Author: Admin-Duplo

🛠️ Are You Prepping Your Horse’s Hooves Wrong? Farrier Tips for Glue-On Success

Posted on by Admin-Duplo

Glue-on horseshoes have revolutionized hoof care for horses with sensitive, damaged, or tricky-to-shoe feet. But even the best glue-on shoes will fail if the hoof prep isn’t done right.

Many application failures come down to one issue: poor preparation.

Here’s how to make sure you’re setting your horse (and your glue-on shoes) up for success.

🚫 The #1 Rule: Moisture Is Your Enemy

Glue simply won’t bond to a hoof that’s:

  • Wet
  • Sweaty
  • Oily
  • Covered in conditioner or dirt

Common mistake:
Trying to glue on shoes right after a bath or without drying the hoof fully.

✅ Farrier tip:

  • Use a heat gun or hairdryer to make sure the hoof is bone dry.
  • Clean the hoof with isopropyl alcohol (not water).
  • Avoid applying glue in humid or rainy weather if possible.

🪚 Rough It Up: Surface Prep Matters

Glue bonds best to a roughened surface.

Common mistake:
Applying glue to a smooth hoof wall or tab surface.

✅ Farrier tip:

  • Rasp the hoof wall lightly to create texture.
  • Sand the glue-on tab area of the shoe for extra grip.
  • Remove any old glue residue completely before reapplying.

📏 Fit Before You Glue

It’s tempting to glue and go, but a poor fit = failure.

Common mistake:
Skipping a dry fit before glue application.

✅ Farrier tip:

  • Always check fit before gluing.
  • Adjust composite shoes with standard hoof tools as needed.
  • Ensure the shoe sits flush against the hoof with no gaps or twists.

🧪 Choose the Right Glue

Not all adhesives are created equal.

Common mistake:
Using cheap or mismatched glue (e.g., wood glue, regular epoxy).

✅ Farrier tip:

  • Use polyurethane or MMA hoof adhesives.
  • Duplo’s Wolf Busch tabs are compatible with major glue systems like Equilox and Vettec.

🕒 Timing Is Everything

Glue has a working window — and environmental factors like temperature and humidity affect curing times.

Common mistake:
Not allowing glue to fully cure before turning the horse out.

✅ Farrier tip:

  • Watch the glue’s manufacturer instructions carefully.
  • In cooler temps, use a heat source to speed curing.
  • Allow at least 30 minutes to fully cure before walking the horse.

🧼 Bonus: Keep the Work Area Clean

Dust, debris, or even loose hair can sabotage the bond.

✅ Farrier tip:

  • Work in a clean, dry area.
  • Have all tools ready to avoid delays.
  • Wear gloves to avoid contamination.

🚀 The Takeaway

Glue-on shoes offer amazing benefits, but hoof prep is EVERYTHING. With careful preparation, you’ll get:

  • Longer-lasting adhesion
  • Happier, more comfortable horses
  • Fewer mid-cycle shoe losses

👉 Want an easy-to-use glue-on system? Check out Duplo’s glue-on options with Wolf Busch tabs, designed for smooth application and reliable hold.

🐴 Glue-On Horseshoes for Tiny Ponies or Foals: Safe and Effective?

Posted on by Admin-Duplo

Whether you’re caring for a miniature horse, a tiny pony, or a growing foal, hoof protection poses unique challenges. Their small hooves, delicate structures, and often sensitive walls can make traditional shoeing difficult — and sometimes risky.

So, the big question is:
👉 Are glue-on horseshoes a good (and safe) option for small hooves?

Let’s find out.

🦄 The Challenges of Shoeing Small Hooves

Foals and tiny ponies often have:

  • Thin hoof walls
  • Faster-growing hoof horn
  • A higher risk of hoof damage or misalignment
  • Sensitivity to nail-driven trauma

Traditional nail-on shoes are:

  • Often too big or need significant reshaping
  • Risky because of the nail size relative to the hoof wall

✅ Why Glue-On Horseshoes Make Sense

Glue-on horseshoes eliminate the need for nails, which:

  • Prevents hoof wall cracking
  • Allows natural growth without interference
  • Provides support even when nails aren’t an option

Composite glue-on shoes (like Duplo Classic or Nailless) are:

  • Lightweight and flexible — perfect for delicate hooves
  • Customizable — can be trimmed and adjusted for tiny sizes
  • Available in sizes starting as small as 50mm, covering many ponies and foals

🛡️ What They Help With

Glue-on shoes can assist in:

  • Orthopedic corrections (supporting limb alignment)
  • Protection after injury (for example, hoof abscess recovery)
  • Therapy for conditions like club foot or weak hoof horn

They’re also great for seasonal protection — e.g., during summer when tracks are dry and hard.

