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Riding Sole Protection Pads in Canada: Top 5 Options for 2025 — Expert Guide to Thin Pads that Preserve Ground Feel and Prevent Stone Bruises

Published on Monday, August 25, 2025

Thin protective pads and sole guards are essential for riders who want discreet hoof protection without losing ground feel or traction. In Canada, where terrain varies from rocky trails in British Columbia to frozen, stony tracks in the Prairies and mixed footing in Ontario and Quebec, riders favor low-profile pads that absorb impact, reduce the risk of stone bruises and sub-solar soreness, and fit easily inside boots or shoes. Consumer preference in 2025 leans toward materials that combine proven shock absorption (EVA, gel, polyurethane) with durability, trim-to-fit convenience, and breathability. Performance riders, trail riders, and recreational equestrians choose these pads because they deliver protection for everyday riding, improve horse comfort, and preserve natural hoof mechanics—important for barefoot-friendly shoeing philosophies and for horses that need a sensitive ground feel for balance and performance. Online shoppers in Canada also prioritize easy returns, clear sizing guidance, and fast domestic shipping when selecting a pad.

Quick Menu

1. Best Thin Profile for Riding Soles

2. Best Simple Hoof Boot Pad Fit

3. Best Shock-Absorbing Comfort Pads

4. Best EVA Foam Riding Pad

5. Best Durable Replacement Pads

1
BEST THIN PROFILE FOR RIDING SOLES

Thinline Ultra ThinSole Insoles

Thinline

Thinline Ultra ThinSole Insoles lead this list for riding sole protection because their ultra-thin, high-rebound construction preserves close hoof-to-ground contact and proprioception while still delivering measurable shock absorption for riders. Technically they outperform thicker pads here by minimizing sole interference—making them the go-to for performance riders who will pay a modest premium for a slim profile and long-lasting material. Compared with bulkier or boot-specific pads on this list, Thinline’s main financial advantage is lower long‑term replacement cost due to high durability despite a higher upfront price point.

4.4
★★★★☆

  • Featherlight cushion

  • Fit-like-socks

  • Featherlight cushion

  • Fit-like-socks

Review Summary

88%

"Users praise the ultra-thin profile for maintaining hoof boot fit while providing noticeable shock absorption and sole protection; a minority report some compression after heavy, long-term use but most find them reliable for regular riding."

  • Whisper-quiet stride

  • Ultra-thin design preserves boot fit while adding a protective layer underfoot.

  • Whisper-quiet stride

  • Ultra-thin design preserves boot fit while adding a protective layer underfoot.

Enhanced Physical Well-Being

Time-Saving Convenience

Thinline Ultra ThinSole Insoles lead this list for riding sole protection because their ultra-thin, high-rebound construction preserves close hoof-to-ground contact and proprioception while still delivering measurable shock absorption for riders. Technically they outperform thicker pads here by minimizing sole interference—making them the go-to for performance riders who will pay a modest premium for a slim profile and long-lasting material. Compared with bulkier or boot-specific pads on this list, Thinline’s main financial advantage is lower long‑term replacement cost due to high durability despite a higher upfront price point.

  • Featherlight cushion

  • Fit-like-socks

  • Whisper-quiet stride

  • Ultra-thin design preserves boot fit while adding a protective layer underfoot.

  • Made from closed-cell foam that resists compression and sheds moisture.

  • Featherlight cushion

  • Fit-like-socks

  • Whisper-quiet stride

  • Ultra-thin design preserves boot fit while adding a protective layer underfoot.

  • Made from closed-cell foam that resists compression and sheds moisture.

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$30-60 CAD

2
BEST SIMPLE HOOF BOOT PAD FIT

Cavallo Simple Hoof Boot Pads

Cavallo

Cavallo Simple Hoof Boot Pads are recognized for straightforward, boot-integrated protection and strong value for riders using Cavallo-style hoof boots. Their simple EVA/neoprene construction is less technical than the ultra-thin or multi-durometer options here but offers an economical, easy-to-fit pad that reduces rock pressure and works well for casual riding and transition barefoot work. Financially they are often the most budget-friendly option for boot owners, trading off some shock‑management and customization found in pricier pads on this list.

4.3
★★★★☆

  • Trail-ready grip

  • Mud-shedding magic

  • Trail-ready grip

  • Mud-shedding magic

Review Summary

86%

"Riders appreciate the Cavallo Simple pads for their straightforward, durable construction and improved cushioning in Cavallo boots; some trimming or slight adjustment is occasionally needed for an ideal fit."

  • Bounce-friendly feel

  • Designed to fit Cavallo-style hoof boots with an easy trim-to-fit shape.

  • Bounce-friendly feel

  • Designed to fit Cavallo-style hoof boots with an easy trim-to-fit shape.

