From The Horse's Mouth

Big weekend for EasyCare!

We had a big weekend at EasyCare.

The BETA trade show located in Birmingham, England is going well and we have had the opportunity to show distributors in England and Europe the new EasyCare hoof boot line.  The Easyboot Glove has been entered into the New Product Gallery and we have our fingers crossed for a win.  Three of the judges came by and did a 15 minute interview and discussed how impressed they were with the Glove.

Christoph Schork and Dian Woodward are having an incredible weekend at the Mojave Scenic Endurance ride.  Christoph received first place on the first day.  On the second day Christoph won again and was followed closely by Dian in third place.  Third place is an incredible accomplishment for Dian.  Dian has been through a great deal of health issues over the past 24 months and is one tough gal.  Christoph and Dian are both riding in Easyboot Glue-Ons.  Good luck on day #3. 

Christoph and Dian are pictured below.

 
I had a successful weekend testing a new gaiter design.  The new gaiter is lower profile, lighter weight, and much more adjustable.  It adjusts for both heel height and pastern circumference.  Test rides have been successful with long rides at speed. 

In addition, I've been testing a new cuff that allows the Glue-On boot to be taken off or removed at anytime.  The boot can then be reapplied without glue.  The horse goes barefoot when not being ridden and the cuff allows the shell to be reattached before a ride.

Both these designs will be huge advancements!

The cuff is pictured below. 

Eastern Mojave Scenic and Easyboot Glue-On

Team Easyboot members Christoph Schork and Dian Woodward of Global Endurance will be attending the Eastern Mojave Scenic ride over the coming weekend.  Christoph will be riding in the Easyboot Glue-On and will be able to answer any questions regarding installation or removal. 

We are happy to have Christoph on Team Easyboot and excited to see him compete in 2009 with Easyboot Glue-On.  Christoph won 24 endurance races in 2008 alone.  Christoph has also entered the $10,000 Hoof Boot Contest. 

If you are attending the event and are interested in our new boot line make sure you stop over and see Dian and Christoph. 

Full EasyCare Fit Kits going out the door!

We have over 100 full EasyCare Fit Kits going out the door today.  Wow. 

The full "Fit Kit" is a awesome tool for natural hoof care providers and barefoot trimmers.  The full fit kit consists of 9 shells, an instruction brochure and a carry bag.  The fit kit takes the guessing out of the fitting process and allows practitioners to fit each hoof for the Easyboot Glove and Easyboot Glue-On.

We will also be shipping out 3 boot "Fit Kits" to consumers at no charge.  Read more about our consumer "Fit Kit" here. 

"Fit Kit" instructions and video are up at our website here. 

Easyboot Glove, Easyboot Glue-On and Easyboot Rx are here and ready to ship!

Photos of hoof boot boxes are pretty dull but our first shipment of new boots is here!  The arrival marks the end of a process and the start of several others. Countless hours of design, redesign, testing and follow up testing have gone into the new designs. It's interesting looking back at when many of these boots started, how they evolved and how they perform now.  It's a long involved process. 

The Easyboot Glove, Easyboot Glue-On and Easyboot Rx are here and ready to ship.  Pre-orders have been hot and heavy.  We are already out of some items.  Check with our EasyCare dealer network for inventory.  If you can't find what you need, be patient we will have more soon.

On another note I believe I've perfected a new lower profile gaiter for the Easyboot Glove.  The Glove is our best boot and works awesome like it is now but the new gaiter makes it even better.  The new gaiter is lighter weight, lower profile and makes the boots more secure.  Best of all I think the new gaiter solves the problem a few folks had with gaiter rubbing issues! It will work on the Glove, Epic, Edge, Bare and Grip. 

Another hoof boot is also in testing and looking good.  I'll update more here soon!

Measuring and fitting the Easyboot Glove and Easyboot Glue-On. When to use a Fit Kit?

I’m still getting many questions about the sizing and fitting instructions for the Easyboot Glove and Easyboot Glue-On. 

Yes, the measuring and sizing for both boots is different than all the other boots in the EasyCare line.  Yes, there is only 4mm difference between sizes.  Yes, we have half sizes in both the Easyboot Glove and Easyboot Glue-On.  Both boots are new to the equestrian world and require different sizing and fitting requirements.  A size #1 in the Easyboot or Epic does not correlate to a size #1 Glove or Glue-On.

 

Here are the steps required to get the best fit when ordering an Easyboot Glove or Easyboot Glue-On.

1. Ordering Direct without a “Fit Kit”.
   1. Measure your horse’s feet.  If the width and length fit into the same size you are probably OK to order the boot (Glove or Glue-On).  If the boots don’t fit keep them clean and return them for another size. Check out the "Fit Kit" videos here. 
      
2. Ordering after fitting your horse with a “Fit Kit”
   1. If the width and length don’t fit into the same size we recommend you order a Fit Kit that is the closest to your width measurement.
   2. After the Fit Kit arrives try all three size shells and order the proper size Easyboot Glove or Easyboot Glue-On.

Other helpful tips.

1. If your horse’s feet a wide or don’t seem to fit the measurements of the Easyboot Glove or Easyboot Glue-On, order a Fit Kit.  The shell of the Glove and Glue-On are very flexible and actually fit both wide and narrow feet well.
2. If you don’t have a good fit using the Fit Kit the Easyboot Glove or Easyboot Glue-On may not be right for your horse.  EasyCare has many other boot styles to choose from. 
3. Don’t assume that your horse will wear the same size as he does in another EasyCare hoof boot.  If you take this route the boots will not fit!
4. The Easyboot Glove and Easyboot Glue-On work best for horses that have a barefoot trim.  Low heels, little to no flare. 

Jumping in the Easyboot Glove

Easyboot Glove gets a jumping test.  Angela Guy's short report from Chronicle of the Horse.

"A while back, someone posted here about using hoof boots in the jumping portions of eventing... And one of the employees of EasyCare came on CoTH and offered Easyboot Glove boots to anyone willing to try them on their horse eventing... I e-mailed him and he sent me a pair to try out.

The Easyboot Glove is a lovely hoof boot, VERY low profile. Basically a rubber shell that encompasses the hoof, but stops well below the hairline, with a gaiter added on to help keep it in place. Easy Care also has a Glue-On that is just the rubber hoof shell without the gaiter. www.easycareinc.com

I have had a few flatwork/trail rides in them and they are great. But today was the first time I had been able to get out and test them in stadium and XC. I know the jumps aren't the biggest (General's a bit of a greenie), but it was a great test for the Easyboot Glove.

I can truthfully say that I felt no difference whatsoever in how General moved or jumped. He felt safe and comfortable, as always. My instructor (Ruth Sawin of Pine Hill, Area 5) noticed no difference in how Gen was moving, either on the flat or over the jumps. Also, they seemed to not hold any water after the water jumps.

The pics can be seen here:
http://www.horsephotoguy.com/gallery...s.php?album=69

Please no comments on my poor riding abilities... After looking at the photos and video, I realize there is PLENTY *I* can improve upon!!

