Why aren’t they softer?
The firmer shoes will hold their shape, and will not create undue pressure or squeeze the sole, therefore the shoe can be nailed on in the traditional manner. And with a more substantial supportive base the shoe will not slide back after being set. Also, because they retain their shape the duration of the shoeing cycle they are supportive of the hoof walls.
Polyurethane retains flexibility and shock absorption without compromising durability, it allows the hoof to flex and slide, providing traction that is much closer to that of natural hoof, therefore becoming a protective extension of the hoof rather than conforming the hoof to a rigid capsule.
How long do they last compared to steel shoes?
As long as, if not longer than steel shoes. Our shoes are quite durable and will accommodate an 8 week shoeing cycle, even under heavy use. In arena footing conditions you should be able to reset them.
Each of our horseshoe styles has been extensively tested in the granite hard rock of the Rocky Mountains. They are not brittle, do not break or crack, and are slow to wear. There is no metal to expose so you can expect to get your full money’s worth of wear.
Modern polymers and urethanes are very different than what comes to mind when we think of “plastic”. These materials are relied on to stand up to industrial use in rigorous applications like oil drilling rigs, automotive and even space shuttles.
Why do I want to use these instead of metal shoes?
We are realistic about the fact that there is not a one size fits all solution to everything in farriery and of course we believe in the solution that benefits the health of the horse above all. Metal shoes have their place and are needed, as well we believe that horses that can go barefoot should too. With that being said, we have had such success using these in our own practice and see the health of hundreds of horses improve daily that we want to share them with any farrier, vet or horse owner that sees the advantage of an alternative to metal for their own use. If you feel that these are the right choice for you, we believe you will find that our shoes:
Do not get “sprung” if a horse oversteps. In most cases they tend to flex just enough to give way, then find their way back into shape without yanking on the nails.
A horse that is shod in this shoe tends to be more comfortable, and moves more confidently, as they continue with the healthy trajectory of hoof growth while protecting sensitive or injured joints and lamina. This capability is important not only for maintaining soundness in the healthy hoof, but also in the treatment of injury to hoof or joint, therefore the shoe will be valuable for a variety of orthopedic uses.
Farrier feedback has been positive, and because there is no need for forging or hammering steel on the anvil, using this shoe reduces fatigue for the farrier as well.
They are a comfortable transition from metal - they can be nailed on just like a metal shoe without containing any metal themselves. They can be shaped using traditional farrier tools and equipment.
Where are they made?
Do you ship internationally?
What kind of custom orders do you do?
They are created, cast and cured right here in the USA, at our facility in southwest Colorado. All our material is sourced in the USA as well. Though it may increase our turn around time, we insist on controlling the quality through each step of production. An added bonus is it allows us to keep our selling price reasonable.
At this time we are only able to ship within the United States. BUT we are working hard to update our website capability to accept international orders and ship outside of the US. If you would like to receive an email notification when we can accept international orders, please click here or contact us at info@emeraldlakehorseshoes.com and we will add your email to our list.
Right now, we can create custom wedges: heel toe and medial lateral. Custom shaping for extreme cases,. Custom black opaque color. For now we are charging only a material cost, usually between $4 - $10 per customization per pair. Please call Matt at 970-759-4923 or email us at : info@emeraldlakehorseshoes.com if you would like additional information.