Enhanced Physical Well-Being

Recreational Enjoyment

Cavallo Simple Hoof Boot Pads are recognized for straightforward, boot-integrated protection and strong value for riders using Cavallo-style hoof boots. Their simple EVA/neoprene construction is less technical than the ultra-thin or multi-durometer options here but offers an economical, easy-to-fit pad that reduces rock pressure and works well for casual riding and transition barefoot work. Financially they are often the most budget-friendly option for boot owners, trading off some shock‑management and customization found in pricier pads on this list.

  • Trail-ready grip

  • Mud-shedding magic

  • Bounce-friendly feel

  • Designed to fit Cavallo-style hoof boots with an easy trim-to-fit shape.

  • Firm yet slightly cushioned material protects the sole without bulking up.

  • Trail-ready grip

  • Mud-shedding magic

  • Bounce-friendly feel

  • Designed to fit Cavallo-style hoof boots with an easy trim-to-fit shape.

  • Firm yet slightly cushioned material protects the sole without bulking up.

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$40-70 CAD

3
BEST SHOCK-ABSORBING COMFORT PADS

EasyCare Comfort Pads

EASYCARE

EasyCare Comfort Pads are a market leader for riding sole protection because they combine multiple thickness and material options with broad compatibility across boots, giving riders control over cushioning versus ground feel. Technically they balance shock absorption and comfort without overly isolating the sole, and their wide distribution keeps per‑unit cost competitive while offering more customization than the simpler Cavallo pads or the single‑profile Thinline insoles. For riders who want a middle ground—good protection, many sizes/durometers and ready availability—EasyCare represents a practical, cost‑effective choice.

4.2
★★★★☆

  • Cloud-like support

  • Easy-wash friendly

  • Cloud-like support

  • Easy-wash friendly

Review Summary

83%

"EasyCare Comfort pads are generally praised for strong cushioning, good traction, and long life under normal riding conditions; a few users mention minor fit/height changes that require boot adjustments."

  • Longevity champion

  • Thicker, resilient foam prioritizes shock absorption for sensitive soles.

  • Longevity champion

  • Thicker, resilient foam prioritizes shock absorption for sensitive soles.

Enhanced Physical Well-Being

Eco-Friendly Living

EasyCare Comfort Pads are a market leader for riding sole protection because they combine multiple thickness and material options with broad compatibility across boots, giving riders control over cushioning versus ground feel. Technically they balance shock absorption and comfort without overly isolating the sole, and their wide distribution keeps per‑unit cost competitive while offering more customization than the simpler Cavallo pads or the single‑profile Thinline insoles. For riders who want a middle ground—good protection, many sizes/durometers and ready availability—EasyCare represents a practical, cost‑effective choice.

  • Cloud-like support

  • Easy-wash friendly

  • Longevity champion

  • Thicker, resilient foam prioritizes shock absorption for sensitive soles.

  • Contoured to support natural hoof shape and distribute pressure evenly.

  • Cloud-like support

  • Easy-wash friendly

  • Longevity champion

  • Thicker, resilient foam prioritizes shock absorption for sensitive soles.

  • Contoured to support natural hoof shape and distribute pressure evenly.

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From 43.45$
4
BEST EVA FOAM RIDING PAD

Scoot Boot EVA Comfort Pads

Scoot Boot

Scoot Boot EVA Comfort Pads are engineered specifically for Scoot Boots and stand out for durable EVA construction that molds to the sole and retains shape through repeated use, making them a durable mid‑range solution for trail and everyday riding. Technically they deliver reliable shock attenuation and traction inside the boot, and because they are designed as direct replacements they reduce fit issues and the risk of migration that some universal pads experience. Compared with Davis’s heavy barrier style and Thinline’s ultra‑thin approach, Scoot Boot pads offer a balanced, washable option that often lowers total cost of ownership through longevity and easy replacement.

4
★★★★☆

  • Quick-swap foam

  • Light-as-air step

  • Quick-swap foam

  • Light-as-air step

Review Summary

79%

"Scoot Boot EVA Comfort pads are valued for being lightweight and affordable while offering decent shock absorption, though they tend to wear faster on very rocky terrain and some riders prefer firmer support for heavy-duty use."

  • Shock-taming EVA

  • Lightweight EVA foam provides cushioning without adding excessive weight.

  • Shock-taming EVA

  • Lightweight EVA foam provides cushioning without adding excessive weight.

Enhanced Physical Well-Being

Time-Saving Convenience

Recreational Enjoyment

Scoot Boot EVA Comfort Pads are engineered specifically for Scoot Boots and stand out for durable EVA construction that molds to the sole and retains shape through repeated use, making them a durable mid‑range solution for trail and everyday riding. Technically they deliver reliable shock attenuation and traction inside the boot, and because they are designed as direct replacements they reduce fit issues and the risk of migration that some universal pads experience. Compared with Davis’s heavy barrier style and Thinline’s ultra‑thin approach, Scoot Boot pads offer a balanced, washable option that often lowers total cost of ownership through longevity and easy replacement.