The Gloves are easy to put on and remove, there's no unnecessary hardware and the traction/grip is excellent, even coming out of the water onto dry/slick grass.

It was a great day, and the Glove is a great product!!"

More on the Easyboot Glove Power Strap

I've had the opportunity to put more test miles on the Easyboot Glove fitted with the Power Strap.  The Power Strap adds to the performance of the Easyboot Glove and makes the boot fit very snug and makes sizing more forgiving.  I recently did a hard, fast ride on a horse that is very hard on back boots.  The slim design of the Power Strap keeps them out of harms way and eliminates interference caused by additional width. 

I've added some photos of the Power Straps after several conditioning rides.  They are holding up well and enhance the performance of the Glove.

Another Easyboot Glove Success Story

Another Easyboot Glove success story.  When these boots fit they really work!

"Well, lets just say... I love them. I have not had them very long and I have only used them on my mare fronts and all we have been able to do is some conditioning rides, but I have been very happy with the way they have performed so far. We have a 75 miler coming up (Feb 14) and I intend on using them on her fronts for that. They fit my mares feet very well. The specs seem to work for her at least. I have put them through some nasty mud holes and places where she drinks and sinks and they have not been sucked off as of yet. The materials seem to be holding up well."

"Putting them on is a snap and getting them off is even easier. I love that, and the fact that they are very light, it does not affect my mares motion in the least. They are very clean looking and I find myself having to make sure there is even a boot on her foot.  All in all I give them a big thumbs up, especially for the ease to put on and take off, and their weight (I've been a fan of the Bares for some time but they have always seemed heavy to me)."

Todd Hezeau

Todd has developed a nice inner sock to work with gaitered boots.  They are pictured in the photos.

Easyboot Rx test results from Germany

Over the past couple months we have sent out several hundred pairs of Easyboot Gloves and Easyboot Rx's.  Test results continue to come in and are very encouraging for both products.  The Rx results have been very good, but I'm a bit worried people are going to start using the Rx for more than just a medicinal/therapy boot.

EasyCare is fortunate to have a great group of boot testers around the world.  I've recently had the opportunity to add Manuela Volk and her beautiful stallion Gharim to our group of testers.  Manuela has some impressive horse knowledge and has been a great addition to our test group.

Take a look at how Gharim is moving around in the Rx.  Looks like he's in a riding boot not a therapy boot.  If a horse can move around a paddock at the pace below, the boots will surely work in a therapy situation!

Thanks Manuela and Gharim!

Easyboot Glove and Easyboot Glue-On Power Strap Accessory

The Easyboot Glove and Easyboot Glue-On are about to be released next week.  I believe our new product range is our best yet and we are currently working on ways to improve the line.  One of the ideas we are working on is a "Power Strap" for the Easyboot Glove and Easyboot Glue-On. 

When the Easyboot Glove and Easyboot Glue-On shells were developed, we built several features into the mold that would allow us to make additions or modifications to each product in the future.  For example, the front of the shells have a dimpled area that is ready to accept a buckle or strap if needed.

 
The current design of the Easyboot Glove and Easyboot Glue-On shell is working very, very well.  The design allows the material of the shell to stretch and mold to the shape of each foot.  Although the current designs are working well, I've discovered that if you apply some tension to both sides of the "V" it makes a very snug fit. It also allows the boot to conform to more of the "odd" shaped feet.

The "Power Strap" is currently in the rough design and R&D stages, but is actually better than anticipated.  It's made of a very thin urethane that is both strong and flexible.  The flat strap is like a large flat rubber band.  It helps pull the material of the shell around the hoof and makes an even tighter fit.  Best of all it is very thin and doesn't add any additional bulk.  I have roughly 100 miles of testing with the "Power Strap" and can see that it makes both products fit even better and more snug. 

Application is easy.  Punch two holes in the shell.  Attach the "Power Strap" and off you go.

HoofGroove and EasyCare discuss new product launches in Switzerland

Easyboot Edge, Easyboot Glove and Easyboot Rx hit Switzerland.

On Friday 1/22, I had the opportunity to visit Zurich, Switzerland and EasyCare distributor HoofGroove.  The quick visit contained a several hour boot fitting demo, business discussions and dinner.  Sibyle’s horse Jack was an awesome demo horse and was fitted in all the new EasyCare hoof boots.  HoofGroove was very impressed with the new designs and pleaded with me to leave as many samples as possible.  Expect EasyCare’s new line to hit Switzerland mid February.

Jack stood with us for roughly an hour without halter and without being tied.  Pretty cool.

 

 

 

Garrett Ford

www.hoofbootnews.com

HufShop Partner Conference in Germany

Several months ago Claudia and Bernd Jung of HufShop asked if EasyCare would be interested in attending a Hufshop partner conference.  The theme and purpose would be to build better partnerships and communication between Hufshop, Hufshop dealers, Hufshop consumers and EasyCare.  My answer to Hufshop was “absolutely”.  My internal thoughts were “heck yes” and “I wish all our international distributors took the same initiative”. 

After a quick visit to Zurich with Hoofgroove, I headed to Frankfurt then jumped over to Murrhardt.  The conference started Saturday mid-day and was attended by 30+ Hufshop dealers and practitioners.  Dialog and conversation flowed quickly and well despite language barriers.  I was immediately impressed by the attendee’s knowledge of barefoot horses, hoof boots and market conditions.   I personally learned a great deal about the challenges of keeping a horse barefoot in the wetter German environment. 

We spent the afternoon talking about the history of Hufshop, direction of Hufshop, EasyCare/Hufshop partnership and partnerships between Hufshop and dealers.   Conversations were positive as everyone discussed how these increased partnership opportunities in the end help horses!

 We ended the night with a great Italian dinner and drinks.  Conversation about horses, barefoot trimming, hoof boots, the economy, and fuel prices continued well past mid night.  New friendships were established, knowledge grew in many areas and partnerships increased. 

I want to personally thank Hufshop and everyone who attended.  Great group of people and a wonderful weekend.  Thank you Germany.

Check out more about the weekend at the Hufshop Blog.

Garrett Ford

www.hoofbootnews.com

 

Easyboot Glove hits the mud in Northern California

Natalie Herman put the Easyboot Glove through some muddy paces in Northern California.  We have had many questions regarding how the Glove will work in the mud.  I personally think it will be our best performing boot as it has the least profile.  There is very little to hang up in the mud.

I'll post more as we get more feedback in muddy areas.

Easyboot Glue-On and Easyboot Glove Shell Flexibility

We are seeing great results with the flexibility of the Easyboot Glue-On and Easyboot Glove shells. The shells are fitting both wide and narrow feet. Below is a short video that shows a #1 shell fitting the wide (wider than long) front feet of a horse. The same shell is then used on the back feet of the same horse. The back feet are very long and narrow. The flexibility of the shell allow the boot to contour to both foot shapes. 

