Equine footwear serves a critical function in protecting the hooves of horses. These U-shaped metal or synthetic appliances are attached to the bottom of the hooves to prevent wear and tear, particularly in domesticated animals that regularly traverse hard or abrasive surfaces. Without this protection, the natural hoof structure can become damaged, leading to lameness and discomfort.
The implementation of these protective devices offers several benefits. They enhance traction on various terrains, improve weight distribution across the hoof, and can even be modified to correct gait abnormalities or provide support for specific medical conditions. Historically, the widespread adoption of this practice coincided with the increasing use of horses in agriculture, transportation, and warfare, highlighting their significance to equine utility and performance.
