This message is from: Robin Churchill <rbc...@yahoo.com>
I have several pairs of the Soft-Ride boots and although I don't like the design of the more recent ones as much as the original ones, mostly because they are less durable, they can be a lifesaver in terms of protecting the foot without having to do elaborate wraps. There are different orthotics you can get depending on what the horse needs. The Soft-ride might be good for cushioning the opposite foot that must be bearing more weight.I started out with 2 pairs when my horse (warmblood, not fjord) had hoof problems on his front feet so that I would have a clean pair to switch to when the other pair got wet or dirty. They hose off well and dry pretty quickly. I kept him in Soft-Rides for 3 months once when he couldn't be shod then for 6 months when he had laminitis due to trimming issues. They really kept my horse comfortable and the hoof well-protected. I have also used them in a bigger size without the orthotic just to keep a wrap clean and dry. They have a website where you can order them directly from the company. The disadvantage is that they are pretty expensive. Also an equine slipper can be helpful to keep a wrap on if the horse is in the stall.It doesn't have the cushioning of the Soft-Ride, though. Robin Important FjordHorse List Links: Subscription Management: http://tinyurl.com/5msa7e FH-L Archives: http://tinyurl.com/rcepw Classified Ads: http://tinyurl.com/5b5g2f
