for rehabilitation from injury. Cooling the tendons and ligaments is important as increased temperatures can cause damage to the structures. The cold temperatures also promote healing.
In recent years, the technologies used in ice boots for horses have come on leaps and bounds – and there is a wide range of options, too. Some ice boots and wraps also provide compression, vibration or the option for heat therapy – similar to many other therapy products – offering even further benefits, so it’s important to consider what you hope to get out of your new ice boots.
Another thing to consider is the practicality of each pair of boots – some are quick to cool or can be cooled without the need for a freezer, while others take longer but may last longer, too. If you plan to use them after a competition, be sure to choose a pair that you have the facilities to activate and keep cool if necessary. It’s also important to think about how much surface contact the boot has with your horse’s leg – the more contact, the more benefit the leg is likely to receive – and the ease of application.
Best ice boots for horses
Horseware Ice-Vibe Tendon Boots
Sizes: Full or extra-full
RRP: £239.95 for a pair, including ice packs, panels and charger
These rechargeable, cooling and vibrating boots from Horseware can be used on the front or hind legs and encourage movement of the lymphatic system and blood flow. Made with a neoprene outer that wraps around the cold packs and is secured with Velcro, they have elasticated inner pockets for the vibrating panels and are contoured to the lower leg. The latest update includes a light indicator on the vibrating panels.
Shires Arma Cool Hydro Therapy Boots
Sizes: Pony, cob or full
RRP: £42.99 for a pair
These Shires boots contain micro-crystals that turn to a cooling gel when soaked in water. The crystals swell into the quilted fabric spaces to form a soft gel pad that hugs all parts of the leg when the boot is fitted. The gel is contained within the fabric quilting and returns to micro-crystals when dry so the boots are mess-free and reusable.
Woof Wear Polar Ice Boots
Sizes: One size
RRP: £64.99 for a pair
These Woof Wear boots feature removable gel packs that can be applied straight from the freezer and moulded around the tendons as they remain flexible when frozen. Made with a plush breathable neoprene outer and fastened with touch-close fastenings for an improved fit, the boots have horizontal elasticated mesh pockets to position the therapy packs, which can be used hot or cold. Boots can also be used on the front or hind legs.
Premier Equine Cold Water Compression Boots
Sizes: S–XL
RRP: £54 for a pair
These boots from Premier Equine have no need for ice or refrigeration – just soak in water for five to eight minutes to activate the cooling technology that lowers the ambient temperature by 6–12°C. The medical-grade lining has hypoallergenic and antibacterial properties, while the 3D sports mesh outer allows a constant flow of air to reach the cold water material which prolongs the cooling effect. The adjustable Velcro straps also create compression to further aid recovery.
EQuick EArtik Cooling Boots
Sizes: One size
RRP: £125 for a pair
These EQuick cooling boots, which can be used on front or hind limbs, have a tough, structured outer and are secured with three Velcro straps. They are supplied with reusable, non-toxic, gelatine bags that can be left in the freezer until needed when they are slipped into the mesh panels on the inside of the boot. It’s recommended they are used for 20-minute periods, but the ice packs will stay cold for up to two hours. The gelatine bags are also microwavable at low heat for use as warming treatment, while the boots are also machine washable.
LeMieux Arctic Ice Boots
Sizes: One size
RRP: £69.95 for a pair
These generously sized, flexible ice boots from LeMieux have four elasticated straps that allow for flexible fitting, which means that they can be used anywhere on either front or hind limbs. They contain a gel that is formed in 24 separate pockets and contours around the limb ensuring maximum contact. The boots take four to six hours to freeze and should be used for 20 minutes at a time. A cooling bag is also available so you can easily transport the boots to shows.
Ruggles Compression Ice Socks
Sizes: S–XL
RRP: £68 for a set of four
Made from a strong four-way stretch nylon Lycra, these compression socks from Ruggles can be used with or without ice. The full-length ice pockets go around the back of the legs to allow for maximum coverage. They also have a full-length zip, which makes them easy to put on and are fastened with Velcro at the top and bottom. The socks are machine washable and come in a handy storage bag.
Icehorse Tendon Wraps
Sizes: Pony or horse
RRP: From £125 for a pair
These Ice Horse wraps provide uniform compression and excellent coverage to reduce inflammation and heat in the tendons and ligaments. The wraps are made with a breathable fabric that keeps the packs securely in place and allows the heat to escape. The ice packs also freeze to a snow-like consistency. This allows them to mould to the leg for maximum coverage and also enables them to be cold for more than two hours.
Cryochaps Compression Ice Boots
Sizes: One size to fit 15.2–18hh
RRP: From £49.99 for one wrap
H&H Review: 8/10
These all-in-one ice and compression wraps by Cryochaps have an ice gel section that covers all the major tendons and ligaments in the lower leg. It also has uniquely designed compartments to follow the contours of the leg to ensure every area is cooled effectively. The gel inside is crispy, even when frozen, which helps the wrap mould well to the leg. There is a stretchy compression sleeve that applies uniform compression, which helps drive the cold deeper into the tissues. The Cryochaps cool bag will keep the wraps frozen for at least six hours. The wraps should be applied for 10-15 mins. Short sharp application is highly beneficial, as the removal of ice and compression also plays an important role in recovery, increasing blood flow and oxygen to the area, which kick-starts healing.
Read the full Cryochaps Compression Ice Boots review.
Are ice boots good for horses?
Ice boots can be beneficial for horses in managing injuries and reducing inflammation. Ice boots are effective in reducing swelling and inflammation in a horse’s legs after strenuous exercise according to recent studies.
By constricting blood vessels, ice boots limit the inflammatory response and reduce fluid build-up, helping to speed up recovery from soft tissue injuries such as strains, sprains, and tendonitis. Additionally, the cooling effect of ice boots can reduce pain as well as prevent heat stress after intense exercise.
When using ice boots for horses, it’s essential to ensure a proper fit to cover the targeted area adequately and avoid discomfort. It’s crucial to follow a vet’s recommendations for specific injuries.
How long to leave ice boots on a horse?
Ice boots should generally be left on a horse for 15-20 minutes at a time. This duration is sufficient to reduce inflammation and swelling without risking tissue damage or frostbite. However, manufacturer guidelines might differ.
For acute injuries or after intense exercise, you can apply ice boots multiple times a day. However, ensure that there is a break of at least one to two hours between sessions. Also, remember to always follow your vet’s specific recommendations for your horse’s condition to ensure the safe and effective use of ice therapy.
How to use ice boots on horses?
Start by choosing the right size and type of ice boots for your horse, ensuring they cover the intended area without being too tight or loose. Before applying the boots, inspect your horse’s legs for any cuts or abrasions, and ensure the skin is clean and dry. Carefully wrap the ice boots around the horse’s legs, fastening them securely but not too tightly, and leave them on for the recommended time while supervising your horse to ensure comfort and proper fit.
After the recommended time, remove the ice boots, dry your horse’s legs if necessary, and check for any adverse reactions. It’s also important to clean and dry the boots according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
You might also like:
10 therapeutic rugs your horse will thank you for
Supplements to help joints keep working at their best: what’s on the market?
7 cooler rugs to consider for your four-legged friend
11 pairs of boots ready to go out on the cross-country course
Subscribe to Horse & Hound magazine today – and enjoy unlimited website access all year round
Horse & Hound magazine, out every Thursday, is packed with all the latest news and reports, as well as interviews, specials, nostalgia, vet and training advice. Find how you can enjoy the magazine delivered to your door every week, plus options to upgrade your subscription to access our online service that brings you breaking news and reports as well as other benefits.
