Rolled Toe Shoes, was Hooves

["guest@endurance.net" <guest@endurance.net>]

Virginia Goodman TheOdysseyFarm@hotmail.com
If you are interested in a rolled toe shoe but want to avoid the NBS, check out half-rounds.  Standardbreds are frequently shod with them, and I have used them on my trail horses for several years.  I prefer them to any other.  I don't recommend the regular half-rounds but get the one with the swedged nailholes so it can pack with dirt, you'll get better traction.  Also, the 1/2" is a little light, I prefer the 5/8 or even the 3/4 if I can find them.  But cover your ears when your farrier works with the latter!!  I take it they're a little rough to work cold.

I like them because they're rolled the entire length of the shoe, so if your horse has an off-center breakover, no problem. Also, being steel, they hold up alot better on rocks than aluminum. I "introduced" my farrier to them several years ago, and he liked them so much he starting shoeing foundered broodmares with the 1/2 size.  He said it really helped them get around.

Regards,
Virginia Goodman
Kentucky