Easyboot Glove Update from Germany

Over the past couple days I've received some nice comments from Easyboot Glove testers outside of the USA in Australia and Germany.

We have a great partner and distributor in Germany called Hufshop.  Hufshop is run and managed by Claudia and Bernd Jung.  They have been a wonderful partner and a joy to work with.  Savvy business people who continue to develop professional web, blog and shopping cart systems that drive hoof boot sales in Germany and Europe.

I will be traveling to Germany to help Hufshop detail our new product range to a select group of 25 dealers.  I'm excited to help Hufshop educate the hoof care professionals and dealers that will be attending over the coming weekend.

Testing of the Easyboot Glove has gone well in Germany but we have seen some breeds that will require extension straps in order for the gaiters to fit properly.  Pastern diameters on some of the breeds found in Europe are much bigger than what we typically see in the US.  We have an easy solution for these larger pastern diameters that will insure a proper fit. 

Quote and photos from Manuela in Germany. 

"I'm enthusiastic about the Glove, but I don't need to rave to you about it - you know that have done a great hoofboot!  I have made some photos with a mustang hoof preparation (Australian Brumby) and the Breakover of the Glove sits exactly correctly."

Comments on the Easyboot Glove at WESA tradeshow

We have had the opportunity to show the Easyboot Glove to several hundred tack store buyers, mail order buyers and wholesale buyers at the WESA trade show.  Many of the buyers love the concept, design and price point but questioned if this new light weight, sleek hoof boot design will really work.  We have had several questions like the following "I love the low profile, sleek, lightweight design but is it really going to work"?  "How can that work". 

After discussing the design in detail, why the design works and sharing results from recent endurance rides most all of the buyers were very confident in the Glove and added it to their product lines.  In fact the results from the show were a bit too good.  Our initial orders are almost all spoken for and we already have back orders on shipments scheduled to arrive at month end.  We will hustle to have more inventory arrive ASAP.

Dealers also loved the EasyCare Fit Kit concept and believe it will help them get boot purchasers in the correct size boots and eliminate returns due to incorrect sizing.  It's essential that the Easyboot Glove and Easyboot Glue-On fit the hoof snug and without gaps.  Using the Fit Kit will help insure that consumers purchase the correct boot size. 

Pete Ramey on the Easyboot Glove and Easyboot Glue On

Pete and Ivy Ramey talk about their involvement and success with the Easyboot Glove and Easyboot Glue On. 

Hey Garrett,

I think we’ve done it. The Glove is the elusive “21^st Century Horseshoe” I’ve dreamed about for so long. I think we owe Ivy a pat on the back, because you and I would have probably made the boot more complicated if she hadn’t been there to keep pulling us back to the “simple, stretchy, compact design”.

I’ve tried them on a variety of hooves, and so far they seem perfect- I mean PERFECT. You’ll still have to market them for naturally shaped hooves, but I have had surprising success with flared hooves too. Last week I was working at the Auburn vet school and a resident podiatry professor was sending her son to a 3 day roping clinic. We just pulled the shoes on that horse 3 weeks ago and the hooves are still very high heeled and contracted. I assumed I would have to use Grips, but the Gloves were actually harder to turn on the foot than the buckled Grip/Epic! So I sent them on their way with the Gloves and they performed flawlessly. In fact I got a late night call from another owner that was attending the clinic. She was begging me to come fit her horse in the Gloves, but I was all out of Quarter Horse sizes (I need more soon!).

I hoped, but never really thought that a boot could be so easy to put on, so light, so compact…. The stability continues to amaze me. Every horse owner says, “That will never work. Where’s the buckle?” Then time after time, it just works. They really are harder to spin on the foot than anything I’ve ever used, but I still find myself surprised every time. So I’ve finally become convinced these are “The It”. The only question left in my mind is long-term durability. How long will the gaiters last? I just haven’t had them long enough to know how they will hold up over time. But so far not one single gaiter has failed and none of the boots have come off or turned on the foot.

As for the glue-ons; they continue to be an incredible tool for turnout. I still prefer the hoof casts or Rx boots/pads for laminitis, but for “navicular horses” and any horse that is too weak in the back of the foot to impact heel first, I am using dental impression material and the glue-on boot for 1-2 trim cycles. After that, most of them can be comfortably turned out barefoot. The glue-ons are still a major challenge in wet environments. No thrush problems, but it is hard to get them to stick. It can be done, though, if you pay enough attention to detail. There is just no room for short-cutting the prep process in a humid region.

Next step Buddy: Let’s have some more sizes and the mud/grass/arena tread with the domed sole!!!

Thank you so much. It would have been too easy for you to sit back and let the profit roll in from the old designs- I’m sure you were tempted. The horse world really owes you a big pat on the back for taking on this new risk. You may die in debt paying for all these new molds, but at least Alyxx will be set!

Pete

Easyboot Glove at Warner Springs Endurance Ride

The Easyboot Glove had another successful day at the Warner Springs 50 Mile Endurance Ride.  Lisa and I went over with two horses.  We used Easyboot Gloves on all four feet of Cyclone, PB was fitted with two Easyboot Gloves on the back and two Easyboot Glue-On shells on the front.  The ride went well and once again, the boots worked perfect.  Lisa and I finished 17th and 18th out of about 75 riders.

Cyclone and Garrett on the first loop.

Lisa and Powerball on the second loop.

Lisa and I at the 3rd vet check.

Terry, Jennifer and an army of volunteers put on another great event.  The vet checks were stocked with several types of mash, beet pulp and hay.  I think I actually counted four different types of hay provided by ride management.  The horses were in heaven.  Vet check #1 and #2 had a waiter that walked around and served cups of Gatoraid from a tray.  It's the first ride I started as a heavyweight and finished as a super heavyweight!  It's hard to say no to home made chocolate chip cookies and egg salad sandwiches!  Awesome, awesome ride.  If you haven't done it, do it. 

The trail has changed a bit since the last time I did the event and it's gotten better.  A loop with some climbing and technical water crossings was added that went along a very scenic section of the Pacific Crest Trail.

Cyclone and I on the 3rd loop.  Good view of the Glove from behind.

The interest in the Easyboot Glove, Easyboot Glue-On and EasyCare Fit Kit is significant.  I helped people with questions and fitting the day before the ride, at each vet check, after the event and at the awards.  I brought several Fit Kits to people that requested them and helped with questions as I loaded the horses to come home. 

The weekend turned out to be a vacation, family reunion, endurance ride and as always product testing.  We took the whole gang and Lisa had many family members come in from surrounding areas.  Alyxx helped me vet the horses in and was disappointed she could not do the ride with mom and dad.  Everyone enjoyed the resort, meals and hot springs. 

Easyboot Edge is ready to rock

The Easyboot Edge is ready to rock!  I did a ride tonight in the Edge and Glove.  The Edge has had a couple last tweaks and it is now ready for release.

