Advanced Dual-Action Gel Packs: At the heart of eArtik boots are the special gel packs. They are reusable and non-toxic (atoxic) , providing safe cold or hot therapy. Unlike ice that melts or clay that’s messy, these gelatine-based packs remain flexible even when frozen, allowing them to conform to the horse’s leg for maximum contact. They can be used for cold therapy (after at least 2 hours in a freezer) or heat therapy (after ~1 minute in a microwave at 650W) . This dual-use capability is an innovative feature – the same product can cool down inflammation or warm up stiff joints as needed.

Inside each boot is a breathable honeycomb fabric that creates a pocket for the gel pack. This inner layer serves two important purposes: ventilation and efficient cold transfer. It allows air circulation, preventing heat build-up under the boot, and lets the cold (or heat) penetrate evenly to the horse’s leg so the therapeutic temperature is effectively delivered to the leg.

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All eArtik boots use wide Velcro straps for closure – 3 straps on the leg boots and 1 on each bell boot . These straps make application quick and adjustable; a snug fit is easy to achieve by tightening the velcros as needed for each horse. Importantly, the adjustable straps also provide gentle compression over the treated area. This compression is beneficial because it presses the cold packs firmly against the leg (improving cold penetration) and can help reduce swelling similarly to a pressure bandage. The straps are heavy-duty and tested for repeated use, ensuring they don’t lose grip over time. Velcro closures also mean no buckles or clips that could snap.

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eArtik boots have an ergonomic shape that mirrors the natural contours of the horse’s limbs. The curved shape of the cooling boots fits around tendons and fetlocks without slipping , and the bell boots cover the coronet and bulbs comfortably. This ensures full coverage of key injury-prone areas (tendons, ligaments in the legs; hoof capsule and coronary band in the hoof) for effective therapy. The boots stay in place even as the horse moves lightly or shifts weight, thanks to their shape and strap placement. Good fit means consistent contact of the gel pack with the target area, which is crucial for optimal cooling.

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All materials used are chosen not only for performance but also practicality. The boots are easy to clean – just remove the gel packs and they can be machine washed at 30°C . The fabrics do not absorb water excessively, so they dry fairly quickly. The black neoprene/nylon exterior is tough against dirt and can be simply wiped down for minor cleaning. All components are robust enough for daily use; eQuick products are engineered and tested to maintain their performance over time .

 

Benefits for the Horse

• Reduces Inflammation and Swelling: Cold therapy is one of the most effective methods to reduce inflammation in soft tissues . Applying the eArtik boots after intense exercise causes blood vessels in the legs to constrict, which limits blood flow to the area and helps decrease any swelling or edema . This is especially useful for preventing filled legs in stabled horses and controlling inflammation from sprains or strains. Less inflammation means a faster recovery and less pain for the horse.

• Provides Natural Pain Relief: The cold from the eArtik packs has an analgesic (numbing) effect on the horse’s legs . By numbing nerve endings temporarily, it alleviates soreness and pain in muscles, tendons, and ligaments. This allows the horse to recover more comfortably . Reducing pain also helps the horse relax after hard work, and may prevent the horse from stressing an injury further (since pain can cause a horse to alter its gait or load other limbs).

• Accelerates Healing of Injuries: Using cold therapy promptly can limit tissue damage and promote faster healing in the case of injuries . By decreasing the tissue temperature and metabolic rate, the eArtik boots help reduce cellular damage in tendon or ligament fibers and speed up the repair process . They are ideal for treating issues like hematomas, tendon strains, ligament sprains, and bruises – injuries for which vets often recommend regular icing . Additionally, the option to use the packs for heat therapy can stimulate circulation in older injuries or stiff joints, supporting rehabilitation.

• Improves Post-Exercise Muscle Recovery: After exercise, especially strenuous workouts, a horse’s legs can accumulate heat and metabolic waste in the muscles. Applying cold boots helps cool down the legs and flush out toxins, reducing muscle fatigue. The therapy boots also aid in muscle recovery by decreasing the muscle tissue’s demand for oxygen post-exercise . This means the horse’s legs feel fresher and the horse can come back sooner for the next training session with less residual soreness. In short, the horse can perform better over the long term with routine use of cold therapy.

