Equine protective boot

Abstract

A protective boot for an equine has a proximal end and a distal end, an outer shell and an inner layer. Some examples further include a dorsal part and a palmar part. Straps or a strap structure are provided to hold the protective boot at a desired position on the leg of an equine animal. Air-flow to the leg of the animal is facilitated by openings through each of the outer shell and the inner layer, and further by the inner layer comprising areas for tissue contact and non-contact.

Description

[0001] EQUINE PROTECTIVE BOOT

[0002] CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0003] The present application claims the benefit of US Provisional Patent Application Serial No. 63 / 637,751, filed April 23, 2024, the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference.

[0004] BACKGROUND

[0005] Protective boots may be used for horses during training or competition to prevent injury to the limb of the horse. Existing systems may wrap around and enclose at least a portion of the protected limb, blocking or reducing airflow to and around the limb. Resultant heating can contribute to, make worse, or actually cause tissue damage and injury, however. The purpose of such systems is to reduce severity of or prevent injury to the limb due to interference or impact trauma to skin, tendons, and bone on one or more of the dorsal, palmar (plantar), medial or lateral aspects of a front or rear leg. Interference generally refers to hitting a region of the leg of the horse by a hoof (or other pail of the anatomy) of a different leg. Injury can also occur due to impact of a region of the front or rear limb with, for example, an object such as a barrel, jump standard, jump obstacle, stick, polo mallet, trees, bushes, rocks, and the like. While the intended impact prevention may be achieved, the heating that occurs may result in replacing one type of injury with another.

[0006] OVERVIEW

[0007] The present inventors have recognized, among other things, that a problem to be solved is the need for new and / or alternative equine protective boots which allow airflow to avoid negative thermal impacts to the animal, while protecting from impact injuries.

[0008] A first illustrative and non- limiting example takes the form of an equine protective boot having a proximal end and a distal end and comprising: an outer shell; an inner layer comprising an impact absorbing cushion, the impact absorbing cushion having a contact area and a non-contact area when in use; wherein the boot includes one or more openings through each of the outer shell and the inner layer, the openings facilitating airflow therethrough; wherein the one or more openings through the outer shell and inner layer comprise at least 20% of the non-contact area.

[0009] Additionally or alternatively, the boot also includes at least one strap for securing the equine protective boot on the leg of an animal. Additionally or alternatively, the boot also includes a brush layer covering at least one of the openings of the inner layer, the brush layer to reduce debris ingress therethrough while allowing airflow therethrough. Additionally or alternatively, the inner layer comprises portions of impact foam and portions of high-density impact foam.

[0010] Additionally or alternatively, at the distal end the inner layer comprises a first raised arcuate contact surface. Additionally or alternatively, at the distal end the inner layer comprises a first and second raised arcuate contact surface. Additionally or alternatively, the raised arcuate contact surface is positioned in the boot for placement at a fetlock joint.

[0011] Additionally or alternatively, the contact area of the inner layer includes a first portion at a distal end of the boot, a second portion at a proximal end of the boot, and a third portion at an intermediate portion of the boot, the third portion positioned so that, when the boot is placed on an animal, a fetlock joint of the animal is positioned between the third portion and the first portion of the contact area, with the raised arcuate contact surface located between the third portion and the first portion of the contact area.

[0012] Additionally or alternatively, the contact area of the inner layer includes a first portion at a distal end of the boot, and a second portion at a proximal end of the boot. Additionally or alternatively, the first portion includes at least one first air channel therethrough, and the second portion includes at least one second air channel therethrough.

[0013] Another illustrative and non-limiting example takes the form of an equine protective boot having a proximal end and a distal end and comprising: a cushioned shield having an outer shell and an inner layer and comprising one or more openings through each of the outer shell and the inner layer, the openings facilitating airflow therethrough; at least one strap for securing the cushioned shield on the leg of an animal; and a brush layer protecting at least one of the openings of the cushioned shield, the brush layer to reduce debris ingress therethrough while allowing airflow therethrough.

[0014] Additionally or alternatively, the brush layer is a mesh material. Additionally or alternatively, the brush layer substantially covers only the cushioned shield. Additionally or alternatively, the brush layer allows airflow therethrough by having a breathability at or above 200 cm3 / cm2 / scc at 200 Pa as determined using ISO Test method 9237:1999. Additionally or alternatively, the brush layer allows airflow therethrough by having a breathability at or above 300 cm3 / cm2 / sec at 200 Pa as determined using ISO Test method 9237:1999. Additionally or alternatively, the brush layer allows airflow therethrough by having a breathability at or above 500 cm3 / cm2 / sec at 200 Pa as determined using ISO Test method 9237:1999. Additionally or alternatively, the brush layer allows airflow therethrough by having a breathability at or above 700 cm3 / cm2 / sec at 200 Pa as determined using ISO Test method 9237:1999. Additionally or alternatively, the brush layer is positioned between the outer shell and the inner layer.

[0015] Additionally or alternatively, the inner layer comprises: a plurality of proximal tissue contacting regions at a proximal end portion thereof, separated by one or more proximal airflow channels; and a plurality of distal tissue contacting regions at a distal end portion thereof, separated by one or more distal airflow channels.

[0016] Additionally or alternatively, the inner layer further comprises at least one intermediate tissue contacting portion at an intermediate location between the proximal end portion and the distal end portion, wherein the at least one intermediate tissue contacting portion and the plurality of distal tissue contacting regions are configured to secure at a fetlock joint of an equine animal when worn.

[0017] Another illustrative and non-limiting example takes the form of an equine protective boot having a proximal end and a distal end and comprising: a palmar part having an outer shell and an inner layer; at least one strap for securing the boot; and a dorsal part comprising a dorsal shield, the dorsal shield having a first side and a second side, the first side of the dorsal shield comprising at least one slot for receiving the at least one strap therethrough in a sliding fashion.

[0018] Additionally or alternatively, the boot further comprises a brush layer adjacent to the palmar part. Additionally or alternatively, the brush layer is a mesh material. Additionally or alternatively, the brush layer substantially covers only the palmar part. Additionally or alternatively, the brush layer is between the palmar part and the inner layer.

[0019] Additionally or alternatively, the outer shell has first openings therethrough, and the inner layer has second openings therethrough, the second openings shaped and sized to correspond to the first openings; and the brush layer covers the first openings to reduce debris ingress thereto, while allowing airflow therethrough. Additionally or alternatively, the brush layer allows airflow therethrough by having a breathability at or above 200 cm3 / cm2 / scc at 200 Pa as determined using ISO Test method 9237:1999. Additionally or alternatively, the brush layer is a two-part brush layer, having a first brush layer portion covering substantially all of the palmar part, and a second brush layer portion covering the dorsal part. Additionally or alternatively, the dorsal part further includes a dorsal cushion sized and positioned to be adjacent to the second side of the dorsal shield.

[0020] Additionally or alternatively, the dorsal cushion includes a proximal thickened portion, a distal thickened portion, and an inner bridge coupling the proximal thickened portion to the distal thickened portion. Additionally or alternatively, the dorsal cushion is a one-piece construction including each of the proximal thickened portion, the distal thickened portion, and the inner bridge. Additionally or alternatively, the dorsal cushion is an assembly in which the proximal thickened portion and the distal thickened portion, are attached to the inner bridge. Additionally or alternatively, the inner layer comprises a proximal thickened band, a distal thickened band, and a bridging portion therebetween.

[0021] Additionally or alternatively, the outer shell has first openings therethrough, and the inner layer has second openings therethrough, the second openings shaped and sized to correspond to the first openings, to thereby encourage airflow through the palmar part.

