[Btoft]

Two questions, anyone recommend any good books or resources on endurance riding. Primarily vet or training tips.

Also, I want to begin using some sort of protection on his legs as they are clipped. Will polo wraps be enough. Concerned about the heat built up in the leg on a long ride.

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Good points about the polo socks. There is some brush on the trail and I do want to protect his legs as they are clipped. Perhaps there are other options.

I do plan on approaching this slow, starting with trail rides, etc and moving up as our ability warrants. I would still like to know if there are any books or resources that any of you have relied on to make you better "vets" for your horses. Seems like it would be a good thing to know no matter what or how you ride.

[sparkels55]

I was interested in doing some endurance riding too this summer, i am glad you started this thread.

[Tempi Changes]

I don't know if this helps, but I found a site that gives a few tips from Beverly Gray.

http://www.bevgrayusa.com/tip.htm

[Bella]

First off I'm just curious as to why you want to use leg protection on her? Do you think you are going to riding through dense bush and she may scratch up her legs? If so, then fine... if you just feel like you should be using it, don't. Don't use leg protection unless the riding is going to be extra strenuous... remember that wild horses never have leg protection. It is much more natural if you can let them go "naked".

Secondly, have you ever competed in endurance, or anything similar? If not, I strongly recommend starting at something smaller... endurance is the toughest test between horse and rider and you must be very careful.

Personally I would suggest trying a Competitive Trail Ride or Ride and Tie before and endurance race. They conditions are a little safer and less stressful, and will be great for preparing you for the harder terrain and competition.

-Bella

[Top Dun]

www.endurance.net
There is tons of stuff there. As for leg protection, if you are riding in brush, Polos would be a BAD idea, they will collect all the stickers and twigs and junk etc.

Boots like the Sports medicine boots do not allow the tendons to strengthen properly AND the tend to concentrate the shock of impact in the hoof and fetlock region rather than allowing the shock to disipate normally.