Top 5 Myths About Barefoot Horses That Every Rider Should Know

The barefoot movement is picking up steam with riders around the world, and for good reason.

Everyone from top equestrian champions to casual trail riders can benefit from the increased precision, and sensitivity of transitioning your horse to barefoot.

And while awareness is growing, there are still quite a lot of misconceptions floating around, leaving some riders unsure if they should make the switch.

So, let’s take a look at some of the biggest myths we’ve seen when talking to riders and set the record straight.

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Something a lot of riders worry about is whether the transition to barefoot could be painful for their horse.

Look, it’s an important thing to be concerned about. No one wants to cause their horse pain or unnecessary discomfort.

But when done correctly, transitioning to barefoot is smooth and pain-free.

The key is to take things slowly.

Start by removing the horseshoes and giving the hooves time to adjust. During this phase, keep your horse on softer surfaces like grass and dirt to minimise discomfort.

It’s also a really good idea to have some gravel placed near where they drink or eat so they can be exposed to harder surfaces, which in turn hardens their hooves.

Also, make sure the hooves are regularly trimmed by a qualified barefoot trimmer to avoid any overgrowth and maintain correct hoof shape.

Over time your horse will actually develop stronger hooves that have better circulation and shock absorption - massively helping decrease the potential for injuries.

Which leads me to our next myth…

We’ve spoken to some riders who believe that barefoot horses are more likely to experience stone bruises, abscesses or cracks. 

Horses are naturally designed to go barefoot. When a horse is barefoot, it allows the hoof to function as naturally intended. 

One of the biggest benefits of going barefoot is improved circulation within the hoof. When the frog is able to make direct contact with the ground, it acts as a natural pump and helps to increase blood flow throughout the hoof. 

Horseshoes can also restrict the natural movement of hooves. Studies show that a barefoot hoof can move up to 50% more than a shod horse can. 

This movement allows the hoof to dissipate shock and reduce the impact on joints and bones.

Additionally, barefoot hooves are self-cleaning - dirt and debris are naturally expelled as the horse moves, reducing the risk of bacterial infections like abscesses.

Regular trimming, utilising a hoof boot, and being mindful of terrain will allow the hoof to grow healthier, denser material that’s less prone to cracking or splitting.

Swedish showjumping champion Peder Fredricson has experienced far less injuries in his horses since taking them barefoot, and his vet bills have decreased dramatically. 

This belief always gives us a bit of a chuckle, as it’s like saying only certain people can wear sneakers.

Horses are naturally barefoot when they’re born, and then we add shoes to them for various reasons.

All breeds can be barefoot, but the transition and maintenance regime looks different for each horse.

A horse that is raised in a varied and challenging environment is going to naturally have stronger hooves than a horse that has been kept in a grass paddock its whole life - regardless of breed.

It completely depends on the individual horse, their prior hoof health, and the environment in which they’re kept.

And finally, a myth that’s being busted before our very eyes: barefoot horses struggle to compete at a high level compared to shod horses.

If you’ve been watching any equestrian events in the last few years, you’ll have noticed that barefoot horses aren’t only competing - they’re winning.

Barefoot horses were at the 2020 and 2024 Olympic Games, and top equestrian riders like Julien Epaillard, Peder Fredricson and Henrik Von Eckermann are seeing the benefits of competing barefoot:

• Improved agility
• Fewer injuries
• Increased hoof sensitivity

Whatever the discipline, having a horse that is more connected with the ground is going to have a massive impact on performance.

Barefoot horses can feel every step, resulting in more precise movements, better connection between the horse and rider and improved proprioception - which is just the fancy term for knowing where their feet are.  

Barefoot horses have proven that they can perform at the highest levels.

If you’re ready to give your horse the freedom of barefoot, our Scoot Boot Hoof Boots are here to help.

Not only do they offer superior traction and durability, but they’re super easy to put on, and comfortable for your horse.

Scoot Boots have a patented draining system, which makes them super easy to clean and the side vents allow for proper ventilation with no nasty bacteria build-up.

We offer free shipping when you use our Free Sizing Service. Just send in a few photos to our team of Sizing Specialists, and they’ll help you get the optimum fit.

If the fit isn’t right, you can exchange them. Free of charge.