• Prevents Injuries and Overuse Damage: Regular use of eArtik boots as a preventive measure can help maintain the health and integrity of the horse’s musculoskeletal system . By continually managing inflammation and minor aches after workouts, the boots reduce the likelihood of overuse injuries developing. Tendonitis, suspensory strains, and joint issues often build up over time; cold therapy mitigates the micro-damage before it accumulates. This preventative benefit is crucial for performance horses that are in heavy training or competition schedules.

 

Benefits for the Rider and groom

• Easy and Time-Saving to Use: eArtik boots provide a hassle-free alternative to traditional icing methods. For the rider or groom, this means no more standing with cold hoses or fiddling with bags of ice that melt everywhere. Once the gel packs are frozen, you simply velcro the boots on and let them do their job. This frees up time to attend to other tasks while the horse is being treated. The process is straightforward – no special skills or equipment needed beyond a freezer or microwave. This ease of use encourages consistent application, which in turn benefits the horse.

• Professional Therapy at the Barn: With eArtik, riders can achieve veterinarian-recommended cold therapy at home or at shows. The boots deliver a level of care comparable to spa ice baths or clinic treatments, which gives riders peace of mind that they are doing the best for their horse’s recovery. Having a set of eArtik boots on hand means you can quickly address swelling or soreness after any ride. This proactive care can reduce veterinary bills in the long run, as minor issues are managed before they escalate.

• Dual-Purpose Versatility: The ability to use the same boots for both cooling and heating is a major benefit for owners. It adds value – essentially two therapy modalities in one product. Customers get an ice boot and a heating wrap together, which is cost-effective. From a practical standpoint, a rider can use cold therapy after exercise, and use heat therapy before exercise (for instance, to warm up an older horse’s joints on a cold day, or to loosen a stiff area). This versatility makes the eArtik line useful year-round for various needs, increasing customer satisfaction with the purchase 

• Safe and Horse-Friendly: eArtik boots are designed with the horse’s comfort and safety in mind, which is a relief for the rider. The non-toxic gel and the insulated design mean there’s no risk of freezer burns or skin irritation when used as directed. The packs stay malleable when frozen, so they conform to the leg without hard edges. Horses generally stand quietly with these boots on because they are not cumbersome – the soft padding and lack of wires or pumps make them non-intimidating. This ease on the horse translates to ease for the handler as well.

• Portable and Competition-Friendly: For riders who travel to shows or events, the eArtik set is highly portable. The cooling boots come with a handy carry bag for storage , keeping everything clean and together. Riders can pack the boots in a cooler or tack trunk and bring them to competitions. After a cross-country round or a jumper class, for example, the horse can have its legs iced immediately using eArtik boots – even in the trailer or stall – without needing a bucket of ice water. This on-the-go usability is a big selling point for competitive riders. The boots are also quick to put on and remove, which is valuable when time is limited at events.

• Durable and Low-Maintenance: From the rider’s perspective, eArtik products are a good investment because they are built to last and require minimal upkeep. With proper care (outlined below), the boots will last through many seasons of use. Riders don’t have to frequently replace bandages or buy bags of ice – the gel packs can be used hundreds of times. Everything can be cleaned easily by tossing the boots in the wash, so they’re ready for the next use without hassle. This reliability and reusability make the rider’s life easier and justify the product’s cost.

 

Correct Usage and Fitting Instructions

Below are step-by-step instructions for cold therapy (for recovery, inflammation, or acute injury) and heat therapy (for warming or chronic issues), along with fitting tips:

 

Before Application: Ensure the horse is in a safe area (cross-tied in the barn or held by someone) and relatively calm. The horse’s legs or hooves should be clean (free of excessive mud or bedding) before applying the boots, as debris under the boot could cause irritation.

 

Cold Therapy Application (Primary Use):

1. Freeze the Gel Packs: Place the eArtik gel packs in a freezer for at least 2 hours prior to use . It’s recommended to store them in the freezer when not in use, so they are always ready. The packs should be thoroughly frozen (they will turn cold and slightly stiff but still pliable). If you plan to treat immediately after a ride, you might put the packs in the freezer before you start riding so they’re ready by the time you finish.

