Our horses are true athletes, whether they’re chasing blue ribbons, just starting under saddle, or enjoying a well-earned retirement. Keeping them feeling their best is about intentional recovery and proactive maintenance for long-term comfort and soundness. That’s where red light therapy comes in. Following its success in human applications, this innovative technology has been introduced to the horse world, yielding impressive results.
The RW Crew is composed of riders with decades of equine experience, so we certainly appreciate seeing innovative new therapy options become available for our horses. That’s why we were excited to see that XLR8 Equinehas developed professional-quality red light therapy products at an affordable price. This therapy product allows you to support your horse from the comfort of your own barn, and it is available in a variety of different forms to meet different needs.
Ready to learn what red light can do for your horses? This article breaks down everything you need to know, including what it is, how to use it, and even a personal review from RW sponsored rider Krista Williams!
Benefits of Red Light Therapy in Equine Health
By boosting circulation, oxygenation, and cellular regeneration, red light therapy supports healing, reduces inflammation, and helps relieve both acute and chronic pain from issues like arthritis or muscle soreness.
Red light photomedicine encourages healing for soft-tissue injuries or strains by aiding circulation and cellular regeneration. Equine red light therapy can also reduce recovery times and help your horse bounce back from intensive physical activity while reducing stress. Additionally, it has been shown to improve coat and skin health.
Because it’s completely non-invasive, red light therapy can safely be used alongside other treatments like massage, chiropractic care, or PEMF — even at horse shows!
How Does Equine Red Light Photomedicine Work?
Red light products typically work at two wavelengths: 660 nm and 850 nm. The 660-nm red light targets surface-level concerns, such as wounds, scars, lacerations, and acupuncture points, and has been shown to help fight infections. The 850-nm near-infrared light penetrates much deeper, up to 50 mm, making it ideal for muscles, tendons, ligaments, joints, and even bones. This deeper action makes it a powerful tool for rehabilitation and performance recovery.
For more information on equine red light therapy and more details on the XLR8 product line, watch our video below!
How to Use Red Light Therapy Safely & Effectively
When using your red light therapy products, always prioritize safety and proper care. Avoid looking directly at the lights and limit use in one location to 15-minute sessions, no more than twice a day. The device will automatically shut off after 15 minutes to ensure safe use. Each charge will last for roughly 5 cycles.
Before each session, make sure your horse is clean and dry. To clean your XLR8 red light product, simply wipe the fabric with a damp cloth or gently clean with a soft toothbrush, avoiding the diodes. It is recommended to store the device in a cool, dry place. Proper cleaning and storage will help ensure the device’s longevity.
XLR8 Red Light Product Guide
Riders are always on the lookout for safe, effective, and non-invasive therapies that fit into their busy barn routines. That’s where equine red light therapy shines. This cordless, portable option makes it simple to support your horse’s wellness without needing a professional on hand. Browse our offerings below and pick the Redline therapy product that works best for your situation!
XLR8 Redline Therapy Bell Boots
The XLR8 Redline Photomedicine Therapy Bell Boots were created to address common hoof issues. The cordless design makes them easy to use, even on antsy horses. These bell boots are recommended for laminitis, navicular, hoof, tendon, and ligament injuries. They can double as a knee wrap for horses struggling with an injury or arthritis.
Why We Love This Product:
Dual Purpose: Use on Hooves or Knees
Brings Bloodflow to Low-Circulation Areas
Great for Horses with Hoof Problems or Poor Conformation
XLR8 Redline Photomedicine Therapy Tendon Wraps
The XLR8 Redline Photomedicine Therapy Tendon Wraps are used to tackle common leg ailments, such as suspensory, flexor, or splint injuries, as well as aid in wound healing. It has been shown to reduce inflammation and offer vasodilation properties, which improve healing. Cordless construction makes them safer and less likely to tangle during sessions. Additionally, these boots are one-size-fits-all and can also be used on the front or hind legs.
Why We Love This Product:
One-Size-Fits-All for Both Front and Hind Legs
Use as a Warmup or Recovery After Work
Great for Treating or Preventing Tendon Injuries
XLR8 Redline Photomedicine Therapy Hock Boot
The XLR8 Redline Photomedicine Therapy Hock Boots are great for treating fused hocks, lacerations, arthritis, ligament injuries, and chronic pain. The anti-inflammatory and vasodilation properties support hock health and longevity. The cordless and rechargeable design ensures your horse doesn’t get wrapped up. As an additional feature, this hock boot can double as a human knee wrap.
