EasyCare Customer Help Desk

Getting Ready for Winter Riding

With winter just right around the corner - I know for some of you it seems like it is already here - it is time to think about winterizing your hoof boots. The EasyCare  studs are designed for durability and ultimate traction, and are great for riding on ice, mud or turf.   You can add our studs to any of our boots, (except the RX and soaker). At the Kentucky North American Championship ride our Swiss EasyCare distributor, HoofGroove added studs to the EasyCare Glue-on boots (see picture above) with a unique stud system developed for the grass and slippery conditions found in Switzerland.  The studs were a great success!  Sibylle Krieg of HoofGroove has a great deal of experience with studs and has been providing horses traction with her stud system for years. you can read more about that here.

Our studs now come in regular (3/4") and long (1"). For the bigger size boots (size 5 and up) you will need to install the longer studs due to increased sole thickness.

So don't let a little ice and snow stop  you - get out and ride!

New Shipment of Easyboot Gloves Has Arrived!

 EasyCare has just received a huge new shipment in of our  hot new boot the  Easyboot Glove!  We currently have all sizes in stock.  For all of you that have tried to order and they have been on backorder - they are here now.  We also have the power straps in assorted colors back in inventory as well.   Place your order now by calling us at 1-800-447-8836 or go to our on-line store to order.  Get 'em before they're gone, they are flying off the shelf!

Boa Boot Tip

If you have ever lost a Boa boot cap while riding, you need to read this!  Many people have a difficult time determining if the Boa Front Shield Cap is tight.  If the cap is not tight it can come off.  When tightened properly the cap will stay in place and protect the Boa Dial.  Below is a quick and easy way to install the cap.

1.  Start with the cap showing the "BOA lettering straight up and down or perpendicular to the ground.  The cap will actually only go on in this position.

2.  Twist the cap clockwise.  You will hear a series of clicks and the cap will be in the tightest position when the "BOA" lettering is straight or parallel to the ground. (see picture)

If you follow these simple instructions you should never lose a cap again (unless it falls out of your pocket!)

Happy Trails!

Need a Boot Repair?

We at EasyCare know that some of those trails can get pretty rough so when the buckle on your Epic boot has seen it's last trail, the lace has snapped on your Boa boot or the gaiter on your Glove boot didn't survive that last really rough ride, don't despair!  We have a great boot repair department here at EasyCare.  Of course for the do it yourself customers, the replacement parts and accessories are all available on our website or by calling our customer service department at 1-800-447-8836.  Also on the  website if you click on "Tips" on each boot page you can find videos and instructions for almost every repair you may need.

For those who do not want to do the repair yourself  - or just don't have the time because you would rather be out riding - please call customer service and get a Return Merchandise Authorization (RMA) number before sending any repairs to EasyCare.  The cost for boot repair  is $6.00 per boot labor, the cost of any parts needed and shipping back to you.

Fits Like A Glove

  Karen Reeves sent EasyCare  these great pics of  her Mule Rosa in her fit kit shells.  She should be our poster child for the fit! The Gloves, our latest new hoof  boot design will be a must for her!

Numerous requests have been sent to EasyCare for the Glove Boot which is a form fitting, seamless boot that hugs the hoof and responds like a natural foot. The material this boot is made of stretches over the hoof and clings to the wall so as for little or no debris to enter the boot when riding in such conditions as sand and mud. The boot has no external hardware which means no replacing of cables. Studs an be used and are available for winter riding. If you have a horse that overreaches these boots have a faster breakover and as mentioned no hardware to catch on the front heel if you are wearing them on the hind feet.  

The Glove must be carefully sized and fitted to the hoof. Measuring in milimeters will make for the best most precise fit. The width and length of the hoof must fall into the same size catagory. In addition, these boots are sold individually. Which ever choice of boots you make, hurry and place your orders and get ready for some great summer riding! Happy Trails!

    

New Hoof Boot Accessories Page!

Check out our newly redesigned hoof boot accessories page.  You can go here to find replacement parts for all of our boots, including cables and buckles for your Easyboot Epic, replacement gaiters for your Glove or Edge boots or laces for your Boa boots.  You can also find great accessories such as the Power Strap as well as Adhere and mixing tips for your Easyboot Glue-On boots.  

The accessories are now organized by which boot style they are compatible with.  If you do not see an accessory listed in your boot style section, then it is not compatible with your boot style.  In need of Comfort Pads?  Just click on the boot style you have and we will show you which pads go with your boots!

