11/05/2026
Shoes vs No Shoes: Whatās Best for Your Horse?
Itās one of the most common questions we getāshould my horse be shod or go barefoot? In this āThis or Thatā episode, weāre tackling the pros and cons of both.
š Shoes
Shoes can provide protection, support, and traction, especially for horses in regular work, on hard ground, or with specific hoof issues. They can also be used therapeutically to help manage lameness or conformational challenges.
šæ Barefoot
Going without shoes works well for many horses, particularly those with good hoof quality, lighter workloads, or softer footing. Barefoot management can promote natural hoof function and, in some cases, improve hoof strength over time.
āļø The Reality
Thereās no one-size-fits-all answerāand no strong preference from us either. The right choice depends on:
* Your horseās workload
* Hoof quality and conformation
* Environment and footing
* Any existing soundness issues
š¤ Team Approach
The best outcomes come from working closely with your vet and farrier to find what suits your individual horse.
For owners in the Mornington Peninsula, conditions can vary a lotāso flexibility is key.
š„ Watch the video to hear our takeāand why āit dependsā is often the best answer.