⚠️ Safety Considerations

➡️ Is glue safe for foals?
Yes — when applied properly by an experienced farrier using non-toxic adhesives like polyurethane.

➡️ Will it harm hoof growth?
No. In fact, many foals thrive with glue-on shoes because they allow normal hoof expansion and can be easily removed or replaced.

➡️ Any risks?

  • Improper application can stress the hoof wall.
  • The glue bond may fail if applied to wet or contaminated hoofs.

🛠️ Best Practices

  • Always work with a qualified farrier familiar with glue-on systems.
  • Make sure hooves are dry, clean, and prepped before application.
  • Choose a shoe designed for small hooves — Duplo’s Classic line is a top option.

🚀 Final Thoughts

If you’re struggling with shoeing options for your mini pony or foal, glue-on composite horseshoes offer a safe, effective, and flexible alternative to nails.

They protect delicate hooves, support healthy growth, and reduce the risk of trauma — making them a smart choice for young, sensitive, or tiny-hooved equines.

👉 Duplo’s lightweight glue-on options are available in small sizes, making them perfect for ponies and foals alike.

🌦️ What’s the Best Hoof Protection for Rocky Trails, Snow, or Mud?

Posted on by Admin-Duplo

If you love trail riding, endurance, or winter hacking, you know that not all terrain is hoof-friendly. Whether you’re navigating rocky mountains, deep mud, or slippery snow, the wrong hoof protection can lead to:

  • Slipping and falls
  • Bruised soles
  • Chipped or cracked hooves
  • Hoof fatigue and lameness

So, what’s the best option to keep your horse’s hooves safe, secure, and comfortable?

Let’s break it down.

🪨 Rocky Terrain: Key Challenges

Rocky trails are abrasive and uneven, putting extra stress on:

  • Hoof walls
  • Soles
  • Tendons and joints (due to impact)

Risks:
➡️ Bruising, chips, cracks, and excessive wear.

✅ Best protection:

  • Composite shoes with reinforced toes (e.g., Duplo Arizona)
  • Deep tread pattern for grip
  • Optional hoof packing (urethane or silicone) for extra sole cushioning

🌧️ Muddy Conditions: What to Watch For

Mud creates suction and slippage, increasing the risk of:

  • Lost shoes
  • Twisting injuries
  • Softening of the hoof wall and sole (leading to infections)

Risks:
➡️ Pulled tendons, thrush, and sheared heels.

✅ Best protection:

  • Composite shoes with quarter clips to prevent rotation
  • Open-sole shoes to let mud escape
  • Optional spikes or studs (Duplo Clipped & Threaded models) for added traction

❄️ Snow and Ice: Dangerous Combo

Winter riding is magical — but snow and ice can cause:

  • Snowballing (snow compacts inside the shoe)
  • Slipping on ice or hard-packed snow

Risks:
➡️ Falls, bruising, and even fractures.

✅ Best protection:

  • Shoes with anti-snowballing design (Duplo Snow Edition)
  • M8 stud holes for ice studs
  • Lightweight composite material to keep the hoof flexible
  • Optional hoof sole protector for full coverage

👟 Why Composite Shoes Outperform Steel in These Conditions

  • Better grip: Deep treads & stud compatibility
  • Shock absorption: Protects joints and prevents bruising
  • Lightweight: Reduces strain over long distances
  • Flexibility: Allows the hoof to move naturally, even in cold

Steel is durable but slippery and unforgiving in variable conditions.

🛠️ Pro Tip: Don’t Forget Hoof Packing

In rough terrain or winter, adding a hoof packing material (like glue-u SHUPACK or SHUSIL) inside composite shoes:

  • Cushions the sole
  • Prevents snow buildup
  • Adds shock absorption

🚀 Final Verdict

For rocky trails, muddy tracks, or snowy adventures, composite horseshoes with grip features offer the best all-around protection.

  • Rocky? ➔ Go for reinforced toe models.
  • Muddy? ➔ Choose quarter clips and optional studs.
  • Snow? ➔ Opt for anti-snowball designs and ice studs.