You can click here to check out the new page.

If you have any questions, please don't hesitate to contact the EasyCare Customer Help Desk at 1-800-447-8836 or email us at questions@easycareinc.com.

Comfort Pads Now Available in 3 Densities!

Give your horse more comfort and support in each step!  The  EasyCare Comfort Pads, both the 12 mm and the 6 mm are now available in three densities - soft (green), medium (black) and firm (red). The pads come in sizes Small (fits boot sizes P-2) and Large (fits boot sizes 3-7).  They are available in a style to fit the Old Mac boots as well.   The 6 mm pad may be used by itself or stacked in any desired combination for your custom application and is great for modifying boot fit.

These pads increase heel comfort so that all horses-sound or unsound-are encouraged to move correctly.  We have found that Comfort Pads are especially beneficial for any horse that is ridden.  The pads can also be used to help improve the fit of the boots while at the same time providing cushioning, additional protection, and frog support to the hoof.  Comfort Pads are an excellent way to help the horse owner successfully transition a horse from shod to barefoot.  Sold in pairs.  When ordering please specify: 1)  Boot style, 2) Boot size, and 3) Pad Density. You can call 1-800-447-8836 to order or click here to order on our website.

Happy Thanksgiving

In celebration of Thanksgiving, EasyCare will be closed from November 27 -30, re-opening on Monday, December 1, 2008.  As a reminder, our Bun Warmers are on sale through November 30, at 15% off ($55.25) with no quantity limit.  Place your orders today or anytime on our website.

Have a wonderful joyous holiday from all of us at EasyCare!

Alaska's Grasshopper

Here he is, the most beautiful Friesian/Lippizan ever seen at EasyCare.

He sports the famous Boa Boots and they look great on him. Grasshopper and his owner Frieda Koper hail from the great north. Here is Frieda's story: 

Grasshopper and I live in Anchorage, Alaska. I have spent my entire life living on the same 2 acres of land in this ever growing community. We are blessed. We have the best of both worlds, the beauty of this state is just outside our back door and yet the city is only minutes out our front door. Grasshopper is my love, he is half Friesian, half Lipizzan. He is the best of both worlds, smart, athletic and a ton of personality. Because his feet are so strong, I keep him barefoot all year round. Living in Alaska means embracing the outdoors, and that meant finding an alternative to ice shoes. The standard borium studs terrified me. Grasshopper is not a small boy, he is a power house and with one wrong move he could slice a leg, so we decided to try Boa Boots. The studs are great on ice, they dig in and allow us to cross roads, creeks and trails that we other wise would never be able to venture across. The gaiters do a magnificent job of protecting the bulbs of his heels and keeping a majority of the snow out. Without the gaiters I would not be able to ride in the snow. We found the snow packed in and caused his heels to bleed. I only did that once! The replacement parts have been a wallet saver. The laces are easy to replace. Should a stud come loose and fall out, we can easily replace them. After  years of HARD use my Boa boots are still holding up.

 

Peace from the North

Thank You Frieda and Grasshopper, many safe and Happy Trails to you from EasyCare.

EASYCARE WEBSITE NOVEMBER SPECIAL........

EasyCare is having a 15% off sale on our EasyBun Warmers! This sale is valid thru the month of November and is for website orders only. There is no limit, so you can purchase as many as you like. Just use the promo code EASYBUN at checkout, and you will automatically receive the discount on your order. 

Our Easy Bun Warmer is made of a waterproof and breathable rip-stop nylon shell, with a fleece lining that extends from edge to edge. The weighted corners allow for the best stay-put rump rug in the endurance world. The elastic drawstring cinch cord on each side also allows for easy roll-up and storage while riding. It measures 31" from the back of the saddle to the tail, and 50 1/2" from side to side. Sizing is universal for English, Western and Endurance saddles. Black only.

With the weather cooling, the price is right for this needed item. These will also make wonderful holiday gifts for your riding buddy. They will remember this thoughtful gift all season long, everytime it gets used.

Happy Riding!

