Horse tack question

[elnedro]

Hey all, 

Got a question that I cannot find the answer to, so I'm throwing it out to the group.  Im trying to figure out how to make a set of Splint Boots and Bell Boots for a horse (or if its even worth the effort)

I'm working with some equestrians who are tired of constantly having to replace the shoddily make fabric/neoprene ones out there...and being a leather worker...my first thought was...well...leather.

The Tandy horse Tack pattern set doesn't have them, all I've really been able to make from that pack is a few sets of spur straps.

If anyone knows of a pattern, or even has suggestions based on personal experience, I'd love to hear them!

 

 

Edited July 2, 2024 by elnedro

[Northmount]

1 hour ago, elnedro said:

 Im trying to figure out how to make a set of Splint Boots and Bell Boots for a horse

Moved your post to Saddle and Tack Accessory Items

[Mulesaw]

@elnedro

This thread: 

 

@Silverd made some absolutely stunning bell boots. 
He very kindly sent me some pictures of the process, though I hate to admit that I have been too busy renovating an old house to get started in making them. 
 

Brgds Jonas

[elnedro]

1 hour ago, Northmount said:

Moved your post to Saddle and Tack Accessory Items

thanks! I'm still learning to navigate the site

[elnedro]

1 hour ago, Mulesaw said:

@elnedro

This thread: 

 

@Silverd made some absolutely stunning bell boots. 
He very kindly sent me some pictures of the process, though I hate to admit that I have been too busy renovating an old house to get started in making them. 
 

Brgds Jonas

Thank you so much for this!  

[TomE]

Those are beautiful leather bell boots but they wouldn't stay that way on our horses that need them.  In my experience it's hard to improve on the utility of one piece rubber bell boots.  The velcroed/synthetic boots tend to ride up (at least the ones we've tried) so they don't protect the feet or horseshoes from damage caused by interference. When a horse is a shoe puller they usually wear rubber boots 24/7, on pasture and in the barn, and when working under saddle except in show classes where they are not allowed (so the judge can see the foot movements).  So the boots take a beating.  I'd find out how/when they are using the boots and why they prefer the velcroed type boots vs slip on rubber boots.  If leather bell boots seem workable then I would consider harness leather as a tough, weatherproof choice.

[elnedro]

1 hour ago, TomE said:

Those are beautiful leather bell boots but they wouldn't stay that way on our horses that need them.  In my experience it's hard to improve on the utility of one piece rubber bell boots.  The velcroed/synthetic boots tend to ride up (at least the ones we've tried) so they don't protect the feet or horseshoes from damage caused by interference. When a horse is a shoe puller they usually wear rubber boots 24/7, on pasture and in the barn, and when working under saddle except in show classes where they are not allowed (so the judge can see the foot movements).  So the boots take a beating.  I'd find out how/when they are using the boots and why they prefer the velcroed type boots vs slip on rubber boots.  If leather bell boots seem workable then I would consider harness leather as a tough, weatherproof choice.

The biggest issue has been that the velcro always dies out on their bell and splint boots. This is all being used for western (arena and trail). And yes, the velcro ones ride up, and the "no turn" boots turn almost immediately. I'll ask about the rubber...I think they just asked me about a leather version because I've made a few leather goods for them before.  Thanks for the detailed reply!

[Mulesaw]

2 hours ago, elnedro said:

The biggest issue has been that the velcro always dies out on their bell and splint boots

Replacing velcro is easily done (if you have a sewing machine).
I repair a lot of horse tack, and replacing velcro is a reoccurring theme. I use a patcher sewing machine to do it, and the biggest "problem" is that once in a while the sewing thread will become frayed while sewing on the male part of the velcro, but I just restart the stitch then and that's it.

Brgds Jonas 

[alexcobe]

For less thread fraying when sewing on the male part of the Velcro, try using nylon or polyester thread. They are more resistant to friction

[Mulesaw]

1 hour ago, alexcobe said:

For less thread fraying when sewing on the male part of the Velcro, try using nylon or polyester thread. They are more resistant to friction

Thanks for the tip, but I'm already using a synthetic thread :-) it is Amann Serafil tkt 20, but once in a while it just seem to fray more than others. It isn't a super big deal though. It could also be my brand of velcro that has particular sharp ends, but it isn't a big enough problem that I want to a lot about it :-)

Brgds Jonas

Brgds Jonas