[0022] Additionally or alternatively, the at least one strap includes a first strap having a first end attached to the palmar part and a free second end, and a second strap having a first end attached to the palmar part and a first second end, the free second ends configured for releasable attachment to the palmar part; and the at least one slot of the dorsal part includes a first slot at a first position sized to slideably receive the free second end of the first strap, and a second slot at a second position distal of the first portion sized to slideably receive the free second end of the second strap.

[0023] Additionally or alternatively, the at least one strap includes a main body with a first strap having a first end attached to the palmar pail and a free second end, and a second strap having a first end attached to the palmar pail and a first second end, the free second ends configured for releasable attachment to the palmar part; and the at least one slot of the dorsal part includes a first slot at a first position sized to slideably receive the free second end of the first strap, and a second slot at a second position distal of the first portion sized to slideably receive the free second end of the second strap.

[0024] Additionally or alternatively, the dorsal shield includes a first portion attached to the dorsal cushion, and a second portion removeably attachable to the first portion, the second portion sized and shaped to extend over at least a portion of the palmar part when the equine protective boot is assembled with the straps securing the palmar part and the dorsal part on an equine leg. Additionally or alternatively, the palmar part comprises ridges shaped to limit lateral movement of the dorsal part relative to the palmar part by interacting with the second portion.

[0025] Additionally or alternatively, any of the preceding boot examples may include an accelerometer configured to capture movement characteristics of the equine.

[0026] This overview is intended to provide an introduction to the subject matter of the present patent application. It is not intended to provide an exclusive or exhaustive explanation. The detailed description is included to provide further information about the present patent application.

[0027] BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0028] In the drawings, which are not necessarily drawn to scale, like numerals may describe similar components in different views. Like numerals having different letter suffixes may represent different instances of similar components. The drawings illustrate generally, by way of example, but not by way of limitation, various embodiments discussed in the present document.

[0029] Figure 1 is a perspective view of an equine protective boot;

[0030] Figures 2-6 are, respectively, a side view thereof, a dorsal view thereof, a palmar view thereof, a proximal end view thereof, and a distal end view thereof;

[0031] Figures 7-8 shows several illustrative strap designs;

[0032] Figure 9 shows another equine protective boot with straps secured thereon;

[0033] Figures 10-11 show additional dorsal protection designs;

[0034] Figure 12 highlights dorsal air flow;

[0035] Figures 13-14 show an illustrative two-part dorsal protection system;

[0036] Figure 15 is a side view of an equine protective boot with a mesh brush layer; Figure 16 illustrates several designs for brush layers;

[0037] Figures 17A-17B show a padding and brush layer from an inside view and section;

[0038] Figures 18A-18B show a padding and brush layer from an outside view and section;

[0039] Figures 19A-19E show another illustrative protective boot with straps;

[0040] Figures 20A-20B show an illustrative protective boot and a section view thereof;

[0041] Figures 21A-21F show illustrative tabs for securing straps of a boot;

[0042] Figures 22A-22E show illustrative tabs for securing straps of a boot; and

[0043] Figure 23 shows another illustrative boot with an over-molded portion.

[0044] DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0045] Figure 1 is a perspective view of an equine protective boot. The boot includes a palmar part 1 and a dorsal part 2. For purposes of the disclosure the “palmar” aspect will be used to refer to the “back” part of the leg or boot as appropriate, and the “dorsal” aspect will be used to refer to the front part of the leg or boot as appropriate. It should be understood that the inventive features of the disclosure are also applicable to rear leg boots. For the rear leg the “back” of the leg or boot would be referred to as the “plantar” aspect. For brevity, and not by way of limitation, the boots will be described with reference to a front leg boot and hence the term “palmar” used throughout with it being understood that the disclosure applies equally in all respects to real’ leg boots. Also, in the disclosure, a proximal portion of a device or anatomical part is that portion which is relatively closer to the body of the animal, while a distal portion of a device or anatomical part is relatively farther from the body, closer to the hoof, for example.

[0046] The boot provides impact protection while allowing airflow and thus preventing the issue of overheating the tissue by reducing the increase of thermal energy, particularly in the legs. The desirability of these features is also discussed in WO2023250491, titled PROTECTIVE BOOT FOR AN EQUINE, filed June 23, 2023 and published December 28, 2023, the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference. Additional designs and details are disclosed herein.

[0047] The palmar part 1 includes an outer shell 10 and an inner layer 30. An outer cover layer may be provided over the outer shell 10. The outer shell 10 has openings 12 allowing for air ventilation, illustratively shown as circular in shape, though the openings 12 may be of any desired shape. The inner layer 30 may have corresponding openings 32 of similar shape or design. The inner layer 30 may be consistent in thickness throughout, from proximal end to the distal end, or may vary including tapered thickness as desired. In the example shown, a step down is provided, with proximal pad 34 and corresponding distal pad 36 each of which may be understood as a thickened portion of the inner layer 30, with a bridge region 38 of lesser thickness therebetween. The inner layer openings 32 may be limited to the bridge region 38 as shown, or may be included in the proximal and distal pads 34, 36, as desired. If proximal and distal thickened regions or pads 34, 36 are included, the design may be such that the leg of the horse is contacted in regions 34 and 36, but the inner layer 30 is spaced apart from the leg of the horse in the bridge region 38, thus encouraging air flow around the leg. A contact surface on the inner layer of the proximal and distal pads 34, 36 may have raised ridges, bumps, slots (vertical, or angled, for example) or other shape, features or texture to allow airflow therein or to encourage sweat, when present, to wick or flow away from the contact region. If desired, some portion or all of the proximal and distal pads, such as a surface, may include a wicking material; illustrative materials are further discussed below.

[0048] In the illustrated example, the dorsal part 2 includes a dorsal shield 20 having slots 22, 24 for receiving straps 50, 54 therethrough. The straps 50, 54 can slide through the slots 22, 24 to allow desired positioning of the dorsal part 2 in the opening defined by the palmar part 1 which, as shown, has a C-shape when viewed from the proximal end or distal end (Figures 5- 6, below). In some examples, the slots 22, 24 in the dorsal shield 20 overlay the straps 50, 54 and provide a smooth dorsal surface to reduce a likelihood of the boot catching or snagging on an object or surface when jumping an obstacle. In other examples, the dorsal part 2 may be omitted. In some embodiments the dorsal part 2 extends further medially and laterally than illustrated in Figure 1 to provide greater coverage over the dorsal surface of the leg as will be discussed further below.

[0049] Straps 50, 54 having securing structures 52, 56 may be used to secure the boot in a desired position on the leg of a horse or other animal. The straps 50, 54 and alternatives thereof are further described relative to Figure 7, below. In the illustration of Figure 1, the straps 50, 54 wrap entirely around the boot. In other examples, the straps may only span the dorsal portion of the boot, attaching at openings 58 to the outer shell 10, such as by use of a rivet, screw, or bolt. Such a design is illustrated below in Figure 9. Alternative methods known in the art for securing straps to boots may also be used.

