Shop brushing boots at iRide EQ. Our range includes breathable neoprene brushing boots, durable TPU boots, and leather options from Lady Godiva Equestrian, Eloquence Equestrian, Toptac International, and Equisk — protecting your horse’s legs during everyday schooling and flatwork.
Quick Answer: Brushing boots protect the inside of the fetlock and cannon bone from strike injuries when a horse’s limbs pass close together during work. They’re the most versatile horse boot — suitable for dressage, hacking, and general schooling. Look for boots with breathable lining and secure double-strap closures. Pair with bell boots for complete leg protection. Shop our range with fast Australian shipping.
Fetlock and Cannon Protection for Schooling, Hacking and Flatwork
When a horse works at speed or performs lateral movements, the hind limb can swing close enough to the opposite leg to strike the inside of the fetlock. This is called brushing — and repeated strikes cause swelling, cuts, and bruising that can lay a horse off for weeks. Eloquence Equestrian brushing boots are contoured to sit snugly against the inside of the leg, deflecting strikes without interfering with joint flexion.
Brushing boots are the everyday workhorse of the horse boot world. Unlike tendon boots designed for pole impact, brushing boots focus on lateral strike protection. They’re lighter, cooler, and more affordable, making them ideal for Australian riders who school daily. Lady Godiva Equestrian boots feature breathable construction that manages heat build-up during summer flatwork sessions, while Toptac International offers durable TPU shells that withstand daily wear.
Quick Facts
Best ForEveryday schooling, flatwork, hacking, lateral training
DisciplinesDressage, general riding, trail riding, young horse education
Top BrandsLady Godiva Equestrian, Eloquence Equestrian, Toptac, Equisk
Ships FromAustralia — fast local delivery
Brushing Boot Materials Compared
Brushing boot material affects protection, breathability, and maintenance. Here’s how they compare:
Feature
Neoprene
TPU Shell
Leather
Impact Absorption
Good — soft padding
Excellent — rigid shell
Good — dense leather
Breathability
Low — traps heat
Moderate — with vents
Good — natural fibre
Weight
Light
Light
Medium
Maintenance
Wash and air dry
Wipe clean
Condition leather
Best For
Short schooling
Daily use, warm weather
Competition turnout
When Brushing Boots Are Needed
Brushing boots suit a wide range of everyday riding scenarios where lateral strike protection is the priority.
Dressage and Flatwork
During dressage schooling, horses perform lateral movements — leg yield, shoulder-in, half-pass — that bring limbs close together. Brushing boots prevent the inside of the fetlock from being struck by the passing hoof. Equisk offers lightweight boots that don’t restrict movement during expressive lateral work. Many EA dressage competitions permit brushing boots — check current rules for your level.
Young Horse Education
Young or green horses are still developing balance and coordination, making them more prone to brushing strikes as they learn to carry themselves. Brushing boots are essential during early education and backing. Use a breathable style for young horses that may work longer sessions as they build fitness and confidence.
Trail and Hacking
On uneven ground, a tired horse is more likely to brush. Brushing boots protect against strikes from stumbles or uneven terrain. Choose lightweight, well-ventilated boots for trail riding and remove them when the horse is cooled down to allow tendons to recover.
Features to Look For
Not all brushing boots are created equal. Key features determine protection quality and comfort.
Striking Pad
The inside of the boot should have a reinforced striking pad — this is where the opposite limb makes contact. Toptac International boots feature TPU strike pads that absorb and distribute impact forces. Without a strike pad, the boot merely prevents direct skin contact without absorbing the force of the strike.
Lining and Breathability
For Australian conditions, lining material matters. Neoprene provides good impact absorption but traps heat. Look for moisture-wicking linings or perforated panels. Lady Godiva Equestrian boots feature breathable lining systems that reduce heat build-up during summer schooling sessions.
Closure System
Double-strap closures are standard on quality brushing boots. The straps should be wide enough to distribute pressure and long enough to accommodate different leg sizes. Eloquence Equestrian boots feature heavy-duty Velcro that resists clogging with sand and mud.
