Do all horses need shoes? Can all horses go barefoot?
Short answer
Some horses perform well barefoot with regular trimming and others require shoes for protection, traction, or therapeutic support. The decision should match the horse’s workload, terrain, hoof quality, and medical needs. The common denominator for building or maintaining hoof health, regardless of barefoot or shod, is consistent movement, balanced nutrition and appropriate trim cycles.
Real-Life Example
A horse living on soft pasture with light riding may remain comfortable barefoot. The same horse competing on abrasive footing multiple days per week may require additional protection. Environment and job matter.
It Depends
Shoe decisions vary based on:
• Terrain
• Work intensity
• Hoof wall strength
• Corrective or therapeutic needs
• Injury history
• Rider expectations
Barefoot vs. shod is situational where context and discernment are needed.
When to Seek Guidance
If your horse shows:
• Consistent soreness on firm ground
• Excessive wear
• Frequent chipping
• Performance decline
Work with your farrier and veterinarian to determine appropriate support.
Sources:
Balch, O., White, K., & Butler, D. (1991). Factors involved in the balancing of equine hooves.
Clayton, H. M., Gray, S., Kaiser, L. J., & Bowker, R. M. (2011). Effects of barefoot trimming on hoof morphology.
Siedler, C., Zinkanel, Y. M., Schramel, J. P., & Peham, C. (2025). Comparing the Difference in Traction Between the Bare Hoof, Iron Horseshoes and Two Glue-On Models on Different Surfaces.
Caure, S., Dendauw, P., Thesee, L., Villedey, E., Malinvaud, A., Cousty, M., Prie, V., Horan, K., & Weller, R. (2024). Effects of different shoeing conditions on equine cervical and back kinematics during walking and trotting on a soft surface.
