The Evolution Of Horse Shoes

What is a horseshoe?. Most of us have been acquainted, but for those who are not, it is a metallic or synthetic shoe designed to protect horses' feet. Most of the time, such shoes are nailed inside the via insensitive hoof walls. But there are cases where they might be glued as well. There are many types of horseshoes available in the market. Today we will talk about the history and evolution of horseshoes. Youll comes to know how its different types came out in the market.

The same reason we need shoes to protect our feet, horseshoes for horses were also developed to protect their feet. There were several parts of northern Europe were horses found it hard to get a toehold. Incorporating metallic shoes helped them to walk or run with finesse and comfort.

Early History

The early history of horseshoe dates back to 400 BC. At that time, the materials used varied from plants, rawhide and leather strap, etc. Still, due to riding difficulties, a more efficient form of shoes was developed. These new horseshoes were made by nailing metal shoes. The evidence found out by archeologist shows that early people were aware of the benefits of horseshoes.

Developing horseshoes had become a significant job in the year 1000. By that time, most places in Europe were creating metal horseshoe. During that time, they were made of bronze. Such shoes were light-weight and came with six nail holes. With time, the shoes became more massive, with eight nail holes. One can imagine the importance of horseshoes by the fact that at one time in England, horseshoes and coins were cast by the same object, i.e., iron.

After the 12th century and onwards, significant developments were seen in horseshoes. They were required more during war and combat, so their demand was immensely increased. The horseshoe was regarded as a symbol of good fortune. Utilized in festive activities and to fend off the devil, they had everyday use.

During this era, horseshoes became widely available. Due to the vast manufacturing in the previous century, they could be bought ready-made. There was a change brought inside the shoes for horses that were used for trade, war, and travel. They were made much broader and more extended.

Hotshoeing

In the 16th-centurey hotshoeing became a common practice during this time. By this process, one can shape a horseshoe just before putting it on a horse. This process makes for a smooth interaction between the hoof and the shoe. It protects them from drying out during a hot climate or take any moisture inside.

Machines capable of producing horseshoes were manufactures in the 18th century. This marked a revolution in the evolution of horseshoes. Horseshoes played a significant role in the American civil war. Horses that had quality gear on them performed well on the battlefield, which led to the victory in the 1860s to the southern forces.

Equestrian horseshoes were ordinary in the 1900s with the introduction of equestrian at the Olympics. The lightened aluminum horseshoe was utilized for racehorses due to their light size. Today most horseshoes are made out of steel.

New Age

With the advancement in today's technology, we no longer require the traditional nailing the shoes. Now you can connect the shoe to the hoof with the help of glue. Such shoes are much better as they provide better support and flexion. Using glue serves the same purpose with style and efficiency.

Applying such shoes is extremely easy. Just pick up the horseshoe, put some glue, and connect it with the shoe. Taking it off is also super fast as you can clip them off with horse nippers.

Conclusion

Horseshoes have evolved from the beginning of time. From the ones made from plants or leather straps to modern-day steel ones, they have developed a lot. In the future, we may have a much better quality of new horseshoes, which can help our pet horses to perform much better on the field.

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