These high-performance cross-country boots are designed in collaboration with MIMsafe, creators of the MIMclip. Engineered for ultimate protection and stability, they are made of materials that radiate shock away from an impact, which is new for equestrian sport. They are made from an ultra-strong outer shell that is a one-piece TPU mould to ensure maximum flexibility and freedom of movement, and offer 360° leg protection and support. The V-cut front profile is designed to reduce friction and drag upon contact with a fence.
First impressions
These boots look really smart, felt super-lightweight, and appear to be well designed with protection in all the right places. I found them a bit fiddly to fit to begin with – to ensure the V-cut front was in the correct position – but after a few attempts I was more confident.
Overview of performance
These boots are seriously impressive, proving themselves to be tough and hard-wearing. I’ve used them for nearly a year on the cross-country course, for fast work on the gallops, and even in the sea.
I tested both the front and hind boots in size medium on a 15.2hh Irish Draught mare, and they were a great fit. My mare is super-sensitive but didn’t experience any rubs or slipping, and I believe her legs stayed cooler than in her previous cross-country boots. They were very secure and didn’t move at all.
Being so lightweight and having plenty of features to prevent them hindering movement, combined with the level of protection offered, gave me peace of mind whatever discipline we were doing.
I liked how they offered all-round protection while staying so lightweight. They didn’t hold water and have cleaned up really well even with regular, long-term use.
You can’t get away from the fact that these boots are expensive, so if you’re not planning to use them frequently you might be better off with a more affordable option – however, they’re excellent quality, definitely one of the best cross-country boots I’ve tried, and if you’ll get the use out of them they are a great investment.
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Verdict
Super smart boots with plenty of technical features and materials that gave me peace of mind as they really keep my horse’s legs protected and cool. These boots are pricey, but a worthwhile investment for the competitive rider.
Who tested the LeMieux MIMsafe XC Boots?
Franchesca Slack is Horse & Hound’s products editor, she has ridden since a very young age thanks to having a mum who was a riding instructor. Franchesca now keeps her three horses on DIY livery – an Irish Draught and two Shire horses who she enjoys hacking around the countryside. Regularly riding up to five times a week. She is also a member of her local riding club and competes her friends horse “Barbie” in dressage, showjumping and cross-country.
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Franchesca is Horse & Hound’s Products Editor. She produces all of our buying guides and gift guides, as well as organising product testing and bringing you news about the latest products to hit the market. If there’s a new launch, Franchesca is the first person to hear about it. She brings you the best deals and is passionate about arming Horse & Hound’s readers with honest, unbiased product reviews. Franchesca loves letting riders and horse owners know what products are coming out, how to make their lives easier and how to spend their money wisely.