Top Ten Things about Hoof Health

TrailBlazer Magazine recently ran an article in it's September 2008 magazine "The Ultimate Guide to Trail Horse Health.  101 One Hundred Plus One Tidbits of Knowledge".  This article addressed:  Equine Skin Care, Fighting Disease, Vet Exam, Parasite Control, Vital Signs, Equine Eye, Metabolic Problems, Horse Nutrition, Hoof Care and Dental Health.  Each of these topics addressed the top ten things in this area of the Horse's Health.  This article was written by Wendy Lumbert.

Here at EasyCare Inc, we were of course drawn to the Top Ten Things about Hoof Health, and what Wendy had to say about these ten ways to ensure you get better hoof health. 

1st -- Diet.  "You are what you eat" goes hand in hand with your horse's overall health and this includes their hoof health.

2nd --  Trimming and Maintenance.  A regular trim even in the winter will help keep hooves in shape and come spring,  you are back on the trails again without hoof problems.

3rd -- Intelligent Hoof Care.  Monitor your horse's hooves to make sure that the trimming is being done correctly.  Watch for underrun heels or long toes.  These can take months or years to correct.  Change farriers if you find that the trims are not being properly done.  Use our handy Hoof Care Provider link to find one near you. 

4th -- Their Footing (Terrain).  Constant wet or soggy ground will 100% guarantee that they will develop hoof problems.  Correct their terrain as much as possible.  Read this great blog on " How to Keep your Barefoot Horses Sound". 

5th -- Grooming.  Keep the hooves picked out daily.  Not only will this let you know what kind of shape the hooves are in but also prevent stone bruises and find thrush or white line disease early.  Check out our magnetized hoof pick that will make it convenient for you to do this task every day. 

6th -- Leave room for expansion.  If you use metal shoes, make sure that they are not tight and make sure the ends of the shoes are to the end of the hoof.  If the shoes are too far towards the frog, this can lead to contracted heels.  Hoof boots allow for expansion and flexibility.    

7th -- Use Hoof Pads or hoof protective products.  There are boots and pads like our EasyCare Comfort Pads that will ensure pressure on the frogs and keep them healthy.

8th -- Use appropriate Hoof Coverings.  A horse with great feet maybe able to go barefoot almost all the time and just use hoof boots for that occasional ride.  Do what is appropriate and keeps your horse's feet in good condition.  We can always help you determine which boot would be appropriate for you.  You can contact us at any time. 

9th -- Keep Feet at proper moisture levels.  if your horse's hooves are too dry and your farrier has to take out super-sized nippers, try overflowing the water troughs a little or even use an EasySoaker.  Soaking the hooves on trimming day will make it easier for the farrier.

10th -- Address any problem quickly.  If you are out riding and hear the clink clink of a loose shoe, take care of it as soon as you possibly can.  Learn how to pull the shoes yourself and put on the hoof boot.  The Easyboot has been called the "Spare Tire" for years.

Of course you need to get the September 2008 issue of TrailBlazer magazine to be able to read this whole article.    

October "Pair and a Spare" Web Special

The EasyCare web special for October is purchase 3 Easyboots any size (a pair and a spare) and receive an EasyCare Gear Bag free!  The gear bag ( a $20.00 value) is perfect for holding your Easyboots as well as grooming aids, horse blankets etc.

You must add the gear bag as one of your items and enter the promo code "SPARE" on the same line as the gear bag.  This offer ends October 31, 2008, so hurry while supplies last!

Brenda Lee and Her Boa Boots

If you have ever wondered about the functionality of boots on large draft type horses, just watch this video on the use of  Boa boots on a Shire mare. The boots are actually helping her with comfort because of an incident that occurred from steel shoe use.

To see how awesome Brenda moves with the boots on, is very exciting! She wears a size 7 Boa boot, and that is a really large boot. The largest size that we make at this time is size 8 in the Boa boot style. These success stories are what keeps EasyCare striving to come up with styles and sizes to accommodate the large variety of equine sizing out there.

Thank you Brian Reid and Brenda for sharing your success!

Answers to yesterday's Crossword Puzzle

Here are the answers to yesterday's puzzle.  How well did you do?

A crossword puzzle with every answer at http://www.easycareinc.com/

1 B

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Across 7. EasyCare has a 30 day ..... 8. What boot accessory can be installed to increase traction? 9. Our stowaway line is the most advanced innovation in ... (two words) 13. What is the name of the boot currently being tested before being released? (two words) 14. How many compartments are in the Deluxe Stowaway? 16. What item is optional on the stirrups? 17. Length is measured from toe to the .... line 18. What is Bernie's mules name?

