The Difference in Horseshoe Sizes

Horses come in a wide variety of breed types and sizes, from miniature ponies that stand 18 inches high at the withers to massive Belgian and Shire horses that are almost seven feet tall. It is no surprise that they all have different-sized hooves and need to wear different sized horseshoes. In the past, shoes were made as part of the shoeing process, but today most horseshoes are bought ready-made. It is crucial to get the correct size.

  1. Why Size is Important

    • Horseshoes need to follow the shape of the foot without extending past the walls of the hoof. If a shoe is too large and extends past the hoof, the horse can potentially step on the back of the front shoe with a back hoof or step on the inside of a shoe with the opposite foot and rip it off. Large shoes can also be caught in fencing and rip off, damaging the hoof. Shoes that are too small cause painful corns, just as a tight shoe hurts a person.

    How Horseshoes are Measured

    • Once a horse has had its feet trimmed and is ready to be shod, you need to measure the width across the widest part of the hoof, and the length from the toe to the heel. You should measure both the front feet and back feet because these have different shapes. Front feet tend to be fairly round while back feet are generally a more oval shape. Find a sizing chart for the brand you are using and use the measurements to determine the correct size.

    U.S. Sizes

    • In the U.S. the smallest size is generally a 000 and the largest size is a 9 or 10. Some makers offer special ranges for miniatures. For most brands, a size 1 is 5 1/4 inches wide and 6 inches long. If your horse has unusual-shaped feet, or a significant difference between the front and back feet, you may need to buy different sizes. If you have problems buying pre-made shoes that fit, most farriers can make shoes from an old set that was fitted well.

    European Sizes

    • If you are buying horseshoes over the Internet you will see that European sizes are very different. What is a size 1 in the United States is a size 130 in Europe, meaning it is 130 mm (about 5 inches) across. Some brands have a wide and a narrow fitting. Hoof-it has a sizing chart that compares the U.S. and European sizes. Always use the manufacturer's size chart, as what is classed as a 130 at one site might be a 140 at another.