Is barefoot a better choice for your horse?

Key factors in a happy barefoot horse

A hoof trim from a farrier or podiatrist is around 10% of the successful equation when keeping a horse barefoot; correct diet and exercise makes up the other 90%.

“As the owner, you have to be prepared to take these factors into consideration, often making adjustments to things like your horse’s grazing and sugar intake,” says Liz. “A low sugar balanced diet and lots of exercise are key to stronger, healthier feet. The more you work your horse the more you will stimulate growth and help develop a robust, well-connected hoof capsule with a thick sole.”

Nevertheless, while some horses will breeze through the transition from shod to barefoot, others who may have been shod for long periods, or whose feet have become more compromised, may need more support.

“It’s often necessary to invest in a set of barefoot horse boots,” adds Liz. “These can provide excellent protection while allowing your horse to grow a healthier, stronger foot. The quality and design of barefoot horse boots has improved dramatically in recent years and there are many cutting edge designs on the market to choose from.”

Barefoot horse hoof boots

Lauren Hetherington, a qualified barefoot horse trimmer who runs Graveney Equine in Kent, describes hoof boots as being the bridge between shod and barefoot.

“There are so many shapes, sizes and uses that there is almost always something to suit everyone. Some can be used for turnout or poulticing while others are great for fast work or muddy surfaces,” says Lauren. “I like to use hoof boots on horses who may still be a little tender — either just on more challenging surfaces, or all the time if that’s what they need at first. Ideally you want to be able to transition your horse out of boots as then you’re finally barefoot. However, people will often still use hoof boots if they know there will be lots of stones where they’re going, in order to lower the risk of bruising.”

Barefoot horse boots can be used with pads to either provide extra cushioning or extra stimulation to the sole and frog to build them up along with the digital cushion. “What I really like about boots is that they don’t restrict the hoof’s natural distortion when in use and they can be taken off when not required,” adds Lauren.