Knowing which way the fit is wrong is essential before you start adjusting.
Signs the boots are too small:
- You cannot fit a finger between the rear captivator and the skin.
- You struggle to fasten the front straps.
Signs the boots are too large:
- The front gap has no clearance when the front straps are closed.
- The boots move and feel loose when you twist them.
- The boot walls do not sit tight against the hoof wall.
A useful benchmark for the front: if the gap is more than 15 mm after the break-in period the boots may be a size too small. Alternatively the hoof has a steep or bull-nosed front wall, which is solved with extra long front straps. If the gap is less than 3 mm they are likely too big. When in doubt, document with photos of the horse wearing the boots and check with sizing guidance.