Protectors for the horse

Horse protectors - make the right choice in the Sportano shopEveryone involved in equestrianism is aware of how delicate and injury-prone a horse's legs can be. Protectors play a key role in protecting these sensitive parts of the horse's body from injury, abrasion or impact. During training, at competitions or even when running freely in the pasture, the horse is exposed to all sorts of injuries that can have serious consequences for its health and performance. Hence the need for suitable protectors. In the Sportano shop you will find high quality horse protectors from proven brands such as Eskadron or Veredus.Types of protectors: from pasterns to jumping protectorsHorse protectors are designed to provide protection for the sensitive parts of the animal's legs against injuries, abrasions or impacts. Depending on the location and type of potential danger to the horse, different types of protectors are available on the equestrian market. To begin with, we have pastern protectors, which, as the name suggests, are designed to protect the pastern - the part of the horse's foot that connects the hoof to the supernumerary bone. This is an area that is particularly prone to abrasion, especially in horses with low hoof seating. The joint protectors, on the other hand, are designed to protect the wrist and ankle joints. They are crucial especially during jumping, when the risk of injury in these areas increases. They protect against direct impacts, but also against overstretching, which can lead to serious ligament injuries. Ankle protectors are dedicated to protecting the ankle joint, one of the most vulnerable joints in the horse's limbs. The ankle joint is particularly vulnerable during jumping or dynamic movements, so ankle protectors are essential equipment for jumping horses. We must not forget the tibial protectors either. These protectors are designed to protect the front part of the horse's upper leg from injuries that may result from the horse accidentally kicking itself. All of these types of protectors are manufactured with the specific needs and hazards that a horse may encounter in a variety of equestrian disciplines, from jumping to dressage to cross country endurance.Materials and technologies in the production of protectorsModern manufacturing technologies and innovative materials have become key elements in the development of horse protectors. Their development plays a vital role in providing greater comfort, better protection and a longer product life. The first and primary material from which protectors were traditionally manufactured was leather. Although still popular for its durability and aesthetics, modern materials bring many additional benefits. Neoprene, for example, has become one of the favourite materials in the production of protectors due to its flexibility, ability to absorb impact and antibacterial properties. Another important material is thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU). This is a plastic with high impact and cut resistance, which is also lightweight and flexible. Protectors made from TPU provide excellent protection against injury while allowing freedom of movement. Among the more recent innovations, technical fabrics are also worth mentioning. Thanks to modern technologies, such fabrics can be highly breathable, quick-drying and moisture-wicking, which is extremely important for the horse's comfort, especially during intense exercise. Fastening systems should also not be overlooked. Today's protectors often use advanced fastening systems such as Velcro, magnets or snaps to ensure a secure and safe fit of the protector to the horse's leg. Protectors using gel and foam technologies are also appearing on the market. Such solutions focus on excellent shock absorption and impact protection, while providing an excellent fit and wearing comfort. Ecology is also an important aspect. More and more manufacturers are striving to create products in a sustainable manner, using environmentally friendly materials and technologies that minimise resource consumption. In the context of technology and materials, the key is to continually research and adapt new solutions in order to provide the best protection for the horse while meeting riders' requirements in terms of comfort, functionality and aesthetics.Why the right fit is key?In the context of using protectors for the horse, the right fit is absolutely key to effective protection. A protector that does not fit perfectly may not only fail to fulfil its primary protective function, but may also contribute to additional problems. A protector that is too small can cause pressure, leading to painful abrasions, compromised circulation or even the formation of wounds. In addition, pressure can cause pain and discomfort to the horse, which in turn can affect the horse's willingness to work and overall performance. On the other hand, a protector that is too large can shift during movement, leaving unprotected areas. Furthermore, a moving protector increases the risk of abrasions and can lead to injuries caused by the protector itself. It is also important to remember that every horse is different - what fits one may not fit another. This means that even if a particular size should 'theoretically' fit, it is worth checking the fit carefully on a particular horse. Therefore, the correct fit of a protector is not only a matter of comfort, but more importantly the safety of the horse. Regularly checking the fit of protectors and consulting specialists or trainers on their selection and use are therefore essential for the health and safety of our four-legged partner.