[0050] Optionally the boot may include a compartment illustrated at 14 for receiving or otherwise holding / containing an electronic component. The electronic component may be, for example and without limitation, an accelerometer useful to monitor and quantify animal movement, which can in turn inform status or diagnoses of conditions with gait, weight bearing, ground impact, balance, etc. for the animal. For example, an accelerometer, power supply, and memory may be provided along with control circuitry (a microcontroller, an application specific integrated circuit, etc.) for recording motion characteristics, and including an interface circuit or communications circuitry (such as Bluetooth) to allow stored / recorded motion data to be off-loaded by, for example, a smartphone or tablet computer. The electronic component may instead or in addition be useful to track animal position, movement, and / or crossing of any thresholds (such as start, status, or completion of racing or other events). The compartment 14 may be designed to be more or less flush with the rest of the exterior of the shell 10. The electrical component may be positioned near the proximal or distal aspect of the boot, as desired, and / or may be located on a medial aspect or lateral aspect, or elsewhere, as desired.

[0051] Figure 2 shows the boot in a side view and with straps 50, 54 omitted. This view provides visibility to the dorsal padding 25 of the dorsal shield 20, which has a proximal thickened portion 26 and a distal thickened portion 28, with an optional bridge portion 29 therebetween. The dorsal padding 25 may be an assembly of multiple parts, such as having the proximal and distal thickened portions 26, 28 carried on a piece of material that forms the bridge portion 29, or may have two separate pieces if the bridge portion 29 is omitted, for example. A single piece dorsal padding 25 may be used, if desired, such as having a molded or cut cellular foam piece, for example. Materials for the dorsal padding 25 may be similar to or the same as those used for the inner layer 30.

[0052] Figure 3 is a front or dorsal view of an equine protective boot. Here it can be seen that the palmar part 1 defines a gap or opening 3 with its C-shape. The dorsal part 2 has a width 4 that allows positioning and adjustment in the opening 3, as desired. For this reason, the dorsal part 4 may have slots 22, 24 (Figures 1-2) that allow sliding relative to the straps 50, 54 (at least Figures 1 and 7, for example). Figure 3 also shows the proximal and distal pads 34, 36, relative to the bridge 38, the bridge including the openings 32 corresponding to the openings 12 in the outer shell 10. Openings that “correspond” arc generally in the same location and have generally the same size, so that air flow through one opening is at least 90% un-obstructed by the other opening, for example (higher percentages, of 95%, 98%, etc. may apply); in other examples, this may mean that two openings are within + / - 5% or + / - 10% of one another, and the openings overlap for at least 75%, or 80%, or 85%, or 90% of the area of each opening. It can be observed in Figure 3 that the shell parts 10, 20, which are relatively rigid compared to the inner parts, have outer edges beyond which the inner, cushioning / contacting parts extend, avoiding pinching or interaction with the relatively hard shells. For example, as observed inside the oval at 5, the inner layer 30 extends beyond the edge of shell 10 in this illustrated example.

[0053] Figure 4 is a palmar view of an equine protective boot. Here the openings 12 can be seen along the surface of the outer shell 10 for the palmar part 1. The inner layer 30 can be seen to extend beyond the edges of the outer shell 10, avoiding the harder material of the outer shell 10 contacting the leg of the animal and causing friction, pinching, etc. The openings 12 are not obstructed by the openings (not numbered) of the inner layer 30.

[0054] Figure 5 is a proximal view of an equine protective boot. In this view, it may be observed that the inner layer 30 has the proximal pad 34 as a separate piece attached to a layer 38 that forms the bridge part of the inner layer 30. This design is optional, and a single piece or other approach may be taken as desired. The proximal thickened part 26 of the dorsal padding may have a similar design, if desired. The outer shell 10 and palmar part 1 generally may be stiff, but flexible, so that the opening defined at 3 changes in width when a strap or strap is applied to secure the equine protective boot on the leg of the animal. It is desirable, however, that the opening at 3 remain wider than the width 4 of the dorsal part 2, so that tension applied via straps attached through the dorsal shield 20 do not create pinch points between the palmar part 1 and dorsal part 2. Alternative configurations are shown below that include a dorsal shield that extends over the edges of the palmar’ part 1.

[0055] Because of the nature of this design, as pressure is applied by the straps, there will be a tendency to reduce the width more at location of arrow B than at location of arrow A, meaning that the spacing and sizing toward the palmar aspect of the boot (above arrow A in Figure 5) does not respond as much when the strap is applied, as compared to the dorsal aspect of the boot (below arrow B in Figure 5). This provides a better alignment with the flexibility and movement of the animal’s leg, which has more vasculature, ligaments, muscle and tendons in the palmar region as compared to the dorsal aspect of the leg. For example, as illustrated in Figure 1 of WO2023250491, the dorsal aspect of the leg is dominated by the bony structure of the cannon bone. The tendons and ligaments on the palmar aspect of the leg are to be protected from overheating, and the boot desirably avoids impinging on the flexing and movement of, for example, the superficial digital flexor tendon, deep digital flexor tendon, and suspensory ligament, all of which are palmar (rearward) relative to the cannon bone.

[0056] Figure 6 is a distal end view of an equine protective boot. The inner layer 30 can be seen to include a proximal pad 34, bridge portion 36, and distal pad 38. The shell cushion is shown here with the distal thickened portion 28, on the palmar aspect of the dorsal shield 20 forming the dorsal part 2.

[0057] The outer shell 10 and / or dorsal shield 20 may be made, for example, of a relatively hard or rigid material, though some flex may be present so that, for example, impact with a rock or other object, or another foot / hoof of the equine, will not cause shattering or breaking. Some examples may use tear’ and / or puncture resistant materials. Some example materials for the shell 10 may include thermoplastics, high density or ultra-high density molecular weight polyethylene or polypropylene, acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS), polyamide (e.g., nylon), polycarbonate (PC), polyethylene (PE), polypropylene (PP), polyethylene terephthalate (PET), polyethylene terephthalate glycol (PETG), ethylene vinyl acetate (EVA), polyurethane, polyamide block copolymers, thermoplastic elastomers (TPE) (e g., thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) and the like), polylactic acid (PLA), high impact polystyrene (HIPS), acrylic styrene acrylonitrile (ASA), polyvinyl alcohol (PVA), KEVLAR, GORILLA glass from Corning Inc., flexible ultra-thin glass from Schott AG in Mainz, Germany, flexible ceramic fibers from Eurekite BV in Enshede, Netherlands, metal filled filaments (including metal powder such as copper, bronze, brass, and stainless steel), wood filaments (includes a base material with wood dust, cork, and other powdered wood derivatives), carbon fiber, ceramic fibers, fiber reinforced polyamide, or a combination thereof. Other materials, existing or yet to be developed, may be used as desired. Additives or blending materials to provide lighter weight and / or heat absorption or dissipation may be used, such as but not limited to boron nitride. Softer or more pliable materials, such as ethylene vinyl acetate (EVA) polyurethanes, polyamides, polyamide block co-polymers, may be used instead or in addition, or in part (such as by including harder or more rigid portions, along with more flexible portions, in the design).

[0058] The inner layer 30 and / or shell cushion may include multiple pieces or layers, coupled together such as by stitching, heat bonding, coextrusion, adhesive, etc. The portions of the inner layer and / or shell cushion that come into contact with the animal’s leg may be described as the “contact material” thereof. The contact material may be selected to provide cushioning, impact dissipation, impact absorption, or deflection beyond that provided by the outer shell 10 and dorsal shield 20. Such contact material may include impact resistant performance foams, natural or synthetic rubber (e.g., neoprene), viscoelastic polymers, elastic polymers such as ethylene vinyl acetate (EVA), closed cell foams including EVA, EVA / PE combinations, EVA / TPE combinations, EVA / polyolefin ester combinations, Nitrex, polyurethanes (e.g., thermoplastic polyurethanes), silicon, non-Newtonian shear thickening type fluids (e.g., D3O®). etc. and combinations thereof. The contact material may include HEIQ Cool textile technology from HeiQ Material AG. An open cell foam may be used, or a closed cell foam may be used; foam may be omitted if desired. In one example, a multi-layer structure may include an outer wicking layer, with materials such as polyester, polyester microfiber, nylon, blends with polyester or nylon and elastane, or others; some brand names include DRI-FIT from Nike and CLIMACOOL from Adidas. Next to the outer wicking layer may be a first, relatively soft open cell foam, and outside of which a more structural (firm / strong / resilient) closed cell foam may be used, with the closed cell foam imparting a structure with bumps or ridges and softer areas therebetween to encourage wicking and / or airflow. Other designs can be used.

