EasyCare Hoof Boot
& Horseshoe Buying Guide

Founded in 1970, EasyCare Inc. is a brand that's well-known in the equine industry for their versatile and innovative hoof boots and horseshoes. Many horseback riders have experienced the benefits of improving their horse's comfort and well-being with their wide variety of high-quality products. As horseback riders ourselves, we know how overwhelming it can feel to navigate the mountain of choices on the market. That's why we're laying out the specifics of what EasyCare has to offer in this comprehensive guide. We also partnered with Brendan at EasyCare to bring you more insight from the brand itself!

Hoof boots are a wonderful tool to have in your riding or therapy toolbox, whether you're at the barn or on an equestrian adventure. If you're new to hoof boots, we highly encourage you to first check out our guide on how to choose horse hoof boots. Knowing more about hoof boots in general will give you a fuller understanding of the information in this guide, as EasyCare caters to a variety of needs with many different boot options. Let's not delay any further and dive right in!

EasyCare Riding Hoof Boots:

Recreation Riding Hoof Boots

The Recreation Riding hoof boots by EasyCare are designed for easy application and removal, so you can quickly slip these hoof boots on for more casual riding that averages around 25 miles per week. These hoof boots are also a great replacement option if your horse loses a shoe on the trail or at home. You can even use these hoof boots for the tender-footed horse that easily gets bruised and sore, or as hoof protection during light turnout.

Performance Riding Hoof Boots

The Performance Riding hoof boots by EasyCare are specifically manufactured for aggressive use that consists of long-distance and speed riding, averaging around 50 to 100 miles during a single day or over the course of a week. These hoof boot styles are low in profile and provide a secure fit to reduce interference and protect your horse's hooves from issues caused by increased training time, like chipping. The Performance Riding line holds up to challenging riding conditions over a variety of terrains.

Glue-On Performance Riding Hoof Boots

There are a few glue-on hoof boot styles from EasyCare that are ideal for total hoof protection during intense conditioning and competition. Applied with either the Vettec Adhere or Sikaflex 227, the Easyboot Glue-On and Easyboot Fury Glue-On are unique in that they're left on no longer than 5 days in a wet environment and 10 days in a dry environment. Sold as singles to accommodate different sizing between each of your horse's hooves (if necessary), these glue-on hoof boots are generally used only once.

The Easyboot LC Love Child is similar in that it's also sold in single sizes. However, this style can provide hoof protection throughout an entire 4- to 6-week trim cycle—making it a great option for conditioning and endurance competitions, as well as therapy treatments. It is not recommended to use Sikaflex during the application of the LC Love Child, but Vettec Adhere glue instead. EasyCare does not suggest re-setting these hoof boots after their initial use, so this glue-on hoof boot is used only once as well.

EasyCare Therapy Hoof Boots:

The Therapy line by EasyCare is geared toward providing hoof comfort during rehab, medical treatment, or trailering. Aimed to treat a variety of pathological issues like founder, abscesses, laminitis, thin soles, and more, these hoof boots help offer relief to lame horses. Please be aware that these hoof boots are not intended for riding or exercise and should therefore not be used in such circumstances. Whether you're packing hooves, icing, or taking your horse on a long haul in the trailer, the therapeutic hoof boots by EasyCare have got you covered during a variety of circumstances!

EasyCare's composite EasyShoes support the barefoot horse by providing lightweight protection that allows the hoof to expand and contract. With plenty of lateral and vertical give provided by the flexible designs, your horse can move out as nature intended with EasyShoes. Both durable protection and concussion support are provided to help keep your horse comfortable. Continue on to learn more about the different EasyShoe options available to you!

Versa Grip EasyShoe Line

The Versa Grip horseshoes are a specific line by EasyCare offered in nail-on and glue-on options; however, any Versa Grip style can be either nailed or glued. Please consult the EasyShoe guide further below for information on the different methods of application. Versa Grip horseshoes are versatile enough for a variety of disciplines, including endurance riding, trail riding, dressage, show jumping, carriage driving, western disciplines, and more. These horseshoes hold pour-in packing well and can be used for therapy cases thanks to the wide web design. Follow along as we dive further into the specifics of each Versa horseshoe!

Glue-On Versa EasyShoes:

Versa Grip Octo

A simple application of the EasyCare EasyShoe Quick Set Super Glue to the integrated finger tabs holds these horseshoes on for a full 6- to 8-week trim cycle. You can typically clean and reset these shoes once or twice per pair, which gives you more bang for your buck. A quick and easy gluing process makes the Octos a great choice for those diving into the world of glue-on horseshoes. They even hold up to 100-mile endurance races!

Versa Grip Glue

Allows for easy injection of adhesive glue, like Vettec Equi-Thane Adhere, through the application ports on the integrated cuffs. These horseshoes can stay on for a full 6- to 8-week trim cycle and can typically be reset once or twice. EasyCare suggests these shoes for any riding disciplines or for therapy purposes. As a suggestion, the option of copper sulfate padding can be integrated for additional protection; this helps prevent the possibility of thrush while your horse is wearing their shoes!

