The Journey of EqueStride
Timeline
1992
Daly began developing the principles for a horse tendon support system.
1995-1997
Achieved a master’s degree in Industrial Design Engineering from the Royal College of Art (RCA) & Imperial College of Science, Technology and Medicine, London. During this period Daly did extensive research into the causes of tendon and suspensory ligament injuries in horses and developed the first prototypes of the tendon support system.
Whilst studying at RCA, Daly worked as an in-house designer for Nokia mobile phones.
Post-Nokia, Daly then collaborated with the former technical director, Gary Anderson and John McWilliam, Composites Engineer of the Jordan Grand Prix Formula One team, on two design programmes. The first project was to design a side-impact crash structure to protect drivers in high speed impacts. By developing this proximity detection system, cars are alerted to approaching objects, triggering the deployment of airbags before impact.
Daly’s second design for Formula One was a shock-absorbing, energy-dissipating system designed to dissipate energy efficiently upon impact, again, protecting the driver. Elements of both these are still being used in Formula One cars today.
1997
As a post-graduate, Daly took prototypes of the tendon support system to the Royal Veterinary College for testing, where he collaborated with Roger Smith, Professor of Equine Orthopaedics and Alan Wilson, Professor of Locomotor Biomechanics, Royal Veterinary College, University of London, testing the tendon support device.
2002
In the knowledge that the device had to be clinically and safety tested, before it could be turned into a product for production, Daly published a peer-reviewed paper in the Equine Veterinary Journal confirming his system (then called the Dalmar boot) was the only device that could support a horse's tendons during exercise.
During his tenure with Jordan Formula One, Daly began experimenting with carbon fibre to design the device for treating equine tendon injuries. He recognized the need for an optimal strength-to-weight ratio, ensuring the device was strong enough to bear the weight of a galloping horse while remaining sufficiently lightweight for practical use.
Whilst at RCA Daly was approached by Veterinary Surgeon, John Hyde MRCVS to find a solution to the problem of equine tendon injury. Daly subsequently collaborated with Roger Smith, Professor of Equine Orthopaedics and Alan Wilson, Professor of Locomotor Biomechanics, Royal Veterinary College, University of London, to develop the first Equestride prototype, formerly known as the Dalmar boot. This invention revolutionised the reduction of tendon strain in exercising horses while recovering from a tendon injury.
It had to be clinically tested, it had to be safety tested, and it had to be turned into a product which you could mass-produce.
Daly recognised that forces experienced in Formula 1 car crashes are not dissimilar to the loads causing tendon strains in horses.
2002-2010
Dalmar Boot Range. Daly launched the Dalmar range of horse protection boots (2002). Here Daly used the knowledge gained from his research with Alan Wilson about tendon heat during exercise to address three main causes of tendon injury:
1. Strain caused by joint extension during exercise
2. Overheating of tendon core during high-speed galloping
3. Accidental strikes from hind feet
This invention was the world's first equine air-cooled boots, and the technology was subsequently patented worldwide. Dalmar boots became one of the leading boot ranges in the world, triggering industry-wide improvements in boot design. In 2009 Daly began negotiations to sell Dalmar boot range to Horseware. The sale to Horseware was completed in 2010, with Horseware in full-scale production by 2011.
2010 - Present
Equestride Development. Post sale of Dalmar boots, Daly began working full-time on what is now known as the Equestride system. Daly continued refining and testing the device, addressing each of its challenges:
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Ensuring safety and proper clinical use
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Making the system strong enough for horse's weight
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Developing a version that could be mass-produced
2011
EqueStride continued to refine its device, supported by scientific validation that demonstrated its mechanical advantages. Alongside product development, the team strategically expanded its client base and compiled detailed case data to support future clinical research.
Applications focused on tendon injury rehabilitation, with inventor and founder Andrew Daly emphasising the importance of meticulous documentation. This disciplined approach reinforced a long-term vision rooted in scientific credibility. The overarching goal was to publish robust, evidence-based studies confirming the device’s effectiveness. Through its steady, research-driven strategy, EqueStride built a strong reputation across the equestrian industry in the years that followed. In 2011, the late Queen Elizabeth was presented with the EqueStride device, an early moment of recognition that underscored its potential and prestige.
2018
A pivotal milestone in EqueStride’s journey toward industry credibility was its collaboration with high-profile clients like Paul Schockemöhle, legendary German show jumper and influential sport horse breeder. Such strategic partnerships propelled the device’s adoption across a broad spectrum of equestrian disciplines, amplifying its presence both locally and internationally. Continued engagement with professional riders continued to reinforce brand trust and accelerated the device’s adoption. These relationships served not only as powerful endorsements but also as real-world validation that strengthened client confidence. Building and maintaining strong connections within the rider community became a strategic priority for EqueStride’s ongoing growth.
2023
Since 2023, strategic partnerships with respected riders and veterinarians continued to play a vital role in EqueStride’s growth, culminating in a landmark case in 2023 involving Tokyo individual Olympic silver medallist and crowd-favourite, Toledo de Kerser, ridden by Tom McEwen. After suffering a severe flexor tendon rupture, Toledo underwent a carefully managed rehabilitation supported by EqueStride. Working in close collaboration with veterinarian Bobby McEwen, the team implemented a fully integrated treatment plan. In a powerful testament to his recovery, Toledo returned to the spotlight with a dressage masterclass at the Defender Burghley Horse Trials in September 2025.
2025
This year a landmark study from the University of Turin provided compelling scientific validation of EqueStride’s effectiveness in reducing tendon strain during walking and trotting. This peer-reviewed research marked a defining moment in the company’s journey towards clinical credibility, offering robust evidence of the device’s therapeutic value.
Further elevating its impact, the study,“In Vivo Validation of a Metacarpophalangeal Joint Orthotic Using Wearable Inertial Sensors in Horses” was presented at the American College of Sports Medicine and Rehabilitation Symposia. The research blends biomechanical innovation with clinical application, representing a breakthrough in equine tendon and soft tissue rehabilitation. Now published and available through open access, it provides valuable insights for veterinarians, researchers and equestrian professionals worldwide.
In addition to scientific validation, EqueStride has secured numerous high-profile editorial articles that have significantly enhanced its visibility across both the equestrian and veterinary sectors, on an international scale. Publications include The Irish Field, Animal Therapy Magazine and the Thoroughbred Sales & Breeders Guide USA, each highlighting the brand’s innovation, clinical credibility and growing influence within the equestrian world.