Co-Founder Annette Kaitinis Shows Scootboots in Action on a New Zealand Globetrotting Trek

Our co-founder, Annette Kaitinis, recently embarked on an unforgettable Globetrotting horse trekking adventure in New Zealand (Aotearoa)’s North Island at River Valley Lodge. 

This stunning location is home to horses trained using Natural Horse training techniques, all bitless and barefoot, giving riders a truly connected experience with their horses.

Annette brought along Scootboots to test on one of the lodge’s horses during her trek, and the results were amazing. 

Nicola Megaw, the owner at River Valley Lodge, shared her experience with Shamrock, one of her trekking horses they have had since he was two years old, a 16.2hh NZ Station Bred X Clydesdale with sensitive soles, who was paired with Annette for the ride.

“I have this beautiful horse Shamrock in our team and I needed to get him fit for this summer’s ride season. He is such a comfortable and chilled ride, well-built with good bones. 

This particular horse has very sensitive soles, and this has caused him a lot of pain resulting in worry. Movement is so important for hoof health. Even on soft ground he was still extremely uncomfortable and couldn’t move freely. Being such a big horse I found it very difficult to find boots that would fit him properly, and help him move naturally. 

Although I had heard of Scootboots, I had not thought of using them. It wasn’t until one of our guests, who co-founded the brand, had booked one of our multi-day rides, that I found out how great they are. She was able to fit Shamrock in the Scootboots and even rode him with his new boots on that ride. 

Shamrock was a changed horse. He was so willing and happy each day, and moving like he should. I can’t describe how absolutely thrilled I am to see him looking like this. The best thing was, his boots did not move or come off, and he was ridden through and over mud, bog, steep hills, tracks with patches of gravel and slippery slopes. 

I can’t wait to see how he goes this season now that he can comfortably build his fitness. I will now be booting any of our other horses that need boots in the Scoot.”

Nicola’s experience highlights exactly what Scootboots are designed to do. 

They provide a secure, comfortable fit that allows barefoot horses to move naturally, even over challenging terrain. 

For Shamrock, it meant the difference between a horse struggling with sensitive soles and one moving freely, confidently, and happily.

Pictured Nicola Megaw and her Schnauzer Mr Wufferston (Nicola’s pint-size trailblazer)

River Valley Lodge offers riding experiences designed for intermediate riders and above, ranging from half-day treks to multi-day riding holidays. Their commitment to Natural Horsemanship and barefoot, bitless riding provides the perfect environment for horses to move comfortably and freely, especially when fitted with Scootboots.

At Scootboots, we love seeing our products make a real difference for horses and riders, whether it is a big trek across the hills of New Zealand, or a weekend trail ride closer to home.

Want to give your horse the freedom to move comfortably and securely?

 
Explore the full Scootboot range today and see the difference for yourself.