Which hind boots are allowed with the new FEI rules?

Since the beginning of 2021 the FEI has adapted its rules about hind protection for jumping riders. To make everything clear, we’ve written down what has changed, and which boots you can use.

Young horses

• This category is for the ages 5 to 8
• The fetlock boots should not be longer than 16 cm and can only protect the inside of the leg
• The closures should be a Velcro closure that is at least five centimeters wide, the fabric is not allowed to be elastic
• The inside should be smooth without any pressure points, sheepskin is allowed
• Pastern wraps are prohibited (pastern rings are not), bandages are allowed
• The total leg protection should be less than 500 grams for each leg

The Kentucky Young Horse Fetlock Boots meet the new rules. These boots are extremely light and equipped with a Proteck Impact Gel, which absorbs over 50% of the impact. Because of their anatomic shape the boots do not turn while you’re riding. Therefore, these boots are unique in the market. The Young Horse Fetlock boots are available in black or brown with or without sheepskin on the inside. The Deep Fetlock Boots are also compliant with the new rules. The difference with the Young Horse Fetlock Boots is that the Deep Fetlock Boots have an extra flap to protect the pastern. This flap is flexible and soft, because of this the extended part is not taken into account during the measurements. The Deep Fetlock Boots are a real favorite by the Belgian rider Constant van Paesschen.

Other categories

• The same rules apply as for the young horses, however some rules are less strict
• Double shell protection is allowed (the inside and outside of the leg are protected)
• The length of the boot can be up to 20 centimeters instead of 16
• You can use a tendon grip sock for extra protection
• You can use a stud closure or a hook closure if the fabric is elastic
• You’re allowed to use an elastic Velcro closure 
• The closures should only go one way
• Two straps are allowed when both straps are minimal 2,5 centimeters wide

If you preferer fetlock boots that only protects the inside of the leg, you can choose the Kentucky Fetlock Boots Elastic. This breathable fetlock boot is cut out a little higher, so the pastern can move freely. The fetlock boots also come in a sheepskin edition. If you prefer a double shell boot, then you can go for a basic model like the Air Fetlock Boots. This one is anatomically shaped and closes with a Velcro. More advanced boots are the Moonboots Elastic and the Moonboots Max Elastic. The Kentucky Moonboots are designed with the help of international riders and are a lot more powerful than other hind protectors.