[0059] In embodiments, combinations of regular foams and high-density foams may be used. In general, regular foams have densities typically ranging from 1.0- 1.8 lbs / ft3(about 16 kg / m3to about 29 kg / m3) and high-density foams ranging from 1.8-2.5 + lbs / ft3(about 29 kg / m3to about 40 kg / m3). While the regular foams are softer and cushion pressure they quickly lose shape under pressure. In contrast, high density foams offer better support and retain shape longer.

[0060] The illustrative boot of Figures 1-6 is somewhat asymmetric, reflecting a design that may be specific to one side of the horse. A mirror image would be used for the other side of the horse. This asymmetric shape is optional. The hoot may instead have a shape that is symmetric.

[0061] Figure 7 show several versions of straps that can be used in various examples. A first design shown at 60 includes a ribbed portion at 62 that is adapted to pass through a ratchet buckle 64, which may include a release button or other mechanism allowing the ribbed portion to be passed in and secured, and then released when it is desired to remove the boot. Another design at 70 is more in the form of a belt, with through holes 72 that engage with a pin (not shown) inside the buckle 74, again with releasable design. At 80 is another version, here using a hook-and-loop design (not shown at 84, but illustrated as shading at 82). Combinations of such closures may be used. A pinch, buckle, or other suitable fastener may be used. These straps may wrap around the entire boot, as shown in Figure 1. Alternatively, the strap may be attached at each side of opening 3 of the palmar part 1 of the boot, as shown in Figure 9, below. Any known structure / design for securing a strap may be used, as desired.

[0062] Figure 8 shows another example. In this example, rather than two separate straps as shown in Figure 1, a unit strap structure can be provided at shown at 90. First arms 94 extend from one side of the main body 92, and may include any of the structures 64, 74, 84 shown in the designs in Figure 7. Second arms 96 extend from the other side of the main body 92, and may use any of the structures 62, 72, 82 shown in Figure 7. The main body 92 may be sized to cover all or a portion of the openings 3 (see Figure 3) as well as the palmar part 1 of the boot shown in any of Figures 1 -6. The first arms 94 may secure to the second arms 96, for example.

[0063] In some examples, the main body 92 may be formed of the brush layer materials discussed below and can cover the openings in the boot itself, preventing ingress of foreign materials while allowing air flow and aiding in securing the straps 94 / 96 without external seams or catch points; such a main body 92 may omit openings 98. In other examples, openings 98 may be provided to correspond to the openings of the boot to provide unobstructed air flow, in which case less breathable materials, which may impart greater strength, for example, can be used for the unit strap structure 90. In other examples, two or more materials may be used, with the straps 94 / 96 formed of materials selected for strength to hold the boot securely, while the rest of the unit strap 90 is formed using brush layer materials, for example.

[0064] Another example as in Figure 8 may omit the second arms 96 entirely, and the first arms 94 are configured to pass through slots on the dorsal part (not shown) as the main body 92 is affixed to the palmar part. The first arms 94 extend through the slots on the dorsal part, and then secure to the palmar part, either directly on the palmar part or, if desired, onto the main body 92, using, for example, a buckle, hook-and-loop fastener, pinch apparatus, zip-type structure, ratcheting structure, etc.

[0065] Figure 9 shows another boot structure. Here, the boot includes a palmar part 1 and dorsal pail 2, each of which can be similar to that shown and described in Figures 1-6. In this instance, the straps 51, 53, are fixed in position relative to the palmar part 1, using the shown rivets 55. Other securing structures / designs can be used, such as screws, bolts, welded materials, melt-attachment, stitching, adhesives, or other suitable attachment structure may be used to secure the straps 51, 53 to the palmar part 1. The region of the boot that is not visible may include any suitable structures for receiving and securing the straps 51, 53, such as buckle, hook-and-loop fastener, pinch apparatus, zip-type structure, ratcheting structure (ratchet straps can be used as straps 51, 53, for example), etc. The straps 51, 53 are received through the dorsal pail 2 at slots 57, 59, in a sliding manner allowing re-centering or repositioning of the dorsal part 2 as needed. The straps 51, 53 are thus affixed or secured at one end to the palmar part 1, slideably received by slots 57, 59, and removably secured at the other, free ends, to the palmar part 1 at the other side thereof.

[0066] Figures 10-11 show additional dorsal protection designs. Starting with Figure 10, a dorsal view of an illustrative dorsal shield 100 is provided. In this example, slots 102 and 104 are provided for straps of the palmar part (not shown). Openings 106 provide for airflow through the dorsal surface 108 of dorsal shield 100. Here, the dorsal shield 100 extends laterally to cover the opening 3 (Figure 3) and may overlap the edges of the palmar pail 1 (not shown). That is, a contact portion 101 in the center of the dorsal shield 100 may include padding and is adapted to contact the dorsal region of the leg of the animal, and is relatively narrow so that can be assured of fitting within the opening 3 (Figure 3) defined by the open dorsal aspect of the palmar part 1 (not shown), without creating pinch points. The wider portion 105 of the dorsal shield, on the other hand, extends over the opening 3 between the contact portion 101 and the palmar part 1 (not shown). Figure 11 shows another example of a dorsal shield that covers the opening 3 while avoiding pinching.

[0067] In Figure 11, the palmar part 1 includes straps 112 and 114 that are adapted to slide through slots 116 and 118. The slots 116, 118 are located on a central portion or contact portion 122 of the dorsal shield. This contact portion 122 is narrower than the opening 3 defined by the palmar part 1. The dorsal part 2 includes wider sections 125, 127 that cover the remaining portion of the opening 3, extending past the lateral edges of the contact portion 122.

[0068] Openings 120 are shown on the dorsal part 2 to facilitate airflow. As shown in the proximal view of Figure 12, as well as in Figure 11, palmar part 1 includes ridges 126 and 128 on either side of dorsal shield 110 to reduce the likelihood of lateral movement of dorsal shield 110 when secured in place. In this embodiment the sides 125, 127 of dorsal shield 110 are radiused and thus the ridges 126 and 128 are radiused to match the radii of dorsal shield 110. In embodiments the sides of the dorsal part 2 are linear and the corresponding ridges would also be linear. This limitation of lateral movement of the dorsal part 2 can be omitted, but may also be useful in light of the ability of the dorsal pail 2 to slide along the straps 112, 114 with the slots 116, 118 sized for allowing such movement.

[0069] Figure 12 highlights air flow. The dorsal part here includes the contact portion 122, with padding 123 for contacting the leg of the animal. The palmar part 124 defines an opening in which the dorsal part resides, and the openings at 120 allow air flow as highlighted at 121. The ridges 126, 128 are positioned to limit lateral movement of the dorsal part, preventing pinching which could occur if the dorsal part slides too far laterally and pinches the animal’s skin / hair between the dorsal apart and the palmar part.

