Bandages
Horse Bandages for Support, Protection, and Recovery
Bandages are one of the most versatile items in any tack room. They can support legs during exercise, provide warmth and protection in the stable, keep poultices in place during treatment, and protect a tail during travel. Solo Saddlers stocks a range of bandage types to cover all these uses, from stretchy exercise wraps to thick, padded stable bandages.
Types of Horse Bandages
Exercise bandages — Thin, slightly stretchy bandages used during ridden work to provide support and minor protection. They must be applied over padding and require practice to get the tension right. Used by many dressage and eventing riders, though boots have largely replaced them for everyday use due to the skill required in application.
Stable bandages — Thicker, broader bandages used in the stable for warmth, to hold poultices or dressings in place, or to reduce filling in legs after hard work. Applied more loosely than exercise bandages and always over thick padding.
Polo wraps — Fleece bandages that combine the functions of an exercise bandage and padding in one. Easier to apply than traditional exercise bandages, they're popular for schooling and everyday work. They provide support and a degree of protection, though they absorb water and sweat, so they're not ideal for wet conditions.
Tail bandages — Used to lay the hair flat at the top of the tail for a neat appearance, or to protect the tail during travel. Applied from the dock downward and secured with tape or a tie. Never leave a tail bandage on overnight — it restricts circulation.
How to Apply Bandages Correctly
The golden rule: even tension, consistent overlap, and always over padding (except tail bandages). Start just below the knee or hock, wrap downward in a spiral, go around the fetlock, then back up. Each layer should overlap the previous by about half. Secure with Velcro or tape — never with a knot on the tendon. If you're new to bandaging, ask an experienced horseperson to show you in person. Incorrect bandaging causes more harm than no bandaging at all.
When to Use Bandages vs Boots
For everyday exercise, horse boots are generally more practical and safer — they're quicker to put on, consistent in their pressure, and don't require skill to apply correctly. Bandages come into their own for stable use, post-exercise recovery, veterinary treatment, and when a customised fit is needed. Many riders keep both in their tack room.
Care and Replacement
Wash bandages regularly — dirty bandages harbour bacteria and can irritate the skin. Most are machine washable on a gentle cycle. Replace bandages when they've lost their stretch, the Velcro is clogged, or the fabric is pilling badly. A set of four bandages should last a season of regular use with good care. Pair them with our grooming products for complete leg care, and browse our stable and field supplies for padding and liner options.