How to Size Horse Shoes

Horseback riding is a favorite pastime among many Americans. Those who care for and raise horses have a tough job to do to ensure that the public has access of quality horses to ride. Sizing the proper shoes to keep the horse's hooves from damage is an old process used long before pioneer times across North America. The shoes are pinned to the hoof, acting as a buffer to keep the hooves from splitting and breaking on long rides and over rough terrain. Sizing a horse for the right shoe is a an easy process if your follow the proper guidelines.

Things You'll Need

  • Tape measure
  • Horseshoe sizing chart
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Instructions

    • 1

      Measure the hoof from side to side. Extend a tape measure from apex to apex of the concave shaped hoof.

    • 2

      Measure the hoof from front to back. Extend the tape measure from the apex tip if the hoof down the the small indention at the back of the hoof.

    • 3

      Compare your measurements with a horseshoe sizing chart from the horseshoe vendor that you're buying from. Horseshoe manufacturers' measurements may differ slightly. If your horse's hoof measures 4 inches wide by 4 1/2 inches long he may fit a size 40 shoe. A size 40 shoe may be a size 41 shoe at a different manufacturer.