[0070] Figures 13-14 show an illustrative two-part dorsal protection system. In this example, dorsal part 2 includes a dorsal rail 135. The opening 3 is wider than the width of the main body 131 of dorsal part 2. If it is desired to fully cover the width of opening 3, a dorsal shield 140 that is selectively removeable may be used. As illustrated in the inset of Figure 14, the palmar aspect of dorsal shield 140 includes a groove 144 configured to slide over dorsal rail 135.

[0071] In use, after the boot has been secured to the leg, a dorsal shield 140, having any suitable perimeter configuration or opening pattern, including those disclosed herein, can be slid from proximal to distal with groove 144 mating with rail 135. In the example, the dorsal shield 140 includes lateral portions 140 that extend over the opening 3, and through-type openings 142 to allow air flow. As illustrated in this embodiment, the lateral portions 140 of dorsal shield 140 extend beyond the opening 3 of palmar part 1 and fully cover opening 3. Though omitted in Figure 14, in some examples, ridges 126, 128 as described for the embodiments of Figures 11- 12 may be present for reasons previously discussed. In addition, in embodiments, a stop (not illustrated), such as a ridge or detent oriented perpendicular to the rail 135 may be positioned on cither or both sides of the opening of palmar part 1 at the distal end of palmar part 1. This stop would function to limit the distal travel of dorsal shield 140 when slid into position over the dorsal part. In another example, the rail 135 may include a stop structure 131, such as by ending in a T-shape as shown in Figure 13. It will be appreciated that in alternative embodiments, a removeable shield may be provided that slides between linear ridges as described relative to Figures 11-12 including a stop as discussed above.

[0072] Figure 15 illustrates a boot 200 having a palmar part 202 and a brush layer 210. The brush layer 210 may be adjacent to the palmar part, for example. The brush layer 210 may be located between the palmar part 202 and an inner layer, as desired. The brush layer 210 covers openings in the palmar part 202, but does not impair air flow though the openings. In this example, the brush layer 210 is an intermediate or “mid” layer on the boot, and the outer, impact-resistant shell is omitted from the drawing. In addition to what is shown in Figure 15, the brush layer 210 may be provided as an inner layer or as an outer layer on the boot, reducing or preventing ingress of debris by using, for example, a breathable fabric having material and weave structure to facilitate air flow.

[0073] The brush layer may 210 use for example, breathable fabrics incorporating ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene fabrics such as Dyneema® fabrics available from DSM N.V., Heerlen, Netherlands; Spectra® Fiber fabrics available from Honeywell Performance Materials; carbon fiber fabrics; KEVLAR® fabrics, etc. The brush layer can be made from known polymers such as polyamides, polyethylenes, etc. or suitable metal materials and having breathability in the ranges recited below for other materials listed.

[0074] In some examples, the brush layer 210 may be made of an ultra-high-density molecular weight polyethylene fabric with a breathability at or above 200 cm3 / cm2 / sec at 200 Pa using ISO Test method 9237:1999. In some embodiments the brush layer breathability may be at or above 300 cm3 / cm2 / sec at 200 Pa using ISO Test method 9237:1999. In some embodiments the brush layer breathability may be at or above 500 cm3 / cm2 / sec at 200 Pa using ISO Test method 9237:1999. In some embodiments the brush layer breathability may be at or above 700 cm3 / cm2 / sec at 200 Pa using ISO Test method 9237:1999. In still further embodiments the brush layer breathability may in the range of about 200 to about 500 cm3 / cm2 / sec at 200 Pa using ISO Test method 9237:1999. In still further embodiments the brush layer breathability may in the range of about 300 to about 700 cm3 / cm2 / scc at 200 Pa using ISO Test method 9237:1999. The brush layer 210 may include, for example and without limitation, a mesh (including weaves, knits, etc.) design. Various weights and designs using the listed materials above are readily available, for example, the Dyneema fabrics come in a range of light-weight to heavy-weight designs.

[0075] Figure 16 illustrates several designs for brush layers. The breathable, flexible and / or mesh fabrics described above may be used for any of these designs. At 250, a brush layer is shown as a fully cylindrical sheet. Brush layer 250 may be fixed to palmar part of the boot (such as boot 200 or any of the other examples above) or may slide or unroll over a boot once the boot is positioned and strapped into place. By putting the cylindrical brush layer over a boot and straps, the edges on the boot and straps may be protected from outside material, and further, the fully cylindrical version can reduce or prevent entry of foreign debris entirely around the boot. Proximal and distal ends of the brush layer 250 may extend beyond the proximal and distal ends of the boot, if desired. The brush layer 250 may be at least partly elastic so that it can be held in place by compressive force applied by the brush layer itself, similar to a sock.

[0076] Brush layer 260 may be understood as having a single piece that covers the entire palmar part (not shown) of a boot, similar to that shown in Figure 15. This version 260 may be secured on the boot by stitching, staples, adhesive, or rivets, for example, or may be removable using other securing structures, such as snaps, buttons, hook-and-loop, etc.

[0077] While brush layer 260 may be described as covering only the palmar part, other designs can be used. A two-part brush layer is shown at 270 / 272, with a palmar part 270 similar to that of design 260, and a dorsal part 272. The palmar part 270 would secure to the palmar part of the boot (not shown), and the dorsal part secures to the dorsal part of the boot (also not shown), in similar fashion to brush layer 260.

[0078] Brush layer 280 includes a main body 282 and arms 284. The arms 284 carry securing devices 286, shown here as snaps. The main body 282 would be positioned over the dorsal part of the boot, and may be secured (removably or permanently) thereto. The arms 284 secure the brush layer 280 to the palmar part of the boot, which carries corresponding securing devices (not shown) for mating with the securing devices 286 on the arms 284. The arms 284, as well as other parts of the brush layer, may be elastic to allow stretching and holding in position of the brush layer in close fit over dorsal portion, including any spaces between the dorsal part and palmar part of the boot. By using the brush layer to cover the spaces between dorsal part and palmar part of the boot, this design prevents / reduces debris ingress to such areas. This design 280 may be used in addition to a design as shown at 260, if desired, in another example of a two-part brush layer. That is, brush layer 280 may be used instead of, or in addition to, brush layer portion 272.

[0079] Figures 17A-17B show a padding which may be used as an inner layer for a boot. In some examples, a brush layer may be added as well, though the brush layer remains optional. The padding 300 includes a plurality of tissue contacting sections, including proximal sections (302a, 302b, 302c, 302d, 302e, collectively, 302), intermediate sections (303a, 303b, collectively, 303) and distal sections (305a, 305b, 305c, 305d, 3O5e, collectively, 305). Several such sections are separated by airflow channels, for example, airflow channel 304 extends between proximal sections 302d and 302e. In this way, the airflow is allowed at both proximal and distal ends of the boot while the boot can be held in place by the tissue contacting sections at 302, 303, and 305. It can be further seen that the padding has struts or other connecting structures that define openings 308 to facilitate airflow at locations spaced from the animal’ s leg.

[0080] In an illustrative example, the surface area shown in the inner view of Figure 17A is divided into the tissue contacting sections 302, 303, 305, and the non-tissue contacting regions, inclusive of the gaps 308 and struts 306. In an example, using such a division into two categories, the tissue contacting sections 302, 303, 305 make up in the range of up to 40% of the total surface area, or up to about 30% of the total surface area, or up to about 25% of the total surface area, or up to about 20% of the total surface area, or up to about 15% of the total surface area. Alternatively, the percentages may be calculated by first omitting the gaps 308 or open spaces, if desired, wherein the tissue contacting sections 302, 303, 305 make up in the range of up to 50% of the total surface area, or up to about 40% of the total surface area, or up to about 30% of the total surface area, or up to about 25% of the total surface area, or up to about 20% of the total surface area.