I really like the Edge and especially like the fact that we have eliminated cables and buckles in this hoof boot design.  In the last year of testing the Edge, I have yet to have the worm clamp at the front of the Edge fail.  The improved tongue system has new materials and excellent shock absorption qualities.  

I've had many questions in the last couple weeks regarding what boot to choose.  "EasyCare has several great looking new boots.  Why would I choose an Epic or Edge over a Glove?"  "Why would I use the Glue-On instead of the Glove?" These are great questions and ones that I'll answer below.

I believe the Easyboot Glove is our best boot for several reasons.  It's close fitting, lightweight, low profile and the sleekest non glue-on hoof boot available.  In addition it's our easiest boot to apply and remove.  Best of all it has an affordable MSRP of $56.00.  If your horse has a foot that fits into the Glove these are the boots I recommend.  Your first step should be to order an EasyCare Fit Kit.  If you have success with the Fit Kit order the Easyboot Glove.

If your horse is not a candidate for the Easyboot Glove based on the results of the Fit Kit I would recommend either the Epic, Edge, or Bare.  The Epic, Edge, and Bare are more adjustable than the Glove and can accommodate feet with more challenging hoof shapes and angles. The Epic is our most tested product and has tens of thousands of successful miles.  The Epic has been and will continue to be one of best selling products because it works so well.  The Bare is also tested but a boot suited to more advanced users.  The Edge is probably the easiest to apply and I believe will have similar results to the Epic.

The Easyboot Glue-On is a great boot for the multi-day endurance riders and 100 mile events.  It's also great for people who want to put boots on for many days at a time and not mess with daily application and removal.  Great for back country pack trips.  In addition the Easyboot Glue-On has many therapy applications and can be used with impression material for extended periods.  Because it's very difficult to see if a horse is even wearing the Easyboot Glue-On it's perfect for competive trail organizations with rules that prohibit boots that extend above the hairline.  Worried about doing dressage in boots, you can't even see these boots and your horse will never move better.

Using the EasyCare Fit Kit to determine proper sizing for the Easyboot Glove and Easyboot Glue-On

The EasyCare Fit Kit is a wonderful tool to determine the proper boot sizes in both the Easyboot Glove and Easyboot Glue-On product ranges.

The shell used in both the Easyboot Glove and Easyboot Glue-On products is flexible and has a great deal of stretch.  Although the measurements are a good starting point, the Fit Kit will really show if the new range fits your horse's feet.  If your horse’s measurements aren’t perfect, based on the size charts, don’t panic.  The flexible upper makes sizing easier and more forgiving.

When the Fit Kit arrives try the boots on the horse’s feet to determine the perfect boot size. Your Fit Kit will contain three shells. 

Each shell has only 4mm of width difference between the next shell size.  For reference, 4mm is the width of 3 dimes.  This tight 4mm gap between sizes helps insure a snug fit. 

What should you look for in a good fit?

1.  The perfect boot size can be pushed on the hoof.  It should be a bit of effort and you will feel the shell flex as it goes over the hoof.

2.  The boot will be snug around the hoof wall and no gaps will appear. All portions of the shell will be below the hairline.

   

3.  The V at the front of the shell should expand like the shell in the photo below.

4.  The boot should fit snug and will be difficult to pull off the hoof.  A good fit will give you the impression that the shell will stay on the foot without glue or without a gaiter.  It should fit like a "Glove".

5.  The hairline at the heel of the horse should be no more than 1/2 an inch above the shell.  If the shell is over or close to the rear hairline trim the shell down.

6.  It should be very difficult to fit a hoof pick between the shell and the hoof.

What should you look for in a poor fit?

1.  Gaps (small or large) can be seen between the upper boot portion and the hoof.

2.  The V in the front of the shell does not expand.  Viewing the photo below the V on the left boot has failed to expand (poor fit).  The V on the right has expanded and is a good fit.

3.  A long heel (a heel that measures more than 1/2 an inch above the shell at the rear hairline).  A horse with long heels may have success with the Easyboot Glue-On shell but will not have success with the Easyboot Glove. 

What can you do to turn a bad fit into a good fit?

1.  Have your horse trimmed by a hoof care professional.  Make sure they are conscious about barefoot trimming methods, toe length and heel length.

2.  Chances are good that after trimming you will have success with the Fit Kit.

3.  Some feet are not the right shape and don't have the correct angles for the Easyboot Glove and Easyboot Glue-On.  Don’t worry, an Easyboot, Easyboot Epic, Easyboot Edge or Easyboot Bare will be a more adjustable hoof boot option and most likely fit.

EasyCare Fit Kit Available Soon!

If you are interested in purchasing the Easyboot Glove or Easyboot Glue-On, getting the EasyCare Fit Kit first will insure the boots will work for you and guarantee you have  the right size/fit. 

The EasyCare Fit Kit is for the Easyboot Glove and Easyboot Glue-On only.  Sizing on both of these boots is different than other boots in the EasyCare line.  If your horse wears a #1 Easyboot Epic the Easyboot Glove size will most likely be a #1, #1.5 or a #2.  The Glove and Glue-On have totally different sizing. 

The Fit Kit allows consumers to fit their horse’s feet in the Glue-On/Glove shell before ordering.  Pre-fitting in the shell will assure a perfect fit in both the Easyboot Glove or Easyboot Glue-On hoof boot ranges.  Because both new boots have no hardware or fastening systems, fit is more important. 

How does the EasyCare Fit Kit work and how do I determine what size EasyCare Fit Kit to order? 

1)     First measure your horse’s feet using the method below.

a)     Measure the width of the hoof across the bottom at the widest point.

b)     Measure the length of the hoof from the toe to the buttress line of the heel. The buttress line is the farthest weight bearing point of the heel.

c)     Compare your measurement with the Easyboot Glove/Easyboot Glue-On size chart below.  Please note all Easyboot Glove and Easyboot Glue-On size charts are in millimeters only. 

Boot Size              Hoof Width mm                     Hoof Length mm

#00                        96-99mm                                106-109mm

#00.5                     100-103mm                            110-113mm

#0                          104-107mm                            114-117mm

#0.5                       108-111mm                            118-121mm

#1                          112-115mm                            122-125mm

#1.5                       116-119mm                            126-129mm

#2                          120-123mm                            130-133mm

#2.5                       124-127mm                            134-137mm

#3                          128-131mm                            138-141mm

d)     Based on the measurements, select the proper boot size for your horse’s feet.  If you are between sizes select size that matches the width the closest. 

2)     Next, If your horse’s front feet measurements call for a size #1.5, order a #1.5 EasyCare Fit Kit.

a)     The majority of horse’s feet require larger boots on the front feet.  You may need to order two EasyCare Fit Kits, one kit to accommodate front feet and one to accommodate the rear feet.  

3)     A #1.5 Fit kit comes with the following size shells #1, #1.5 and #2.

4)     You will be charged a flat $8.50 postage fee for delivery of the EasyCare Fit Kt.

