The huge advantage of a one piece bell boot is that they are very stable on a horses pastern, and not at risk of opening while in use as bell boots with hook & loop fastener closure straps are. This is a great asset, particularly when riding through water, such as with cross country water complexes. It is also a better choice for many horses over hook & loop fastener fasteners on bell boots without the no-turn nodules to keep them in place while the horse is moving. The ribbing on the outside of the rubber provides a deflection of shock waves from strikes, knocks and bumps, adding to the protection of the hoof capsule. The One Piece Ribbed Bell Boots are pulled over the hoof capsule, stretching dramatically before returning faithfully to their original shape. They hang nicely from the pastern joint.