How to measure for cavallo boots:
Get the perfect fit for your horse
When it comes to choosing the right size of Cavallo boots for your horse, accuracy is key. Cavallo boots are designed to protect your horse’s hooves, but for them to perform their best, you need to ensure the fit is just right. Measuring your horse’s hooves properly will help you find the perfect boot size to keep your horse comfortable and protected. Here’s a quick guide based on Cavallo's official instructions on how to measure your horse's hooves for their boots.
Why Accurate Measurements Matter
Cavallo boots are made to fit snugly and securely around your horse’s hooves, offering protection and comfort while allowing for natural movement. If the boots are too small, they can cause discomfort and chafing. If they are too large, they may not stay in place or offer the right amount of protection.
What You’ll Need to Measure
TAPE MEASURE
Preferably one that is flexible
Pen & paper
to record your measurements
Flat Surface
Such as concrete or a firm floor
A helper
Helpful for holding the hoof still
STEP 1: Clean Your Horse’s Hooves
Before measuring, make sure the hooves are clean and dry. Remove any debris like stones, mud, or manure from the hooves. This ensures that your measurements are accurate and that the boot will fit without interference from debris.
STEP 2: Measure the Length of the Hoof
1. Position the Hoof: Ask your helper to lift your horse’s hoof (or you can lift it yourself if your horse is calm). Ensure that the hoof is positioned straight in front of the horse and not tilted at an angle.
2. Measure from Heel to Toe: Using your flexible tape measure, measure the length of the hoof from the back of the heel (where the hoof meets the ground) to the tip of the toe.
- For best results, measure the length on the side that you are measuring (left or right), as some hooves can be slightly different in size from one another.
- Measure along the natural curve of the hoof to get an accurate reading.
Write down the measurement in centimeters or inches (whichever is easiest for you).
STEP 3: Measure the Width of the Hoof
1. Position the Hoof Again: With your horse’s hoof still held up, you’ll now measure the width of the hoof.
2. Measure Across the Widest Point: Measure the width of the hoof at its widest point (usually just behind the toe). Hold the tape measure straight across the hoof to get an accurate reading.
- Keep in mind that the width might vary slightly depending on the hoof’s shape. If your horse has a flatter or more oval-shaped hoof, it may affect how the boots fit.
Record the width in the same units you used for the length (inches or centimeters).
STEP 4: Refer to Cavallo’s Sizing Chart
Now that you have all your measurements, it’s time to refer to the Cavallo sizing chart. Cavallo boots come in several sizes, and the brand provides detailed guidelines on how to match your measurements with the correct size.
Tip: If your horse is between two sizes, it’s generally better to choose the larger size. A slightly larger boot is easier to secure and will provide a bit more room for growth or hoof expansion.
Pick your boots
Now that you've measured the hoof and have picked a size, find the boot that you want.
Measuring your horse’s hooves for Cavallo boots doesn’t have to be complicated. By following these simple steps and taking accurate measurements, you can ensure that your horse will enjoy the full benefits of their Cavallo boots—whether for protection, therapy, or comfort. Proper fit means your horse will be happier, healthier, and safer on every ride!