2. Insert Packs into the Boots: Remove the boots from the storage bag and open the Velcro closures. Take the frozen gel packs straight from the freezer and insert them into the inner pockets of the eArtik boots or bell boots . Each boot has a mesh pocket or pouch designed to hold the gel pack in the correct position against the horse’s leg. Make sure the pack is flat and covering the target area (e.g. aligned along the tendons for the leg boots, or around the coronet band for the bell boots).

3. Fit the Boots on the Horse: Gently place the boot around the horse’s leg. For the Cooling Boots, position the boot so it covers the cannon bone and wraps around the tendons at the back of the leg – the bottom edge should reach the fetlock area, and the top edge should sit just below the knee/hock. For Cooling Bell Boots, place each boot so it encircles the pastern and covers the top of the hoof (the gel pack will rest over the bulbs of the heel and coronet band). The eQuick logo strap on the bell boot goes toward the rear above the heel bulbs.

4. Secure the Velcro Straps: Fasten the Velcro straps snugly, starting with the top strap and working downward (for the leg boots) or the single strap (for the bell boots). Adjust the tightness so that the boot is secure but not excessively tight. A good rule of thumb is you should be able to slide one finger under the strap – this ensures it’s providing slight compression without cutting off circulation. The eArtik boots are designed to adapt to the limb, so use the generous Velcro length to find a fit that conforms well. Double-check that the boot is sitting correctly (straight on the leg, covering the intended area, not tilted or gapping). The contoured shape will help it stay aligned .

5. Therapy Duration: Leave the cooling boots on for about 20 minutes per session . eQuick generally recommends a 20-minute application as an effective duration for cold therapy, but advise the customer to follow their veterinarian’s guidance if treating a specific injury . Do not exceed 30 minutes at a time unless a vet specifically advises longer, to avoid potential cold-induced tissue damage. The gel packs are designed to stay cold for up to 2 hours out of the freezer , so they will remain chilled throughout the 20-minute use (and then some). If a longer cooling period is needed for a severe case, one strategy is to swap out packs with a spare set halfway through, but generally 20 minutes is sufficient per treatment.

6. Remove and Refreeze: Unstrap and remove the boots carefully. (Velcro can be loud; peeling it slowly can avoid startling a sensitive horse.) Take out the gel packs. If further therapy is not immediately needed, return the packs to the freezer so they are ready for next time. It’s perfectly fine to put them back in the freezer still in their pockets or inside a plastic bag to keep them clean. If the horse’s legs are wet from condensation, gently towel them dry. The horse can then either be walked or stabled as usual.

 

Heat Therapy Application (When Warmth is Desired):

1. Heat the Gel Packs: If using the packs for heat therapy (for example, to warm up a stiff joint or muscle), place the gel pack in a microwave for no more than 60 seconds at 650W power . Important: Instruct customers to always follow this guideline – overheating the packs can damage them or cause burns. It’s better to heat gradually; the goal is for the pack to be warm (around body temperature or a bit higher), not scalding hot. If a pack is not warm enough after 60 seconds, it can be flipped or moved and heated in additional 15-second increments. Never exceed 1 minute continuously as per eQuick’s recommendation .

2. Check Temperature: Before application, always check the pack’s temperature with a hand (it should feel comfortably warm, not hot enough to hurt your skin). This ensures it’s safe to apply to the horse. If it’s too hot, let it cool a bit before use. Also, do not apply heat if there is acute inflammation or the area is very swollen/hot to begin with – cold is indicated in those cases. Heat therapy is generally for chronic conditions or pre-exercise loosening.

3. Insert and Apply: Put the warmed gel packs into the boots’ pockets just like with cold application. Secure the boots on the horse in the same manner described above. Make sure the horse doesn’t react to the warmth (most enjoy it). Do not use any liniments or gels under the boots when using heat, as heat can drive topical substances deeper and possibly irritate the skin.

4. Therapy Duration: Use similar timing – about 15–20 minutes of heat therapy is usually effective. Keep an eye on the horse; if the horse shows discomfort (e.g. excessive shifting or skin feels very hot to touch), remove sooner. Heat therapy can increase blood flow, so slight redness of the skin after removal can be normal, but it should fade quickly.

