Stable bandages, underbandages and cooling boots
Why Protect Horse’s Legs
Horse’s legs are particularly vulnerable to knocks, strain and microtrauma, especially during intense training or competition. Protecting tendons, ligaments and joints is essential to prevent injuries, trauma, and overloads that could compromise the horse’s health and performance.
To meet these needs, there are different types of leg protection, each with a specific function:
- Brushing boots
- Tendon boots
- Fetlock boots
- Hoof boots
- Bell boots
- Work wraps
- Stable wraps
- Under bandages
- Cooling boots
This guide explores the main characteristics of each product, explaining when and how to use them and how to choose the most suitable protection based on the horse’s activity.
The article is divided into three parts, published weekly.
This third and final part concludes our guide dedicated to horse leg protection, following Part 1 (brushing boots, tendon boots and fetlock boots) and Part 2 (bell boots, overreach boots and exercise bandages).
In this chapter, we’ll delve into the use of stable bandages, underbandages, and cooling boots for pre/post training—essential tools for your horse’s comfort and recovery.
Stable bandages: purpose and proper use
Stable bandages are designed to be used during periods of rest, such as time spent in the stall or during transport. Their purpose is to provide passive and consistent support to the tendons, prevent swelling and promote recovery after exercise.
These bandages are particularly useful for:
- Horses prone to swelling after work
- Horses undergoing rehabilitation
- Preventing fluid accumulation during stall rest
They must always be applied over padded underbandages, to avoid pressure points and ensure even compression. Improper wrapping can impair circulation and cause discomfort, so it’s important to check the bandages regularly.
Correct use of stable bandages helps:
- Maintain the integrity of soft tissues
- Encourage lymphatic drainage
- Prevent inflammation or localized swelling
Underbandages for horses: features and function
Underbandages are essential padded linings placed beneath stable bandages.
Their function is to:
- Protect the horse’s skin
- Reduce direct pressure from the bandages
- Distribute support evenly along the leg
Made from soft, breathable, and washable materials, they must be applied carefully to avoid wrinkles or gaps. A well-positioned underbandage is key to preventing irritation, compression, or damage to tendons and ligaments.
💡 Underbandages for hind legs are generally longer than those for front legs, to fit the different conformation of the hock.
There are also universal models available, which can be used on either leg, but it’s always advisable to check length and fit to ensure secure and effective wrapping.
Stable bandages with integrated underbandage: convenience and safety
A practical alternative to the traditional underbandage + bandage combo are stable wraps with built-in padding. These combined protections include:
- An internal padded section (acting as an underbandage)
- An outer support bandage with adjustable velcro closures
Main advantage? Easy and quick application—ideal for riders looking for a convenient and safe solution, especially when time is limited.
Stable bandages with integrated padding ensure:
- Even pressure without constriction
- Excellent stability during use
- Effective protection from rubbing and irritation
Cooling boots: recovery and prevention
Cooling boots are an indispensable aid for muscle and tendon well-being, both after intense exercise and as a preventive measure.
- Reduce swelling and inflammation
- Relieve muscle fatigue
- Prevent microtrauma and joint pain
Equipped with cooling inserts and adjustable velcro straps, they fit snugly around the horse’s legs without restricting blood flow.
❄️ Localized cold therapy boosts circulation, speeds up recovery, and is also useful for horses in rehabilitation.
Perfect for post-workout use, cooling boots can also be applied before exercise to prepare tissues for intense activity.
Conclusion – Part 3
This third part concludes our complete guide to horse leg protection. We’ve explored the importance of stable bandages, underbandages, and cooling boots—fundamental tools for your horse’s health and performance.
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