Hoof Makes The Horse

Use my hoof-maintenance and trail-prep tips for a safe, fun ride.

- Ken Mcnabb & Alexis Bennett

It’s been said that your horse is no better than his feet. They’re the primary contact with the ground as he carries you and your equipment over variable terrain along the trail, out on the ranch, or as you take laps around the arena. If you horse’s feet aren’t well cared for, he can’t do his job, and you can’t enjoy him.

Healthy feet come with daily care. Each time you’re with your horse, pick up his feet, clean them, and check that they’re in good condition. Remove rocks, and watch for hoof-wall cracks.

Daily maintenance helps ensure that your trail horse’s hooves are ready to withstand the stressors of the trail, be they sharp rocks, pebbles, slate, water, sand, or hard ground. If his hooves can’t handle the conditions, you’ll be calling it a day too early in your ride because of soreness or injury. Best-case scenario, your horse will just be uncomfortable.

Here I’ll share my hoof-care basics, as well as trail-specific considerations designed to help you and your horse have a safe, comfortable ride.

Protect His Hooves

A simple rule: If hoof wear exceeds hoof growth, then you must substitute that growth. Horseshoes and hoof boots fulfill this role.