Duplo’s range of composite shoes covers all these needs — lightweight, durable, and built for extreme conditions.

⚠️ Are Traditional Steel Horseshoes Hurting Your Horse? What You Should Know

Posted on by Admin-Duplo

For centuries, steel horseshoes have been the gold standard in hoof protection. They’re strong, durable, and widely used across disciplines. But in recent years, more horse owners and vets are asking:

👉 Could traditional steel horseshoes be doing more harm than good?

If you’re seeing signs of discomfort, joint issues, or hoof wall problems, it might be time to reconsider.

🔍 How Steel Horseshoes Work

Steel horseshoes provide:

  • Rigid protection
  • Traction (especially with studs)
  • Long wear life

They are nailed onto the hoof wall, which anchors the shoe but also limits natural hoof flexion.

🐴 The Downsides of Steel: What the Research Shows

1️⃣ Shock Transmission:
Steel doesn’t absorb impact. Every stride on hard ground sends vibrations up the leg, increasing stress on:

  • Tendons
  • Ligaments
  • Coffin joints

➡️ Result: Higher risk of joint inflammation, arthritis, and long-term wear.

2️⃣ Restricted Hoof Expansion:
A horse’s hoof is designed to expand and contract with each step, aiding circulation and absorbing shock. Steel shoes limit this movement.

➡️ Result:

  • Compromised blood flow
  • Slower healing in damaged hooves
  • Possible contribution to hoof contraction or imbalance

3️⃣ Nail Damage:
Nailing repeatedly into the hoof wall:

  • Weakens hoof structure over time
  • Can cause cracks, flares, and infections (especially if placement isn’t perfect)

➡️ Horses with thin hoof walls or laminitis are especially vulnerable.

4️⃣ Weight:
Steel shoes are heavy compared to modern composites. Extra weight:

  • Adds strain during movement
  • Can reduce stride efficiency (especially in sport horses)

✅ Modern Alternatives: What’s the Solution?

Composite horseshoes (like Duplo’s) are designed to address these exact issues:

  • Shock-absorbing materials (polyurethane or plastic shell)
  • Steel core for strength without rigidity
  • Lightweight — reduces energy expenditure
  • Flexibility that supports the hoof’s natural mechanism
  • Available in nail-on, glue-on, and stud-compatible versions

Studies and user experiences show better joint comfort, healthier hoof condition, and improved movement with well-fitted composite shoes.

📝 Signs Your Horse May Need a Change

  • Short-strided movement on hard ground
  • Joint stiffness after work
  • Cracked or brittle hooves
  • Recurrent lameness linked to hoof issues
  • Diagnosed with laminitis or navicular concerns

🚀 Takeaway: Time to Rethink?

Steel horseshoes aren’t inherently bad — but they may not be the best option for every horse, especially:

  • Seniors
  • Horses with sensitive hooves or thin walls
  • Sport horses needing superior shock absorption

Considering a switch to composite shoes like Duplo’s hybrid models could mean fewer joint problems, healthier hooves, and better overall well-being.

🚩 Top Mistakes Horse Owners Make When Using Glue-On Horseshoes

Posted on by Admin-Duplo

Glue-on horseshoes are an absolute game changer for horses with sensitive hooves, thin walls, or in need of therapeutic support. But while these shoes can offer amazing benefits, mistakes in preparation or application can turn a good idea into a frustrating (and expensive) fail.

Here are the top mistakes horse owners and even farriers make when working with glue-on horseshoes — and how to avoid them.

❌ Mistake #1: Applying Glue to a Wet or Dirty Hoof

This is probably the #1 reason glue-on shoes fail.

➡️ Why it’s a problem:
Glue won’t adhere properly if there’s any moisture, grease, or dirt on the hoof. Even a little bit of sweat or hoof oil can break the bond.

✅ Fix it:

  • Dry the hoof thoroughly (use a heat gun or hair dryer if needed).
  • Lightly sand or rough up the surface to give the glue something to grip.
  • Never apply glue after using hoof oils or conditioners.

❌ Mistake #2: Skipping a Dry Fit Before Gluing

Some owners (and even farriers) try to glue shoes straight out of the box without testing the fit.

➡️ Why it’s a problem:
Glue-on shoes need to fit snugly and perfectly. Even a tiny gap or uneven edge can cause the shoe to loosen or torque.

✅ Fix it:

  • Always check fit first.
  • Shape the shoe if needed (composite shoes like Duplo can be adjusted using standard hoof tools).

