Hoof Care
Shod or barefoot? Pros and cons laid out
An eternal debate among horse people. No 'better or worse', just different choices for each horse. Here are the facts, free from dogma.
Published: 4/30/2026
EquiSight Editorial
Redactie · EquiSight · SaFleu Equestrian Centre BV
Advantages of shoeing
- Protection during intensive sport
- Stability with coffin bone issues
- Correction of conformational deviations possible
- Traction on slippery surfaces (studs)
Advantages of going barefoot
- Natural shock absorption
- Better circulation (hoof mechanism)
- No shoe injuries or lost shoes
- Lower costs
When to choose which option?
A sport horse working daily on hard ground: shoeing is often the better fit. A leisure horse with strong horn and soft pasture: barefoot works fine. A horse with chronic hoof problems: consult your farrier and vet.
Making the transition
Moving from shod to barefoot often requires a gradual transition of 3–6 months. During this period, work less intensively on hard ground. Hoof boots can bridge the gap.