Cornell University’s head of farrier services and American Farriers Journal Technical Editor Steve Kraus, has observed an ongoing debate over whether horses are better off barefoot or shod. In reality, the answer is more nuanced.

Kraus argues that as blacksmithing skills are removed from the hoof-care process, horse owners increasingly do not know what’s best for their horses — despite what they may think they know from online sources.

“The availability of improved hoof boots has given better options for horse owners who choose to avoid horseshoes. The debate also turns to whether horses are better off in composite shoes rather than metal. So it goes when blacksmith skills are removed from the hoof-care process,” writes the Hall of Fame farrier.

Adding where they live, which breed and the horse’s job further complicates the proper choices.

“Without blacksmith skills needed to fit and adapt metal shoes, trimming and gluing on shoes are becoming more popular for horse owners. However, no matter which appliance is used on a horse’s foot, the individualized geometrically balanced trim is the hardest part to master. Learning how to trim properly takes working on many different horses with knowledgeable supervision,” Kraus writes.

There’s no one easy way to manage all horses’ hoof-care needs.

“Often, many horses are shod on the front only because the front end bears more weight. Some horses may be better off with only hind shoes. I have been around for a while and learned a few things from these cases and many others. There’s no one way to manage all feet for the best outcomes and long-term soundness.”

Learn more about the discussion over going barefoot or shod from Steve Kraus by reading "Should Horses go Barefoot or Shod?" in the May/June 2026 issue of American Farriers Journal.