Nail-On Versa EasyShoes:

EasyShoe Versa Grip

With the Versa Grips, you can get the feel of an iron shoe but at a lighter weight. The Versa Grip is a hybrid polyurethane shoe with a mild steel core to help the front half of the shoe remain rigid. This nail-on style is applied like a traditional aluminum shoe and can typically be reset. An ideal choice for trail, endurance, rehab, police, and sport horses, these horseshoes have also been seen in dressage, show jumping, and barrel racing! A thicker profile and deep tread allow for durability with more aggressive use.

EasyShoe Versa Grip Gold

The Versa Grip Golds have independent mild steel plates on either front end for secure nailing and weight reduction. With their mild steel construction, there is increased shoe flexibility; however, note that these shoes will not revert back to their original shape if bent. The Versa Grip Golds provide rigid support at the quarters and are great for endurance, trail, rehab, police, and sport horses. This shoe style features an aggressive tread and is a versatile option for many different riding and rehab situations!

EasyShoe Versa Grip Light

The Versa Grip Light features an aggressive tread pattern with no metal to make the lightest and most flexible horseshoe. These shoes can be nailed on, or you can weld the corresponding tabs to make a Versa Grip Glue or Versa Grip Octo style for gluing. A cost-efficient option that is easy to shape and fit, the Versa Grip Lights can be reset for continued use. The aggressive tread pattern makes this style a great choice for a variety of riding activities!

Glue-On EasyShoes:

The Glue-On line by EasyCare consists of urethane horseshoes that are applied to a barefoot horse with adhesive. A super glue horseshoe application is a good option for horses with uniform hoof walls that have minimal cracks or flaring. Acrylic and urethane glue applications are ideal for asymmetrical hoof walls that require filling in gaps. Any Glue-On EasyShoe is great for therapy or rehabilitation, whether your horse has thin walls, weak soles, or another hoof issue. Always consult your farrier and veterinarian for treatment!

Other EasyCare EasyShoe Models

EasyShoe 3-D Composite

The EasyShoe 3-D Composite was crafted for track and arena sports in sandy conditions, so your horse can have hoof protection while maintaining good traction. A simple application of the EasyCare EasyShoe Quick Set Super Glue to the integrated finger tabs holds these horseshoes on for a full 4- to 6-week trim cycle. Considered to be the most flexible shoe by EasyCare, the 3-D Composite ensures vertical and lateral hoof expansion.

EasyShoe Sport

The EasyShoe Sport is a glue-on only horseshoe that can stay on the hoof for one full 3- to 6-week trim cycle. Ideal for those who want the benefits of a hoof boot without having to take them on and off during each ride, the EasyShoe Sports offer your horse maximum support across the sole without a complicated application. An integrated metal spine provides structural integrity and allows these shoes to be adjusted to different hoof shapes. A very lightweight option, these horseshoes are preferred for trail riding across mud, turf, and snow.

EasyShoe Performance Glue

The EasyShoe Performance Glue is a wide-webbed shoe with integrated frog support that does not hamper heel expansion and contraction. The frog plate acts as a natural shock absorber, and the open design allows these shoes to be placed properly for your horse's optimal breakover. Designed to last one full 3- to 6-week trim cycle, the Performance Glues have been used for trail and endurance riding, dressage, therapeutic benefits in lame horses, and more. These shoes also hold pour-in packing very well!

EasyShoe Performance N/G

When the EasyShoe Performance N/G is applied as a glue-on with adhesive, like the Vettec Equi-Thane Adhere Adhesive Glue or EasyCare EasyShoe Adhesive & Hoof Repair, it will stay on for a full 3- to 6-week trim cycle without impeding upon heel expansion and contraction! The three integrated toe clips help keep these horseshoes in place without extending your horse's breakover. The wide web design supports your horse's hooves with side-to-side flex while absorbing shock and concussion. EasyCare recommends these shoes for all riding disciplines and activities. Note that when glued, these shoes cannot be reset!

Nail-On EasyShoes:

The Nail-On EasyShoes from EasyCare are like traditional steel shoes but with the benefits of composite shoes. Designed to promote a healthier hoof overall by targeting natural hoof mechanics, Nail-On EasyShoes provide increased blood flow and frog support. The flexible nature of these durable shoes offers great support for a variety of horses and riding activities!

EasyShoe Flex Heart Bar

The EasyShoe Flex Heart Bar is a great choice for trail and endurance, as well as driving, parade, and performance horses working on hard surfaces. The spring steel core provides flexibility, durability, and encourages hoof flexion by bending and flexing back to its original state. EasyCare also recommends the Flex Heart Bar shoes for therapy cases, as the wide web design works well in conjunction with pour-in packing. The nailing platform will not limit your horse's flex in their toes, quarters, or heels!

