Classic – Urethane Horseshoe with Open Sole Area

Application and Safety Guidelines for the Non-Metal Urethane Horseshoe - Video

Many customers choose the Classic as a metal-free horseshoe and are satisfied with the results. However, it’s important to note that a pure urethane horseshoe offers different functional characteristics compared to a composite model with an integrated metal core. For this reason, we’d like to briefly outline the key similarities and differences between our composite horseshoe with a stabilizing metal core and the Classic as a fully synthetic alternative.

Advantages of the Urethane Coating of our Horseshoes - Whether With or Without a Metal Core

• The concussion absorption powers of the urethane material significantly reduce impacts and high-frequency vibrations during the landing phase of the hoof.
• An integrated Frog support can improve the blood circulation of the hoof.
• The flexible urethane material supports the natural mobility of the elastic structures of the hoof.
• Most of our models feature an integrated urethane debris guard , greatly reducing the risk of snow, mud, and arena debris sticking to the horseshoe.
• Weight reduction - as a composite shoe is typically lighter than a steel shoe with equivalent additional features.
• Reduced risk of injuries in a herd situation.
• If you chosse a model with closed sole area or if you modify the Classic by the help of our Hoof Sole Protector , it can be used with padding material.
• The grip of a urethane horseshe on various surfaces typically resembles that of a bare hoof more than a steel shoe.

Advantages of Non-Metal Horseshoes

• They restrict the hoof mechanism the least among all types of horseshoes, depending on the hardness of the urethane material used.
• Further minimized risk of injuries in the herd since no elements of iron or steel are attached to the hoof.
• Weight savings; the non-metal urethane shoe typically has the least weight as it has no metal components.
• Cheaper than a composite horseshoe.

Non-Metal Horseshoe Compared to a Composite Shoe With a Stable Metal Core

• When using the Classic as a nail-on shoe at your own discretion, you must consider two important safety-related aspects:
• The Classic lacks reliable nailing slots. Due to the absence of a metal core, nail heads have an unstable fit in the shoe and can more easily slip through.
• The Classic does not provide additional protection against twisting on the hoof when used as a nail-on shoe.
• A pure urethane horseshoe is less torsionally rigid than a composite shoe with a metal core. The pure urethane shoe has reduced structural stability during the shoeing period, which can result in undesired pressure on the hoof if the urethane shoe deforms unevenly.

In conclusion, it can be said that there is no one-size-fits-all solution. What is right for one horse may not be a good fit for another. Many horses do well with a non-metal urethane horseshoe, while others require a stabilizing metal core. It's not just the horse itself but also the horse's living conditions and usage that play a role. For instance, when it comes to hiking, hardly anyone would opt for a barefoot shoe; in such cases, we generally prefer a hiking boot with a stable sole, so we don't feel every pebble underfoot.

We recommend using the Classic only as a glue-on horseshoe, not as a nail-on shoe. Please also refer to our general safety advice.