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This article was originally written in danish by Louisa Woods.
The pros and cons of barefoot horses are hotly debated topics, often stirring strong emotions. Here, we explore some key information to help you decide if going barefoot might be right for your horse. This article aims to present the facts without favoring one approach over another, as the choice is highly individual and depends on your horse and its purpose.
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Some owners keep their horses barefoot simply because they don’t ride often enough to warrant shoes. Others have traditionally shod their horses without realizing there were alternatives. This latter group is gradually shrinking as more people become aware of the options through fellow horse owners and social media.
Research in this area is increasing as interest grows. Many owners are drawn to a more holistic approach, seeking a balance between domestic life and the horse’s natural instincts. This philosophy aligns well with those who already embrace practices like bitless training.
Each step a horse takes activates the circulatory system in the leg and hoof. When the hoof strikes the ground, it flexes, allowing blood to flow into the hoof capsule. As the hoof lifts off the ground, the blood returns up the leg. This flexibility is crucial to the process.
Metal horseshoes limit the hoof’s ability to flex, which can impact the health of the hoof, leg, and even the entire body. No part of the body functions in isolation.
Barefoot advocates often promote this method to enhance hoof health. Online, you can find thermal imaging comparisons between shod and barefoot legs of the same horse. The shod leg typically shows blue, indicating a colder environment and reduced blood flow compared to the warmer red and yellow hues of a barefoot leg.
However, there are some caveats to consider.
Going without shoes also eliminates the need for nails in the hoof. While shoeing itself doesn’t hurt the horse, there are risks involved. These include abscesses, bruising, and conditions like white line disease, a bacterial and fungal infection that deteriorates the hoof wall.
Interestingly, wild horses show fewer signs of lameness. Some believe this suggests that shoeing may contribute to soreness.
It’s important to note that going barefoot isn’t necessarily suitable for all domestic horses.
In some regions, maintaining a barefoot horse can be more cost-effective. Depending on the situation, some horses can go 4-8 weeks between trims, whereas shod horses typically need attention every 6 weeks.
A barefoot trimmer may charge less than a traditional farrier. However, as barefoot trimming gains popularity, prices for this service have also risen.
There are risks with any professional service, so ensure you do thorough checks. Some owners opt to learn barefoot trimming through online courses, but this can be risky for such a hands-on skill.
Traditional farriers undergo extensive training and apprenticeships. Many now specialize in barefoot trimming as well. Finding a farrier with expertise in both shoeing and barefoot care can be a wise choice if you’re considering transitioning your horse.
The natural depth of a horse’s sole is about 8mm.
Some farriers recommend horses go barefoot whenever possible. Farrier Thomas Higgins, based in southern Spain, believes that his training and experience equip him to judge if a horse is suitable for a barefoot lifestyle.
Breed characteristics play a role. For example, Thoroughbreds have been selectively bred, often resulting in thinner soles.
In Thoroughbreds, the natural sole depth is often around 3mm, and their hoof growth rate may be as slow as 3-4mm per month compared to the typical 10mm.
This makes the breed generally less suited for barefoot living. Thin soles are more prone to injuries like white line separation from stones. Consulting a professional farrier for tailored advice is essential.
It is possible to compete barefoot in disciplines like show jumping, eventing, dressage, hunting, and endurance riding. However, transitioning to competitions without shoes takes time and careful monitoring.
Endurance rider Miek van Merrienboer from the Netherlands sometimes uses plastic hoof boots during competition season, which she finds provide better grip and shock absorption than traditional metal shoes. These boots can also be customized for improved breakover.
For extra recovery time between long rides, she opts for “floating boots” — heat-moldable boots that adapt to the hoof, performing well in mud and rocky terrain.
In dry, warm climates, barefoot hooves may remain naturally hard. In wetter regions, achieving this hardness may require more effort. Constant observation and communication with a barefoot expert are crucial, especially during the early stages of transitioning.
Creating a strong barefoot hoof environment is key. One owner suggested placing food and water far apart in the pasture to encourage more movement, mimicking the miles wild horses travel and stimulating hoof growth.
If the ground tends to be soft and muddy, you can introduce harder sections with gravel to toughen the hooves. Gradually building up hoof resilience to hard surfaces is generally wise.
Metal horseshoes have been used for centuries. As research continues, we may discover new ways to protect our horses’ hooves.
Ultimately, individual research is essential. No two horses or hooves are alike. Consulting professional farriers and barefoot trimmers is the best way to determine what’s best for your horse. Consider factors like the horse, environment, diet, and your personal goals.
Special thanks to @thomashigginsfarrier for permission to use his Instagram images.
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