5)     When the boots arrive try the boots on the horse’s feet to determine the perfect boot size.

a)     The perfect boot size can be pushed on the hoof.

b)     The boot will be snug around the hoof wall and no gaps will appear. All portions of the shell will be below the hairline. (I will post a series of photos tomorrow showing good fitting boots and poor fitting boots)

c)     The boot should fit snug and will be difficult to pull off even without glue.

d)     Record the proper boot size.

e)   If none of the boots in the Fit Kit fit the feet well, the Easyboot Glove and Easyboot Glue-On boots may not be right for your horse.  We are working on molds to fit wide feet and fitting methods to fit non traditional feet. 

6)     If the boots become dirty or muddy, please rinse them off and dry them thoroughly (to avoid mold in shipping) as a courtesy to our staff.

7)     Return the Fit Kit to EasyCare in the addressed postage paid envelope.

8)     Then order the proper Easyboot Glove or Easyboot Glue-On products from an EasyCare dealer or online at www.easycareinc.com.

EasyCare Fit Kits containing all sizes will be available for dealers and hoof

care professionals.  Dealers and hoof care professionals, contact your

dealer rep to learn more.

Best Condition at Death Valley!

Another Best Condition.

The Easyboot Glove/ Glue-On and Cyclone got Best Condition on the first 55 mile day of the Death Valley Encounter.  Cyclone was fitted with the Easyboot Glove on the front feet and the Easyboot Glue-On on the rear feet. 

Cyclone and I had a great day on the trail.  The majority of the day we rode solo but did spend some time riding with Michele Roush, Barry Waite and Jennifer Nice. 

Cyclone and I at Death Valley.  Check out the slim design of the Gloves and Glue-Ons.  Hard to tell Cyclone is wearing boots.

Cyclone is pictured below relaxing in the barn.

I'm very proud of our new boot designs and how well they are working in endurance competition.  The Easyboot Glove is lightweight, sleek and form fitting. When the Easyboot Glove fits a hoof well I believe it's one of the best hoof boots available. 

I'll discuss Easyboot Glove and Easyboot Glue-On fitting techniques in tomorrows blog.  Find out if your horse is a candidate for the new boots.

The Glove is a great boot now but just wait for the Glove Gen 2 with our new gaiter system.  Talk about trick!

Easyboot Glove report from Mike and Chrisann Ware of Equethy Australia

I just got a nice report from Mike and Chrisann Ware of Equethy Australia.  Mike and Chrisann run Equethy and EasyCare Downunder. 

Mike Ware of “EasyCare Down Under” Enjoying trialling “The Glove”.

As the Manager of Easycare Down Under and one of the developers of the Diploma of Equine Podiotherapy in Australia, I deal every day helping people find solutions for hoof problems. I would like to congratulate Garrett and his team for the wonderful research and development efforts that have brought us “The Glove” boot. I feel that this is “the” boot that will allow just about every rider to enjoy the benefits of having a barefoot horse. No mean feat when you consider the short time that boots have been available in the market place.

Over the Christmas break I finally found time to trial the new Gloves. I put a pair on our Arabian mare Sienna Jubilation (Jui to us), and headed out onto the trails around my property for a test drive.

Jui has unusually shaped hooves for an Arabian, they are more oval than round but she has broad heels too so I was keen to find out how the Glove would perform on her.

We live on the far south coast of New South Wales Australia in wooded sandstone country and the trails we ride vary from sandy and covered with leaf litter to some that are steep and hard packed where the topsoil has completely washed away so they can be really slippery at times.

Jui had not been out of the paddock for about six months and so was pretty “keen” about her outing! I spent a couple of hours just enjoying the afternoon and letting her pick her own pace so I could judge how she felt about the new boots. She thought they were just fine and decided that a very fast pace was needed for the test drive.

I asked Chris to meet me with the camera so we could get some shots of the terrain and the boots for our website. Jui was in fact so comfortable in her new boots that she didn’t want to slow up at all and our photo opportunity turned out to be a fly by!

I am very pleased to say that the Glove never moved during the entire ride and Jui negotiated all obstacles with ease. Even on the steep downhill trails where there was little topsoil and usually I would be hesitant about cantering I felt quite safe and just let her move along. Jui had perfect footing everywhere.

After I got home and removed the Gloves expecting that due to her unusual hoof shape, I would find them with sand in them, but there was only a tiny dusting of sand inside as the photo shows. Jui had no rub marks anywhere on her heels nor from the gaiters and even though she had not worn boots for many months there were no signs of any problems at all.

I am very pleased indeed with them and am looking forward to getting more for all our other horses. I am also looking forward to sharing them with our Australian website and workshop customers who I am sure will love them.

Kind regards
Mike Ware
EasyCare Down Under
www.easycaredownunder.com.au

Death Valley Encounter on Cyclone

One last post on DVE.  I hauled Cyclone to the first day of the event to get another day of testing on the Easyboot Glove and Easyboot Glue-On.  I used the Glove on the front feet and the Glue-On on the rear feet. 

We had a great ride on day 1 and ended up 3rd overall.  Not a huge accomplish with all the other horses going multiple days but still another good day of testing.  Boots held up well and very little sand and and dirt build up.

It was great seeing old friends at the ride and many of the Hoof Boot Contestants.  Although I wish I could ride more endurance miles I'll never be a huge mileage contestant like some of the riders out there.  With a beautiful little girl and a growing business I'm happy to do a couple rides a year.  A couple rides a year helps keep me in the sport and I have the opportunity to see first hand what boots are working and what boots are not. 

The Glove continues to test well.  When the Glove fits a hoof well I believe they are the best non glue-on boot available.  I did see some feet at the ride that were challenging to fit.  All hoof boots including the Glove have a hard time fitting the following feet types.  Long heels, hoof angles less than 45 degrees and hoof with side to side balance challenges. 

A couple photos from Day 1.  Cyclone following me as I ran the hills on foot.

We had some natural water on the trail but it was frozen solid.

The Easyboot Gloves used on Cyclone after day 1.

More on Death Valley Encounter

We started to get a bit of a crowd when we were fitting boots on Dave, Terri and Natalie's horses.  People were very pleased with the new design and loved how easy they were to apply.  Lot's of questions on when they could get the new boots and how to measure.  As we talked more horses started showing up.  They wanted me to fit their horses so they knew the proper size when the boots became available.

One of the horses that came over to be fit was with Laurie Birch of Rosamond California.  Laurie had purchased a nice looking arab mare named Scudd Run "Taz" from Global Endurance.  The mare had nice looking barefoot feet that have been maintained by a good barefoot trimmer somewhere.  Laurie wanted me to fit the horse with the Easyboot Glove for future size reference.  The mare took #0 Easyboot Gloves front and back.  The boots were a perfect fit.

I had some extra boots and decided to just give the boots to Laurie.  I cautioned Laurie about trying something new at an event without trying them first in training.  With that said, we both agreed they were an awesome fit and she should use the boots on the first 55 mile day.