Down 1. Which boot uses technology found in snowboard boots? 2. The Old Mac is only recommended for a maximum number of mileage per week or ride. 3. What state is EasyCare located in? 4. What is the last name of the EZ ride stirrup inventor? 5. The Easyboot Epic and Easyboot Bare are used mostly by what type of rider? 6. What city is EasyCare located in? 10. What boot is specifically made for mud, snow or wet grass? (two words) 11. What can you purchase under "Other Products" that stands 12" in height 12. What is the first name of the inventor of the Easyboot? 15. What is the largest size of the Easyboot Bare?

A Crossword Puzzle just for Fun

This is just for fun. No contest at this time but see if you can answer all the questions.  A little EasyCare Trivia to help pass away the time. I will post the answer to this crossword tomorrow. 

A crossword puzzle with every answer at http://www.easycareinc.com/

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3									4								5
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Across 7. EasyCare has a 30 day ..... 8. What boot accessory can be installed to increase traction? 9. Our stowaway line is the most advanced innovation in ... (two words) 13. What is the name of the boot currently being tested before being released? (two words) 14. How many compartments are in the Deluxe Stowaway? 16. What item is optional on the stirrups? 17. Length is measured from toe to the .... line 18. What is Bernie's mules name?

Down 1. Which boot uses technology found in snowboard boots? 2. The Old Mac is only recommended for a maximum number of mileage per week or ride. 3. What state is EasyCare located in? 4. What is the last name of the EZ ride stirrup inventor? 5. The Easyboot Epic and Easyboot Bare are used mostly by what type of rider? 6. What city is EasyCare located in? 10. What boot is specifically made for mud, snow or wet grass? (two words) 11. What can you purchase under "Other Products" that stands 12" in height 12. What is the first name of the inventor of the Easyboot? 15. What is the largest size of the Easyboot Bare?

Coming Home With Epics

The testimonials for Epics are endless. Melanie sent in a picture of her and Bo with only good things to say about our boots.

Bold Again (Bo) is 13 and a 1/2 Arab 1/2 Standard bred. I got him last winter from a local horse rescue group (www.wasatchhumane.org). He had been turned in as a bucker by his former owner who had tried to do dressage with him. After doing lots of ground work with him I started trail riding him last summer. I could tell that he was a lot happier out on the trail than he was in the arena. He still gets tense when we do arena work. Color Country was his first endurance ride. We did the LD and he did really well. He can get racy when he's out front so we rode with Janet Tipton and her mustang Ladybug and took it slow.

This was also his first ride of any kind with all four boots (we'd previously ridden in fronts only) and that went really well too. 

The Epic with the new improved gaiter and stronger cables has proven to be one of the favorite among boot users, with many miles of comfortable riding to write home about!

Cheers from EasyCare!

Oregon School of Natural Hoof Care Hosts Dr. Bowker

EasyCare is excited to announce that Dr. Robert Bowker, VMD, PHD will be conducting a clinic on August 2-3, 2008 at the Oregon School of Natural Hoofcare and it is open to the public!  Dr. Bowker is a professor of anatomy and director of the Equine Foot Laboratory at Michigan State University's college of Veterinary Medicine.  Dr. Bowker helps everyone understand how the equine foot functions, repairs and works.  This is a fantastic opportunity to listen, and interact with Dr. Bowker, as well as other hoof care professionals.  For more details please contact Cheryl Henderson at 541-899-1535 and/or visit the school's informative website.  Don't miss this amazing opportunity! 

EasyCare Customer Testimonial - A Gaited Horse Story

This is a photo of a sixty plus riding grandmother Pam Mixon. Riding Lily, her five year old, champagne singlefooting mare. " We trail ride and NEED our Easyboots." Lily has such small feet that she needs a size 0.

We were riding in the Bankhead Forest, and lost both front shoes, which was a first for Lily.  We didn't have a boot to fit, but after walking in with her, I called EasyCare and took care of that problem ASAP.  Now we don't venture out without our Easyboots...I'm too old to walk that far!

Thank you! 

~ Pam Mixon                                                                              

Get a Free Hoof Pick with Old Mac Horse Boots!

If you want a really great FREE hoof pick, buy a pair of Old Mac Original boots or the Old Mac G-2's and you will receive a FREE magnetic hoof pick. Never lose your pick again....just put it on the metal fence rail and it will stay put! No more digging in the bottom of your bucket, or gear bag for your hoof pick. Just place it on the inside of your tack door, the wall of your tack room, or even on the dash board of your pickup!