❌ Mistake #3: Not Using Enough Glue (or Using the Wrong Glue)

Skimping on glue or using the wrong type of adhesive can spell disaster.

➡️ Why it’s a problem:
Glue-on shoes are only as strong as their adhesive. Using a cheap glue or too thin a layer means the bond will fail under pressure.

✅ Fix it:

  • Use a high-quality hoof adhesive (like polyurethane or MMA glues).
  • Apply a generous, even bead around the bonding area.
  • For Duplo’s Wolf Busch tabs, follow the exact glue guidelines.

❌ Mistake #4: Forgetting to Prep the Shoe Surface

We talk a lot about prepping the hoof, but what about the shoe?

➡️ Why it’s a problem:
Many composite shoes have a slick surface that also needs prepping.

✅ Fix it:

  • Lightly sand or roughen the inside of the shoe or the glue-on tab to ensure maximum adhesion.

❌ Mistake #5: Ignoring Environmental Factors

Temperature and humidity hugely affect curing times and glue performance.

➡️ Why it’s a problem:
In cold or humid conditions, glue may cure too slowly or become weak.

✅ Fix it:

  • Apply glue-on shoes in dry, warm environments whenever possible.
  • Use a portable heater or heat gun to speed curing if needed.

❌ Mistake #6: Expecting Them to Last Forever

Glue-on shoes are durable, but they aren’t meant to last forever.

➡️ Why it’s a problem:
Some owners stretch wear cycles too long, leading to hoof issues or shoe loss.

✅ Fix it:

  • Stick to a 3–5 week shoeing cycle (varies by horse and terrain).
  • Check the glue integrity regularly.

🐎 Pro Tip: Work with an Experienced Farrier

Glue-ons are not DIY unless you’re highly skilled. An experienced farrier:

  • Knows the best glue for your conditions
  • Can adjust fit precisely
  • Troubleshoots issues before they become costly mistakes

Ask your farrier about their experience with Duplo glue-on systems or Wolf Busch tabs if you’re considering a switch.

🚀 Final Thoughts

Glue-on horseshoes can transform your horse’s comfort and performance — but only if applied correctly. Avoiding these common mistakes will save you money, time, and a lot of frustration.

Looking for reliable, easy-to-use glue-on options?
👉 Check out Duplo’s range of composite horseshoes with glue-on tabs — made for sensitive hooves, rehab cases, and top sport performance.

🐎 Are Composite Horseshoes Strong Enough for Jumping and Eventing?

Posted on by Admin-Duplo

When you’re flying over fences or powering through a tight turn on the cross-country course, the last thing you want to worry about is whether your horse’s shoes will hold up. For decades, steel horseshoes were considered the only choice for jumping, eventing, and other high-impact disciplines.

But now, composite horseshoes are stepping into the spotlight — and many riders are asking:
👉 Are they strong enough for serious sport?

Let’s look at the facts.

🔩 What Are Composite Horseshoes, Exactly?

Composite horseshoes are typically made of a polyurethane or plastic outer shell, sometimes with an integrated metal core (like Duplo). This combination offers:

  • Shock absorption
  • Flexibility
  • Lightweight performance
  • Customization (with clips, studs, glue-on or nail-on)

🏇 Performance Under Pressure: Can They Take the Impact?

Jumping and eventing create extreme concussive forces — particularly on landing. Traditional steel offers rigid protection, but that can transfer force directly to the hoof, pastern, and joints.

Composite shoes absorb shock, reducing the stress on:

  • Tendons and ligaments
  • Coffin joint
  • Hoof wall and laminar structures

💡 Some riders report improved recovery, fewer joint issues, and better stride elasticity with composite shoes — especially in older or previously injured horses.

🔩 What About Grip and Traction?

Composite shoes like the Duplo Jumper or Duplo Clipped & Threaded models include:

  • Integrated screw threads (M8–M14) for removable studs
  • Deep tread profiles for grip on grass, mud, or sand
  • Straight bar or closed-sole options for hoof support and stabilization

Many riders in eventing and hunter-jumper circuits now compete using studded composite shoes — getting the same traction as steel, with less weight and more comfort.

⚖️ Composite vs Steel: Quick Comparison

FeatureSteel HorseshoesComposite Horseshoes
WeightHeavyLightweight
Shock absorptionLowHigh
Grip (with studs)GoodVery good (with inserts)
FlexibilityRigidAdaptive
Joint protectionLimitedExcellent
Noise on surfacesLoudQuiet
Hoof wall strainHighLower

🛠️ Real-World Use: Who’s Using Composites?