5. After Use: Remove the boots and let the packs cool down before refreezing (they must return to room temperature before re-freezing, otherwise you’ll reduce their efficiency). The boots themselves may be a bit moist from warmth; let them air out.

 

Fitting Tips and Best Practices:

• Whether cold or hot, ensure full contact between the gel pack and the horse’s skin. The boots should fit closely; gaps will reduce effectiveness. Smooth out any wrinkles in the inner pocket so nothing is between the pack and the leg.

• The horse can stand or walk slowly with the boots on. It’s actually a good idea to walk the horse in-hand for 5–10 minutes during or after cold therapy, as movement combined with cold can further reduce swelling. However, do not allow the horse to exercise intensely or turn them loose with the therapy boots on – they are not designed for riding or high-motion activities. They are relatively secure, but vigorous movement could make them shift or the horse could try to kick them off due to the unusual sensation if running.

• If treating multiple areas, you can use the leg boots and bell boots simultaneously. For example, a horse with a tendon strain and a hoof bruise could wear both types at once. Just be cautious that adding all four boots at once might feel strange to the horse initially – introduce them calmly and maybe start with one pair then add the other.

• Always supervise the horse during the treatment period. While it’s low-risk, you wouldn’t leave a horse unattended in case it tries to remove a boot or gets agitated. Most horses tolerate the therapy well, since the cold is numbing and the boots are comfortable, but it’s wise to keep an eye on them.

• Consult a Veterinarian: Advise customers that if they’re dealing with a specific injury, they should follow their vet’s protocol on frequency and duration of cold/heat therapy. eArtik boots are a tool to implement vet recommendations. For general post-exercise use, 20 minutes cold after each workout is a common routine. When in doubt, checking with a vet will ensure the therapy is used correctly .

 

By following these usage and fitting instructions, riders will be able to effectively utilize the eArtik boots. As a retail professional, emphasize how simple the process is: freeze, apply, wait, remove – done! This simplicity and clarity in instructions make the product very appealing to customers looking for easy-to-use therapy solutions.

Care and Maintenance Guidelines

 

One of the advantages of eArtik products is that they are low-maintenance. Proper care will extend the life of the boots and keep them performing well. Here are the care and maintenance guidelines you can share with customers:

• Cleaning the Boots: The eArtik boots (both the leg boots and bell boots) are machine washable for easy cleaning . Remove the gel packs before washing (never put packs in a washing machine). It’s recommended to close all Velcro straps on each boot before washing as well – this prevents the Velcro from catching on other items or the boot’s fabric. Wash the boots in cool or lukewarm water (30°C is recommended) on a gentle cycle . Use a mild detergent. Avoid harsh chemicals or bleach, which could degrade the materials or irritate the horse’s skin later. After washing, allow the boots to air dry naturally. Laying them out in a well-ventilated area out of direct sunlight is ideal. (Excess heat from a dryer or radiator could potentially warp the shape or damage the neoprene, so air drying is safest.)

• Cleaning the Gel Packs: The packs themselves typically stay clean inside their pockets, but if needed, they can be wiped down with a damp cloth. Ensure they are completely dry before freezing (to avoid ice buildup). Do not puncture or machine-wash the packs. If a pack becomes soiled, just wash it off with water and mild soap by hand, then dry.

• Storage: After use (and cleaning), store the boots in the provided carry bag or a dry tack trunk. It’s best to keep them in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight when not in use, to prevent any material fading or breakdown. The gel packs should ideally be stored in the freezer so they are ready for next use – customers often just keep them in their freezer at home or in the barn. If not stored in the freezer, keep packs in a cool place and avoid sharp objects that could puncture the plastic. Remind customers that the gel packs have a soft outer shell that could be damaged by nails, knives, or even a horse stepping on them when not in the boot.

• Velcro Maintenance: Over time, horse hair and debris can get caught in the Velcro straps, reducing their sticking power. Advise users to periodically clean the Velcro by picking out hair and dirt. This can be done with a stiff brush or even a comb. Keeping the Velcro lint-free will ensure the boots always close securely.