A couple minutes after Laurie finished I walked over to see how the horse and the boots performed.  Laurie had just removed one of the boots and was looking at it when I arrived.  She pointed to the boots in disbelief as she showed me the lack of sand or dirt in the boots.  "We trotted through miles of sandy washes and I just can't believe how well the boots worked".  "I put them on so easy this morning before the ride." She was so happy!

Laurie's success made my trip!  She's gonna forward a full update after four days.

Picture of Laurie and Taz on the trail and at the finish below.

Easyboot Glove half sizes arrive for Death Valley Encounter

I received the #0.5 and #1.5 Easyboot Glove sizes just in time to head over to the Death Valley Encounter four day endurance ride.  Lot's of good stuff resulted from the quick trip that I'll need to seperate into a couple posts. 

The purpose of the trip was to personally congratulate and thank several of the top contestants from the 2008 Hoof Boot Contest and to personally help them fit their horses with the new Easyboot Glove.   We have riders all over the world doing great things in EasyCare hoof boot designs and I believe the Easyboot Glove is going to help all the horses take their performance to another level.

After arriving at the Death Valley base camp I ran into Dave Rabe taking his two horses for a walk.  He was ready to put on boots and wanted to use the Easyboot Glue-On for the event.  Dave and I worked togerher on his horses and installed 8 boots in roughly 30 minutes.  This is the second time Dave and I have applied the Glue-On boots together.  Each time both Dave and I learn something from each other and strengthen our knowledge.  Dave has a good stash of boots and is more than happy to help riders at events.  He's one of the best horseman around and happy to share his knowledge.  He has now accumulated over 41,000 miles in the sport!

Dave is pictured riding Rushcreek Okay on day one of Death Valley.  Okay has four Easyboot Glue-On hoof boots in the photo.

After Dave and I finished with his two horses we helped Terri Tinkham and Natalie Herman fit their horses with the Easyboot Glove.  Terri and Natalie were first and second in the 2008 contest and I wanted to make sure we got both of them fit with the new boots as early in the year as possible.  Terri's horse Oliver was easy to fit in the Gloves but we did have a bit of an issue on Natalie's horses back feet.  The boots I brought were a bit large and the horse has some challenging feet.  Both Terri and Natalie loved the new design and ease of application.

Terri and Oliver did 1,925 miles in EasyCare hoof boots in 2008.  Terri and Oliver on day one of the Death Valley Encounter in the Easyboot Glove.

Natalie Herman finished second in the hoof boot contest with 1,440 miles.  Natalie is pictured below riding in the Easyboot Glove.

Easyboot Glove ease of application

Here is another short video showing how easy it is to apply the Easyboot Glove.  I keep getting questions regarding ease of application.  This video shows more detail and the ease of application.

Easyboot Glove passes cutting test

The Easyboot Glove passed it's first cutting horse test on Christmas day.

My mom and dad participated in endurance events when I was a kid and we had the opportunity to travel and see many states on horse back.  Over the past 5-6 years they have gotten very involved in quarter horses, team penning and have dabbled in cutting horses. My dad has some super quarter horses that have won some big money in both team penning and cutting.

My dad is an EasyCare investor and has been invaluable as a business mentor.  His business resume is impressive.  He is currently acting as CEO of SynCardia and is the co-founder of Anthem Equity Group, Inc., a Tucson real estate and business development company. He holds a B.S. degree in Accounting from Brigham Young University and an MBA from the University of Arizona.

He founded AlphaGraphics Printshops of the Future in 1970 and grew AlphaGraphics Printshops of the Future to 400 locations in 20 countries by 1998. AlphaGraphics was the first franchisor in the world to open a location in the Soviet Union (Moscow) and the first franchisor in the world to open a location in China (Beijing). He was Quick Printing Man of the Year in 1985, Arizona SBA Entrepreneur of the Year in 1986 (AlphaGraphics), and Ernst and Young Entrepreneur of the Year in 2000 (PETsHOTEL).

He's also pretty darn solid on a horse.  On Christmas morning we fitted "The Pidge" in four Easyboot Gloves and my dad put him through his paces in the arena and then on a training cow.  Pidge went through his moves.  Stopping, turning, twisting and accelerating.  The torque generated by these horses is much different than going down the trail for 50-100 miles.  I thought if the Glove was going to fail, come off or twist this would be the day. 

They didn't fail! Not only did the Glove pass the first cutting test, it passed with flying colors.  No twisting, no turning and no sand in the boots after over an hour of work in a sandy arena. I added a couple videos to show what the boots did for the hour workout.

 

Here are a couple photos of the boots on Pidge. 

Here are a couple after removal.  Notice how clean they are inside.  Not a bit of sand!  Looks like the inside of the boots were cleaned out, No I didn't touch them.  The last photo shows how clean the hoof was under the Glove.

Glove Action Shots

We didn't get many good action shots of the Easyboot Glove this summer because it was a bit of a late bloomer.  We took some locally yesterday and will take some additional shots over the holiday break.

Here are a couple from Monday 12/22.

Easyboot Glove Fitting Sequence

I've received several e-mails regarding Easyboot Glove fitting and asking for photos showing Easyboot Glove fitting in more detail.  Here you go.

Hold the boot in front of you.  Use two hands and fold the gaiter backward.  The gaiter has been designed to fold out of the way for easy application.  This is not required but makes fitting even easier.

Pick up the horses foot.  Using one or two hands slip the Easyboot Glove on the hoof.

Pull up the gaiter and fasten.

 

Done.  Ready to ride.  With a bit of practice four boots can be fit in less than a minute.

Easyboot Glove shines down under

Easyboot Glove test boots will be going out to Team Easyboot members very soon.  I have a small stash that I have been personally testing and sending to people for feedback.

I recently sent a pair to Duncan McLaughlin down in Australia.  I respect the heck out of Duncan's horsemanship and value his feedback.  Duncan has e-mailed boot ideas and suggestions over the years and can be credited for some of the push to lighter more streamline boots.  Check out Duncan's photos and short message below.

"Hi Garrett, had another day testing the EasyBoot Glove. Love the fit, love the lightness, all the benefits of bare with the protection of a boot. The other riders in my group, mostly boot users, were all impressed too!"

 

 

New Size Charts and half sizes for the Easyboot Glove and Easyboot Glue-On

The Easyboot Glove and Easyboot Glue-On hoof boots will come in half sizes and use a new metric only size chart. 

After finishing the injection molds in sizes #00, #0, #1, #2 and #3 we determined that it was important to add sizes #00.5, #0.5, #1.5 and #2.5.  Product testing was very positive using the full sizes but there were many horses that could have a more exact one to one fit if a half size was offered. 

Offering half sizes increases our mold and inventory investments but will result in much higher product performance.  In addition to a new size chart, a three boot fit kit will be available free of charge to help determine the best boot size.  The kit will allow consumers to be able to fit each hoof prior to ordering and quickly see what shell size fits like a glove.  The proper shell size will fit the hoof and be difficult to pull off or twist (first photo below).  The fit kit is then returned to EasyCare in a postage paid return package.  EasyCare will pay return shipping and the consumer will cover outbound shipping.   

