Horse Splint Boots: What They Protect and How to Choose
Updated October 22, 2026 by the Hilason Media Team.
Quick answer: Splint boots protect the inside of a horse's lower leg, over the cannon and splint bone, from being brushed or struck by the opposite leg. They are not over-reach boots: a hind toe catching a front heel is what bell boots are for. As of October 2026, Hilason splint boots run $26.95 to $166.95.
Which boot for which problem
| Problem | What happens | Boot to look at |
|---|---|---|
| Brushing / interference | One leg knocks the inside of the opposite leg, usually around the cannon and splint bone | Splint boots |
| Over-reach | A hind toe strikes the heel or bulb of the front foot | Bell boots |
| Fetlock burns on sliding stops | The back of the hind fetlock rubs the ground | Skid boots |
| General ring and training work | Knocks to the cannon, tendon and fetlock area | Sport boots |
A splint boot covers the inside of the leg. It does not replace a bell boot or a tendon boot.
Hilason splint boots compared
Prices as of October 22, 2026. Sizes and colors sell out at different times, so check the product page before ordering.
| Boot | Construction (per listing) | Front / hind | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Hilason Neoprene Splint Boots, Red (Large) | Heavy neoprene, suede wear patch over the strike zone, three-strap closure | Not stated | $26.95 |
| Tough-1 Leather Splint Boot, Dark Brown | Leather, hook-and-loop straps | Not stated | $30.95 |
| Weaver Neoprene Splint Boots with Suede Padding | Neoprene, suede padding over the splint area, three hook-and-loop closures, sold per pair, S/M/L | Not stated | $36.59 on sale (regular $45.95) |
| Classic Equine Airwave EZ Wrap II, front / hind | Leather splint pad, shock-absorbing lining, three straps, sold as a pair | Separate front and hind versions | $59.99 |
| Back on Track Splint Brush Boot | Neoprene lining, mesh outer, padding, touch-tape closures | Listing says front or hind | $68.95 |
| Classic Equine Leather Lightweight Splint Boot with Tendon Pad | Skirting leather shell, shock-absorbing lining, protective shield on the back | Not stated | $159.99 on sale (regular $174.99) |
| Weaver Harness Leather Splint Boots | Harness leather, closed-cell foam rubber lining, elastic webbing, sold per pair | Not stated | $166.95 |
The splint boots collection also lists related sport, tendon, fetlock and support boots ($92.95 to $124.45). Those cover different parts of the leg; read each listing.
Neoprene vs leather
- Neoprene: light, cushioned, budget-friendly, easy to rinse. Can hold heat and sweat, so take it off after work.
- Leather: durable and traditional, usually with a padded or foam lining. Needs cleaning and the occasional conditioning (see our saddle care kit guide for leather basics).
How to fit splint boots
- The padded strike area goes on the inside of the leg, over the cannon and splint bone.
- Straps usually fasten on the outside of the leg and pull toward the back. Follow the listing for the specific boot.
- Snug but not tight: you should be able to slide a finger under each strap, and the boot should not twist or slide down when the horse moves.
- Brush the leg and the boot lining before putting boots on. Trapped sand or grit rubs.
- Take boots off after riding, then clean and dry them. Check the legs for rubs or heat.
Who it's for / not for
For: riders whose horse brushes or interferes, and riders doing fast, turning, or rough-footing work who want inner-leg protection at a reasonable price.
Not for:
- Over-reach protection on the front heels: use bell boots.
- A leg with heat, swelling, or lameness. Boots are protective gear, not treatment. Ask your veterinarian.
- Buyers who need one style in every size right now: availability varies by size, so check the listing.
FAQ
What are splint boots for?
They cushion the inside of the lower leg, over the cannon and splint bone, against knocks from the opposite leg (brushing or interference).
Are splint boots the same as over-reach boots?
No. Over-reach is a hind toe hitting the back of a front foot. Bell boots cover that area. Splint boots cover the inside of the cannon.
Do splint boots prevent splints?
They can reduce knocks to the area, but no boot guarantees a horse will not develop a splint. If you see a new bump, heat, or lameness, call your veterinarian.
Neoprene or leather splint boots?
Neoprene is light and affordable. Leather is durable and traditional. Both need to be cleaned and dried between rides to avoid rubbing.
How tight should splint boots be?
Snug enough not to slip or twist, loose enough to slide a finger under each strap. Over-tight straps can rub or press on the leg.
Can my horse wear splint boots in turnout?
Most splint boots are made for riding and training. If you turn out in boots, check the listing and check the legs daily.
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Returns: accepted for fit or a manufacturing fault on unused items in original packaging, postmarked within 30 days of receipt, with a Return Authorization from us first. The buyer pays return shipping and a restocking fee may apply. See our refund policy for the full terms.