[0081] Figure 17A illustrates as well a design with the intermediate sections 303 that cooperate with the distal sections 305 to surround the fetlock of an equine leg and hold a secure position thereabout. Region 330 may be curved outward as shown below in Figure 19D to provide spacing about the fetlock and limit rubbing or interference with motion by the animal. Figure 17B, taken along line B-B of Figure 17A, provides a section view. The use of struts 306 that define openings 308 is readily appreciated. A mesh brush layer may be included as indicated at 312.

[0082] Variation in thickness of the padding can be observed. A foam material may be used, as described previously, and the thicker portions 302 and thinner regions 330 can be observed. That there is a difference in heights, Hl and H2, of these portions can be readily observed. Numerically, H2 may be about half of Hl, a for example with a 14 mm Hl, H2 may be about 7 mm. These numbers are not intended to be limiting. Hl may be, for example, in the range of about 8 mm to about 20 mm (or thinner or thicker) and H2 may be about 25% to about 75% of Hl, as desired. Use of protective boot on other animals may call for greater or lesser dimensions.

[0083] Figures 18A-18B show a padding that may be used in an inner layer for a boot, from outside and section views. Here, the padding may include two different materials. A relatively softer padding is used throughout the padding layer 300, and specific locations are designed with insets to receive a high-density impact foam, as shown at 314a, 314b, 314c, 314d, 314e, and 314f (collectively, 314). The high-density impact foam insets 314 are positioned for rubbing against the areas of a protective outer shell that are likely to rub and / or receive greater impact. The high-density impact foam may be distinguished from the remaining portions of the padding or inner layer by its density and by having been positioned on or in recesses of the inner layer or padding layer 300. The distal end of the inner layer may include one or more raised arcuate contact surfaces.

[0084] Figure 18B is a section view along line B-B of Figure 18A. Here it can be seen how the air flow channels 304 are positioned among sections of the tissue contacting regions 302. The insets of the higher impact foam materials are also illustrated at 314a, 314b, and 314c. An optional mesh brush layer may be included as indicated at 312.

[0085] Figures 19A-19E show another illustrative equine protective boot with straps. This example may be a stand-alone piece, or may be used as a palmar part for use with a dorsal part / shield, as previously shown. Some examples of Figures 19A-19E omit the dorsal part / shield. The boot 400 can be seen in Figure 19A including a shell 410, and an inner layer comprising a padding. A brush layer 402, which is largely obscured by the shell 410, is optional and when present may be positioned between the shell 410 and the padding 430; the padding 430 may be described as a cushioned shield. The shell 410 includes struts 412 which define openings 414 therethrough. The brush layer 402, when present, may be observed through such openings. In embodiments, boot 400 may include over-molded regions 418. Over-molding provides a soft edge to improve comfort and protect the edges from wear and tear. Typically, over-molded regions 418 may be more flexible than shell 410. Suitable overmolding materials include thermoplastic elastomers (TPE), including thermoplastic polyurethanes (TPU) and / or thermoplastic vulcanizate (TPV), which can be molded like plastics while retaining the flexibility and durability of rubber. Over-molded channels 420a, 420b may be included in the shell 410 at locations subject to increased flexion, to reduce the chance of cracking or breaking as well as to facilitate configurational conformability of the boot to the horse’ s leg.

[0086] The inner layer or padding 430 includes one or more tissue contacting regions 434 and one or more airflow channels, as shown at 432a, 432b of Figure 19A. Straps 450 and 460 extend across the dorsal opening of the boot. There may be, if desired and as previously indicated, an additional dorsal part to the boot, though this is not shown in Figures 19A-19D. Strap 450 includes a buckle portion 452 having slots 454. Strap 460 includes a buckle portion 462 having slots 464. Posts can be provided as shown at 422 and 424 for engaging the slots 452, 462 on straps 450, 460, respectively. A plurality of slots 452, 462 are present, allowing for an adjustable fit.

[0087] Figure 19B is another view, showing the dorsal opening of the palmar part of the boot 400. At the proximal end of the boot 400, the padding 430 includes a plurality of tissue contacting regions 434 and airflow channels 432a, 432b. This proximal thickened portion leads to a central portion as shown which is not thickened, as illustrated previously in Figures 17A-17B. Similarly, at the distal end of the boot, a thickened portion 438 includes tissue contacting portions 440 and one or more channels 442. The straps 450, 460 can be seen generally level with the posts 422, 424.

[0088] Figure 19C shows another view. This view looks down from the proximal end, so that greater appreciation of the proximal padding portion can be had. The inner padding 430 defines the airflow channels 432a, 432b around the tissue contacting portion 434. Figure 19D provides a dorsal view. Again, the proximal end airflow channel 432a is visible, as arc posts 422 and 424, and straps 450, 460. The view shows as well how the mesh material of a brush layer may cover the openings in the inner padding, which are aligned with openings in the outer shell. The distal end airflow channels can be seen, including at 442. The convex curvature of the shell and padding near the fetlock is observed at 470, with the outline shown at 472. A similar curvature may be provided on the opposing side at 474. Thus, here, toward the distal end of the boot, there may be one, or two, arcuate portions as illustrated at 470 and 474. Not only does this curvature reduce rubbing and irritation at the fetlock, but also it allows the boot to be held in place around the fetlock joint.

[0089] Figure 19E shows a section view along line E-E of Figure 19 A. The proximal end of the inner layer or padding of the boot includes tissue contacting portions at 434, and the distal end of the inner layer or padding of the boot includes tissue contacting portions at 440. Optionally, intermediate to these tissue contacting portions (consistent with Figures 17A, for example), there may be additional intermediate tissue contacting portions 480. The outer shell can be seen at 410. The inner layer or padding also includes non-tissue-contacting portions throughout, such as at 482, as well as in the various channels or recesses highlighted in Figures 19A-19D, which are not shown in the particular view of Figure 19E.

[0090] Figures 20A-20B show an illustrative boot and section view for an outer shell, and inner padding. Figure 20A shows an illustrative boot. Line B-B in Figure 20A generally corresponds to the view of Figure 20B, though the overall structure is flattened for purposes of illustration. In Figure 20B, an inner padding is shown at 500, including thinner portions at 502 and thicker portions at 504.

[0091] The struts 512, 514 of the shell 510 have a variable thickness, getting thicker from an edge at 514 to the middle struts at 512, in this example. Certain areas of a horse’s leg may have greater vulnerability to trauma at different locations, for example the palmar region of the leg is particularly vulnerable to impact by an overreaching toe of a hind leg. By increasing strut thickness, greater protection from impact is provided while still provided significant airflow through the palmar aspect of the shell without significantly increasing the weight of the boot. Thus, the thickness at 512 may be, for example and without limitation, in the range of about 25% to about 150% thicker than the thickness at 514, where the shell reduces to a thinner sectional dimension. For example, a similar construction may be used over the convex aspects of the fetlock region of the boot, including, for example, along a region as shown in Figure 19D, at 470 and / or 472. The illustration of Figure 20B can be seen to omit the brush layer, which is optional.

