Omar Khalid
Plastic horseshoes, also known as composite horseshoes, are an alternative to traditional metal horseshoes. They are typically made from plastic or rubber and can also include a steel or aluminium core. Composite horseshoes function in a way that mimics a barefoot hoof, providing excellent shock absorption and therapeutic hoof support. They are lightweight, flexible, and can be nailed or glued to the hoof. The soft synthetic cover reduces shock and high-frequency vibrations caused by the hoof’s impact on the ground, making them ideal for horses with chronic conditions such as arthritis, laminitis, and navicular disease. Some popular brands offering plastic horseshoes include HOOF-it®, Polyflex, and Duplo Composite Shoes.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Material | Plastic, rubber, polyurethane, steel, aluminium |
| Purpose | Hoof protection, correct conformation faults, reduce discomfort from chronic conditions |
| Benefits | Lightweight, flexible, shock-absorbing, affordable, accessible, customisable, stimulates hoof growth |
| Brands | Easycare, Easyshoe N/G, Equi-Eaze Horseshoes, HOOF-it®, Duplo |
| Application | Nailed, glued |
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What You'll Learn
Plastic horseshoes are lightweight and flexible
The HOOF-it Natural Flex Plastic Horseshoe, for example, is made from a plastic composite material that provides both shock absorption and hoof support. It is easy to fit, shape, and nail, and can be used on all surfaces and terrain. This type of plastic horseshoe is sold by the pair and is available in sizes ranging from small ponies to draft horses.
Another example of a plastic horseshoe is the Duplo Horseshoe, which combines metal and synthetic materials to provide numerous advantages for the hoof. The synthetic component of the shoe provides flexibility and comfort, while the metal core adds durability. The Duplo Horseshoe also features tread underneath, providing enhanced traction for the horse, similar to a pair of running shoes.
Plastic horseshoes are often chosen for their lightweight and flexible qualities, which can improve the performance and overall hoof health of the horse. They are particularly beneficial for horses with hoof diseases or conditions, providing support and protection without restricting natural movement. Additionally, plastic horseshoes can be an alternative for horses with allergies or sensitivities to metal.
Overall, plastic horseshoes offer a lightweight and flexible option for hoof protection, with the added benefits of shock absorption, improved traction, and comfort for the horse. While traditional metal shoes are still commonly used, plastic horseshoes are gaining popularity for their versatility and accessibility.
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They are a good alternative for horses with hoof problems
While some horses with strong, healthy feet can transition to a ridden life without shoes, others need extra help. Composite horseshoes, also known as plastic horseshoes, are a good alternative for horses with hoof problems. They are typically made from plastic or rubber and function in a way that mimics a barefoot hoof. They are lightweight and flexible, and their soft synthetic cover considerably reduces shock and high-frequency vibrations caused by the hoof's impact on the ground. They can be nailed or glued to the hoof and come in a range of sizes and styles.
HOOF-it Natural Flex Plastic Horseshoes are an example of composite horseshoes that provide excellent shock absorption combined with therapeutic hoof support. They are easy to fit, shape, and nail and work well on all surfaces and terrain. They are available in sizes that accommodate all sizes, from small ponies to draft horses.
Plastic horseshoes are also a good option for horses with hoof problems as they are durable and provide better footing than steel shoes. They are also healthier for the hoof as they are flexible. They can be especially beneficial for horses with thin soles or poor hoof health transitioning to life without shoes.
Composite horseshoes can also work better than going barefoot or barefoot with boots. They can be hugely beneficial in reducing discomfort from chronic conditions such as arthritis, laminitis, and navicular disease. They also improve circulation and stimulate hoof growth.
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They are better than metal shoes on hard ground
Plastic horseshoes are better than metal shoes on hard ground due to their shock-absorbing qualities, ease of use, and cost-effectiveness. Firstly, plastic horseshoes provide excellent shock absorption, reducing high-frequency vibrations caused by the hoof's impact on hard ground. This vibration can be damaging to the horse's living tissue, bones, connective structures, muscles, and nerves. Plastic horseshoes, with their soft synthetic cover, minimise this vibration, making them ideal for hard surfaces.
Secondly, plastic horseshoes are easier to use as they mould to the outline of the hoof, eliminating the need for an anvil. They are also durable and can be refitted several times, making them cost-effective in the long run. Additionally, plastic horseshoes are more secure than metal shoes and less likely to be pulled off prematurely. If they suffer interference, they bend and then spring back into place, demonstrating their flexibility and resilience.