  • Quick-swap foam

  • Light-as-air step

  • Shock-taming EVA

  • Lightweight EVA foam provides cushioning without adding excessive weight.

  • Precision-cut to fit Scoot Boot interiors for consistent placement.

  • Quick-swap foam

  • Light-as-air step

  • Shock-taming EVA

  • Lightweight EVA foam provides cushioning without adding excessive weight.

  • Precision-cut to fit Scoot Boot interiors for consistent placement.

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$25-55 CAD

5
BEST DURABLE REPLACEMENT PADS

Davis Barrier Boot Replacement Pads

Davis Instruments

Davis Barrier Boot Replacement Pads are best for riders prioritizing maximal protection from mud, stones and wet conditions because their barrier-style pads are rugged, waterproof and resist packing. Technically they sacrifice some barefoot feedback in favor of protection and abrasion resistance, making them ideal for heavy‑use or open‑terrain riding where sole isolation reduces injury risk; financially they are competitive because their robust materials extend service life and reduce frequent replacements. In comparison to the thinner or more cushioned pads on this list, Davis pads are the pragmatic choice when durability and environmental barrier performance are the primary concerns.

3.9
★★★☆☆

  • Barrier-grade grip

  • Replace-and-go

  • Barrier-grade grip

  • Replace-and-go

Review Summary

75%

"Davis Barrier replacement pads are convenient and provide acceptable protection with easy installation, but several reviewers note quicker wear than expected and occasional fit inconsistencies across boot sizes."

  • All-weather stalwart

  • Robust construction designed as a long-wearing replacement for Davis Barrier boots.

  • All-weather stalwart

  • Robust construction designed as a long-wearing replacement for Davis Barrier boots.

Enhanced Physical Well-Being

Time-Saving Convenience

Davis Barrier Boot Replacement Pads are best for riders prioritizing maximal protection from mud, stones and wet conditions because their barrier-style pads are rugged, waterproof and resist packing. Technically they sacrifice some barefoot feedback in favor of protection and abrasion resistance, making them ideal for heavy‑use or open‑terrain riding where sole isolation reduces injury risk; financially they are competitive because their robust materials extend service life and reduce frequent replacements. In comparison to the thinner or more cushioned pads on this list, Davis pads are the pragmatic choice when durability and environmental barrier performance are the primary concerns.

  • Barrier-grade grip

  • Replace-and-go

  • All-weather stalwart

  • Robust construction designed as a long-wearing replacement for Davis Barrier boots.

  • Offers reliable sole protection and abrasion resistance on varied terrain.

  • Barrier-grade grip

  • Replace-and-go

  • All-weather stalwart

  • Robust construction designed as a long-wearing replacement for Davis Barrier boots.

  • Offers reliable sole protection and abrasion resistance on varied terrain.

Order Now
From 113.39$

What Research Says About Thin Sole Protection Pads

Veterinary biomechanics and equine health research supports the use of appropriately designed thin sole protection pads to reduce peak impact forces and improve load distribution across the hoof. While no single pad is a cure-all, peer-reviewed studies and clinical reports indicate that shock-absorbing inserts can lower the incidence of stone-related bruising, provide short-term pain relief for subclinical sole soreness, and reduce concussion during high-impact activities. Material science research shows differences between EVA foams, closed-cell gels, and thermoplastic polymers in durability, compression set, and energy return—factors that affect long-term performance and rider-perceived ground feel. Research also emphasizes proper fit and regular farrier or veterinary oversight to avoid changes in hoof mechanics from incorrect pad thickness or improper placement.

Shock absorption: Thin foams and gels reduce peak impact forces transmitted to the solar corium, which helps lower the risk of stone bruises.

Pressure distribution: Properly sized pads spread load more evenly across the sole and frog, relieving pressure points that can lead to discomfort.

Material trade-offs: EVA is lightweight and economical, gel offers cushioning and conformability, and thermoplastic options provide durability and shape retention.

Ground feel preservation: Research shows that thin inserts maintain more proprioception than thick, cushioned shoes—important for balance and performance.

Clinical guidance: Studies recommend pairing product selection with farrier or veterinary assessment to ensure pads support hoof health without altering natural breakover or causing uneven wear.

In the Canadian context, thin riding sole protection pads deliver targeted impact absorption and discreet protection for riders on varied terrain. The five options featured here—Thinline Ultra ThinSole Insoles, Cavallo Simple Hoof Boot Pads, EasyCare Comfort Pads, Scoot Boot EVA Comfort Pads, and Davis Barrier Boot Replacement Pads—cover a range of materials, fit styles, and compatibility with common boot systems. For most riders seeking the best balance of low profile, consistent ground feel, and broad compatibility, the Thinline Ultra ThinSole Insoles are the best choice on this list. We hope you found what you were looking for; if you want to refine or expand your search, use the site search or filters to narrow by material, thickness, boot compatibility, or shipping to your province, and consult your farrier or veterinarian for a fit recommendation tailored to your horse.

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