[0092] Figures 21A-21F show illustrative tabs or buckles for securing straps of a boot. Figures 21A-21B are alternative configurations of a tab. In Figure 21A, tab 600 includes multiple openings at 604, 606, 608 for engaging a post on a boot, with the post sliding into the wider part of a selected one of the openings with the boot tightened by pulling on the strap. Once the strap is released by the person applying the tab to the post, the post will slide into the narrower part of the respective opening 604, 606, 608. A reinforcing section is provided at 602a to increase strength around the opening 606, and another reinforcing section is provided at 602b to increase strength around the opening 608, each shown as a crescent shaped reinforcing structure. Additional reinforcing sections can be added for example around the opening at 604. A slot 609 can be included for securing to a strap.

[0093] Turning to Figure 21B, here, the tab 610 has openings 614, 616, and 618. A reinforced section is shown at 612 to maintain strength around opening 616, in the form of a thickened or raised portion of the tab. A slot may be provided as shown at 622 for receiving a strap.

[0094] Figure 21C shows the inner side of the tabs 600, 610. Here, a raised and patterned portion is shown at 624, which may aid in gripping the tab, though other designs can be used. The openings 604, 606, 608 are readily observed. In this view, the concave or inner surface of the tab 600, 610 is observed. In Figures 21 A-21B, on the other hand, a convex outer surface of the tabs 600, 610, respectively, is shown.

[0095] Figures 21D and 21F show side views of the tabs 600, 610, highlighting the concave shape thereof (when accounting for the lower surface; a convex upper surface, at least in terms of how the figures are shown, may instead be described). Here, the lower surface on each of Figures 21D and 21F would be adjacent the shell of the boot when the strap and tab are secured to the post. Figure 21E shows a frontal view of the tabs 600, 610.

[0096] Figures 22A-22E show illustrative tabs for securing straps of a boot. Here, the tabs are designed for a smaller hand / fingers, with narrowing toward the end thereof. The tab at 650 in Figure 22A has, again, three openings at 654, 656, 658, with a grip region at 652 surrounding at least two of the openings (658, 656), though only one, or all three openings may be surrounded by the grip region 652. A slot 660 for receiving a strap is shown as well. Crescent shaped reinforcing regions are shown at 662a and 662b for added strength near the openings 656, 658.

[0097] The view in Figure 22A would be generally convex, that is, curling into the page, while the view of Figures 22B would be concave, curling out of the page. In Figure 22B, a grip portion is shown at 652, and the through holes are again observed at 654, 656, 658. Side views at Figure 22C and the front view in Figure 22E illustrate the degree of curvature of the concave and convex views above, while the front view of Figure 22D provides on more perspective.

[0098] Figure 23 shows another illustrative boot with an over-molded portion. Here, the boot 700 includes an outer shell 702. This example, which lacks a dorsal shield, includes overmolded portions at 704 and 706 that are pulled towards one another when the straps 708, 710 are tightened. The overmolded portions 704, 706 may be of a softer and / or more flexible material, as described above, when compared to the rest of the shell 702, to prevent pinching or harming the animal as the two halves come together when tightened.

[0099] Some of the preceding examples may be used for different purposes. For example, the illustrative examples that include a dorsal shield may be selected for use in cross-country or trail riding, as well as some sports such as polo. Examples that omit a dorsal shield may instead be used for show jumping or other equestrian events. While these selections may apply in general, the uses may cross over.

[0100] In the preceding discussions of airflow and permeability, the measurements are intended to be across the entire area of a surface. For example, when assessing the air permeability of a fabric, as defined by the ISO standard, one typically measures the airflow across the entire surface area — including both the open pores (B) and the threads (C) — such that the total area A = B + C. In the case of a fabric, the open pores are the openings between the threads. Air permeability is always referenced to this total area A, not just the porous part B. This approach reflects the real- world function of the material, where both open and solid structures form a continuous surface. The air on one side of the fabric can freely move to an opening and exit on the other side of the fabric.

[0101] The same logic applies to a protective boot. The cage structure is essentially a macroscale fabric, consisting of interconnected struts and openings. When it is stated that “at least 20% of the surface area of the entire cage has an air permeability of at least” some value, the reference is to sections of the boot as functional units — not just voids, but the integrated structure that allows airflow. So, the 20% does not refer to just the combined area of the openings, but in fact the surface area of the protective shell structure.

[0102] The cage structure of the protective boot may be considered a macro-scale analogue of a woven or knitted fabric. In fabrics, the overall air permeability is determined not solely by the open pores between fibers, but by the entire fabric surface, including both the voids and the solid threads or yarns. Similarly, in the cage of the protective boot, airflow is not limited to discrete openings, but is instead facilitated by a combination of structural struts, connectors, and open regions forming a contiguous macro -structure. This macro- structure permits functional air permeability across a defined surface area, much like a textile. In embodiments, the cage is configured such that a portion of its surface, referred to herein as the non-contact zone, is spaced away from the limb, thereby forming a continuous gap between the cage and the animal’s skin. This gap plays a fundamental role in enabling actual airflow around and through the boot. Without this gap, even large openings pressed directly against the leg would provide negligible airflow. Thus, the specified ah’ permeability values apply to areas that include this gap (e.g., the non-contact zone), encompassing both openings and adjacent structure. The analogy to fabric is thus not only geometric but functional; in both cases, permeability arises from the interplay between open space and solid structure within a defined volume that allows the passage of air.

[0103] Each of these non-limiting examples can stand on its own, or can be combined in various permutations or combinations with one or more of the other examples.

[0104] The above detailed description includes references to the accompanying drawings, which form a part of the detailed description. The drawings show, by way of illustration, specific embodiments. These embodiments are also referred to herein as “examples.” Such examples can include elements in addition to those shown or described. However, the present inventors also contemplate examples in which only those elements shown or described are provided. Moreover, the present inventors also contemplate examples using any combination or permutation of those elements shown or described (or one or more aspects thereof), either with respect to a particular example (or one or more aspects thereof), or with respect to other examples (or one or more aspects thereof) shown or described herein.

[0105] In the event of inconsistent usages between this document and any documents so incorporated by reference, the usage in this document controls. In this document, the terms “a” or “an” are used, as is common in patent documents, to include one or more than one, independent of any other instances or usages of “at least one” or “one or more.” Moreover, in the claims, the terms “first,” “second,” and “third,” etc. are used merely as labels, and are not intended to impose numerical requirements on their objects.

[0106] The above description is intended to be illustrative, and not restrictive. For example, the above-described examples (or one or more aspects thereof) may be used in combination with each other. Other embodiments can be used, such as by one of ordinary skill in the art upon reviewing the above description. The Abstract is provided to comply with 37 C.F.R. § 1.72(b), to allow the reader to quickly ascertain the nature of the technical disclosure. It is submitted with the understanding that it will not be used to interpret or limit the scope or meaning of the claims.

[0107] Also, in the above Detailed Description, various features may be grouped together to streamline the disclosure. This should not be interpreted as intending that an unclaimed disclosed feature is essential to any claim. Rather, innovative subject matter may lie in less than all features of a particular disclosed embodiment. Thus, the following claims are hereby incorporated into the Detailed Description as examples or embodiments, with each claim standing on its own as a separate embodiment, and it is contemplated that such embodiments can be combined with each other in various combinations or permutations. The scope of the protection should be determined with reference to the appended claims, along with the full scope of equivalents to which such claims are entitled.

Claims

What is claimed is:

1. An equine protective boot having a proximal end and a distal end and comprising: an outer shell; an inner layer comprising an impact absorbing cushion, the impact absorbing cushion having a contact area and a non-contact area when in use; wherein the boot includes one or more openings through each of the outer shell and the inner layer, the openings facilitating airflow therethrough; wherein the one or more openings through the outer shell and inner layer comprise at least 20% of the non-contact area.

