Everything you need to know about horse hoof anatomy

4. March 2025

Despite their impressive size, horses are extremely delicate creatures. This becomes especially apparent when they move. Whether they trot gracefully or gallop dynamically: the combination of strength and elegance is truly impressive. The hooves play an important role in this. Therefore, horse owners should at least have basic knowledge of the horse hoof anatomy.

As providers of high-quality hoof boots, we at Swiss Galoppers know exactly how important healthy hooves are for horses. Below, we provide you with important information about these significant body parts.

What is a Horse Hoof and What Does it Do?

Hooves are found at the ends of the limbs of odd-toed ungulates. This order of mammals includes the following three families:

• Equidae (Horses), which includes horses, donkeys, and zebras
• Rhinocerotidae (Rhinoceroses)
• Tapiridae (Tapirs)

Thus, they all have hooves. These are made of keratin – a fibrous protein that the body produces and that constantly grows. The same material is found in human hair, fingernails, and toenails. It also makes up the fur of other mammals, as well as claws, talons, and horns.

Horse hooves are the outer skin, with a highly keratinized epidermis. Except for the pad area, there is no subcutaneous tissue beneath it. Underneath the horse hoof, there are the following three pads:

• Sole cushion: Found between the hoof cartilages in the bulb pit.
• Ball cushion: Located adjacent to the sole cushion, providing additional protection for the ball.
• Crown cushion: Located in front of the coronary bone on the front side of the hoof.

The bony structure of the horse hoof anatomy consists of the coronary bone, the coffin bone, and the sole or sesamoid bone. Between the dermis and epidermis is the corium, which contains numerous blood vessels and nerves. It can be divided into five areas, each with different functions.

In total, the horse’s hoof has the task of carrying the horse’s substantial weight. It also has a cushioning effect during impacts that occur with steps and jumps. This prevents issues or even injuries to the animal’s joints.

The Hoof Mechanism

It is commonly believed that horse hooves are rigid. However, this is not true. Instead, they are partially mobile and respond to applied pressures. This is known as the hoof mechanism. When the hoof strikes the ground, the balls are pressed apart. In doing so, the sole bone comes into contact with the ground, and the nerve endings in the corium receive information about its condition.

When the hoof is lifted again, the balls contract. This stimulates blood circulation in the hoof and promotes a healthy musculoskeletal system. By the way, the hoof mechanism is an important argument for not using horseshoes. This is because barefoot, the animal moves naturally, and the hooves fulfill their purpose to the fullest.

Hoof boots are ideal for the transition to barefoot riding. They provide protection for the hooves while they adjust to the newfound freedom of movement.

The Hooves of Foals

To prevent damage from unborn foals in the womb, their hooves are covered with a soft protective skin. This hardens in the days following birth. The young horse then sheds the hardened skin.

Hooves do not grow in width, but only downwards. Therefore, foals often have edges below which they are narrower. As the animal grows, the coronary corium expands, and the difference in width gradually levels out.

What Factors Affect Hoof Development?

To ensure your horse’s hooves stay healthy, it should get enough exercise daily. You should also clean the hooves regularly and check for potential issues. A proper diet and a clean stable play a crucial role in maintaining healthy horse hoof anatomy.

Moreover, horse owners should avoid shoeing when possible. It not only prevents the animal from moving naturally, but it can also cause injuries and inflammation. Barefoot walking is the most natural and healthiest form of movement for healthy horses.

What Role Does the Hoof Roll Play in the Anatomy of the Horse’s Hoof?

The hoof roll refers to a structure in the horse hoof. It consists of the sole bone, the deep flexor tendon, and other tendons and collateral ligaments. A bursa of the hoof roll is also included. The entire complex functions as a shock absorber in the horse hoof anatomy, as it absorbs the animal’s weight with every step.

Due to the high stress, inflammation can sometimes occur in the hoof roll. Commonly referred to as “hoof roll,” the correct term is “hoof roll syndrome” or “hoof roll inflammation.” If the inflammation becomes chronic, veterinarians refer to it as hoof roll necrosis or podotrochlosis.

Hoof roll syndrome is particularly noticeable because the horse, due to pain, is reluctant to move. When it does move, the motions appear stiff and uneven. Occasionally, affected animals also stumble.

To definitively diagnose hoof roll syndrome, the veterinarian will numb the hoof roll nerve. If the horse no longer limps afterward, inflammation is very likely.

Studies suggest that genetic predispositions, related to breeding, are the main cause of hoof roll syndrome. However, the condition can also be caused by excessive stress in horseback riding. Especially hard surfaces can lead to problems.

Lack of exercise can also be a cause of hoof roll inflammation. If a horse is not sufficiently exercised, blood circulation in the tissues is impaired, affecting the entire musculoskeletal system.

Another cause of hoof roll syndrome can be ill-fitting horseshoes. This further supports the argument for barefoot walking. If hard surfaces require additional protection, well-fitting hoof boots help support movement.

The Effects of Hoof Problems on the Horse

As mentioned with hoof roll syndrome, a horse with hoof problems quickly loses its desire to move. If it dares to take steps, they are hesitant, stiff, or resemble stumbling more than usual movements. This affects its stability, and falls are not excluded.

If hoof problems are not treated, they can become chronic. In the worst case, they could lead to severe diseases. For example, the horse could develop arthritis, or its immune system could be weakened.

If your horse suffers from hoof problems, you should consider transitioning it to barefoot. This would allow it to return to its natural movement. Perhaps you never had your horse shod in the first place, so it can move as nature intended.

Hoof boots are ideal for transitioning to barefoot. However, they should not be worn on the hooves 24/7. Instead, they should only be worn while working or riding. They are also recommended for therapies against hoof diseases and the subsequent rehabilitation.

For healthy horses, hoof boots are suitable for trail rides and hiking. In equestrian sports, it must be carefully checked whether and which models are allowed.

High-Quality Hoof Boots from Swiss Galoppers

The hoof boots you get in the Swiss Galoppers shop absorb shocks on your horse’s hooves. They are made of recyclable plastic and have a lifespan of up to 2000 riding kilometers. For soft terrains and winter conditions, we offer special models with spikes. Additionally, we have hoof boots with light-enhancing properties for safe riding in twilight.

If you have any questions about horse hoof anatomy or would like to learn more about our hoof boots, feel free to use our contact form to reach out to us.