Sizing and Fit
Brushing boots come in small, medium, and large. Measure the circumference of your horse’s cannon bone and fetlock to determine size. The boot should cover the fetlock and cannon bone without restricting the knee or pastern. Straps should be even on both sides — if one side is much longer than the other, the boot is the wrong size or is fitted incorrectly. Gaps between straps allow debris to enter.
After fitting, walk your horse for a few minutes then remove the boots and check for pressure marks or rubs. Equisk boots have contoured linings designed to minimise pressure points. For horses with sensitive skin, look for boots with fleece or gel linings. Always remove brushing boots promptly after work to allow tendons to cool.
Cleaning and Care
Rinse brushing boots after every ride to remove sweat and sand — trapped debris causes skin irritation. Wash neoprene and TPU boots with warm water and mild soap, then air dry away from direct heat. Check straps and strike pads for wear, and replace any boot with cracked shells, worn strike pads, or stretched straps. Quality brushing boots should last one to two seasons of daily use.
Store boots in a dry, ventilated area. Never store wet boots in a closed bag as this promotes mould growth. Lady Godiva Equestrian boots are designed for easy cleaning and quick drying, making them ideal for Australian riders who work multiple horses daily.
Brands We Stock
We stock brushing boots from brands chosen for Australian conditions:
Lady Godiva Equestrian — Breathable brushing boots with easy-clean linings and secure closures designed for Australian summer schooling.
Eloquence Equestrian — Contoured brushing boots with heavy-duty double-strap closures that stay secure during lateral work.
Toptac International — TPU shell brushing boots with reinforced strike pads for daily wear and impact protection.
Equisk — Lightweight brushing boots with contoured linings that minimise pressure points during expressive flatwork.
Why Shop Brushing Boots at iRide EQ?
Everyday Strike Protection
Brushing boots prevent the most common leg injury in everyday riding — lateral strikes when limbs pass close together during flatwork and lateral movements.
Australian Heat Management
Our boots feature breathable linings and ventilation panels that manage heat build-up during summer schooling — critical for tendon health and skin comfort.
Versatile Use
Suitable for dressage, hacking, young horse education, and general schooling — the most versatile boot type in your tack room.
Fast Local Shipping
Stocked in Australia with fast dispatch — no waiting for overseas delivery when your horse needs leg protection.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use brushing boots for show jumping?
Brushing boots protect against lateral strikes but don’t absorb pole impact. For show jumping, use tendon boots on the front legs for pole impact protection. You can use brushing boots on hind legs if your horse brushes behind.
How do I know what size brushing boots to buy?
Measure the circumference of your horse’s cannon bone and fetlock. Most brands offer small, medium, and large. The boot should cover the fetlock and cannon without restricting the knee or pastern. Check strap length — straps should be even on both sides.
Are brushing boots allowed in EA dressage?
Yes, brushing boots are generally permitted in EA dressage competitions, but restrictions vary by level. Check current EA rules for your competition level regarding boot types, colours, and materials. Some higher levels may restrict boot types.
How hot do brushing boots get?
Neoprene brushing boots trap heat, especially in Australian summers. For warm-weather schooling, choose TPU or ventilated styles. Remove boots promptly after work to allow tendons to cool. Lady Godiva Equestrian boots feature breathable linings for better heat management.
Do brushing boots restrict movement?
Quality brushing boots are lightweight and contoured to flex with the leg. Equisk boots are designed to minimise restriction during expressive lateral work. Poorly fitted or heavy boots can alter gait — if you notice any change, check fit and size.
How long do brushing boots last?
With daily use, quality brushing boots last one to two seasons. Inspect strike pads for wear, straps for stretch, and shells for cracks. Replace immediately if the strike pad is worn through or the boot no longer stays securely in place during work.
Should brushing boots be worn on all four legs?
Most riders wear brushing boots on all four legs for schooling. Front legs are more prone to brushing strikes, but hind legs can also be struck during lateral work. For hacking, front boots may suffice. Choose based on your horse’s conformation and work type.
