Periodically, we all attend a clinic or seminar on the fine art (or science) of shoeing show horses — i.e., saddlebreds, Tennessee Walkers, or other horses that require a build-up. Probably the most asked questions at these clinics are, “How do you figure out steel?” and “How do you fit shoes for a particular build-up on a particular horse?” The rule-of-thumb answer normally given is that for every inch of build-up, you stick out an inch of shoe. This misconception is taught by many, making the farrier profession a “that’s-enough-to-get-by-on” occupation rather than an art based on accurate science.

My purpose in this article is twofold: (1) to try to stimulate interest in the art and science of shoeing the fine show horses, and (2) to cast doubt on the accuracy of rules of thumb that are currently being used throughout the country. By using some elementary mathematic you can replace guesswork with scientific accuracy, and you can carry out the build-up of a show horse with skilled craftsmanship.

There are two principles in calculating the build-up.

1. The package (build-up) to be made for the horse should be a continuation of the slope of the hoof from the toe around to the heels. As the slope changes, so does the package, so that a symmetrical shape is the end result, as in Figures 1 and 2.
2. Angle c in Figure 1 is the angle upon which all the figuring is based. Angle a equals angle c if a flat…