Why We Love This Product:
Great for Arthritis and Fusing Hocks in Aging Horses
Use Before or After Work
Doubles as Human Knee Wrap
XLR8 Redline Ignite Handheld Therapy Light
The XLR8 Redline Photomedicine Therapy Handheld Light was designed for targeted treatment at an affordable price. A portable design makes it easy to bring to all of your outings and horse shows. With the power of 5 LED diodes in red, blue, and near-infrared wavelengths, this therapy light allows you to treat a variety of issues anywhere on your horse’s body. It was designed to address pain, wounds, tendonitis, cellulitis, inflammation, and soft tissue injuries.
Red Light Therapy in Action - A Review from Sponsored Rider Krista Williams
Krista’s mare’s wound as it began to heal after treatments with XLR8 red light therapy
Krista's mare after XLR8 red light therapy was used to assist in healing
Riding Warehouse Sponsored Rider Krista Williams, a professional barrel racer, is now based out of Kentucky. One of her horses experienced a pasture accident, and Krista was able to test the effectiveness of XLR8 Red Light products. Read her review below:
"My mare had an accident in the pasture with a tee post. The resulting injury required over 80 stitches, and the vet let me know that they most likely wouldn’t hold due to the location high up on her forearm. I began running my XLR8 Redline Photomedicine Therapy Tendon Wrap on level 2 in the morning and on level 1 in the evening. The swelling started to go down within 48 hours, and the healing process started rapidly. Only five stitches were lost throughout the process!
When I took my mare back to the vet to have the stitches removed, the first thing he asked was what in the world I had done to help the healing process. He was so impressed! I showed him our red light and explained how we used it every day throughout the process. First, he said the wound healed about 30% faster than it should have, and he couldn’t believe there wasn’t a scar. He had also been concerned about her regaining her full range of motion because of the location of the injury. However, it healed 100% — zero loss!
This is a tool that I’ve typically used for rehab after competition, but what a blessing it has been to use for this injury! It’s definitely something I’d recommend to anyone to have in their equine first-aid kit."
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the benefits of red light therapy?
Red light therapy, known as photobiomodulation, has multiple benefits for your horse, dog, or even yourself! Below are the main benefits:
Accelerated Healing
Enhanced Muscle Performance
Pain Relief & Reduced Inflammatory Response
Stress Reduction
Improved Skin & Coat Health
Is red light visible to the human eye?
Yes, 650-nm red light is visible to the human eye. However, the 850-nm near-infrared light setting is completely invisible to the human eye. To ensure the XLR8 product is working, look at the power button. When the near-infrared light is on, the power button will be lit up.
How often should red light be used on horses?
Red light products can be safely used one to two times daily, for 15 minute sessions. Before using Redline products, ensure that the horse’s leg is dry and clean prior to starting a session. When not in use, Redline products can be rolled up or stored in their container, in a dry place as to not damage the LEDs and electronics.
Are red light therapy products safe to use on humans?
Absolutely! Red light offers similar results for humans and is a great recovery tool for riders. It is completely safe as long as you follow the guidelines for safe practice!
Can red light therapy be combined with other equine treatments?
Red light therapy is a non-invasive form of treatment that can be safely combined with other therapies, such as massage, chiropractic, PEMF, and more!
How do I know which XLR8 product to choose for my horse?
Your choice of XLR8 Redline product is mostly dependent on the area you would like to treat. However, if there is no specific location for treatment, we recommend purchasing the Tendon Wraps or the Handheld Light.
The Tendon Wraps can be used on the front and hind legs, ensuring maximum coverage. The Handheld Light can be used anywhere it is needed on the body. So, regardless of where an issue arises, you will be able to treat the affected area.
Closing Thoughts
Red light photomedicine therapy is transforming the way that we care for our horses by providing high-quality results in your barn and on the road. Injury care and long-term maintenance are now easier and more effective than ever. Pairing the XLR8 Redline products with other therapies can provide even more effective results.
As with all therapies, we always suggest consulting your veterinarian before starting a new treatment program. If you have any further questions or comments on red light therapy, feel free to contact our friendly customer service team at info@ridingwarehouse.com or by calling1-800-620-9145. Happy riding!
Delaney began riding horses over a decade ago, starting with casual lessons that quickly evolved into a lifelong passion. She spent every free moment working at barns, learning from industry professionals, and immersing herself in all aspects of equestrian life. In her junior years, she pursued a competitive career in hunters, jumpers, and equitation, while also working and traveling as a groom for an 'R' Hunter judge. While competing with her thoroughbred throughout the Southeast, she gained valuable experience bringing along young horses and putting show miles on client horses. Now, as an adult amateur, Delaney continues to seek knowledge and growth in every corner of the industry.
