When Chino Valley, Ariz., farrier Shaun Woodsum started shoeing horses more than 30 years ago, it seemed like a good way to pay for his college education. His father Bob James was a horseshoer and the aspiring heavy equipment operator was acquainted with the profession — he knew it would offer a flexible schedule to earn a living and pursue a degree. Once he got a taste of the industry, however, Woodsum quickly changed course.

Farriers and veterinarians agree that one of the most common mistakes that is made when purchasing hoof boots is sizing.

Hoof boot manufacturers like Texas-based Soft-Ride, offer tools and advice to help take the guesswork out of choosing the correct size for hoof care applications.

If you take pride in your trailer, you tell the world you take pride in your work. That’s a lesson Eric Billingsley has learned over his nearly 30-year shoeing career.