The trade shows of 2004 allowed farriers to “hold and feel” several of the newer improvements unveiled by manufacturers. While many of the new products are described throughout this issue, following is a sampling of comments on some of the industry’s newer products that were shared by show attendees with American Farriers Journal editors.

“I really like the Hoof-Life glue. Even if the shoe is a little dirty, it seems to hold firm. I’ve got it on horses down in Arkansas that are on really rocky ground and the shoes stay on for 6 weeks with no problem. The Equi-Pak, for me, has become the thing to use with heart bars. I believe these two products have helped save a lot of horses, particularly laminitic ones.”

—Jamey Carsel, Joplin, Mo.

“Concave shoes are becoming more popular and I think they are better for the horse.”

—Chip Kendzerski, Dorset, Ohio

“I really like the HoofCradle and the Back Pleaser system. This has made my life a lot easier, especially with horses that want to lean over, particularly the older ones. The pre-made bar shoes and clip shoes have made things a lot easier on the arms, and the pad materials that have come on the market have really helped a lot of horses.”

—Rick Lankford, Mayodan, N.C.

“Buy good tools and you’ll never be sorry. I spent $250 for a pair of Freeborn nippers 2 years ago and it was one of the best investments I’ve ever made. They are big…