• Inspect for Wear: It’s good practice for the owner to check the boots and packs regularly. The boots should be inspected for any signs of wear or damage – for example, loose stitching, tears in the fabric, or worn Velcro. The gel packs should be checked for any leaks or punctures. (The gel is non-toxic , but if a pack leaks it obviously needs replacement.) If the outer vinyl of a pack is damaged, it’s time to replace that pack to avoid mess or loss of effectiveness. Fortunately, replacement eArtik gel pack sets are available and affordable .

• Replacing Gel Packs: eArtik gel packs are built to last through many freeze/heat cycles, but eventually (after extensive use) they may lose some cooling capacity or get damaged. Customers can purchase eArtik Gel Packs (set of 2) separately . This is also useful if they want an extra set to rotate (one set on the horse, one set in the freezer ready to swap in). Emphasize that using the official eQuick packs is recommended – they are designed to fit the boots’ pockets and have the correct gel formulation for freezing/heating. Using random ice packs might not fit or stay cold as long.

• Follow Heating Instructions: When using heat therapy, it’s crucial not to overheat the packs. Remind customers of the 1 minute at 650W max rule in the microwave . Overheating can ruin the pack (it might burst or gel could harden) and also poses a safety risk. If a pack is accidentally overheated and the plastic deforms or it starts to swell, it should be discarded for safety. It’s wise to stand by the microwave and watch the first time to get a sense of how the pack warms up.

• Longevity: With proper care, the boots and bell boots should last a long time. The materials are top-quality and designed for heavy use. Many customers use their eQuick boots daily during competition season. Let customers know eQuick products are engineered for durability, but also that taking a few simple care steps will keep them in top condition. For instance, regularly washing sweat/dirt out will prevent any skin irritation on the horse and keep the neoprene from deteriorating.

• Warranty and Support: eQuick stands behind their products, so if a customer encounters any manufacturing defect, they should contact eQuick or the retailer. Normal wear and tear is expected over of use, but early failures are extremely rare.

 

By following these maintenance tips, customers will ensure their eArtik boots remain hygienic, effective, and ready to use at all times. A little care (like drying the boots properly and storing the packs correctly) goes a long way.

 

Frequently Asked Technical Questions (FAQ)

Below are some common technical questions customers might ask about the eArtik line, along with straightforward answers.

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• Q: What issues or injuries are eArtik boots used for?

A: Primarily for post-exercise recovery and injury therapy. Cold therapy with eArtik boots helps with any condition involving inflammation or pain in the legs: e.g. tendonitis, suspensory ligament strains, bowed tendons, fetlock swelling, shin soreness, sprains, bruises, or general leg swelling . The bell boots can help conditions like hoof bruises, laminitis (cooling the feet), or inflammation in the coronet/fetlock area. Heat therapy (using warmed packs) can be used for stiff joints, old injuries with scar tissue, or warming up chronic arthritic areas. Always advise to consult a vet for serious injuries, but for routine aches and pains, these boots are very useful.

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• Q: How long should I leave the boots on my horse’s legs?

A: Approximately 20 minutes per session is the standard recommendation . In general, 15–20 minutes of cold therapy is sufficient to achieve vasoconstriction and tissue cooling without risk of overdoing it. For heat therapy, similarly about 20 minutes is a good session length. If a vet prescribes different timing (shorter or longer), follow vet instructions. As a rule of thumb: 20 minutes on, then remove. You can repeat later in the day if necessary (after allowing tissues to return to normal temperature).

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• Q: Do the eArtik boots fit both front and hind legs?

A: Yes. The Cooling Boots are designed to be universal for front or hind legs . They have a versatile shape that can accommodate the slightly thicker hind cannon or the front legs equally well. Just ensure they are positioned correctly (hind legs might be a bit wider, but the straps will adjust). The Cooling Bell Boots fit any hoof – front or hind – as well, since they are one size and horses’ hoof sizes are usually similar between front and hind (front hooves are sometimes a tad larger, but the velcro allows adjustment). So in summary, one pair of cooling boots can treat either the front limbs or hind limbs as needed; many customers actually buy two pairs if they want to ice all four legs simultaneously after, say, cross-country runs.

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• Q: Are the gel packs safe? What if my horse somehow breaks one?

