Featured Product: Majyk Equipe XC Boot by Boyd Martin (Majyk Equipe)
The Majyk Equipe Cross Country Boot by Boyd Martin was just recently launched at Rolex Kentucky, and was such a success that the entire first batch of production sold out that weekend. Because I work for Boyd, I have to say that I am a bit biased in my recommendation of these boots, as I personally tested many of the prototypes and recommended changes based upon my preferences. Nevertheless, these boots are lighter, more breathable, and fit better than any other boots I have tried, and I am seriously impressed by the extensive research and development that inspired their production. Representatives of Majyk Equipe have backgrounds in human athletic textile engineering, and have used the knowledge gained in production of products at companies such as Adidas and Nike to develop this boot with the comfort of the horse in mind.
These boots feature an integrated strike zone over the tendon which provides flexible comfort for the horse without compromising protection. In fact, the protection of these boots is second to none, as shown through vigorous impact testing done by a third-party company, Biokinetics of Canada. This impact testing measured the amount of blunt trauma force able to pass through different models of cross country boots and results showed that the Majyk Equipe model outperformed other manufacturer’s boots by as much as 40%.
Not only do these boots hold up to strict performance testing, they fit horses’ legs of any shape and size better than any other boot I have used, eliminating rubbing and preventing any dirt and debris from accumulating between the boot and the horse’s leg. Other advantages include their ability to repel water, keeping them lightweight; their durability, standing up to machine washing and use on multiple horses; and their breathability, preventing any sort of heat buildup against the horse’s leg during a long cross country run. These boots are my top choice for eventing at all levels, with performance features that make them ideal for four star cross country courses, and a price tag that makes them affordable for everyday use.
Kentucky Boots (Kentucky)
Kentucky Boots prize several key features found in many modern cross country boots including high performance shock absorption, waterproof qualities, protection without heat and a tailored fit. Several noted professionals throughout Europe, Australia and the US have tested and developed these boots, which makes their design stringent and reliable. I am especially impressed with the new Solimbra D3O Eventing Boot, which fits the needs of top riders throughout the world.
Another product available through Kentucky is Tendon Grip which I use at all three day events, especially on horses with sensitive, newly-clipped legs, regardless of the choice of boot. Tendon grip eliminates the worry of boot rubs by providing a soft layer under the boot, takes up any space between the boot and the leg to improve the fit of a boot, and also helps to provide some support to the tendon. Tendon grip makes Sunday morning trot-ups easier by eliminating the concern over irritated skin caused by boot rubs.
Premier Equine Boots (Premier Equine)
Premier Equine Boots (PEi), developed in the UK, are popular among professionals at many of the events on the East Coast. The most notable feature of these boots is their patented “Aircooled” technology, which eliminates buildup of heat under the boot, allowing cold air to pass through several vents in the front and side of the boot, keeping the tendon cool and thus reducing injury. They have a sporty look, and have stood up to intense field testing.
Nunn Finer Boots (Nunn Finer)
Nunn Finer boots have been around for over 20 years. I have seen many pairs more than several years old that are still in great shape even after their use on several different horses. They are not as lightweight as other newer models, and in my opinion, don’t cool the horses’ legs as effectively as those listed above, but they fit the horse’s legs well and I would still wholeheartedly recommend the use of these boots at the lower levels of eventing.
While Porter Boots were traditionally the choice for upper level event riders, because of their light weight and breathable qualities, there have been so many additions of new cross country boots to the market in recent years that porter boots have almost completely been replaced by models that are less time consuming to use and easier to maintain.
When choosing a cross country boot for your horse, look for something that is lightweight, breathable, prevents heat buildup, fits well and is made with materials that will not irritate your horse’s skin. I would advise against boots made with neoprene, as it has been known to irritate the skin of sensitive horses. The cross country boots that are newer to the market have steered away from the use of neoprene, and have made the comfort of the horse their top priority. Research and development at companies such as Adidas and Nike has assured the comfort of human athletes for decades, and now our equine athletes can also benefit from these extensive studies.
