It is commonly thought that the hoof wall should be the primary support structure of the horse leaving the sole in suspension.  However, Dr. Robert Bowker’s studies have demonstrated that the internal structure of the horse’s hoof (sole, bars, frog, digital cushion and lateral cartilages) are the primary support structure for weight bearing of the horse, and not the peripheral hoof wall.  The hoof walls primary purpose is to protect the sensitive internal structures from the harsh environment, while the support of the horse is a secondary role.  

Barefoot trimming helps develop the internal structures of the back of the foot, enabling the hoof to more effectively dissipate energy, thereby reducing the pressure of higher-frequency impacts, which are extremely deleterious to bones and ligaments. A barefoot hoof on your horse with heel first impact has the following benefits:

• Energy Dissipation - The fluid flow caused by barefoot ground contact forces blood through the small vasculatures of the back of the hoof.  This action dissipates energy in the form of heat.  The internal pressures generated within the foot during ground contact are increased and thus squeeze blood out of the foot, which creates a hydraulic system for support and energy dissipation of impact.

• Building Fibrocartilage - A barefoot hoof allows the rostral frog (front 1/3) to be in contact with the ground, the loading and stimulation of this frog region (pressure and release) helps to produce fibrocartilage, which strengthens the frog, digital cushion and lateral cartilages and allows for greater shock absorption.

• Sensory Perception of Environment - A barefoot hoof allows the horse to obtain information through the vast network of nerves and receptors in the hoof, helping the horse feel the ground surface, which prevents stumbling and tripping.