2. The equine protective boot of claim 1, further comprising at least one strap for securing the equine protective boot on the leg of an animal.

3. The equine protective boot of any preceding claim, further comprising a brush layer covering at least one of the openings of the inner layer, the brush layer to reduce debris ingress therethrough while allowing airflow therethrough.

4. The equine protective boot of any preceding claim, wherein the inner layer comprises portions of impact foam and portions of high-density impact foam.

5. The equine protective boot of any preceding claim, wherein at the distal end the inner layer comprises a first raised arcuate contact surface.

6. The equine protective boot of an of claims 1-4, wherein at the distal end the inner layer comprises a first and second raised arcuate contact surface.

7. The equine protective boot of either of claims 5 or 6, wherein the raised arcuate contact surface is positioned in the boot for placement at a fetlock joint.

8. The equine protective booth of any of claims 5-7, wherein the contact area of the inner layer includes a first portion at a distal end of the boot, a second portion at a proximal end ofthe boot, and a third portion at an intermediate portion of the boot, the third portion positioned so that, when the boot is placed on an animal, a fetlock joint of the animal is positioned between the third portion and the first portion of the contact area, with the raised arcuate contact surface located between the third portion and the first portion of the contact area.

9. The equine protective boot of any of claims 1-7, wherein the contact area of the inner layer includes a first portion at a distal end of the boot, and a second portion at a proximal end of the boot.

10. The equine protective boot of either of claims 8 or 9, wherein the first portion includes at least one first air channel therethrough, and the second portion includes at least one second air channel therethrough.

11. An equine protective boot having a proximal end and a distal end and comprising: a cushioned shield having an outer shell and an inner layer and comprising one or more openings through each of the outer shell and the inner layer, the openings facilitating airflow therethrough; at least one strap for securing the cushioned shield on the leg of an animal; and a brush layer protecting at least one of the openings of the cushioned shield, the brush layer to reduce debris ingress therethrough while allowing airflow therethrough.

12. The equine protective boot of claim 11, wherein the brush layer is a mesh material.

13. The equine protective boot of either of claims 11 or 12, wherein the brush layer substantially covers only the cushioned shield.

14. The equine protective boot of any of claims 11-13, wherein the brush layer allows airflow therethrough by having a breathability at or above 200 cm3 / cm2 / sec at 200 Pa as determined using ISO Test method 9237:1999.

15. The equine protective boot of any of claims 11-14, wherein the brush layer allows airflow therethrough by having a breathability at or above 300 cm3 / cnr / scc at 200 Pa as determined using ISO Test method 9237:1999.

16. The equine protective boot of any of claims 11-15, wherein the brush layer allows airflow therethrough by having a breathability at or above 500 cm3 / cm2 / sec at 200 Pa as determined using ISO Test method 9237:1999.

17. The equine protective boot of any of claims 11-16, wherein the brush layer allows airflow therethrough by having a breathability at or above 700 cm3 / cnr / sec at 200 Pa as determined using ISO Test method 9237:1999.

18. The equine protective boot of any of claims 11-17, wherein the brush layer is positioned between the outer shell and the inner layer.

19. The equine protective boot of any of claims 11-18, wherein the inner layer comprises: a plurality of proximal tissue contacting regions at a proximal end portion thereof, separated by one or more proximal airflow channels; and a plurality of distal tissue contacting regions at a distal end portion thereof, separated by one or more distal airflow channels.

20. The equine protective boot of claim 19, wherein the inner layer further comprising at least one intermediate tissue contacting portion at an intermediate location between the proximal end portion and the distal end portion, wherein the at least one intermediate tissue contacting portion and the plurality of distal tissue contacting regions are configured to secure at a fetlock joint of an equine animal when worn.

21. An equine protective boot having a proximal end and a distal end and comprising: a palmar part having an outer shell and an inner layer; at least one strap for securing the boot; anda dorsal part comprising a dorsal shield, the dorsal shield having a first side and a second side, the first side of the dorsal shield comprising at least one slot for receiving the at least one strap therethrough in a sliding fashion.

22. The equine protective boot of claim 21, further comprising a brush layer adjacent to the palmar part.

23. The equine protective boot of claim 22, wherein the brush layer is a mesh material.

24. The equine protective boot of either of claims 22-23, wherein the brush layer substantially covers only the palmar part.

25. The equine protective boot of either of claims 22-23, wherein the brush layer is between the palmar part and the inner layer.

26. The equine protective boot of any of claims 22-25, wherein the outer shell has first openings therethrough, and the inner layer has second openings therethrough, the second openings shaped and sized to correspond to the first openings; and the brush layer covers the first openings to reduce debris ingress thereto, while allowing airflow therethrough.

27. The equine protective boot of any of claims 22-26, wherein the brush layer allows airflow therethrough by having a breathability at or above 200 cm3 / cm2 / sec at 200 Pa as determined using ISO Test method 9237:1999.

28. The equine protective boot of claim 22, wherein the brush layer is a two-part brush layer, having a first brush layer portion covering substantially all of the palmar part, and a second brush layer portion covering the dorsal pail.

29. The equine protective boot of any of claims 21-28, wherein the dorsal part further includes a dorsal cushion sized and positioned to be adjacent to the second side of the dorsal shield.

30. The equine protective boot of claim 29, wherein the dorsal cushion includes a proximal thickened portion, a distal thickened portion, and an inner bridge coupling the proximal thickened portion to the distal thickened portion.

31. The equine protective boot of claim 30, wherein the dorsal cushion is a one-piece construction including each of the proximal thickened portion, the distal thickened portion, and the inner bridge.

32. The equine protective boot of claim 31, wherein the dorsal cushion is an assembly in which the proximal thickened portion and the distal thickened portion, are attached to the inner bridge.

33. The equine protective boot of any of claims 21-32, wherein the inner layer comprises a proximal thickened band, a distal thickened band, and a bridging portion therebetween.

34. The equine protective boot of any of claims 21-33, wherein the outer shell has first openings therethrough, and the inner layer has second openings therethrough, the second openings shaped and sized to correspond to the first openings, to thereby encourage airflow through the palmar pail.

35. The equine protective boot of any of claims 21-34, wherein: the at least one strap includes a first strap having a first end attached to the palmar part and a free second end, and a second strap having a first end attached to the palmar part and a first second end, the free second ends configured for releasable attachment to the palmar part; and the at least one slot of the dorsal part includes a first slot at a first position sized to slideably receive the free second end of the first strap, and a second slot at a second position distal of the first portion sized to slideably receive the free second end of the second strap.

36. The equine protective boot of any of claims 21-34, wherein:the at least one strap includes a main body with a first strap having a first end attached to the palmar part and a free second end, and a second strap having a first end attached to the palmar part and a first second end, the free second ends configured for releasable attachment to the palmar part; and the at least one slot of the dorsal part includes a first slot at a first position sized to slideably receive the free second end of the first strap, and a second slot at a second position distal of the first portion sized to slideably receive the free second end of the second strap.

37. The equine protective boot of any of claims 21-34, wherein the dorsal shield includes a first portion attached to the dorsal cushion, and a second portion removeably attachable to the first portion, the second portion sized and shaped to extend over at least a portion of the palmar part when the equine protective boot is assembled with the straps securing the palmar part and the dorsal part on an equine leg.

38. The equine protective boot of claim 37, wherein the palmar part comprises ridges shaped to limit lateral movement of the dorsal part relative to the palmar’ part by interacting with the second portion.

39. The equine protective boot of any preceding claim, further comprising an accelerometer configured to capture movement characteristics of the equine.

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