Solving gaiter rubbing

Last year I rode a lot of miles on one horse using Epics and Bares and was fortunate enough to be able to figure out how to make it work really well.  I have now been competing regularly on three different barefoot horses and the boots are working fantastically well for all of them.

I know a few of you are having some issues with gaiters rubbing on your horses so thought I'd put together a list of some things that might help you solve that particular problem.  We are working on new innovations and products that will eventually solve this and other problems completely.

1. If you happen to have an older version of the gaiters, consider upgrading to the newer verions which are softer and have a rolled edge.  Look at my post on "Training gaiters" to see a photo of what the new gaiters look like so you can tell the difference. 
2. Check out this video that I posted on using vetwrap, or look at this photo album.
3. Make sure that your boot is the correct size!  Check out our handy Hoofboot Size Calculator.  If your horse is close on the sizing you may be able to try one size smaller, or larger and get a more perfect fit.  I use size 1's on Chief even though his measurements would allow him to wear a 2. 
4. Have you already got a couple of rubs that you don't want to get worse?  Apply some Trail Rite Ointment or Gall Salve to the area before you wrap. 
5. I buy black Cohesive Bandage from Country Supply, they sell 18 rolls for 16.02. Be sure to look at the photos or video linked above and make sure you don't put the wrap on too tight - if you do that alone could cause a problem!
   
6. Play around with your adjustments.  If your getting rubbing after trying all of the above, consider adjusting your gaiter a little looser, or a little tighter.  Each horse is different and what works for one might not work for another.  I know that most people will be able to get this to work for them with a little effort and once they do it will be worth it!