The caudal hoof plays a vital role in shock absorption, load distribution and overall hoof function, yet the effects of shoeing and hoof moisture on its mechanics remain the subject of ongoing research. Hall of Fame farrier Nigel Fennell shares a groundbreaking study tracking hoof angle changes in 36 Thoroughbred racehorses during 90 days of training. The Harrodsburg, Ky., shoer presents the findings of an in vitro study comparing barefoot, conventionally shod, frog-support and polyurethane-filled shoeing configurations to improve understanding of how these treatments influence caudal hoof movement under controlled loading conditions. This study earned the Farnam, England native a Fellowship with honors from the Worshipful Company of Farriers.
You’ll Learn: How different shoeing applications affect hoof mechanics, the role of hoof moisture in altering hoof deformation, and the implications of these findings for everyday farriery.
2027 International Hoof-Care Summit
A focused 4-day program covers dozens of field-tested footcare ideas from successful farriers, equine veterinarians and hoof researchers worldwide. Discover proven tips to improve your work, cut costs, boost efficiency and grow profits — all through the Summit’s unmatched learning opportunities.
View the Full Speaker Agenda & Topics
What makes this event unique is its dynamic mix of general sessions, classrooms, roundtables, and global networking with hoof-care professionals. Your 4-day registration also includes access to 3 exclusive sessions at the world’s largest hoof-care products trade show.
- 16 General Sessions — packed with proven hoof-care strategies from experts like Yogi Sharpe, Nigel Fennell, Blane Chapman, Cody Gregory and more.
- 32 Face-to-Face Roundtables — interactive peer discussions where attendees bring real-world questions and exchange practical insights.
- 15 Classrooms — hands-on, presentation-style learning for today’s top hoof-care challenges.
- NEW Bonus Session! Hoof Mapping Workshop with Stuart Muir
- Plus, 3 wet labs, over 9 hours of trade show time, and unlimited networking opportunities with farriers and veterinarians from across the globe.
Learn more, register, and book your hotel at IHCS2027.com.
Educational Partners
Gold Level –
Glue-U Adhesives,
Zoetis,
EasyCare,
Platinum Performance,
American Farriers Journal
Silver Level –
SmartEquine
Bronze Level –
Purcell Farrier Supply / MFC Tools,
Equine Care,
Anvil Brand
Nigel Fennell, FWCF (Honors) is a renowned Master Farrier, educator, and founder of Foremans Forge with over 30 years of experience. He is one of only four living farriers globally to hold the Fellowship of the Worshipful Company of Farriers with Honors, alongside qualifications including CJF (FE).A competitive winner internationally, Fennell has worked with top-tier performance and therapeutic horses. He is an inductee of the International Horseshoeing Hall of Fame and received the American Farrier's Association's 2024 Jim Linzy Outstanding Clinician Award. Through Foremans Forge, he manufactures professional-grade tools and hoof products while mentoring farriers worldwide.