The first photo shows a hoof that has been roughed and cleaned to accept the glue. 

Second photo shows proper Easyboot Glove fit.

Easyboot Glue-On Removal

I removed the Easyboot Glue-On boots from my horses last Wednesday.  The boots were on the horses for eight days and all boots did at least one 50 mile endurance event in addition to a couple short 10 mile training rides.  Yes, the boots and adhesive can stay on much longer but we don't recommend it. 

The main testing objective was to figure out what adhesive combinations work the best, what adhesives seal out the most dirt and debris, what adhesive combination hold the best after use, etc.  We used Vettec Adhere, Vettec Sole-Guard, Vettec Equi Pak CS, EasyFoam and a couple others. 

EasyCare will sell all products needed for EasyBoot Glue-On application.  In addition we will have full instruction sets for each product.  The Glue-On shells will have a place in multiday events, 100 mile races and back country expeditions.  I originally thought the glue-on shell would fill a larger market space but the success of the Easyboot Glove has changed my thinking.  The Easyboot Glove does everything a glue-on shell will do but without the adhesive or the adhesive process.

I've been doing some measurements of hooves before and after fitting with the Easyboot Glove.  The Glove adds very little width to the sides, front or rear of the hoof.  When released the Glove will be the closest fitting, non glue-on, hoof boot available to the equine market.  The Easyboot Glove adds 4mm to the width of a hoof (one side).  Some of the other hoof boots on the market add almost 20mm of width (one side).  Huge difference.

Below is a photo of showing the width of the Glove.  A photo showing the different colors of adhesive used in the boots. Also a photo of boots as we removed them.

Easyboot Glove Fitting and Removal

I have received dozens of e-mails regarding the Easyboot Glove.  People are excited about the Glove, the low profile, the streamline design, the lack of hardware, the light weight and the affordable price of $55.00.  Although everyone is excited many people have questioned if it's easy to apply and remove.  "How can a boot without hardware work so well if it's not extremely hard to get on?"

I took a couple short videos today of application and removal of the Easyboot Glove on Cyclone's four feet.  These are the same boots and the same horse that placed second in the Las Cienegas 65 mile event last Saturday.  They were fitted the same way before the endurance race.

Application and removal are easier than any other EasyCare hoof boot.  Very, very easy.

Short videos showing Easyboot Glove application and removal can be found below.  Yes, it really is that easy!  Listen to the suction of the boots when they are being removed in the second video.

Las Cienegas Endurance Ride Update

Here is a quick update on the Las Cienegas multiday endurance event.  Christoph Schork and Moon won best condition on day 3.  Dian and Moon won best condition in the 30 mile event on day 1.

Not a bad showing for the three days.

Easyboot Glue-On and Easyboot Glove results over the three days.

1.  Three first place finishes
2.  One second place finish
3.  One third place finish
4.  Three Best Condition awards
5.  Seven top tens

 

Easyboot Glove passes the endurance test at Las Cienegas

The Easyboot Glove is the real deal!

On the second day of Las Cienegas, Cyclone and I finished second on a tough 65 mile course.  It was originally a 55 but will be sanctioned as a 65.  The course was long, rocky, sandy and had a bunch elevation change. 

I started the day booting Cyclone with four Easyboot Gloves 10 minutes before start time.  All four went on easy as Cyclone moved nervously in anticipation of the start.  After the start we settled into a nice trot with an occasional canter behind a lead group of roughly half a dozen riders.  Around the 10 mile mark I caught the lead group and we rode together for several miles. 

Photo of the Easyboot Glove at vet check #2.  Front and back feet.

 

When the hills started Christoph and I did a bunch of running and eventually pulled away from the group.  Christoph and I have partnered in a couple Ride and Tie events and we both like taking care of our horses on the steep up and down hill sections of an endurance course.  Cyclone and Dapple were working well together and Christoph and I continued to run and tail on the hilly terrain. 

The strategy kept the horses fresh as we slowly ticked off the miles on the difficult course.  

Dapple and Christoph heading to the first vet check.

Christoph rode Dapple (fitted with the Easyboot Glue-On) to a 1st place finish and Best condition.  I ended the day second on Cyclone (fitted with four Easyboot Gloves), two minutes behind Christoph.  I believe we were roughly 45 minutes to an hour in front of the second place horse.

I rode the last 6 mile loop alone.  It gave me some time to reflect on the success of the Easyboot Glove as we cantered down the trail.  Cyclone was moving effortless after 60 miles of tough, rocky and sandy terrain.  The boots had stayed in place perfectly.  No twisting, no turning and no sand build up in the boots.  It's a bit hard to believe that this sleek, simple design works so well.  It's roughly half the weight of other hoof boots and fits the hoof like a glove.  It will be our most economical boot at roughly $55.00.  I was pleased with the weekend and the success horse owners will have with this product in the future.  

Christoph, Cyclone and I before BC judging.

Many of the competitors using EasyCare and other hoof boot designs commented on the boots and the sleek design.  Everyone loves the streamline design and lack of hardware.  Biggest question was  "When can they can get the Glove?"

Here are a couple photos of the boots after removal (before washing).  The boots took on very, very little sand and dirt.  Not bad after 65 miles!

Easyboot Glue-On excels at Las Cienegas Endurance Event

I went down to the Las Cienegas Endurance Ride over the weekend to put testing miles on the Easyboot Glove, Easyboot Glue-On and Easyboot Edge.  I’ve done a bunch of hard testing miles in both Colorado and Arizona but haven’t done an actual 50 mile event in the new designs.

Long time friends and endurance riders Christoph Schork and Dian Woodward stayed at our house for four days on the way to the event.  They are both experienced endurance riders and I believe Christoph has won 20+ endurance events in 2008 alone.  They are both boot users on occasion but don’t compete their horses on a day to day basis with hoof boots.

Christoph, Dian and I had the opportunity to do three or four 10-12 mile rides before departing for the endurance event.  Christoph had several of his horses without shoes which gave us a great opportunity the test the Easyboot Gloves at speed on several different horses.  Christoph loved the Easyboot Glove and I convinced him to try some of the Easyboot Glue-On shells for the event.

Christoph and I fitted four different horses with different glue combinations on Wednesday of this week.  We have many glues that work but I’m still trying to find the perfect glues for different conditions.  We fitted the following horses with boots before the event.

1. Power Ball- Four Easyboot Glue-On shells using EasyFoam.
2. Inferno- Four Easyboot Glue-On shells using EasyFoam, Adhere, Sole Guard and Equithane CS.
3. Moon- Four Easyboot Glue-On shells using Adhere, Sole Guard and Equithane CS.
4. Dapple- Two Easyboot Glue-On shells using Adhere, Sole Guard and Equithane CS.

Day #1 results were good.  Christoph placed 1^st, Lisa was 5th on Power Ball, I was 6^th on Inferno and Dian won the 30 on Moon.  I actually crossed the line 10^th but there was some trail mix ups and I was bumped to 6^th.

