Quick answer
Equi-Chaps Close Contact Chaps offer full leg coverage from below the knee to the coronet band, making them a solid choice for turnout in mud and wet conditions. They save time on cleaning and help maintain skin health, but they are not intended for riding or high-speed work.
Why full coverage matters for turnout
Close contact chaps extend from below the knee or hock down to the coronet band, which means they shield the entire lower leg. This design is especially useful if your horse lives in a muddy paddock or wet climate, because it reduces the amount of mud that gets trapped against the skin.
The trade-off is that this coverage can feel bulky for horses unaccustomed to turnout boots. If your horse is sensitive to leg wraps, you may need a short introduction period.
Breathability and skin health
These chaps are described as breathable, which helps prevent moisture buildup inside the boot. That matters because trapped moisture can lead to skin irritation or greasy heel, especially when horses are turned out for long hours.
However, breathable fabric is not waterproof. If your horse stands in deep mud or water for extended periods, some wetness may still reach the leg. For horses with very sensitive skin, consider pairing these with a barrier cream on dry days.
How to choose the right size
- Measure the cannon bone circumference: Use a soft tape measure at the widest point of the cannon bone. Compare your measurement to the size chart provided by Equilibrium Products. A snug but not tight fit is ideal.
- Check the length from knee/hock to coronet: The chaps should cover the full distance without bunching at the fetlock. If the boot is too long, it may rub; if too short, it leaves gaps for mud to enter. If your horse has very long or short legs, verify the length against the product description.
- Test for movement comfort: After fitting, watch your horse walk and trot in a safe area. The chaps should stay in place without slipping or restricting the pastern joint. Adjust fastenings if needed. If the chaps slip down during movement, try a smaller size or adjust the top closure more firmly.
Product facts
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Equi-Chaps Close Contact Chaps: Equi-Chaps Close Contact Chaps offer maximum coverage from below the knee/hock down to the coronet band. This full-length design saves time on cleaning and helps protect legs from mud, wet, and cold during turnout.
Equi-Chaps Close Contact Chaps
Who should buy these chaps
Best for
- Horses turned out in muddy or wet fields where leg cleaning is time-consuming
- Riders who want breathable leg protection for field turnout, not for riding or lunging
Not ideal for
- Horses that need waterproof turnout boots for standing water
- Riders looking for riding chaps or schooling boots