A: The gel packs are completely non-toxic . They are made of a food-grade thick gel mixture sealed in sturdy plastic. If a horse were to puncture a pack (which is unlikely when they’re inside the boot, but possible), the gel would not poison the horse. It’s atoxic and similar to gels used in human ice packs. Of course, you wouldn’t want the horse to ingest a lot of it (it could cause mild indigestion), but generally it’s safe. If a pack leaks, just throw it away and rinse the area. As for safety in use: as long as you follow the guidelines (don’t overheat them, don’t apply frozen packs for too long), they are very safe. They are also designed to remain flexible, so they won’t create pressure points or freeze rock-hard against the leg.

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• Q: How cold do the packs get and how long do they stay cold?

A: They get as cold as your freezer temperature (typically -18°C or 0°F in a standard freezer). When you take them out, they will feel cold to touch. In practice, you’ll likely use them for 20-30 minutes and then remove. But if you needed to do another session later, you could put the packs back in the freezer for a bit and reuse, or have a second set ready. The insulation of the boot helps maintain the pack temperature during the session.

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• Q: Can I buy extra or replacement gel packs?

A: Absolutely. eQuick sells the eArtik Gel Packs separately in a package of 2 . These are the same as the originals that come with the boots. Having an extra set is a great idea – you can keep one pair always frozen in the cooler at shows, or do back-to-back icing sessions by swapping packs. Any eQuick retailer that carries the eArtik line should have the replacement packs. Just ask for the eArtik gel pack set (SKU 8056446156476) . They are relatively inexpensive, so many customers pick up a spare set when buying the boots.

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• Q: How do I heat the packs? I don’t have a microwave in my barn – are there alternatives?

A: The recommended method is using a microwave (since it’s quick and gives a consistent safe temperature) . If there’s no microwave available, a customer can also use a pot of hot water (not boiling, but very hot tap water or water heated on a kettle) to warm the packs. Submerge the gel pack in hot water for a few minutes until it’s warm. Dry it off and then use. This is an alternative, though it may not get as uniformly warm as a microwave would. Do not put the packs in an oven or on an open flame, and don’t boil them on a stove – that could damage the packs. Many barns nowadays have microwaves for feeds or supplements, but if not, hot water works in a pinch. Always test the pack temperature before applying to the horse, whichever method is used.

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• Q: My horse moves a lot – will the boots slide down or do I need to wrap something over them?

A: The eArtik boots are designed to stay up on their own. Thanks to the contoured shape and strong Velcro, they should not slide down even if the horse lifts or moves its legs moderately. You do not need to bandage over them or use additional tape (unlike some older style ice wraps). If a horse is very fidgety, you can hold them or walk them slowly; the movement of walking typically won’t make the boots slip, and in fact movement is good for circulation. We don’t recommend turning the horse loose or allowing them to roll with the boots on, simply to keep them clean and in place. But under normal supervised conditions, no wrapping or extra securing is necessary – just strap on and you’re done. This simplicity is a big advantage over ice bandages that might require layers of wrapping.

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• Q: Can I use the eArtik boots on a wet leg? (For example, right after hosing my horse off)

A: It’s better to towel the leg dry before applying. A little moisture is fine (and the boots’ lining will absorb a bit), but a very wet leg can cause two things: it might make the cold feel more intense on the skin (water conducts cold faster, potentially causing a chill burn in extreme cases) and it can make the boot slip more easily. Also, if you just hosed the legs with cold water, you’ve already started cooling – you could certainly put the boot on after that to continue the cooling effect, just dry the excess water. In summary, legs don’t have to be bone-dry, but not dripping wet. The same goes for the bell boots – if the hooves are very wet, maybe pat them dry to ensure good contact and traction of the boot.

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• Q: Are there any contraindications or times I shouldn’t use these?

A: Generally, cold therapy is very safe. However, do not use cold on a horse that is already shivering or having difficulty staying warm (e.g. a sick horse or in extremely cold ambient temperatures – in such cases, focus on keeping the horse warm). Also, avoid heat therapy on areas that are acutely inflamed or if the horse has an active infection (heat can sometimes increase inflammation or spread infection). Always use common sense – if a horse has circulatory issues or skin sensitivity, moderate the use and consult a vet. But for the average healthy horse post-exercise, these boots are a routine tool.

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