EasyShoe Performance N/G

When the EasyShoe Performance N/G is applied as a nail-on shoe, it can accept up to eight nails in the two integrated nailing plates for ultimate security! The translucent urethane material ensures the white line of the hooves is still visible during a nail application. The three integrated toe clips help keep these horseshoes in place without extending breakover, and there is plenty of vertical and lateral flexion for your horse. Designed to stay on for a 3- to 6-week trim cycle, these horseshoes can be reset for continued use if they have been straight nailed.

Consult our chart below for a quick reference of how to apply each EasyShoe style; always follow EasyCare's full set of provided manufacturer instructions for each application.

The EasyCare Hoof Pick Wire Brush and Heavy Duty Plastic Wrap - 150 gauge are highly recommended as accessories to have on hand for any glue-on application. You can also easily use the EasyCare Easyboot Zip Slip-On Hoot Boot to help hooves stay dry and clean as you're preparing your glue-on horseshoes! Make sure you purchase a Vettec Dispensing Gun for your acrylic adhesive applications, which is sold separately from the glue cartridges. If you don't have mixing tips, we have got you covered there as well!

* Direct glue or weld on tabs

** Tabs must be removed

EasyCare Accessories

EasyCare manufactures several accessories for your horse's hoof needs, whether it's replacement parts for your boots or items required for gluing shoes. Take a quick look below at all of the EasyCare hoof boot and horseshoe accessories we offer!

We are frequently asked questions regarding the use of EasyCare's EasyShoe Adhesive & Repair SoftPak, which can be used on the sole area as packing under horseshoes and hoof boots. Geared toward treating horses with sore or tender soles, SoftPak offers comfort by bonding to the sole area for support. A great option for keeping dirt and debris away, you can also use SoftPak to help prevent bacterial issues like thrush.

Fit Kit Demo Program

If you want to fit your horse for their proper hoof boot size prior to purchase, then the EasyCare Fit Kit is for you! Please be aware that this Fit Kit is to check the sizing of only the following hoof boot styles: Easyboot Glove, Easyboot Back Country, and Easyboot Glue-On. Find more information on EasyCare's Fit Kit application guide and instructions.

Q: How do I measure my horse's hooves for hoof boots and horseshoes?

A: After a fresh trim, measure both the hoof width and length at the widest points in millimeters and inches. Compare the measurements you've taken to the manufacturer's sizing chart and fitting recommendations. If your horse's measurements fall in between two sizes, choose the larger of the two to appropriately compensate for more toe or width. Your hoof boots and horseshoes need to be able to allow for hoof expansion and flexibility to promote your horse's natural movement and breakover. If your horse's measurements differ by more than one size between the width or length, consider an alternative hoof boot/horseshoe brand or style.

Q: How do I know which EasyCare hoof boot or horseshoe is best for my horse?

A: We highly encourage you to read through our guide on how to choose horse hoof boots for insight on what to keep in mind when it comes to booting your horse. For EasyCare's horseshoes, talk with your veterinarian or farrier for a consultation on what they recommend for your horse. Check out some of the EasyCare hoof boots we highlight in our Best Horse Hoof Boots article if you want additional recommendations.

Q: What is EasyCare's warranty?

A: EasyCare offers a generous 45-day money-back guarantee on their products. If you are not satisfied with your EasyCare product for any reason, you can return it back to us within 45 days of purchase for a refund or store credit. Please be aware that EasyCare's guarantee does not cover the following:

• Adhesives and packing materials
• Boots that have been modified or altered by heat fitting or application of studs
• Boots used over steel, aluminum, or composite horseshoes
• Damage inflicted by omnivorous horses, rodents, or other unusual abuse
• Glue-On boots, shoes, products, or accessories that are not in their original, unopened packaging (this includes all EasyShoe styles)

If you are outside of EasyCare's 45-day warranty window, you are still welcome to take advantage of Riding Warehouse's 365-day return policy. Products returned to us in new, store-bought condition are eligible for an exchange, refund, or Riding Warehouse store credit for the full purchase value. Products returned that are unable to be returned to stock are still eligible to receive Riding Warehouse store credit.

Q: How do I apply my EasyCare glue-on horseshoes?

A: Depending on the glue-on EasyShoe you choose, the type of glue and how to apply the shoes varies. However, the hoof care in preparation for gluing is the same process across the board. Please watch the following video from EasyCare on the hoof prep process, then visit EasyCare for specific application videos. EasyCare also has a plethora of information on their blog site, where they address many different scenarios, products, and questions. One of which offers tips and tricks for gluing for the first time!

We hope this guide has helped educate you more about the EasyCare brand, as well as the hoof boots and horseshoes they create to suit the needs of any horse and owner. With the goal of revolutionizing hoof care practices in the equine industry, EasyCare values serving the horseman and horsewoman to the best of their ability. Should you have any questions regarding their brand or products, please feel free to reach out to us at info@ridingwarehouse.com or 1-800-620-9145 for assistance. Happy riding!