This is a $7.95 value and there is no limit on boot quantity. Buy one pair and get one FREE hoof pick.

Just enter your HOOFPICK item and the promo code OLDMAC in the code section at checkout and the $7.95 will be discounted from your order. This web special will be valid July 1st - 31st, 2008.

We here at EasyCare wish you, your family and your equines a safe and joyous July 4th Holiday!

Peanut In Epics

The many success stories we receive at EasyCare are always a pleasure to post. They also give a strong feeling about how much hoof protection is valued among the barefoot community. This is a story about "Peanut", who has been riding in Epic boots for nearly a year now. In the beginning, there were concerns with the cables fraying but have now been replaced by a stronger more durable material as well as the new improved gaiter . They ride in extreme rough terrain, and the fact that the boots stay on in sucking mud conditions is what amazes Peanut and his owner Lori Lyons. They heard about the Epics from their friends who also enjoy riding in these fine boots. Thank You Peanut and Lori from your friends at EasyCare!

How to use our Promotional Codes

Currently in the month of June, our web promotion is on our Nylon and Aluminum stirrups.  Click here for more details on our current web site orders only special.

July will be our 3rd month of having promotions for placing an online web order and using a specific promotional code.   Since this is new to us and maybe new to you, our new graphic designer has been working really hard on providing everyone with a detailed page on how to use our promotional codes.

First a little explanation on the different codes:

Item specific code is used for specific items that are on sale.  As you can see above, this months special is for the stirrups so our promotion code would be considered an item specific code. 

Order specific code is used when your whole order may receive a percentage off or money back.  We have not had any order specific code specials yet!!

  You would not want to miss out on any opportunity to get special discounts on our boots, accessories or even our apparel.  So watch for next month's Web Site Orders only special! Take advantage of this month's special and make sure you use the appropriate promotional code.  Click here to see where and how you need to use this code.  Shopping made easy for you!

If you are still having problems, please contact us. 

It's Tevis Time!

It's that time of year again for the 54th annual Tevis Cup Ride in Auburn, CA.  This year's 100 mile-one day endurance ride is being held July 19th, 2008.  If you would like more information about this challenging ride that has been the inspiration and model for endurance rides around the world, click here. 

If you are planning on attending the ride, be sure to look for vendors selling a variety of EasyCare products.  Our EasyCare dealers will have products such as Easyboot Bares, Stowaway packs and EZ Ride Stirrups available, just to name a few.

Happy Trails! 

Help Dad Have an Easy Carefree Father's Day!

Father's Day is just around the corner and EasyCare can help make the day really great for that special dad in your life.  What dad would not love a pair of EZ Ride Stirrups?  How about one of our durable, waterproof Stowaway packs that come in 7 great colors?  Dad might also like one of our luxurious Shear Comfort sheepskin saddle covers made from merino wool, which is the thickest, softest and most durable sheepskin in the world.  Our website has numerous gift ideas from nitrile gloves to hoofjacks!  You can call us at 800-447-8836 to place your order or you can order directly from our website by clicking here.   

EasyCare Bare Boots and The Extreme Cowboy Race

Check out Martha Nicholas riding her horse, Curly, in the Extreme Cowboy Race wearing EasyCare Bare boots, that she modified by installing the cable/buckle system. These races are featured on RFD TV. Everyone was sure inquisitive about those boots on the horse, so Martha shared her knowledge with all. She is going on to another race this month in Washington called the Extreme Trail Challenge.

Martha is also one of our Team Easyboot members!

Way to go Martha!!!!!

 

Tips for Gaiter Rubbing

Are you experiencing rubbing issues with the Easyboot gaiters ? If so here are a few helpful ideas on what you can try: 

1) Use BodyGlide all around the fetlocks.

2) Loosen gaiters if you feel they are too tight (Usually they are tightened as much as possible                                                           per the Epic instructions).

                                                   3) Use vet wrap and/or knee high nylon stockings by  starting at the hoof and going up to the fetlock joint.

                                                   4) Wrapping duct tape around the pastern has also  helped with rubbing issues.

These are a few suggestions from EasyCare that we have either heard from our users or experienced ourselves. Click here for more helpful tips from Karen.