  • Professional eventers like those using Duplo, EasyCare, or Glue-U shoes are seeing long-term benefits.
  • Composite shoes are now allowed in many competitive events (check with your governing body).
  • Riders with arthritic horses or those returning from suspensory injury often report better outcomes post-transition.

🧪 Durability Concerns: Do They Last?

That’s the big question, right?

👉 Yes — but it depends on the brand and application.

High-quality models with a steel insert (like Duplo) typically last just as long as steel, especially when fitted correctly.
Poor prep, wrong size, or no studs for traction can reduce longevity.

🧬 Final Verdict

Yes, composite horseshoes are strong enough for jumping and eventing — and in many cases, they’re the smarter choice.

They’re especially beneficial for:

  • Horses needing joint protection
  • Those prone to hoof concussion or bruising
  • Riders seeking lighter, more forgiving options
  • Rehab cases returning to sport gradually

If you’re still using steel out of habit — maybe it’s time to rethink.

Duplo’s Jumper model or Clipped & Threaded composite shoes offer stud-ready, competition-capable performance, made in Germany and tested under pressure.

🧲 Glue-On vs Nail-On Horseshoes: Which Is Better for Thin or Damaged Hooves?

Posted on by Admin-Duplo

When your horse has thin hoof walls, sensitive soles, or is recovering from injury or laminitis, even the choice of horseshoe can make a huge difference in recovery and comfort. One of the biggest decisions you’ll face is whether to use nail-on horseshoes or explore glue-on alternatives. So, which is the better option — especially for compromised hooves?

Let’s break it down.

🔨 Nail-On Horseshoes: The Traditional Standard

Nail-on horseshoes have been the go-to for centuries. They’re reliable, widely available, and affordable.

But here’s the catch — they require strong, healthy hoof walls. Nails are driven into the outer hoof wall, which can:

  • Worsen cracks or splits
  • Cause additional trauma in already weakened hooves
  • Be painful if the wall is thin or brittle
  • Lead to nail holes that become infection risks

For horses with compromised hoof integrity, nail-on shoes might do more harm than good.

🧪 Glue-On Horseshoes: The Modern, Gentler Option

Glue-on horseshoes are applied using a strong adhesive instead of nails. The result?

✅ Zero nail holes
✅ No further hoof wall damage
✅ Even pressure distribution
✅ Better shock absorption (especially with composite materials)
✅ Ideal for rehab cases like laminitis, white line disease, or thin walls

Some modern glue-on shoes, like those from Duplo, even come with steel cores for added strength and are reusable in some cases.

👣 When to Choose Glue-On

Glue-on horseshoes are often the best solution when:

  • Your horse has damaged or paper-thin hoof walls
  • The horse is recovering from laminitis, abscesses, or injuries
  • You need orthopedic or therapeutic support
  • You want to avoid trauma from nailing

Yes, glue-on shoes require more prep time, and your farrier needs experience with adhesive bonding — but for sensitive horses, they’re a game-changer.

⚖️ Pros & Cons at a Glance

FeatureNail-On HorseshoesGlue-On Horseshoes
Hoof wall stressHighMinimal
Suitable for thin hooves❌ Risky✅ Recommended
Application speedFastSlower (more prep needed)
Skill requiredStandard farrierSpecialized farrier
Best for rehab cases❌ Limited✅ Excellent
ReusabilitySometimesVaries by brand
CostLower upfrontSlightly higher upfront

🧼 What About Maintenance?

With glue-on shoes, hoof prep is critical. The hoof must be:

  • Dry and clean
  • Lightly roughened for grip
  • Sometimes paired with padding like urethane or silicone for extra comfort

If properly applied, glue-on shoes can last 2–4 weeks or more, depending on terrain and usage.

🐴 The Bottom Line

If your horse has strong, healthy hooves, nail-on shoes are a reliable choice.

But if you’re dealing with:

  • Thin hoof walls
  • Sensitive soles
  • Chronic hoof problems
  • Rehab from injury or disease

…then glue-on horseshoes are almost always the safer, kinder, and smarter choice.

At Duplo, we offer a full range of composite glue-on horseshoes — designed to offer both comfort and durability, with options for studs, padding, and even winter traction.