About Us

Passion. Family. Innovation. Every Duplo horseshoe tells our story.

Hubert and Danny Frank

The Founder

Hubert Frank has been forging a path in farriery since 1995, always driven by curiosity and a passion for innovation. Embracing composite materials long before they became mainstream, he sought not only to make horses more comfortable, but also to reimagine what a horseshoe could be.

Today, Duplo is a recognized leader, trusted by breeders, trainers, and veterinarians worldwide. Our journey continues, with every new model inspired by real-world feedback.

Hubert Frank at work
Hubert Frank at work

Meet Hubert Frank

Hubert Frank began his career as a traditional farrier, but quickly realized that horses’ needs were changing. Dissatisfied with the rigidity and limitations of steel shoes, he spent years studying hoof anatomy, speaking with veterinarians, and listening to the real-life stories of riders.

“My goal was always to put the welfare of the horse first,” he says. “Shoeing is not just about protection—it’s about movement, balance, and long-term health.”

In the late 1990s, Hubert started developing composite prototypes in his small Bavarian workshop. Feedback was immediate and positive. By 2002, Duplo had become a name trusted by both professional riders and leisure owners.

Today, Hubert oversees not only design and R&D, but also supports farriers and customers around the world with hands-on advice and training.

“Innovation isn’t just about new materials—it’s about listening, adapting, and truly caring for the horse above all.”
– Hubert Frank

A True Family Enterprise

The Frank family isn’t just a name on the door—it's hands-on, every day. Hubert and his wife oversee the design and manufacturing. Danny manages operations and quality control. Even the younger family members are involved during busy seasons and events.

Family values drive our business: responsibility, teamwork, and a commitment to do right by our customers and horses. That’s why so many clients stay with us for years—because they feel like part of our extended family.

Rider in competition

Family at Every Step

  • Hubert Frank – Founder, head of research and product development, and chief farrier consultant. Since 1995, Hubert has shaped the philosophy and vision behind every Duplo product. His expertise in farriery and passion for innovation remain the driving force of our company.
  • Edeltraud Frank – Hubert’s wife and co-owner. Edeltraud has managed the administrative and financial sides of the business for decades, keeping the company’s family spirit alive and supporting all organizational processes.
  • Frank Family Children – The next generation. Their son and two daughters are directly involved in various aspects: quality management, logistics, customer service, event organization, and translation (German/English). As Duplo evolves, the family’s younger members play a growing role in day-to-day business and help to carry the brand forward.

“We believe in blending tradition with progress. Every family member brings their own skills and perspective, making Duplo a truly personal and innovative project.”

We’re not just a company—we’re a family working side by side. Each morning starts around the kitchen table, where ideas are shared and tasks are divided. The workshop is filled with laughter, friendly debates, and the satisfying sound of skilled hands at work. Evenings often find us together at the stables, putting our products to the real test—on our own horses.

Our business decisions are guided not by short-term profit, but by long-term relationships and a commitment to do things right. We listen closely to every client—sometimes even inviting them to visit, share a coffee, and see for themselves how each horseshoe is made.

Responsibility Openness Passion for Horses Respect

What We Stand For

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Trust

Our clients and partners know: we always honor our word and stand behind every product.

🧪

Innovation

We never stop experimenting with new materials, shapes, and ideas to solve real hoof problems.

🌍

Global Vision

From small local stables to international competition, our shoes protect hooves worldwide.

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Quality

Every pair is inspected by hand, because a horse’s welfare is never “good enough”—it must be the best.

Our Milestones

1995
Hubert Frank passes his farrier exam and starts business.
2002
First composite shoe prototypes are released after years of testing.
2010
Duplo gains international distribution, including the US and Canada.
2020+
Expansion of models for therapy, sport, and rehabilitation.

What People Say

““After switching to Duplo composite horseshoes, my horse became noticeably more comfortable and confident in every stride. Whether in the arena, on the trail, or at competitions, these shoes have been reliable, slip-resistant, and gentle on his hooves—truly…”
— Karin Hamann
““Switching to Duplo horseshoes made an immediate difference—my mare moved more comfortably and confidently, even in winter conditions. We’ve kept her in Duplos year-round ever since, and they’ve supported her every step of the way.””
— S. Donaubauer
““We’ve been using Duplo horseshoes at our riding school for nearly 20 years, and they’ve consistently improved our horses’ movement. Even after early challenges, we’ve stayed loyal—Duplo has proven itself time and again.””
— H.J. Schneider

Want to Connect?

Contact our family directly for partnership, feedback, or to schedule a factory visit. We speak German, English, and love to hear from horse enthusiasts worldwide!

Contact Us