In recent years, published information has been abundant on the length of the toe affecting the normal function of the horse’s limb. In the November 1999 issue of American Farriers Journal, “Strategies For Overcoming Long-Toe, Underrun Heel Concerns” concluded that long toes caused low heels.

The May 2000 issue of The Horse contained an article on the four-point trim, which inferred that long toes cause dished feet.

We must be terribly naive to believe that both of these foot problems, which are extremely different in appearance and hoof mechanics, are caused by excessive toe length.

We’ve been led to believe that “natural” must mean an improvement over past methods of trimming. We’ve also been told that squaring, rocking, rolling or “setting back” the toe improves the horse’s mechanics and hoof function. Easing the breakover must make it easier for the horse to move.

Or does it? What is the difference between the functions of the toe and heels? How do these hoof parts provide different applications of mechanics for the front and hind legs? Do we understand form and function? Maybe not.

Front vs. Hind Limb Function

The difference between the workload of the front and hind limbs is the most confusing concept. Quite simply, the front legs provide the majority of lift for the body (vertical acceleration) and a small percentage of horizontal acceleration, while the hind legs provide the majority of horizontal acceleration and a small amount of lift.

We have heard and read for years that…