Gel horse boot
Vicky Lines
This project developed a durable gel horse boot, inspired by human footwear and advanced fabrics, to address the widespread challenge of protecting horses in wet, muddy fields, validated through research and prototyping to meet both medical and exercise needs for livestock keepers.
Design Problem
How might we re-imagine existing designs for poulticing and trekking boots for equines, developing a solution to easily maintain horse hoof health in wet, muddy weather conditions.
While addressing a personal problem, I found the topic of "Design and everyone" crucial. My research supported personal opinions and confirmed that the issues extended beyond individual concerns. It revealed a broader context, both globally and within the local community. Local stories naturally brought to light collective challenges, painting a vivid picture of shared struggles. Researching the impact of the weather was a clear starting point, given the increasing prevalence of flooding locally and globally. The issue resonated personally with me and other local livestock keepers, especially horse owners.
Description of the Project
Through research, a recurring trend and data story emerged, highlighting the same challenges. The need was for a product that bridged existing solutions addressing medical concerns and exercise-related issues, needed was something designed for turnout in a field for horses. The gel horse boot concept, inspired by human footwear and advancing fabric technologies, became the focus and was validated during a creative session.
For prototyping, functionality had to take precedence, needing resilience to perform well under the demands of an animal, and in muddy wet fields. Revisiting past modules and exercises, such as the Welcome pack masking tape exercise, reinforced values of prototyping, the 5W 1H framework, and storyboarding, refined and helped in executing my design concepts. The product was successful in testing. Research revealed that consumers are willing to pay more for a product that delivers on its promises and demonstrates durability.
About me
Description of my-self: I am a self-employed Honeybee farmer on the National Garden Scheme, creating a wildlife haven. The Heartened Homestead also shelters rescue animals, all inspiring my Open University studies and Wild at ♥ Art workshop plans.