Horses may hesitate on gravel or stony paths but move well on sand, a situation many owners are familiar with. This behavior can signal foot discomfort caused by thin soles, hard ground, or underlying foot issues. Modern farriers have a range of tools to improve foot comfort, including plates, silicones, resins, and glued shoes, each designed for specific conditions. The selection of these materials typically follows a diagnosis by a veterinarian. Signs that a horse might need extra foot protection include limping on hard surfaces but not soft ones, shortened steps, a preference for grassy areas, or visible bruises on the hoof wall. These symptoms often point to repeated shock and the need for intervention. Plates are the most common form of foot protection, placed between the shoe and the hoof to cover part or all of the sole. They are favored for their versatility and are often removed at the next shoeing. Plates come in various materials such as leather, polyurethane, or bi-component, and can be flat or compensated. Flat plates help absorb shocks and protect against stones, while leather plates are valued for their flexibility. Synthetic plates offer better resistance to moisture and cushioning depending on the material. Orthopedic plates, such as furcals, corner plates, and fork support plates, help adjust the distribution of weight and are used for specific conditions like navicular syndrome. These plates require precise adjustments based on X-rays and a veterinarian's opinion to ensure they don’t worsen the issue. Silicone is often used with plates to cushion shocks and spread pressure over a larger area. Its hardness, measured in shores, varies depending on the horse's needs, with softer silicones (around 20 shores) for sensitive feet and firmer ones (up to 40 shores) for more support. Brands such as Vettec and Mustad offer various formulations, including some enriched with zinc oxide. Resins and glued shoes are used when nailing is not possible, such as in cases of fragile or deteriorated hoof walls, foal's feet, or tired horses. Resins can help reconstruct damaged hoof walls, while glued shoes are fixed without nails and are sometimes used for foals. These methods are more expensive, require specialized knowledge, and have varying durability depending on the terrain and the horse's activity level. The choice of materials should be made in collaboration with a veterinarian and farrier, as the best solution depends on the horse's specific condition. After applying these materials, it's important to monitor the horse's gait, posture, and foot heat. The quality of the materials used is crucial, with professional products from brands like Mustad, Vettec, and Life Data Labs being preferred. Mustad, founded in 1832 in Norway, is one of the leading names in farriery. Farriers often use specialized distributors that offer a range of products including plates, silicones, resins, and glued shoes.