Ground reaction force plays a critical role in how horseshoes function. While there has been much anecdotal evidence, little research has been conducted on it. Cody Gregory of Heartland Horseshoeing School in Lamar, Mo., presents groundbreaking research demonstrating how shoe design, web-width distribution and shoe placement influence hoof balance across different surfaces. His work earned him a prestigious Fellowship with honors from the Worshipful Company of Farriers, an achievement that only four other living people have accomplished. 

You’ll Learn: Practical, evidence-based strategies to improve biomechanics and achieve more predictable shoeing outcomes.

Cody Gregory is a world-class farrier and blacksmith whose lifelong dedication to the craft began at age four when he trimmed his first pony and forged his first shoe. An elite competitive farrier, he served on the World Champion Blacksmith Team (2013–2015), helped secure a victory at the 2015 Calgary World Championships, and won the WCB National Championship alongside the prestigious Capewell Cup.Holding some of the highest credentials in the trade, Cody became the youngest AFA Certified Journeyman Farrier at 15 and achieved the coveted FWCF with Honours in 2024—cementing his status as a premier master of equine farriery and blacksmithing.