If you’ve looked into therapeutic gear for your horse, you’ve probably come across two names over and over: Back on Track and Benefab.
I use both. Have for years. And the question I get most often is: which one is actually better?
Here’s the honest answer - it depends on what you’re looking for. Let me break it down.
The Technology: Same Concept, Different Execution
Both brands use the same basic principle: minerals woven into fabric that reflect your horse’s body heat back as far-infrared rays. This promotes circulation, reduces inflammation, and helps with recovery.
Back on Track uses Welltex technology - ceramic particles fused into the fabric.
Benefab uses a blend of far-infrared emitting minerals with a similar mechanism.
In practice? They both work. The science is legit - far-infrared therapy has solid research behind it for increasing blood flow and supporting tissue recovery.
Product Comparison
Therapeutic Blankets
| Feature | Back on Track | Benefab |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $300-400 | $280-350 |
| Fit | Runs slightly small | True to size |
| Durability | Excellent | Excellent |
| Breathability | Good | Better (more mesh options) |
My take: I use Back on Track mesh sheets daily (mentioned in my SleekEZ post - hair gets trapped in that mesh). They’ve held up for years. But for summer or horses that run hot, Benefab’s SmartScrim is lighter and doubles as a fly sheet.
Leg Wraps
This is where things get interesting.
Back on Track Quick Wraps - These are my go-to for standing wraps. Easy on, easy off, consistent compression. I’ve used the same set for three years.
Benefab VersaWraps - More versatile sizing and can be used on different parts of the leg. The closure system is different - some people love it, some find it fiddly.
Winner: Tie. Depends on whether you want simplicity (Back on Track) or versatility (Benefab).
Poll Pads & Hoods
For horses with poll tension, headshaking, or upper neck stiffness:
Back on Track Poll Cap - Simple, effective, stays put under the halter.
Benefab SmartHood - Full coverage of poll, neck, and ears. More therapeutic real estate, but also more to deal with.
My take: For targeted poll work, Back on Track is simpler. For horses that need full neck support, the SmartHood is worth the extra investment.
Hock Boots
If your horse has hock issues - arthritis, stiffness, capped hocks - both brands make solid options.
Back on Track Hock Boots - $80-90, straightforward design.
Benefab Smart Hock Boots - Similar price point, slightly different cut that some horses tolerate better.
No clear winner here - try both if you can.
Price Comparison
Here’s where Benefab often wins:
| Product Type | Back on Track | Benefab |
|---|---|---|
| Therapeutic Blanket | $350-400 | $280-350 |
| Standing Wraps (pair) | $70-80 | $65-75 |
| Poll Pad | $40-50 | $35-45 |
| Saddle Pad | $180-220 | $150-180 |
Benefab typically runs 10-20% less for comparable products. Not a huge difference on a single item, but it adds up if you’re outfitting multiple horses.
Durability
Both brands hold up well. I’ve had Back on Track products for 5+ years that still work. My Benefab gear is newer but showing no signs of wear.
The minerals are woven into the fabric, not coated on, so they don’t wash out. Both brands recommend cold water washing without fabric softener.
Which Should You Buy?
Choose Back on Track if:
- You want products that are widely available (Dover, SmartPak, most tack stores)
- You prefer a brand with longer track record
- Simplicity matters more than price
Choose Benefab if:
- Budget is a factor (10-20% savings)
- You want more product variety (they have some unique items)
- You’re outfitting multiple horses
What I Actually Use
Real talk - I use both:
- Back on Track: Quick wraps, mesh sheets (daily use)
- Benefab: Blankets, saddle pads, SmartHood (recovery days, specific issues)
There’s no rule saying you have to pick one brand. Use what works for your horse and your budget.
The Bottom Line
Both Benefab and Back on Track make quality therapeutic gear that actually works. The technology is similar, the durability is comparable, and either brand is a solid investment.
If I had to pick one for a budget-conscious rider building their first therapeutic kit, I’d lean Benefab - you get the same benefits at a lower price point.
But honestly? You can’t go wrong with either.
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