Polo wraps are an alternative to protective boots. They can provide light protection for horses with sensitive skin who might get rubs from other types of boot.
Tap here to read about other types of leg protection for horses.
First you want to make sure your polo wraps are rolled correctly so the fastener is facing the right way when you finish wrapping. While standing or sitting, take an unrolled wrap and lay it on your thigh with the soft side of the Velcro pointed up. Fasten the tab and start rolling the folded end of the polo tightly toward your knee. Continue rolling the whole wrap, pressing down against your leg as you roll to keep it tight. Now you can start the wrap correctly.
Sling the wrap under the fetlock using enough tension to keep the wrap snugly fitted, but not tight.
Wrap under the fetlock a second time and then continue up the leg using less tension.
Wrap to just under the knee, then start back down again if any wrap is left over. Close the Velcro tab so it’s flush.
Polos take a little extra time, but they look great for any job, unless you are riding through wet/muddy footing or puddles. The good news is you can throw them in the washing machine. Make sure to stick the Velcro to itself first so you don’t wind up with a knotted mess at the end of the spin cycle!
This article originally appeared in the March/April 2019 issue of Young Rider magazine. Click here to subscribe!
Holly Caccamise has been with Horse Illustrated and Young Rider magazines since 2007, and in 2019, she became Editor in Chief of both titles. Caccamise has a master's degree in Animal Science with a specialization in equine nutrition and exercise physiology. She has also worked as a racing magazine ad copywriter and top-level show groom.
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