Why Do My Tendon Boots Slip or Rub—and How Do I Fix It Today?

Why Do My Tendon Boots Slip or Rub—and How Do I Fix It Today? main image Why Do My Tendon Boots Slip or Rub—and How Do I Fix It Today? image
Straps perfect, yet the boot still spins? This rider’s troubleshooting guide shows you how to stop slipping, twisting and rubs, choose the right sessions to boot up, and care for gear so it lasts—so you can focus on feel, not fixes.

Tendon Boot Troubleshooting: Stop Slipping, Avoid Rubs, Protect Tendons

Boots spinning mid-lesson, rubs at the top edge, or a mystery bruise after a schooling fence — most riders encounter at least one of these. The goal of tendon boots is simple: protect the back of the foreleg from a stray hind hoof or accidental knock while you focus on training. This practical guide shows you how to fix the common pain points, choose smart sessions to boot up, and build a care routine that keeps your gear — and your horse’s legs — happy. Examples feature the Delzani Neoprene Sports Tendon / Sling Boots.

Problem #1: Boots Slip or Twist

Why it happens: Boots placed too high or low, uneven strap tension, or a size that doesn’t match the horse’s leg length from knee to fetlock. On athletic types, fast direction changes exaggerate any small misalignment.

Fast fix: Fit on a clean, dry leg. Seat the lower edge so it cups the fetlock top without restricting motion. Fasten the middle strap first to set alignment, then top and bottom so pressure is even. Walk ten steps, recheck straightness, and tweak. If twist persists, you likely need a different size or a boot with a fetlock “lock” feature — standard on the Delzani Neoprene Sports/Tendon Boots.

Problem #2: Rubs or “Hot Spots”

Why it happens: Sweat and dust trapped under pressure points, overtightening the top strap, or existing skin irritation that flares under a cuff.

Fast fix: Start with clean legs (a quick brush) and a clean boot liner. Set firm, even contact — avoid cranking the top strap. In humid weather, rinse boots after work and shade-dry between sessions. If the skin is already reactive from sweat or bites, address that first; reintroduce boots gradually once calm.

Problem #3: “They Still Knock Themselves”

Boots can’t change stride mechanics; they buffer the consequences. If your horse regularly taps a pole behind or occasionally reaches forward on landing, boots reduce the impact while you improve balance and adjustability through training. Use them as insurance during the learning curve — especially on grid days and tight rollback exercises.

When to Boot (and When Not To)

Boot up for: gridwork, poles, small courses, course walks in busy warm-up rings, tight turns, fresh days, and uneven or stony ground. Optional/skip for: light hacks at walk/trot, cool weather flat sessions where interference history is low. Smart selectivity reduces heat load and extends gear life.

Make Sessions Safer Without Losing Feel

Wraparound sport boots like Delzani’s give full contact and stability without bulky shells. You retain a “connected” feel while protecting the tendon track. For riders who prefer maximum front-of-leg feel over poles, save open-fronts for specific jumping days; use Delzani sport boots for versatile flat, pole and warm-up use the rest of the week.

The Delzani Difference: Built to Stay Put

  • Contoured cut that follows the leg from knee to fetlock so the boot sits where it should
  • Premium 7 mm elasticised neoprene for shock absorption that doesn’t feel spongy
  • Double-stitched reinforced Velcro for secure closure you can trust
  • Fetlock Velcro lock to resist rotation when you turn up the pace
  • Fully bound edges for comfort and durability

Training Scenarios: How Riders Use Them

  • Poles & cavaletti days: Lots of low-risk taps; tendon boots soak up the odd “oops” while you develop rhythm and straightness.
  • First jump schools of a new season: Fresh legs + changing distances = more chances of an interference knock; boot front legs at a minimum.
  • Busy warm-up arenas: Close quarters and quick reactions make protection a wise precaution.
  • Young/green horses: As steering and balance improve, incidents drop — until then, protect the back of the leg.

Cool, Clean, Repeat: Care That Prevents Skin Drama

After schooling, remove boots promptly. If the session was sweaty or dusty, hose and shade-dry. Keep hook-and-loop clear of hair and sand — brush it out so the closure keeps biting. Store flat, not crushed under saddles in the float. A 60-second routine pays back in horse comfort and boot lifespan.

Working With Other Protection

If your horse occasionally overreaches on deep footing or landing, pair training sessions with Delzani No-Turn Bell Boots with Kevlar to guard the heel bulbs and help keep front shoes on. In summer turnout, use Delzani Fly Mesh Horse Boots to minimise bites and stamping; swap to tendon boots for work.

Fitting Checklist (Quick Wins)

  • Clean, dry legs and liner
  • Lower edge “cups” top of fetlock (no pinching, no gap)
  • Middle strap first to set alignment, then top and bottom
  • Firm, even pressure; no bulges or bowing
  • Walk ten steps; recheck and tweak

FAQs Riders Ask

  • Front only or all four? Fronts cover the major tendon risk during jumping/poles. Add hinds if your horse brushes behind or you ride tight rollback turns.
  • Will they make legs hot? All boots hold some heat; keep sessions purposeful, then cool and remove promptly. Delzani’s breathable neoprene helps manage warmth without giving up shock absorption.
  • How tight is “right”? One finger under the strap is a good sense check. Look for even contact, no bulges.

Build a Sensible Routine

Use tendon boots when risk is real, not by habit alone. Pair with progressive training and footing that suits the day. Care for the gear and the legs post-ride. Repeat. That’s how you minimise knocks and keep the soft tissue happy over a long season.

This article provides general information only and isn’t veterinary advice. If you notice heat, swelling or lameness, contact your veterinarian.

Ready to fix the twist, avoid rubs and protect where it matters? Choose the secure, breathable fit of Delzani Neoprene Sports Tendon / Sling Boots — made for everyday Australian riding.