11/08/2026
I'm very lucky to have had Christian as one of my mentors!
Today's post has been kindly submitted by equine podiatrist Christian Egeler
Many people have discovered the increased sensation, better circulation and improved foot function when going barefoot.
So, what about horses?
Metal shoes or barefoot?
After a career applying principles of physiology, anatomy and function in the medical profession, it has been a fascinating journey to discover the wonders of the equine hoof. The adaptation over centuries of evolution towards a propulsion system that maximises energy efficiency, whilst ensuring blood supply to structures that have a high metabolic demand, doubling as an efficient temperature regulation setting, and ensuring an exceptional feel for the ground horses travel over, is still not fully understood.
Feral, or wild horses, travel vast distances over varied terrain, sculpting hooves that can carry them and keep them out of danger, and all barefoot.
The domestication of horses for human needs over the centuries, and more recently for breeding practices as well as general husbandry 'ideals' have impacted on general health and hoof health as a result. Too many horses being overweight, having prediabetic issues (EMS) or Cortisol dysfunction (PPID); fed on grass that is too rich. Most are not given the movement they need. As a result, laminitis is all too common, and significant hoof pathologies are frequent.
So, what is the key to improving foot health?
As an Equine Podiatrist, after a 2 year diploma course (Lantra level 5) I don't just focus on trimming the hoof into a pleasing shape.
As the saying goes:
'No hoof no horse' - but more importantly:
No gut, no hoof, no horse.
So, I start with nutrition, ensure a healthy gut biome, which in turn provides for good hoof health, which ensures a strong hoof ready to take on what comes their way. Trimming is part of this, mainly to encourage graded stimulation to bring hoof structures back to health.
Frequent trims in situations where the foot is unhealthy (flaring, cracks, seedy toes, white line disease, central sulcus infection, contracted heels, chronic laminitis) centres around balance, with good alignment of joints and optimising biomechanics. And, because domesticated horses don't get the movement they need to wear their feet naturally, the trim has to simulate that wear .
Using boots with pads to reduce wear when needed, to build up a strong sole and allow movement for recovering laminitics.
Working with equine bodyworkers to bring the whole body into balance is another aspect of my work.
So, can a horse always be barefoot?
Some ideologically minded barefoot trimmers will say absolutely, always, and never to use shoes. That however is not the reality. Some of my clients horses perform at high levels barefoot, but some horses, depending on the demand put on them and their genetic makeup, are better with glue on shoes or metal shoes.
As an Equine Podiatrist I am passionate about providing the best possible advise and trim, and have seen very satisfying outcomes in sometimes very difficult situations. I have also seen some of the horses under my care improve significantly with application of shoes.
As Hoof Care Professionals we must do what is best for the horse under our care, not what is best for our ego, so we have got to keep an open mind.
A last thought: Trimming horses means slipping in mud and breathing in dust, being covered in horse hair and dirt. It means rain, wind or heat exposure, shivering, thoroughly wet or sweating
It means cuts and bruises, being stomped on, kicked, bitten and headbutted.
A hard graft at the best of times, trimmers have a limited work life expectancy, and back pain, arthritic hands and injuries are common.
So, why do I do it; leaving a clean, dry workplace for the above?
Because I get a cuddle from the horses, a friendly lick on the head.
Because I see improvement of hoof shape and function coupled with a trim that gets ever easier. Because I meet wonderful owners, passionate for their horses and get to be a part of their journey.
It is, after 30 years treating NHS patients, a way more satisfying job.