I rode a new horse that I purchased from Dean Jackson about 40 days ago.  Inferno is a full brother to a great horse Dean won many races and best conditions in the past.  Dean had done a handful of races on Inferno but decided to sell him. He’s a little bit hot but I had a great day on him.  He actually pulled from mile one all the way to the finish.  Can’t wait for him to get more miles and more fitness as I believe he will be a great horse.  He's the chestnut below.

 

Easyboot Glove continues to excel

I continue to put more miles and time on the Easyboot Glove.  The Glove continues to excel and pass all the tests with flying colors.  It's EasyCare's best hoof boot!  I'm amazed at how well it works and how easy it is to apply and remove.  I did 3 hours of tough riding last night and an additional 2.5 hours on another horse this morning. 

I'm getting a couple of the horses fit for some endurance events in 2009.  Can't wait to see how they perform at 50+ mile distances. 

Here are a couple photos from the ride.  Easyboot Edge up front, Easyboot Glove in the back.

Easyboot Glove

The Easyboot Glue-On with Gaiter will be released under the name Easyboot Glove.  Although we originally wanted to keep the Glue-On associated with the Easyboot Glue-On with Gaiter, the Easyboot Glue-On with Gaiter continues to test so well we have decided it needs it's own name and needs to be marketed on it's own.

The Easyboot Glove continues to impress everyone that rides in the boots.  Easy to apply, easy to remove, light weight, stays in place and seals out dirt and debris. 

Comments on the Easyboot Glove include.  "That will never stay on", "Not gonna work" and "There is no buckle or straps to keep it in place".  I can't wait for the release of EasyCare's new products because people will be shocked at how well the Easyboot Glove works.

 

Easyboot Glue-On with Gaiter

The Easyboot Glue-On shell has been a great project and has changed my view of hoof boots tremendously.  The flexible upper of the glue-on shell adapts to different shaped feet and most often fits like a second skin over the hoof.  The slim profile of the shell adds very minimal to the width of the hoof and very little to the front of the hoof.  In my opinion it's the least obtrusive full coverage horse boot available.

 
Reaction to the Easyboot Glue-On has been fantastic but consumers want the features of the glue-on with out the glue process.  The Easyboot Glue-On with Gaiter is the answer.  The gaiter is designed to attach to a glue-on shell and the boot can then be used on the hoof without glue.  The design of the glue-on shell still stretches and hugs the foot while the addition of the gaiter keeps it on the hoof rather than the adhesive.  No buckles or straps make it quick and easy to apply and remove. 

Over the past 4 months I have put several hundred miles on different horses fitted with the Easyboot Glue-On with Gaiter.  Performance with the gaiter is very similar to when the shell is fitted with an adhesive.  Weight is minimal, bulk is minimal and they stay in place.  Yes, it looks way too simple but the design works better than I ever imagined. 

Lisa and I did a ride this afternoon with three different hoof boot designs.  One horse was fitted with Easyboot Glue-On's in the front and Easyboot Glue On's with Gaiter in the rear.  The other horse had Easyboot Glue-On's with Gaiters in the front and Bare's in the rear.  The majority of the three hour ride was trotting and cantering with a bit of walking.  Of the three designs the Glue-On with Gaiter performed the best. 

I believe the Glue-On with Gaiter will end up being the most popular boot design manufactured by EasyCare.

Easyboot Glue-On Answers

I've been receiving numerous questions about the Easyboot Glue-On.  I'll try to answer several of the questions here.

Question- What adhesives are you using? 
Answer- We have been using four different types of glue with success.  Vettec Adhere, Vettec Sole-Guard, Equilox and a proprietary EasyCare glue.

Question- Is the glue easy to remove from the shell after removal?
Answer- No.  If you want the bond to be secure when the boot is on the hoof the glue will be difficult to remove from the boot.  If the glue is easy to remove from the boot it will fail during use. 

Question- What will be the cost of an Easyboot Glue-On shell?
Answer- We are still working on pricing but it looks like they will be much less expensive than other glue on products.

Question- Are there extra steps that can be done to secure the boot in wet conditions or where extra holding power is needed?
Answer- Yes.  We are working on a full instruction sheet now.  It will include fitting sequences with detailed photos.  In addition it will have extra tips for fitting boots in wet and difficult conditions.

Question- How will the boots be sold?
Answer- Because the cost will be low we intend to sell the glue-on shells in a 4 boot package.

Question- Will you be selling glue and accessories.
Answer- Yes. Everything will be available to purchase via credit card on the EasyCare shopping cart.

Question- When will the Easyboot Glue-On be available to the public?
Answer- We have product now but will be launching the line to the public in January of 2009.

Question- Will the Easyboot Glue-On fit round and long feet.
Answer- The Easyboot Glue-On has a very stretchy upper that allows the boot to fit a wide range of feet.  I've personally been amazed at the variety of feet it conforms to.

More Glue-On and Glue-On with Gaiter news

Lisa and I had the opportunity to do another long, hard test ride over the weekend.  I fitted one horse in the Easyboot Glue-On and another horse in the Easyboot Glue-On with Gaiter. 

I've been very impressed with both boots but especially impressed with the Glue-On with Gaiter.  The Glue-On with Gaiter continues to perform perfectly and pass all the tests.  It fits like a glove, has not  twisted and is very sleek.

The thing I like best about both the Glue-On and Glue-On with Gaiter is the lack of width they add to a hoof.  Several of the hoof boots on the market add more than 1/2 inch to the width of the hoof (both sides). 

 

Easyboot Glue On With Gaiter

I had a hunch that if we could get the Easyboot Glue-On shell right it would not only work as a glue on but would also work very well with a gaiter.  As we worked on the glue-on molds we made sure to add features that would allow the shell to accept a gaiter.  I had a chance to test my original assumption today.

I fitted both rear feet of one of my horses and set out on a very tough ride.  The shells are held on by the gaiter and a snug fit only.  No glue, no buckles, no internal hardware.  The trail climbs over 2,000 feet in 7 miles, has several boggy areas and a bunch of downed timber.  It's a tough ride on both horse and rider but I believe it's one of the best boot testing trails around.  I believe the steep trails put the most torque and stress on boots. 

Here are a couple photos before departing.

I continued to check on the boots as we ascended the steep trail.  It's so steep in places you need to give horses a minute or two to blow and cool down along the way.  Boots continued to look good.  No twisting, no turning, no problems at all.  As I became more confident I increased the pace in the flatter areas and went through the center of the bogs rather than around them.  The boots continued to look and perform perfectly.

Here are a couple photos along the way.

Not only was my hunch correct but the boots performed better than I could have hoped.  The Easyboot Glue-On should be a huge success and will now give people the option to use with a gaiter when they don't want to spend the time to prep and glue.  In addition the lack of buckles eliminates any potential cable and buckle concerns.   

Here are a couple photos after we returned back to the barn.