Plastic horseshoes also offer improved comfort for horses with niggling soreness, especially on hard ground. They provide therapeutic hoof support and can reduce discomfort from chronic conditions such as arthritis, laminitis, and navicular disease. Furthermore, plastic horseshoes stimulate the entire hoof, supporting the frog (the soft part of the hoof) and boosting healthy circulation and tissue growth.
While metal horseshoes have their advantages, such as durability and protection, plastic horseshoes offer a lightweight, flexible, and shock-absorbing alternative that can improve a horse's comfort and overall hoof health, especially when traversing hard ground.
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They are easy to apply and durable
Plastic horseshoes are lightweight and flexible, providing excellent shock absorption and therapeutic hoof support. They are a great alternative to traditional metal horseshoes, especially for horses with thin soles or poor hoof health.
One of the best plastic horseshoes on the market is the HOOF-it® Natural Flex Plastic Horseshoe. This horseshoe is made from a plastic composite material that provides excellent shock absorption and therapeutic hoof support. It is easy to fit, shape, and nail and works well on all surfaces and terrains. The shoe is available in a wide range of sizes, from small ponies to draft horses, and can be purchased directly from the HOOF-it website.
Another excellent option for plastic horseshoes is the Easyshoe N/G by Easycare. This shoe is predominantly made of polyurethane but contains a sliver of steel encased within each branch, providing flexibility and the ability to hold a nail head. The Easyshoe N/G can be glued or nailed on, offering versatility in application.
Additionally, Duplo composite horseshoes are worth considering. These shoes come in a range of models, each with unique features such as a bar in the heel area, threaded holes for studs, and a shock-absorbing insole. Duplo offers approximately 20 models, 4 shapes, and over 30 sizes, ensuring a suitable option for almost every horse.
Plastic horseshoes are not only easy to apply but also highly durable. They can be nailed, glued, or wrapped onto the hoof, providing custom fits and added padding for your horse's comfort and support. The flexibility of plastic horseshoes allows for natural hoof movement, reducing concussive forces and promoting healthy circulation and tissue growth.
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They can be nailed or glued to the hoof
Plastic horseshoes are typically made from several composites, including plastic or rubber, and can be nailed or glued to the hoof. They are lightweight and flexible, and their softness considerably reduces the shock and high-frequency vibrations caused by the hoof's impact on the ground. They are a good option for horses with thin soles or poor hoof health transitioning to life without shoes.
The first form of nail-on hoof protection appeared around 400 BC in ancient Italy. Horses were shod then to stop the hoof from wearing down faster than it could grow. The invention of the horseshoe revolutionized transportation, trade, and warfare around the world. Today, plastic horseshoes are a worthy alternative to metal, especially on hard ground. They are also used in some lamanitic cases as they are thought to reduce concussive forces.
One popular model is the Easyshoe N/G, which can be nailed or glued. This shoe is predominantly made of polyurethane but contains a sliver of steel encased within each branch. This allows for just enough steel to hold a nail head. Another option is the HOOF-it® Natural Flex Plastic Horseshoe, which is easy to fit, shape, and nail and works well on all surfaces and terrain.
For a nail-free alternative, glue-on tabs like Wolf Busch are easy to apply and very durable. Custom fits can be created by a farrier, who can also add padding and extra support when required. Plastic horseshoes can be hugely beneficial in reducing discomfort from chronic conditions such as arthritis, laminitis, and navicular disease.
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Frequently asked questions
Plastic horseshoes are an alternative to traditional metal horseshoes. They are typically made from a composite material, such as plastic or rubber, and can also have a steel or aluminium core. They are designed to mimic a barefoot hoof and can be nailed or glued to the hoof.
Plastic horseshoes are lightweight and flexible, providing excellent shock absorption and reducing high-frequency vibrations caused by the hoof’s impact on the ground. They can be beneficial for horses with chronic conditions such as arthritis, laminitis, and navicular disease. Plastic horseshoes can also help correct conformation faults that could cause lameness.
The decision to use plastic or metal horseshoes depends on the individual horse's needs. While metal horseshoes provide protection and support, some horses may do better without nails on their hooves. Plastic horseshoes can provide similar protection while also allowing the frog, sole, and inner wall of the hoof to naturally share the weight of the horse's body, boosting healthy circulation and tissue growth.
Some recommended brands of plastic horseshoes include HOOF-it® Natural Flex Plastic Horseshoe, Duplo Composite Shoes, and Polyflex Horseshoes. HOOF-it® offers excellent shock absorption and therapeutic hoof support, while Duplo Composite Shoes provide support to the frog of the hoof and stimulate the entire hoof. Polyflex Horseshoes offer over 10 patterns to serve horses of all disciplines and performance levels.
