Do you use jumping boots and bell boots?

[Kerrigan]

I have never used any type of boots for my horse, but my friend suggested that I use some. I am jumping 2'6-3'3, but am planning on jumping higher soon. I have heard that jumping boots don't really do anything and that bell boots aren't necessary either. He isn't a very clumsy horse and he is barefoot. I don't have alot of extra money to spare, but if i need to get them then I will. Do you use jumping boots? Do you use bell boots? Why?

 

[?Anna?]

I don't use them. I did use them when I did cross country at my show, but that's because the horse in question is prone to spooking in new places or jumping badly so it was safer for him. If he isn't clumsy, they won't be necessary. I know someone who jumps 4'+ and she doesn't use boots (Usually, sometimes she does, but she doesn't need them). They provide more support for a horse's legs (jumping boots). If you have a horse with tendon issues, etc. then they're a must. If you don't, you don't need them. Bell boots stop the horse from pulling off their front shoes. Your horse is barefoot, so you don't really need them. They're also used when a horse over-reaches their stride (Sometimes called over-reach boots as well) and clips the heels of their hooves. Bell boots protect from that as well. You could just use polos and wraps which work just as well as boots.